Required Documents

• Residence card: carriers check the residence status and period of stay shown on the card. A card marked with an unsettled address, an unsupported new format or too little time remaining may require another route or document.
• Foreign passport: some carriers or routes require it together with the residence card; others waive it for permanent residents or when the residence card itself is the accepted primary document.
• Device installments: if the remaining period of stay is shorter than the proposed installment term, installment approval may be refused even when the mobile service itself can be opened. A credit card or lump-sum device purchase may be required.
• Short remaining period: special payment conditions can apply. For example, au states that when less than 90 days remain, monthly payment is limited to a credit card in the contract holder's own name.

Online applications replace the counter ID check with eKYC: you photograph your residence card, often tilt it on camera to prove it is physical, and take a photo or short video of your face. A blurry photo means starting over.

Some identity-check routes read the IC chip in a driving licence, My Number card, residence card or special permanent resident certificate. You need an NFC-capable phone for online reading, or the shop's reader for an in-store check.

• DOCOMO shops: from August 20, 2026, IC-chip checks are being introduced in stages. DOCOMO asks customers using a My Number card to prepare the 6–16 character signature electronic-certificate password, and customers using a driving licence to prepare both 4-digit PINs.
• au Online Shop: IC reading of a driving licence requires the two 4-digit PINs registered when the licence was issued. The supported document and verification flow differ by application.

A brand-new line does not yet have its own number. Some application forms therefore ask for a reachable contact number in Japan, and the carrier may call it during screening or after the application. SoftBank's current important-information guide, for example, says the contact or workplace number entered must be accurate and reachable.

Common questions

What documents do I need to buy a phone in Japan?

Usually a valid residence card showing your current address, a payment method in your name (a credit or debit card, or bank details for direct debit), and — for a carrier switch — an MNP reservation number or a one-stop MNP arrangement. Some carriers also ask for a passport or a supplementary document. The exact list depends on the carrier, the plan and whether you apply online or in store.

Can I get a phone with only a passport?

Generally no for a new line. A residence card is normally required; some carriers accept it together with a supplementary document such as a utility bill or a residence certificate (住民票). Check the carrier's exact list before you go so you do not lose a trip.

Does my residence card need enough time left on it?

Carriers check the period of stay shown on the card. If the remaining period is shorter than a proposed device installment term, installment approval can be refused even when the line itself can be opened — a lump-sum device purchase or a credit card may then be required. au states that when less than 90 days remain, monthly payment is limited to a credit card in the contract holder's own name.

What is eKYC?

The online identity check that replaces the counter ID inspection. You photograph your residence card, often tilt it on camera to prove it is physical, and take a photo or short video of your face. A blurry image means starting over. Some newer residence-card formats are not yet supported by every carrier's online check.

Do I need my My Number card or driving-licence PIN?

For IC-chip verification, yes. DOCOMO asks My Number card users to prepare the 6 to 16 character signature electronic-certificate password, and driving-licence users to prepare both 4-digit PINs. Enter it yourself only in the carrier's official app, official website or shop reader — never say it aloud, write it on a form or hand it to staff. Too many wrong attempts can lock the card function.

Why does the form ask for a contact phone number?

A brand-new line has no number yet, so some forms ask for a reachable number in Japan that the carrier may call during or after screening. Never enter a friend's, employer's or school's number without permission. Ask the carrier what alternatives it accepts if you do not have one.