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Mobile Phone & SIM Contract

How to get a phone plan as a foreigner

Which carriers accept foreign nationals, required documents, and how to sign up.

⏱️Time Required: 30 min – 1 day

💴Cost: ¥1,000–¥3,000/month (MVNO) or ¥3,000–¥5,000/month (major carrier)

📍Location: Online or carrier store

🔗Official Website

⚠️Warning

•Many Japanese services (banks, government portals) require an 080/090 phone number for SMS verification.
•Some major carriers require 6+ months of residence before accepting applications.

📋Step-by-Step Guide

Choose your carrier type

Major carriers (docomo, au, SoftBank) offer full service but require longer residence history. MVNOs (IIJmio, OCN Mobile, etc.) and Rakuten Mobile are more foreigner-friendly.

Get an eSIM for immediate connectivity

Before or right after arrival, purchase a data eSIM (SoftBank, IIJmio, etc.) for immediate internet access. Activate it before your flight.

💡 Tip: eSIMs from Rakuten Mobile or IIJmio can be activated with just your residence card after arrival.

Prepare your documents

You'll need your residence card (在留カード), passport, a Japanese bank account or credit card for payment, and your My Number (some carriers).

Sign up online or visit a store

Rakuten Mobile and IIJmio have English support and accept foreigners. Visit a carrier store or apply online. Online is usually faster.

Port your SIM number (optional)

If you want to keep your phone number, request an MNP (Mobile Number Portability) transfer code from your current carrier.

💡Helpful Tips

✓Rakuten Mobile offers unlimited data from ¥1,078/month and has English support.
✓IIJmio is excellent budget choice starting from ¥858/month.
✓Having a phone number is essential for bank account opening and many other services.
✓Check if your phone is compatible with Japanese LTE bands before purchasing a plan.