No residency required
Anyone can buy freehold property in Japan — no visa, no citizenship, no minimum stay. Ownership rights are identical to those of Japanese nationals.
Process Overview
5 steps from search to ownership
The high-level flow. Each step is expanded in the detailed section below.
- ADefine
requirements
- BProperty search & viewings
- COffer & purchase agreement
- DFinancing & due diligence
- EClosing &
registration
Detailed Steps
What actually happens at each stage
Expect roughly 2–4 months end-to-end for a straightforward cash purchase; longer if financing is involved.
- A
Define your requirements
Purpose (residence / investment / holiday home), target area, budget range, property type, and timeline. Sharing these upfront shortens every later step dramatically.
NoteForeign residency is not required. No Japanese visa is needed to purchase real estate. - B
Property search & viewings
We shortlist on- and off-market properties. Viewings can be conducted in person, remotely (video walk-through), or via a trusted local proxy for overseas buyers.
WatchListing photos often omit structural issues — always request a recent interior video or in-person inspection before offering. - C
Offer & purchase agreement (売買契約)
Once the offer is accepted, you sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement and pay a deposit (typically 10% of the purchase price). An Explanation of Important Matters (重要事項説明) is delivered in advance.
LegalThe Important Matters explanation must be provided by a licensed real estate broker — insist on an English-language version if you are not fluent in Japanese. - D
Financing & due diligence
If you need a mortgage, the lender's approval window typically runs 3–6 weeks. In parallel, we arrange building inspection, title check, and review of the management association rules (for condominiums).
FinanceMost Japanese banks require residency or permanent-resident status for mortgages. Non-resident loan options exist but are limited — ask us early. - E
Closing & registration (決済 / 登記)
On the closing day, the remaining balance is paid, keys are handed over, and a judicial scrivener (司法書士) files the title transfer with the Legal Affairs Bureau. Ownership is then yours on record.
TaxReal estate acquisition tax (不動産取得税) is billed separately, 3–6 months after closing — budget for it in advance.
Costs Breakdown
What you actually pay, on top of the price
Budget roughly 5–6% of the purchase price for closing costs and first-year taxes.
For Foreign Buyers
What makes Japan unusually open
3 things most first-time foreign buyers are surprised to learn.
A straightforward purchase process
Non-residents can complete a property purchase with support from licensed local professionals. Many steps can be handled remotely through documents and a power of attorney.
Tax treatment you should plan for
Rental income is taxed in Japan regardless of where you live, and capital gains on resale follow residency status at the time of sale. Plan both in advance.
Related Guides
Keep reading
FAQFrequently asked
Frequently asked
by foreign buyers
Can foreigners buy property in Japan without residency?
Yes. There are no restrictions on real estate ownership by foreign individuals or companies, regardless of visa or residency status. A non-resident owner simply needs to appoint a Japanese tax representative (納税管理人) for ongoing filings.
What are the all-in closing costs on top of the price?
Roughly 6–8% of the purchase price: brokerage (3% + ¥60,000), judicial scrivener, stamp duty, and registration tax. Acquisition tax is billed 3–6 months later at another 1–3%. New builds add 10% consumption tax on the building portion.
Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident?
A handful of regional and specialist Japanese banks offer non-resident mortgages at 2.5–4.5% with 40–50% LTV. Most mainstream lenders require residency and Japanese income. For many foreign buyers, home-country financing secured against the Japanese asset is simpler.
How long does a typical purchase take?
4–8 weeks is typical: offer → important matters explanation → purchase agreement → settlement → registration. Cash deals can close in 3 weeks; heavy financing may extend to 8–10.
Do I need to travel to Japan to sign?
No. A notarised power of attorney lets a representative sign on your behalf. Plan on a few extra days for document couriering.
Ready to start your search?
Tell us your target area, budget and timeline. Our bilingual team responds within 24 hours with a tailored shortlist — free of charge, no obligation.
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