Mobile Phone Contracts in Japan: Simple Checks for Foreign Residents

What to check before signing, changing, or canceling a mobile phone contract in Japan.

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Quick checklist

  • Before Signing
  • Documents and Address
  • Changing Companies
  • When Moving or Leaving Japan
  • If There Is Trouble

Before Signing

Check monthly fee, contract period, device payment, cancellation fee, data limit, call charges, and required documents before signing.

Documents and Address

Phone companies may ask for your residence card, address, payment method, and remaining period of stay. Bring documents that show your current address.

Changing Companies

If you want to keep the same phone number, check number portability procedures, fees, and timing before canceling the old contract.

When Moving or Leaving Japan

Update your address after moving. If you leave Japan, confirm cancellation, final bill, device payment, and SIM return rules.

If There Is Trouble

Keep contracts, bills, messages, and shop notes. If you do not understand a fee, ask the company or a consumer consultation center.

Source and note

This article is based on official public information and is written in simple English. Procedures may differ by person and city. Please check the official page or a consultation office for your own case.

Source: https://www.soumu.go.jp/main_sosiki/joho_tsusin/eng/index.html