Can I rent an apartment in Japan before I have my residence card?

Usually guarantor companies require a residence card, but Maido Estate works with selected partners that accept pre-arrival applications. You sign in person on day 1 and receive your keys immediately after.

What are the pros and cons of renting before arrival?

Pros: stress-free move-in, fast process, timing aligns with 1-year stays to reduce penalties. Cons: virtual visits only, you must trust your realtor, and not all management companies allow it.

What documents do I need for a pre-arrival lease?

Typically a passport, expected arrival date/flight info, proof of income or employment/offer letter, and basic personal details. Requirements vary by property and guarantor.

Is there an early-termination penalty?

Most contracts are 2-year terms with a penalty if you leave within the first year. Starting your contract on your arrival date helps align with a 12-month stay and can minimize extra fees.

Get Your Apartment Key on Day 1 in Japan

Q: How long does the process take?

Once we shortlist eligible properties, screening to contract prep can take 1–2 weeks depending on the building and documents. We aim to have everything ready before you land.

Get Your Apartment Key on Day 1 in Japan | Maido Estate

Skip the search stress. Secure your place before you land and move in the same day.

Receiving apartment keys on the first day in Japan — With Maido Estate, some properties allow pre-arrival screening and day-one move-in.

When moving to Japan, most people arrive, stay a few weeks in an Airbnb or share house, and start visiting apartments once they have their residence card. This method works perfectly — and for many newcomers, it’s still the best option.

That said, if you’d rather avoid apartment hunting during your first month and focus on your work, studies, or settling in, there is another path. Through Maido Estate, we work with selected management and guarantor partners who allow us to complete your rental process before you arrive. On day one in Japan, you sign the contract and receive your keys right after.

How the “Day-1 Keys” Option Works

Eligibility check & shortlist: We confirm properties that support pre-arrival applications.
Virtual tours & docs: We provide detailed photos/videos and collect your documents securely.
Screening & approval: We coordinate with the guarantor/management company.
Contract prep: We align your start date with your arrival date.
Day 1 in Japan: Sign in person and pick up the keys — move in the same day.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

Stress-free move-in: Your home is ready when you land.
Fast process: Most steps handled online before arrival.
Better for 1-year stays: Contracts are often 2 years with fees for leaving within 12 months. Starting on your arrival date aligns your stay and can reduce penalties.

⚠️ Cons

Virtual visits only: No in-person viewing before signing.
Trust required: You must rely on transparent communication with your realtor.
Limited availability: Not every building or guarantor permits this workflow.

What You’ll Usually Need

Passport
Expected arrival date (flight details help)
Proof of income or employment (e.g., offer letter)
Basic personal information & emergency contact

Note: Requirements vary by property and guarantor. We’ll confirm the exact list for you.

Who Is This Best For?

Professionals who need to start work immediately
Students who want a guaranteed address from day one
Anyone who prefers convenience over in-person viewings

Areas We Cover

We specialize in Osaka and the Kansai region (Kyoto, Kobe, etc.). If you’re flexible on building rules, we’ll widen the search to find properties that support the day-1 keys flow.