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Guides/City hall & paperwork

Mobile Phone Contract

Sign up with a mobile carrier or low-cost SIM (MVNO). By law you must verify your identity, so bring your residence card; some carriers also need a Japanese payment method.

1 min readChecked against official sources 2026-06-14

Contents

  • Steps
  • What to bring
  • Official sources
  • Related guides

Sign up with a mobile carrier or low-cost SIM (MVNO). By law you must verify your identity, so bring your residence card; some carriers also need a Japanese payment method.

Where: Mobile carriers (private). Identity verification is required under telecom law (overseen by the MIC). · When: Any time after you have a residence card.

Steps

  1. 1Choose a carrier and plan, and visit a shop or apply online.
  2. 2Verify your identity with your residence card (and My Number Card / passport if asked).
  3. 3Set up payment (credit card or bank account) and receive your SIM.

What to bring

  • ▢Residence card
  • ▢Payment method (credit card or Japanese bank account)
  • ▢MNP reservation number (only if keeping your current number)

Official sources

  • Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications - Identity verification for mobile contracts↗ (opens in a new tab)

Related guides

  • →Getting a phone or SIM in Tokyo: your options
  • →Opening a Bank Account in Japan: A Newcomer's Guide
  • →Paying for Things in Tokyo: Cash, IC Cards, QR Pay and Cards
  • →Your first 90 days in Tokyo: 8 things to do (a checklist hub)

Information, not advice

This guide is general information only — not legal, administrative, tax or other professional advice, and not a filing service. Rules and procedures can change; always confirm with the official window or website. For your specific situation, consult a licensed professional or contact the relevant government office directly.

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2026