Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Property Ownership in Japan

Buying a house in Japan is exciting—but after the purchase, there’s one crucial legal step: property registration.

This process ensures your ownership is officially recognized under Japanese law. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you understand how property registration works in Japan, especially for foreign buyers.

1. What Is Property Registration in Japan?

In Japan, ownership of real estate is not automatically transferred when you buy a property.
Instead, your name must be recorded in the official land registry at the Legal Affairs Bureau (法務局, Homukyoku).

✅ Without registration, you are not legally recognized as the owner—even if you paid for the property.

2. Who Handles the Registration?

This task is handled by a legal professional called a Judicial Scrivener (司法書士, Shiho-Shoshi).
They specialize in real estate law and can:

• Prepare all necessary documents
• Confirm ownership rights
• Submit your registration at the Legal Affairs Bureau

As a foreign buyer, working with a judicial scrivener is strongly recommended.

3. When Does Registration Take Place?

Property registration usually happens on the day of settlement (closing)—the day when the final payment is made.
The process includes:

• Confirming payment
• Handing over the keys
• Submitting the ownership transfer to the registry office

4. What Documents Are Needed?

Typical documents include:

• The purchase contract (売買契約書)
• The seller’s and buyer’s ID or passport
• Power of attorney (if you are abroad)
• Proof of payment
• Certificate of seal impression (if applicable)

The judicial scrivener will prepare and guide you through the process.

5. Registration Taxes and Fees

You will also need to pay:

• Registration and license tax (usually 0.4–2% of the property value)
• Judicial scrivener’s fee (varies by property and complexity)

Your scrivener will calculate and explain all these costs in advance.

6. After Registration

Once the registration is complete, you will receive:

• An official registration certificate
• Confirmation that you are the legal owner of the property

Conclusion

Property registration in Japan is a legal requirement that protects your ownership rights.
Although the process may seem complicated, a judicial scrivener will handle everything for you—making it smooth and worry-free.

Our office has supported many international clients through real estate purchases and registrations in Japan.
If you need assistance or have questions, feel free to contact us anytime!