Guarantor Companies in Japan: What They Are and How to Apply
Renting an apartment in Japan often requires a guarantor (保証人 / hoshounin)—someone who agrees to cover your rent if you can’t. This requirement can be a major hurdle, especially for foreigners and first-time renters.
That’s where guarantor companies (保証会社 / hoshou gaisha) come in. These companies act as a substitute for a personal guarantor and are widely accepted by landlords across Japan.
Heads up
Some guarantor companies may still require a physical co-signer to approve your contract. If you don’t have one, the fees can be significantly higher—ranging from 40% to 100% of one month’s rent.
Why Are They Necessary?
Guarantor companies are used to reduce financial risk for landlords in case the tenant cannot pay rent. While foreigners often rely on them due to lack of credit history or a local co-signer, these companies are required for almost all renters in Japan, regardless of nationality.
- Foreigners with limited credit history in Japan
- Students and new graduates
- Contract workers or freelancers
- Tenants without a Japanese co-signer or local family
Important
Guarantor companies are not just for foreigners—most Japanese renters are also required to use one. Only large companies or government workers sometimes avoid them by offering a cash deposit (caution) instead.
Who Needs One?
- Most renters in Japan, regardless of nationality
- Those without a Japanese guarantor (e.g. family or employer)
- Foreigners with a student, working holiday, or contract visa
- Freelancers or those with unstable income
How Much Do They Cost?
- Initial fee: 50–100% of one month’s rent
- Annual renewal fee: ~10,000–20,000 yen
- Monthly admin fee: ~500 yen (some companies)
How to Apply
- Choose an apartment that accepts guarantor companies
- Submit ID, visa, and income proof (agent handles paperwork)
- The agent submits your application to the guarantor company
- If approved, pay the fee and proceed with the rental contract
Top Guarantor Companies in Japan
- Global Trust Networks (GTN) – popular with foreigners, multilingual support
- JID (Japan ID) – used by many agencies nationwide
- Casa – wide acceptance across regions
- Nihon Safety – frequently used for private apartments
- J-LEASE – common in Kyushu and Western Japan
- Zenhoren – one of Japan’s largest guarantor networks
- UR Urban Renaissance Agency – no guarantor needed (alternative route)
Expert Tip
To make the process easier, choose a real estate agent who regularly works with foreigners and can help handle the guarantor company application for you.
Can You Be Denied?
Yes, guarantor companies may reject applicants based on:
- Unstable or insufficient income
- Short visa duration
- Past rental issues or blacklists
- Unverifiable employment or personal details
If rejected, your agent may apply with a different company or help you find a different property.
Tip to Improve Your Chances
To avoid rejection, provide recent bank statements showing you have savings or regular income. This can help demonstrate financial stability, especially if you are a freelancer or on a short visa.
Final Thoughts
Guarantor companies are a standard part of renting in Japan, especially for foreigners. While they add to the upfront costs, they also make it possible for most people to rent without a Japanese co-signer.
Need help renting in Japan or setting up utilities, internet, or a mobile plan? Selectra Japan makes the process easy and all in English.
