SIM FOR LIVING IN JAPAN
Getting a SIM as a resident of Japan, honestly
Once you actually live here, a travel eSIM won’t cut it — you’ll want a real Japanese phone number for banking, deliveries, and signing up for just about everything. The catch is that getting one comes with real hurdles. Here’s the path that works.
Voice-only plans, before discounts (2026, from official prices). Living here, a budget SIM can cut a typical ¥7,000+ bill to under ¥1,500 a month — which is why it's worth clearing the hurdles below.
The three hurdles
- Residence card (在留カード).A number-bearing SIM almost always requires it. Short-term visitors can’t get one — that’s why a travel eSIM is the only option until you have a card.
- Japanese payment. Many budget SIMs require a Japanese credit card. Some accept debit or bank transfer — and English-friendly providers are more flexible here.
- Language. The cheapest carriers sign you up in Japanese only. English support exists, but usually costs a little more.
The honest path
- Right after you arrive (before your card or bank are ready): use a data travel eSIM to stay connected.
- Once you have your residence card and a way to pay: get a phone-number SIM. Want everything in English? Start with an English-friendly provider. Want the lowest price and can manage some Japanese? A budget SIM is far cheaper.
Options, by what matters to you
| Provider | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sakura Mobile | Easiest in English | Full English support, residence card accepted. Costs a bit more. |
| Mobal | English, flexible payment | English support; often easier if you don't yet have a Japanese card. |
| Rakuten Mobile | App-based, eSIM, low cost | Residence card OK; app/eSIM signup. Some English. Unlimited ¥3,278. |
| Nihon Tsushin (日本通信) | Cheapest | From ¥290. Japanese-only signup & support; needs Japanese payment. |
The honest trade-off: English support and easy payment cost a little more; Japanese-only budget SIMs are the cheapest. Prices change — confirm on each official site.
FAQ
Can I get a SIM without a Japanese credit card?
Sometimes. Many budget carriers require a Japanese credit card, but some accept a debit card or bank transfer, and English-friendly providers tend to be more flexible. Check the payment options before you apply.
How long does it take to get set up?
Online and eSIM sign-ups can be same-day to a few days once your documents are verified. A physical SIM sent by mail takes longer, so keep a data eSIM running in the meantime.
Can I keep my number if I switch carriers later?
Yes. Once you have a Japanese number, MNP (number portability) lets you move it between carriers — so you can start simple and switch to a cheaper plan later without losing your number.
Do I need to speak Japanese to sign up?
For the cheapest carriers, effectively yes — sign-up and support are in Japanese. English-friendly providers (Sakura Mobile, Mobal) handle the whole process in English for a bit more.
What do I need to bring?
Usually your residence card (在留カード) and a Japanese payment method. Some carriers also ask for a Japanese address or phone number for verification.
We don’t sell rankings — when a non-paying option is the best fit, we say so. Comfortable reading Japanese? Our 3-minute SIM diagnosis finds your cheapest plan and the yearly savings. Just visiting Japan? See the travel eSIM guide →