RENTAL PROCESS
How renting works
First time renting in Japan? We walk you through every step, from first inquiry to key handover.
Inquiry & consultation
Reach out via the website or LINE. We'll discuss your budget, preferred area and move-in date, then suggest properties that match your needs.
What to prepare
Notes on your preferred area, layout and budget
Property proposal & viewing
We present options and arrange viewings. For clients overseas, video-call viewings are available so you can inspect properties before arriving in Japan.
What to prepare
Preferred viewing dates and times
Rental application
Once you've chosen a property, you complete the application form and submit it together with the required documents.
What to prepare
Residence card, passport, proof of income, personal seal
Screening
The property manager and guarantor company review your application. This typically takes 3–7 business days. We'll notify you of the result by email or LINE.
Explanation of terms & signing
We carefully walk you through the contract terms and important disclosures in Japanese, English and Vietnamese. Once you are satisfied, you sign the rental agreement.
What to prepare
Personal seal (hanko), ID documents
Payment of move-in costs
You pay the initial costs — deposit, key money, advance rent, agency fee, guarantor fee and fire insurance. We provide an itemised breakdown in advance.
What to prepare
Bank transfer to the specified account
Key handover & move-in
We hand you the keys on the handover day. We also help you set up electricity, gas and water, so you can settle in with peace of mind.
Required documents
The following is a general guide. Exact requirements vary by property and guarantor company.
- Residence card (for non-Japanese nationals)
- Passport
- Certificate of residence (issued within the last 3 months)
- Proof of income (employment certificate or 3 months' pay slips)
- Personal seal (hanko)
- Emergency contact details
For international residents
You will need to submit your residence card and passport. Depending on your visa status and length of stay, additional documents may be required. Please feel free to ask us for details.
Estimated costs
These are estimates only. Actual amounts vary by property, management company and guarantor.
| Security deposit (shikikin) | Approx. 1 month's rent |
| Key money (reikin) | Approx. 1 month's rent |
| Advance rent | 1 month's rent |
| Agency fee | Up to 1 month's rent + tax |
| Guarantor company fee | 50–100% of monthly rent (initial) |
| Fire insurance | Approx. ¥15,000–¥20,000 (2 years) |
| Total (estimate) | Approx. 4–5 months' rent |
* All figures are estimates. Actual costs depend on the property and conditions.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Yes. NESTJAPAN has many listings open to international tenants. Visa status and guarantor company conditions vary, so please contact us for details.