Can I Buy Property in Japan Without Visiting Japan?

A Practical Guide for Overseas Buyers

Are you interested in buying a house or apartment in Japan but unable to travel there?

The good news is that foreigners can generally buy property in Japan without living in or visiting the country. However, completing a purchase remotely requires careful preparation.

Here is what overseas buyers should know.

1. Can Foreigners Buy Property in Japan?

Yes. Japan generally allows foreign nationals to purchase real estate regardless of nationality or residency status.

You do not need Japanese citizenship, permanent residency, or a Japanese visa simply to own property.

However, owning property does not give you the right to live in Japan. Certain properties may also be subject to additional legal requirements.

2. Can the Purchase Be Completed Remotely?

In many cases, yes.

A typical purchase involves:

1. Finding a property and arranging online viewings.
2. Reviewing the property’s condition and legal information.
3. Signing the purchase agreement.
4. Preparing identification and registration documents.
5. Arranging payment and ownership registration.

Some real estate companies offer online meetings and electronic documents.

However, not every transaction can be completed entirely remotely. Requirements vary depending on the seller, real estate agent, bank, and other parties.

Always confirm the remote purchase arrangements before signing a contract.

3. What Documents Will You Need?

Overseas buyers may need:

• Passport: To verify your identity.
• Proof of address: To confirm your overseas residence.
• Notarized documents: Depending on your country and circumstances.
• Power of Attorney: If someone is authorized to handle specific procedures on your behalf.

The exact requirements vary. Incorrect documents can delay settlement or registration, so professional guidance is recommended.

4. How Can a Judicial Scrivener Help?

A Japanese judicial scrivener (Shiho-shoshi) specializes in real estate registration and related legal procedures.

When buying property remotely, a judicial scrivener can help with identity verification, registration documents, and the application to transfer ownership at the Legal Affairs Bureau.

For buyers living overseas, early consultation can help prevent unexpected problems before settlement.

5. What Should You Check Before Buying?

Before purchasing, consider these important points:

• Has the building been properly inspected?
• Are there any ownership, boundary, or rebuilding restrictions?
• Can your bank transfer the purchase funds to Japan?
• Are additional registration documents or government reports required?
• Who will manage the property while you are overseas?

These questions are especially important when purchasing an older house or vacant property (akiya).

Need Help Buying Property in Japan?

Purchasing Japanese real estate from overseas is possible in many situations, but the necessary procedures depend on your circumstances.

Karma Legal Japan assists international clients with Japanese real estate registration and related legal procedures.

If you are planning to purchase property in Japan, please contact us with your country of residence, the property’s location, and your expected purchase date.

We can discuss the registration process and documents required for your situation.

tomimoto

Judicial Scrivener

Karma Legal Japan supports foreign clients in Japan and abroad with company formation, real estate purchases and registration, inheritance, marriage, divorce, and other legal procedures in Japan.Judicial Scrivener (Shiho-Shoshi), a licensed legal professional in Japan