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How-toRenting in Osaka without a guarantor
In Osaka, guarantee companies are even more common than in Tokyo, so you can rent without a guarantor. The Kansai region has its own customs, such as shikibiki, so check what money you get back when you move out.
Guarantee companies are standard in Kansai
One survey found that in the first half of 2019, 95.1% of listings in the Kansai region required a guarantee company, compared with 82.7% in the Tokyo area (Ieagent). The steps are the same as in Tokyo; see renting in Meguro.
Kansai words to know
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hoshokin (保証金) | Money you leave on moving in, similar to a deposit in Tokyo |
| Shikibiki (敷引き) | A set amount taken from the hoshokin when you move out |
Today you will see both systems on Osaka listings. Check which one each room uses, and how much of the hoshokin you won't get back.
Steps
- Prepare your residence card, proof of income and a Japanese phone number.
- Ask an agency used to foreign tenants. Some Osaka companies support tenants in several languages, for example Apartment Japan.
- Apply, then the guarantee company screens you (a few days to a week).
- Before signing, check in the contract what money you won't get back.
- Register your address at the ward office within 14 days. See the Osaka checklist.
For workers from Vietnam and elsewhere
- If you work under Specified Skilled Worker status, your company may provide housing or help you search. Ask your company or registered support organization first. Help with finding housing, such as acting as guarantor or providing company housing, is one of the required support items (Immigration Services Agency).
- Letting people who aren't on the contract live in your room breaks the contract.
For your first one to three months, a furnished monthly apartment with no guarantor is the easy choice. Use that time to see the city...
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