Can You Buy Property in Japan Without a Residence Status?

Japan has no law limiting property ownership based on nationality or residency status. Buyers without permanent residency, and even those living entirely outside Japan, can purchase property here.

A small number of areas — near defense facilities or certain border islands — require advance notification before a purchase. It's worth confirming whether a property falls into one of these zones.

Mortgage availability can depend on residency status, so many overseas buyers purchase in cash or arrange financing through a lender in their home country instead.