What You’ll Learn
- Why monthly apartments are easier for foreigners than regular rentals
- Exactly what documents you need (and don’t need)
- Step-by-step application walkthrough
- Common mistakes foreigners make when renting in Japan
- What to check before signing anything
Renting an apartment in Japan as a foreigner can be notoriously difficult. Many landlords require a Japanese guarantor, extensive proof of income, and years of documentation. Monthly apartments sidestep almost all of this.
This guide walks you through exactly what to expect when renting a monthly apartment in Nagoya as a non-Japanese resident or visitor.
Why Monthly Apartments Are Different for Foreigners
Regular Japanese apartment leases create significant barriers for foreigners:
- Japanese guarantor (保証人) required — difficult for people without local family connections
- Proof of stable employment in Japan — problematic for newly arrived assignees
- Extensive credit checks
- Key money (礼金) — a non-refundable “gift” to the landlord, typically 1–2 months’ rent
Monthly apartments operate on a fully prepaid model. You pay upfront for the entire stay. Since the operator collects all fees before you move in, there is no financial risk for them — and therefore almost no screening process.
This makes monthly apartments the most accessible housing option for foreigners in Japan, regardless of employment status or length of stay.
What You Actually Need to Apply
Here is what operators typically require from foreign applicants:
| Required | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | Or Residence Card (在留カード) if you have one |
| Emergency contact | A person to call in urgent situations — not a legal guarantor |
| Payment method | Credit card is fastest; bank transfer also accepted |
What you do NOT need:
– Japanese guarantor
– Proof of employment
– Bank statements
– Work visa (tourist visa is accepted at most properties)
If you are a corporate assignee, your company can book on your behalf under a corporate account, which simplifies the paperwork further.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Search for Properties
Search using keywords like “monthly apartment Nagoya,” “furnished apartment Nagoya,” or “short-term rental Nagoya.” You can also use Japanese property sites — just filter by 「マンスリーマンション」 and 「名古屋」.
Look for properties that clearly state:
– ✅ Foreigner-friendly (外国人OK / 外国籍対応可)
– ✅ English correspondence available
– ✅ Online application accepted
Step 2: Contact the Operator and Confirm Availability
Before filling out forms, call or email to confirm:
– Is the property available on your target dates?
– Are foreigners accepted?
– Is same-day or next-day move-in possible?
– Is English communication available?
Step 3: Submit the Application
Most operators have an online application form. You will typically fill in:
– Full name (as shown in passport)
– Nationality
– Contact phone number and email
– Move-in and move-out dates
– Emergency contact person’s name and phone number
– Purpose of stay (business, relocation, training, etc.)
Upload a clear photo or scan of your passport or residence card.
Step 4: Pay Upfront
Once approved (usually within a few hours to 1 business day), pay the full amount:
| Fee | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| Rent | Full period × daily rate |
| Cleaning fee | ¥5,000–¥30,000 (paid once) |
| Insurance | ¥1,000–¥2,000/month |
Credit card payment is strongly recommended — it is instant, and move-in can happen the same day once payment clears.
Step 5: Receive Your Key
Most modern monthly apartments use smart locks. After payment confirmation, you will receive a PIN code by email or SMS. You can enter the apartment at any time without meeting anyone in person.
If the property uses a physical key, it will be mailed or handed over at a designated location.
Checklist: Things to Confirm Before You Sign
Do not skip these:
- Is the property listed as foreigner-friendly? Some operators have restrictions — always confirm explicitly.
- Is Wi-Fi fiber-optic (光回線)? Some properties use shared mobile routers, which can be slow or unstable for video calls.
- Are bedsheets and pillows included? Many monthly apartments include beds but not bedding. Ask before booking.
- What is the cancellation/early departure policy? Some operators offer pro-rated refunds; others do not refund at all. Read carefully.
- Can you register your address here? Important if you need to update your residence card or open a bank account.
- Is NHK (public broadcaster) subscription required? Generally not required for monthly apartment tenants — the property owner is responsible. But some contracts specify otherwise.
Common Mistakes Foreigners Make
Mistake 1: Not confirming foreigner acceptance
Some older properties or private operators only accept Japanese nationals. Don’t assume — always ask directly before investing time in the application.
Mistake 2: Paying by bank transfer on a Friday evening
Bank transfers in Japan are not processed on weekends or public holidays. If you pay Friday night, your move-in could be delayed until Monday. Use a credit card if you need to move in quickly.
Mistake 3: Misunderstanding the cleaning fee
The cleaning fee (清掃費) is a one-time charge, not monthly. It is paid when you book and covers professional cleaning after your stay. It does not mean you cannot keep the apartment clean during your stay — it just means you don’t need to pay for a professional cleaner yourself when you leave.
Mistake 4: Ignoring the emergency contact field
The emergency contact is not a guarantor. It is simply a person who can be reached in an emergency. This can be a colleague, friend, or family member — in any country. Do not leave it blank, as it may cause delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I rent a monthly apartment in Nagoya on a tourist visa?
A. Yes, most monthly apartment operators accept tourist visa holders. Since the payment is fully upfront, visa status is not usually a factor. However, you cannot register your official Japanese address at a monthly apartment while on a tourist visa, as address registration requires a long-term residence status.
Q. How long in advance do I need to book?
A. Most monthly apartments can accommodate bookings with 1–3 days’ notice. For peak relocation seasons (March–April), booking 1–2 weeks in advance is safer. Many properties offer same-day move-in when a smart lock is available.
Q. Can I get a receipt or invoice for corporate expense purposes?
A. Yes. Most operators issue official receipts (領収書) or invoices addressed to your company. Ask for the document format you need at the time of booking — some operators can issue company-addressed invoices (法人名義の請求書) which simplifies corporate expense claims.
Q. Is it possible to extend my stay?
A. Yes, subject to availability. Contact the operator at least 2 weeks before your planned end date to request an extension. The same room may not always be available, but operators often have alternatives in the same area.
Q. What happens if something in the apartment breaks during my stay?
A. Contact the operator immediately. All monthly apartments handle maintenance — this is not your responsibility to fix. Document the issue with a photo when it happens and report it in writing (email preferred, as it creates a record).
Summary
Renting a monthly apartment in Nagoya as a foreigner is straightforward when you know what to expect:
- No guarantor, no key money, no credit checks
- Valid ID + prepayment is all you need
- Move-in can happen within 24 hours
- Confirm foreigner acceptance, Wi-Fi type, and bedding before booking
- Pay by credit card for the fastest move-in
