Can You Sign a Lease in Japan Before You Arrive (From Overseas)?

In short

Yes — as long as the property and guarantor company support overseas screening. With an online viewing, an electronic contract, and the Important Matters Explanation held over video call (IT juusetsu), you can apply and sign from abroad. You'll usually still need an emergency contact in Japan and a way to pay the initial costs, then pick up the keys after you arrive.

Can you sign from overseas? The short answer

Many people want their housing sorted before they move to Japan for work or study. The good news: as long as the property and guarantor company support 'overseas screening,' you can apply and sign a lease while still abroad, before entering Japan. The catch is that not every property supports it, so it needs to be checked in advance.

The overseas signing process

1. Online viewing (see the room live over video)
2. Submit the application and go through overseas screening
3. Sign the contract electronically
4. Complete the Important Matters Explanation over video (IT juusetsu)
5. Pay the initial costs by transfer
6. Pick up the keys and move in after you arrive

What you'll need

A guarantor company (used by that property) willing to accept an overseas application
A way to pay the initial costs (international transfer or a proxy payer in Japan)
An emergency contact in Japan
Depending on the property, a residence status or Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Things to watch out for

Not every property supports overseas screening, so your choices are narrower than searching from inside Japan
Line up your arrival date and the rent start date so you don't pay for an empty apartment before you get there
A Japanese bank account usually can't be opened until after you arrive, so confirm payment and direct-debit methods in advance

ieree can check whether a property supports overseas screening and guide you through everything from the online viewing to signing. Before you move to Japan, message us on LINE.

Frequently asked questions

Q.Can I rent a place before I arrive in Japan?

Yes, if the property and its guarantor company support overseas screening. You can view by video, sign electronically, and complete the Important Matters Explanation over a video call (IT juusetsu). Not every property supports this, so ask your agent to confirm first.

Q.What conditions are usually required for an overseas contract?

Common requirements: the guarantor company accepts overseas applicants, you have a way to pay the initial costs (international transfer or a proxy payer in Japan), and an emergency contact in Japan. Some properties also require that you already hold a residence status or Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

Q.How do I pay the initial costs?

Usually by international bank transfer, or by asking a friend or relative in Japan to pay on your behalf. Practices differ by management and guarantor company, so confirm the accepted payment method and timing before you apply.

Q.When do I get the keys?

Usually on the contract start date or after you enter Japan. In most cases you sign from overseas first, then move in once you've arrived and completed formalities such as getting your residence card.

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