2025-10-14

Foreign nationals working in Japan generally require a “work visa.” If you wish to renew this visa multiple times and stay in Japan long-term, can you obtain a mortgage? We explain this point in detail.

What is a Work Visa?

A work visa is one type of residence status obtained by foreigners working in Japan. Work visas are categorized in detail based on job type and work content.

For example, professionals such as engineers, interpreters, or designers require a “Technical/Humanities/International Services Visa.” Those transferred from an overseas branch to the same company’s Japanese office need an “Intra-company Transferee Visa.” A work visa permits employment and residence in Japan for a specific period; it does not guarantee the right to live in Japan indefinitely.

Many foreigners obtain work visas, renew them multiple times, and live in Japan long-term. In such cases, having stable employment and income contributes to gaining social credibility.

Can I get a mortgage?

So, can foreigners with work visas get a mortgage? To answer directly, obtaining a mortgage is possible.

However, loan approval criteria vary significantly between banks. That said, many financial institutions place emphasis on factors such as “length of stay,” “employment stability,” “annual income,” and “years of residence in Japan.” Among these, approval becomes stricter if the length of stay is short or renewal prospects are unclear. This is because the reviewing bank must carefully assess whether long-term repayment is feasible.

Some financial institutions require obtaining “permanent residency” as a condition. However, recently, more institutions are offering “specialized loan plans” targeting foreign customers.

Additionally, foreign nationals with a Japanese spouse, or those with long-term, stable employment, tend to have an easier time passing the screening. When seeking a loan, it is important to consult multiple financial institutions and select the one best suited to your circumstances.

Points to Note When Applying for a Loan

Foreign nationals with work visas applying for a mortgage must prepare documentation demonstrating stable employment and continuous residency. This involves submitting income-related documents such as employment certificates, withholding tax slips, and tax payment certificates, while presenting your Residence Card and passport to prove legal residence in Japan.

If the remaining period on the work visa is short, attaching documentation showing renewal plans can increase credibility. Furthermore, foreigners must pass the guarantor company’s screening. A Japanese co-signer may also be required.

Since loan agreements, interest terms, repayment methods, etc., are all written in Japanese, fully understanding the content is essential. If anything is unclear, confirm it with the financial institution’s representative or an expert; never leave anything ambiguous. Therefore, consult a reliable interpreter or real estate consultant.

Summary

Even foreigners holding a work visa can obtain a mortgage. However, financial institutions also consider conditions such as period of stay, job stability, annual income, and years of residence in Japan. It is important to compare multiple financial institutions and choose one that suits your circumstances.