Get a mobile phone (携帯電話)

For you if: you want a mobile phone contract in Japan.

Checked 2026-10-09 · Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan (出入国在留管理庁)

The phone company checks your ID when you sign a contract.
Bring an ID with your current address.
Bring a credit card, or a card or bankbook from a Japanese bank, to pay.

Show to the staff ↓

Steps

Ask the phone company which papers you need. Some companies have help in other languages.
Show your ID at the shop. For online or mail contracts, follow the phone company's steps.
Sign the contract.

What to bring

ID with your current address, such as a residence card, driver's license, or My Number Card. Ask the phone company which ID they accept.
Credit card, or a cash card or bankbook from a Japanese bank

More details

If you are a minor (未成年). You also need a consent letter from your parent or guardian.

Watch out for brokers. Some people offer to sign a contract for you. Then they use the phone for crimes. If someone helps you, check the contract yourself.

Never give your phone to others. The law bans giving your phone to others without the phone company’s consent.

When you leave Japan. Contact your phone company to cancel.

At the end, check at the counter. You can show this card.

窓口まどぐちの方かたへ

携帯電話けいたいでんわの契約けいやくをしたいです。

This card says: “I want to sign a mobile phone contract.”

Official information

Guidebook on Living and Working, 7th edition (English, March 2025)Immigration Services Agency of Japan (出入国在留管理庁)www.moj.go.jp · Opens an English website

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