Are you new to Japan and confused about how to get a SIM card?

Signing up for a phone plan in Japan can feel overwhelming —
especially when everything is in Japanese. But don’t worry.
This guide covers the best SIM cards for foreigners in Japan
that you can apply for with just your Residence Card.

■ Common Problems Foreigners Face

When trying to get a SIM card in Japan, you might run into
these issues:

・Application forms are only in Japanese
・Many carriers require a Japanese credit card
・Some services reject foreign applicants
・It’s unclear what documents are needed

The SIM cards on this page were chosen specifically to solve
these problems.

■ SIM Cards You Can Apply for with a Residence Card

1. Dare Demo Mobile (だれでもモバイル)
   Monthly fee: From ¥2,178 (unlimited calls + 3GB)
   Credit check: None
   English support: Yes
   Why we recommend it: No credit check required. Anyone with
   a photo ID and a Japanese bank account can apply. One of the
   most foreigner-friendly SIM cards in Japan.
2. Rakuten Mobile (楽天モバイル)
   Monthly fee: From ¥1,078 (up to 3GB)
   Credit check: Yes (relatively easy to pass)
   English support: Yes
   Why we recommend it: English-speaking staff available at
   some stores. Online application accepted. Residence Card
   accepted for identity verification.
3. IIJmio
   Monthly fee: From ¥850 (2GB plan)
   Credit check: Yes
   English support: Partial
   Why we recommend it: One of the cheapest options available.
   Simple application process. Popular among long-term residents.

■ Comparison Table

Service | Monthly Fee | Credit Check | English Support | Foreigner-Friendly
Dare Demo Mobile | ¥2,178~ | None | Yes | ★★★
Rakuten Mobile | ¥1,078~ | Yes | Yes | ★★★
IIJmio | ¥850~ | Yes | Partial | ★★☆

■ Top 3 SIM Cards for Foreigners

1 Dare Demo Mobile

No credit check. English support available. Only requires
a photo ID and Japanese bank account. Best choice if you
just arrived in Japan and don’t have a credit card yet.

2 Rakuten Mobile

Only ¥1,078/month for up to 3GB. English-speaking store
staff available. Great if you want in-person support during
the application process.

3 IIJmio

Starting from ¥850/month — one of the lowest prices in Japan.
Best for those who are comfortable with online procedures
and want to keep costs down.

■ How to Apply: Step-by-Step (Dare Demo Mobile)

Step 1: Visit the official website
Step 2: Choose your plan (Unlimited calls + 3GB recommended)
Step 3: Prepare your ID (Residence Card or Passport)
Step 4: Enter your Japanese bank account details
Step 5: Submit your application
Step 6: Receive your SIM card by mail (approx. 3–5 business days)
Step 7: Insert the SIM and complete the activation process

■ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply with just a passport?
A: For Dare Demo Mobile, you need both a passport and
Residence Card. If you are on a tourist visa, we recommend
a prepaid SIM instead.

Q: Can I apply without a credit card?
A: Yes. Dare Demo Mobile accepts payment via Japanese
bank account.

Q: Can I apply in English?
A: Dare Demo Mobile and Rakuten Mobile both offer English
support. The application forms are in Japanese, but you
can follow the step-by-step guide on this page.

Q: How long does it take to receive the SIM?
A: Usually 3–5 business days after your application
is approved.

■ Summary

Getting a SIM card in Japan is easier than you think —
as long as you choose the right provider.

・No credit check, apply today → Dare Demo Mobile
・English support at the store → Rakuten Mobile
・Lowest monthly cost → IIJmio

Pick the plan that fits your situation and get connected
from day one in Japan!

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