Data? Call Minutes? How International Students Can Avoid Overpriced SIM Plans
Japan SIM Card Guide for International Students
Step-by-Step Order for Getting a Mobile Number
In Japan, phone numbers, bank accounts, and apartment screening are closely interconnected. Following the correct sequence saves you unnecessary agency fees and waiting time.
1. Key Factor: Overseas Credit Card
Find discount carrier SIM companies (such as LINEMO or Rakuten Mobile) that support payment via overseas Visa, MasterCard, or JCB credit cards. This is the ultimate strategy to break the paradox of “Cannot get a phone number without a bank account, and cannot open a bank account without a phone number.”
2. Apply Immediately Upon Arrival
After receiving your Residence Card and completing address registration at your local ward office, apply online or in person at electronics stores like Bic Camera. Choosing an eSIM is recommended to speed up the activation process.
3. Open a Bank Account with Your New Number
Once you successfully obtain a Japanese phone number starting with 070, 080, or 090, head to JP Post Bank (Yucho Bank) to open your bank account and officially kick off your life in Japan.
4 大熱門 SIM 卡方案對比
LINEMO (SoftBank)
20GB 高速流量
經常使用 LINE 首選
LINE 聊天與通話不計流量，網路品質極佳且穩定。
ahamo (Docomo)
20GB + 5 分免費通話
假期常回國或熱愛旅遊者
免加價享 20GB 海外漫遊（回台港免換卡），信號覆蓋全日最強。
Rakuten Mobile
數據無限吃到飽
影音重度使用者、追求高 CP 值
自研 Link App 打日本國內電話免費，樂天點數可折抵月費。
GTN Mobile
彈性流量方案
剛抵達、日文不流利的留學生新手
專為外國人設計，支援多國語言（中英韓），可超商繳費。
Required Application Documents
- Residence Card (Address must be printed on the back)
- Passport
- Valid Credit Card (3D Secure authentication enabled recommended)
- Frequently Used Email Address
3 Major Tips to Avoid Traps
1. Ensure It Is a "Voice SIM" (音声通話SIM)
Make sure to select a “Voice Call SIM.” Opening bank accounts and applying for part-time jobs both require SMS verification codes. Data-only SIMs cannot meet daily living needs in Japan.
2. Watch Out for Cancellation Penalties & Contract Durations
Carriers like LINEMO and ahamo mostly do not require lock-in contracts. However, some smaller MVNO carriers may charge early termination fees if you cancel within 1 year. Always double-check contract terms before signing.
3. Check Phone Frequency Bands & SIM Lock Status
Before departure, confirm your phone is unlocked (SIM Free). If your device has a carrier lock, it won’t receive signals even with a Japanese SIM card inserted.
Looking for a Worry-Free Apartment with All Utilities & Wi-Fi Included?
Book an apartment through OKINI Student! We pre-activate high-speed wireless internet for you, saving you the hassle of dealing with telecom companies.