※ The information in this article is based on the time of writing.
Prices and services may change. Please check the official website
for the latest information.
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All recommendations are honest and independent.
IIJmio is one of the most popular affordable SIM cards in Japan.
Low cost, simple process, and great for foreigners.
This guide walks you through every step of applying for IIJmio
in Japan.
■ What is IIJmio? Why Foreigners Choose It
IIJmio is a budget SIM card service provided by IIJ
(Internet Initiative Japan).
Why people choose IIJmio:
・From ¥850/month — one of the lowest prices in Japan
・Choice of Docomo or au network
・Unused data rolls over to next month
・Great value for families with multiple SIMs
・Simple and straightforward application process
Price plans (Giga Plan):
2GB：¥850/month
5GB：¥990/month
10GB：¥1,500/month
15GB：¥1,800/month
20GB：¥2,000/month
■ What You Need Before Applying
Prepare the following before starting your application:
Required:
□ Residence Card (both sides)
□ Credit card (in your name)
□ Email address
□ Japanese address
Helpful to have:
□ MNP reservation number (if keeping your current number)
□ SIM-free smartphone
Important: IIJmio accepts credit card payment only.
Bank transfer is not available.
If you don’t have a credit card, please consider
Dare Demo Mobile instead.
■ Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Go to the official website
Visit iijmio.jp and click “Apply” on the top page.
Step 2: Choose your plan
Select “Giga Plan.”
We recommend starting with 2GB or 5GB.
You can change your plan later.
Network type:
・Type D (Docomo) → Stable coverage nationwide
・Type A (au) → Good coverage in rural areas
Step 3: Choose your SIM type
・Voice SIM → Calls + data (recommended)
・Data SIM → Data only
Step 4: Upload your ID
Take a photo of the front and back of your
Residence Card and upload them.
Tips for a successful upload:
・Photo must be clear and in focus
・All four corners must be visible
・No glare or reflections
Step 5: Enter your credit card details
Enter your credit card information.
VISA, Mastercard, JCB, and AMEX are accepted.
Step 6: Application complete
You will receive a confirmation email.
Your SIM card will arrive by mail in
approximately 3–5 business days.
Step 7: Activate your SIM
Insert the SIM into your phone and complete
the activation process through IIJmio’s My Page.
■ APN Settings (After Your SIM Arrives)
Inserting the SIM alone will not connect you
to the internet. You need to configure APN settings.
For iPhone:
- Download the profile from IIJmio’s official website
- Go to Settings → “Profile Downloaded”
- Tap “Install”
- Done
For Android:
- Go to Settings → Network & Internet
- SIM → Access Point Names
- Add a new APN:
APN: iijmio.jp
Username: mio@iij
Password: iij - Save and you’re done
■ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can foreigners apply?
A: Yes. You need a Residence Card and a credit card.
Q: Can I apply in English?
A: The application form is in Japanese only.
Follow the step-by-step guide on this page
and you will be fine.
Q: Is there a credit check?
A: As long as your credit card is approved,
you should be able to apply.
Q: Can I cancel anytime?
A: Yes. There is no minimum contract period.
Note that there is no daily pro-rating —
you will be charged for the full month
of cancellation.
Q: Can I keep my current phone number?
A: Yes. Use MNP (Mobile Number Portability).
Get an MNP reservation number from your
current carrier before applying.
■ Summary
IIJmio is a great choice for foreigners who want
an affordable SIM with a simple application process.
Best for:
・Reducing your monthly phone bill
・Those who already have a credit card
・People who want a straightforward SIM
Note: A credit card is required.
If you don’t have one, check out Dare Demo Mobile.
→ Apply for IIJmio
→ No credit card? Try Dare Demo Mobile instead
※ The information in this article is based on the
time of writing. Prices and services may change.
Please check the IIJmio official website for the
latest information.
[PR] This article contains affiliate links.
If you sign up through our links, we may receive
a commission at no extra cost to you.