Registering Japanese Real Estate as a Foreigner: Overseas Address Proof in 2026

Foreign nationals can register ownership of Japanese real estate. When an overseas address is used, address evidence should be prepared under Ministry of Justice practice, with the original documents, translations and identity-verification method confirmed in advance with the judicial scrivener.

Key points

• Foreign nationality itself does not prevent ownership registration.
• Applicants without a Japanese resident record may need official foreign documents or notarized evidence of address.
• Name and address spellings should be consistent across the contract, ID documents and registration filing.

Practical process

Before closing, provide the judicial scrivener with nationality, country of residence, available address evidence and whether the buyer can come to Japan. Exact documents depend on the case.

Sources and verification

This guide is based on the official sources below and was verified as of September 2, 2026. Confirm current requirements for individual cases.

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