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Budget SIM in Japan Compared: Rakuten Mobile vs IIJmio vs mineo — Which Should Foreigners Choose?

  • Apr 11
  • 3 min read

Japan’s Budget SIM Market in 2026

As of 2026, Japan’s mobile market offers a wide range of budget SIM options: Rakuten Mobile, IIJmio, mineo, LINEMO, ahamo, povo, and more. For foreigners living in Japan, figuring out which SIM is easiest to use — and which can be applied for with just a Residence Card — is a common challenge. This guide compares all major providers across four key criteria: price, ease of application for foreigners, English support, and network quality, to give you a clear, definitive answer.

Budget SIM Japan Comparison Rakuten Mobile IIJmio mineo Foreigners 2026



Comparison Table: Major Budget SIMs in Japan (2026)

Here is how each provider stacks up on the points that matter most to foreigners.


Rakuten Mobile

Price: ¥1,078–¥3,278/month (unlimited data, tax included) Residence Card only: Yes — full online application eSIM: Yes (same-day activation) English support: Yes (English-speaking phone operators available) Free domestic calls: Yes (via Rakuten Link app, unlimited) Free international roaming: Yes (2GB/month in 144+ countries) Contract lock-in: None (cancel anytime, ¥0 fee) Foreigner rating: ★★★★★ (Best overall)


IIJmio

Price: ¥858/month (2GB) to ¥2,970/month (unlimited data) Residence Card only: Yes eSIM: Yes English support: Website and support in Japanese only Free calls: 11 minutes/month included (plan-dependent) International roaming: Available (fees apply) Contract lock-in: None Foreigner rating: ★★★☆☆ (Limited English support)


mineo

Price: ¥1,298/month (1GB) to ¥2,178/month (unlimited data) Residence Card only: Yes eSIM: Yes English support: Limited Unique feature: FreeTank (community data sharing) International roaming: Available (fees apply) Contract lock-in: None Foreigner rating: ★★★☆☆ (Community features assume Japanese literacy)


ahamo (docomo sub-brand)

Price: ¥2,970/month (20GB; unlimited add-on available separately) Residence Card only: Yes eSIM: Yes English support: English website available 5-minute free calls included International roaming: 20GB usable abroad at no extra charge Contract lock-in: None Foreigner rating: ★★★★☆ (Good for frequent travelers; docomo’s strong network)


LINEMO (SoftBank sub-brand)

Price: ¥990/month (3GB) to ¥2,728/month (20GB) Residence Card only: Yes eSIM: Yes English support: Limited Free LINE calls when using the LINE app Contract lock-in: None Foreigner rating: ★★★☆☆ (Good for heavy LINE users)



Key Criteria for Foreigners Choosing a Budget SIM

Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing a SIM card as a foreigner in Japan.


① Can you apply with just a Residence Card?

All major budget SIMs accept a Residence Card as the primary ID. However, Rakuten Mobile stands out because the entire application process — identity verification, eSIM issuance, and activation — can be completed online without visiting a store. Other providers may require store visits for certain procedures, which can be a significant barrier for foreigners who are not fluent in Japanese.


② Unlimited data at the lowest price?

Rakuten Mobile’s unlimited plan costs ¥3,278/month — far cheaper than the ¥7,000–¥8,000+ charged by Japan’s three major carriers (docomo, au, SoftBank). Even compared to ahamo (¥2,970/month for 20GB), Rakuten Mobile offers better value once you need more than 20GB of data per month. If you stream videos, use social media heavily, or tether your laptop, Rakuten Mobile is the clear winner.


③ Free domestic calls?

Rakuten Mobile offers unlimited free domestic calls via the Rakuten Link app — no time limits, no per-minute fees. IIJmio includes limited free minutes, mineo requires a paid add-on, ahamo includes 5 minutes free, and LINEMO only offers free calls within LINE. For foreigners who need to call hospitals, government offices, or employers frequently, Rakuten Mobile’s fully free calling is a major advantage.


④ Free international roaming?

Rakuten Mobile provides 2GB of free international roaming per month in 144+ countries and regions. This means you can use your Japanese phone number abroad without paying extra — ideal for foreigners who travel home or go on business trips. ahamo’s plan also allows 20GB to be used abroad, but other providers charge roaming fees. For foreigners who regularly travel between Japan and their home country, Rakuten Mobile’s free roaming is extremely valuable.



Conclusion: Why Rakuten Mobile Is the Best Choice for Foreigners

After comparing all major budget SIMs, Rakuten Mobile is the top recommendation for foreigners in Japan. Here is why: the full application can be completed online with just a Residence Card; eSIM activation is available on the same day; the unlimited data plan is among the cheapest available; domestic calls are completely free via Rakuten Link; international roaming is free up to 2GB per month in 144+ countries; and there is no contract lock-in, so you can cancel anytime at no cost. On top of all this, Rakuten Points earned from monthly payments can be used to further reduce your bill — a benefit unique to Rakuten Mobile.


🎁Rakuten Mobile’s current referral campaign offers 14,000 points for MNP transfers and 11,000 points for all other sign-ups. *Entry is completed by logging in with your Rakuten account. ⇒Sign Up Here

To everyone coming to Japan from overseas

We've prepared a short guide for you, choose your language to find out more.

What is Rakuten Mobile?

Rakuten Mobile is a mobile phone service operated by the Rakuten Group, a major Japanese internet company. Launched in April 2020 as Japan's fourth major mobile carrier, the service has attracted attention for its innovative pricing structure and wide range of services. Its greatest feature is its low-cost, high-quality service provided using its own Rakuten network. This cost-effective operating structure allows it to offer plans that are significantly cheaper than those of other major carriers.

Rakuten Mobile only offers one pricing plan, the "Rakuten Ultimate Plan." Its simplicity and ease of understanding are also a major attraction. You only pay for what you use. From light users with limited data usage to heavy users who want to use as much data as possible, Rakuten Mobile offers pay-as-you-go plans to meet a variety of needs.

If your monthly data usage is 3GB or less, the monthly fee is 1,078 yen. If your monthly data usage is between 3GB and 20GB, the monthly fee is 2,178 yen, and if it exceeds 20GB, unlimited data usage is applied for a monthly fee of 3,278 yen. In other words, the monthly fee is set according to your monthly data usage, and even if you use more than 20GB, your monthly basic fee will never exceed 3,278 yen.

By making good use of Rakuten Mobile's campaigns, you can significantly reduce your communication costs.

Rakuten Mobile also has no minimum contract period, so it's recommended for foreigners who are staying in Japan for a short period of time. Furthermore, there are no cancellation fees, so you can cancel at any time. (Note: If you have any remaining optional service fees or installment bills for your smartphone device, you will need to settle them.)

 

 

 

Why book with us

🔹 Easy-to-read, thorough explanations for everyone 🔹 Latest updates on Rakuten Mobile referral campaigns and switching (MNP) information 🔹 Beginner-friendly guide to contracts, cancellations, and price comparisons 🔹 Includes information on required documents and points to note for foreigners 🔹 Introducing the ultimate money-saving tips for lowering your smartphone bill with Rakuten Points

 

 

 

Can foreigners, international students, and those with work visas sign up for Rakuten Mobile?

To put it simply, any foreigner living in Japan can sign up for Rakuten Mobile.

Main residence statuses that can be used for contracts

🔹 International students

🔹 Work visa (Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, International Services, etc.)

🔹Specific Skills and Technical Intern Training

🔹 Permanent Resident/Spouse Visa: Generally, there is no problem as long as you have a residence card. *Please note that those with only a short-term stay (tourist visa) cannot sign a contract.

 

 

Why is it so popular among foreign visitors to Japan?

There are several reasons why Rakuten Mobile is highly popular among foreign visitors and residents of Japan.

 

🔹Simple pricing structure

A clear pay-as-you-go pricing plan with no complicated contract terms.

 

🔹Ease of contracting

Even foreigners can easily sign a contract if they have the necessary documents. Multilingual support is also being promoted.

 

🔹No minimum usage period

There is no contract period, so even those staying for a short period can use it easily.

 

🔹Benefits when using overseas

We offer a wide range of convenient services not only in Japan, but also when you return to your home country or travel to another country.

 

🔹Easy Japanese support

We strive to provide services using "easy Japanese" that is easy for foreigners to understand.

According to a survey conducted by MMD Research Institute in 2025, Rakuten Mobile achieved a 21.0% share in the "Ranking of Telecommunications Services Subscribed to by Foreign Residents," taking the top spot, beating out SoftBank (15.6%) and Docomo (14.5%).

Additionally, approximately 25% of subscribers at Rakuten Mobile shops are foreign nationals, a rapid increase of 8% compared to the previous year.

 

Details of Rakuten's Strongest Plan

Rakuten Mobile's pricing plan is characterized by its simplicity, with only one plan being the "Rakuten Strongest Plan."

The plan's price varies depending on the amount of data used.

 

🔹Price structure

The basic pricing structure for Rakuten's Strongest Plan is as follows:

Monthly data usage fee (tax included)

 

🔹0-3GB 1,078 yen

🔹Over 3GB to 20GB: 2,178 yen

🔹Over 20GB - Unlimited 3,278 yen

 

*If you apply the family discount, you will receive a 110 yen discount at each stage.

The appeal of this pricing structure is that even if you use a lot of data, the monthly fee will not exceed 3,278 yen.

Compared to other carriers in Japan, the price is very reasonable for an unlimited data plan.

 

🔹Call charges

When using the Rakuten Link app

  • Domestic calls: Free

  • International calls (applicable countries): Free

When using standard OS apps

  • 22 yen per 30 seconds

Rakuten Link is a dedicated app for Rakuten Mobile that allows you to make free domestic calls and international calls to selected countries. This is convenient not only for calling contacts in Japan while you're staying in Japan, but also for keeping in touch with family and friends back home.

 

🔹Data communication

  • 5G compatible (requires 5G area and compatible device)

  • Free tethering (added to your data plan)

With high-capacity, high-speed data communication available, you can comfortably use map apps, watch videos, and post on social media.

The tethering feature is also available at no additional cost, allowing you to access the internet on other devices such as laptops and tablets.

 

🔹Optional services

Service nameMonthly fee (tax included)Outline

・Unlimited 15-minute (standard) calls: 1,100 yen (first month free) Unlimited domestic calls of up to 15 minutes using the standard OS app

・Unlimited international calls for 980 yen. Unlimited calls to 65 designated countries and regions.

・Data charge of 500 yen/1GB is used to add high-speed data communication overseas.

 

 

Special services for foreign visitors to Japan

Rakuten Mobile offers several special services to meet the needs of foreign visitors to Japan.

 

🔹Inbound roaming service

The "Inbound Roaming Service," launched in March 2023, allows users of overseas telecommunications carriers affiliated with Rakuten Mobile to use Rakuten's networks while in Japan. This allows foreign visitors to Japan to use the same SIM card they use in their home country to access 4G and 5G data communications and voice calls within Japan. Rakuten has currently begun a partnership with Hong Kong's "3 Hong Kong," and plans to expand its partner network. Using this service eliminates the need to replace SIM cards or sign new contracts, making mobile communications within Japan even more convenient.

 

🔹Multilingual support

Rakuten Mobile is considerate of its foreign users and provides service information in "easy Japanese" and is working to provide multilingual support.

  • Official website now available in English

  • Provision of English versions of contract documents

  • Customer support in English

Additionally, eSIM-related services will be expanded to include English support from January 2025, with Chinese and Korean support planned in the future. By lowering the language barrier, the company is creating an environment where more foreigners can use the service with confidence.

 

🔹Airport counter service

Rakuten Mobile has dedicated counters at Narita International Airport and Chubu Centrair International Airport.

The following services are offered here:

  • New contract procedures for Rakuten Mobile

  • SIM card issuance

  • Wi-Fi router rental

  • Various setting support

If you complete the necessary procedures at the airport on the day of departure, the service will be ready for use immediately upon arrival.

This is a particularly encouraging service for those visiting Japan for the first time or those who are unsure about their Japanese language skills.

However, it is recommended that you arrive at least 150 minutes before your flight departure time.

 

 

 

Documents and procedures required for signing the contract

🔹 Required documents

The documents required for foreigners to sign up for Rakuten Mobile are as follows:

Identification document (one of the following)

  • A valid residence card with your address listed

  • Special permanent resident certificate

Prepare a payment method

  • Credit card in your name or Japanese bank account information (for direct debit)

  • Debit card (Rakuten Bank or Suruga Bank only)

others

  • Contact email address

  • MNP reservation number (only if transferring from another company)

🔹How to sign a contract

You can sign up for Rakuten Mobile online or in-store.

 

Online contract flow

  1. Visit the Rakuten Mobile official website

  2. Click "Apply"

  3. Select "Rakuten Strongest Plan"

  4. Select the option you need

  5. Select your SIM card type (physical SIM or eSIM)

  6. If you are also purchasing a smartphone, select the model.

  7. Enter contractor information

  8. Upload your identity document

  9. Select a phone number (new or transfer)

  10. Setting up payment methods

  11. After completing your application, your SIM card will be shipped after an examination.

     

Store contract process

  1. Find a Rakuten Mobile Shop

  2. Bring the necessary documents to the store

  3. Follow the staff's instructions to complete the contract procedure.

  4. Verify your identity and set up payment methods

  5. SIM card issuance and initial settings

Points to note

  • The name and address on your residence card must match exactly with the name and address on your contract information.

  • Foreign nationals must register with the name on their residence card or special permanent resident certificate.

  • In the "Last name" field, enter the name that appears on your residence card up to the first space.

  • In the "First name" field, enter your name after the first space.

  • If you have a middle name, please enter it in the First name field.

 

Rakuten Mobile's overseas use and international services

Rakuten Mobile offers convenient services to foreign visitors to Japan not only during their stay in Japan, but also after they return home or travel to other countries.

 

🔹International roaming service

One of Rakuten Mobile's greatest attractions is its comprehensive international data roaming service.

Characteristics of overseas data communications

  • Up to 2GB of free data per month (included in the plan price)

  • Covers 90 countries and regions around the world (covering major countries in Asia, North America, Europe, etc.)

  • After exceeding 2GB, unlimited data is available at speeds up to 128kbps

  • If you want to continue high-speed communication, you can charge your data for 500 yen in 1GB increments.

With this international roaming service, you can continue to use the Rakuten Mobile SIM card you signed up for in Japan even after returning to your home country.

Additional settings are required, but there is no need for complicated operations such as replacing the SIM card.

 

🔹International calls and SMS

When using the Rakuten Link app

  • Free international calls to Japanese phone numbers

  • Free calls between Rakuten Link users anywhere in the world

  • It does not count towards your data usage

When using standard apps

  • Pay-as-you-go pricing

  • The unlimited international calling option (¥980 per month) allows you to make calls to 65 countries and regions at a flat rate.

The international SMS function is also comprehensive, and by using the Rakuten Link app, you can send and receive international SMS for free both in Japan and overseas.

 

🔹International In-Flight Roaming

Starting in 2025, Rakuten Mobile will be available on board international flights at no additional charge.

If you are using a compatible airline or aircraft, data communication is possible even at an altitude of 10,000 meters.

This means you can use the internet to browse social media, check tourist information, and more, even during long flights.

 

 

 

 

About eSIM options

🔹 What is eSIM?

eSIM (embedded SIM) is a new technology that uses a chip built into a smartphone to download and use carrier information without using a physical SIM card.

This is a convenient service that does not require inserting or replacing a card and can be started immediately by completing the online procedure.

 

🔹Rakuten Mobile eSIM support status

Rakuten Mobile will begin full-scale expansion of its eSIM services from the second half of 2024.

The following benefits are particularly available to foreign visitors to Japan:

  • Immediate activation: You can start using your mobile phone as soon as you arrive in Japan in as little as one hour.

  • No physical card required: No need to receive or manage a SIM card.

  • Use multiple lines: You can use both a physical SIM and an eSIM on one device, so you can use your home SIM and a Japanese eSIM at the same time.

  • Simplified process: everything is done online, no need to go to the store

🔹Compatible models

To use Rakuten Mobile's eSIM, you need an eSIM-compatible smartphone.

The main compatible models are as follows:

  • iPhone: iPhone XS/XR and later models

  • Google Pixel: Pixel 3 and later models

  • Galaxy: Some models from the S20 series onwards

  • Other Android smartphones: Some models

We recommend that you check in advance whether your device is compatible with eSIM by checking Rakuten Mobile's list of devices that have been confirmed to work .

🔹 eSIM plans for foreign visitors to Japan

Rakuten Communications began offering an "eSIM plan reservation" feature for foreign visitors to Japan in January 2025.

It has the following features:

  • Simply enter your ID and password on the dedicated website to activate your account.

  • English available (Chinese and Korean will be available in the future)

  • Prepaid options also available

  • Can also be sold at hotel front desks and convenience stores

This feature will enable foreign visitors to Japan to prepare an eSIM before arriving in Japan and easily start using data communication services immediately after arriving.

Benefits of choosing Rakuten Mobile

There are many benefits for foreign visitors to Japan who choose Rakuten Mobile. Here we will summarize the main benefits.

 

🔹High cost performance

  • Transparent pricing: Pay only for what you use, no surprises

  • There is a limit: No matter how much you use, it will not exceed 3,278 yen per month.

  • Free calls: Calls can be made free of charge both domestically and internationally using the dedicated app.

  • No minimum contract period: Cancel without penalty even for short stays

🔹Convenience of overseas use

  • 2GB of free international data per month: Available in over 90 countries and regions

  • In-flight roaming support: Data communication is possible even on eligible aircraft

  • Enhanced international calling: Calls to Japanese numbers are free with the Rakuten Link app

🔹Ease of contracting

  • eSIM compatible: Instant activation online

  • Multilingual support: English display available, Chinese and Korean support planned

  • Airport counter: Applications can be made at Narita and Chubu Centrair International Airports

  • Simple procedure: Few documents are required and the procedure is simple

🔹 Collaboration with the Rakuten Ecosystem

  • Rakuten points reward: Earn 1 point for every 100 yen spent

  • Collaboration with Rakuten services: Collaboration with other Rakuten services such as Rakuten Ichiba and Rakuten Travel

  • Shared Rakuten ID: Multiple services can be used with one ID

🔹High -quality network

  • 5G compatible: High-speed 5G communication is possible if the area is covered and the device is compatible.

  • Area expansion: Rapidly expanding our own network area

  • Free tethering: Tethering is available at no additional cost

 

 

 

What you can find on this site

🔹 How to switch to Rakuten Mobile (MNP) 🔹 How to earn points (14,000 points, etc.) when switching from another carrier to Rakuten Mobile
🔹 Rakuten Mobile Referral Campaign: How it Works and the Latest Information 🔹 Smartphone Bill Savings Tips for Signing, Cancelling, and Renewing Your Contract 🔹 Tips for Lowering Your Smartphone Bill (How to Use Rakuten Points)
🔹 Choosing a reliable SIM card for short-term stays and those planning to return to their home country

 

 

 

Recommended for:

📌 Switching (MNP) from another carrier (Docomo, au, Softbank) to Rakuten Mobile 📌 Foreigners and international students signing up for a smartphone or SIM card in Japan for the first time 📌 Making the most of Rakuten Mobile's referral campaigns and Rakuten points 📌 Wanting to keep mobile phone charges at the lowest possible rate or save money wisely with Rakuten points 📌 Don't want to pay unnecessary fees when canceling and re-signing

 

 

FAQ

🔹Q: Can I sign up for Rakuten Mobile if I'm staying for a short period of time (1 week to 1 month)?

A: Yes, Rakuten Mobile does not have a minimum contract period, so you can sign up even for short-term stays. There is no penalty for cancellation. However, for short-term use, we recommend using an eSIM. With a physical SIM, shipping and returning it requires effort.

 

🔹Q: What documents are required to apply for Rakuten Mobile?

A: If you are a foreign national, you will need a valid residence card or special permanent resident certificate with your address on it. You will also need a credit card or Japanese bank account information in your name as a payment method, and a contactable email address.

 

🔹Q: Can I sign a contract even if I don't understand Japanese?

A: Rakuten Mobile's official website is available in English, so you can complete the contract process in English. Some stores also have English-speaking staff. The counters at Narita International Airport and Chubu Centrair International Airport are particularly well-equipped to assist foreigners.

 

🔹Q: What should I do if I want to use the internet immediately after arriving in Japan?

A: There are several ways to do this:

  1. Sign up for an eSIM in advance (requires a compatible device)

  2. Sign up at the airport counter upon arrival

  3. Renting a Wi-Fi router at the airport

If you have an eSIM-compatible device, the most convenient option is to complete the application online and start using it in as little as an hour.

 

🔹Q: Can I use Rakuten Mobile overseas?

A: Yes, Rakuten Mobile offers international roaming services in over 90 countries and regions around the world. You can use up to 2GB of high-speed data for free each month. Even after exceeding 2GB, you can continue to use it unlimitedly at speeds up to 128kbps. You can also make free international calls using the Rakuten Link app.

 

🔹Q: What should I do if I run out of data?

A: For domestic use, the price plan will automatically change depending on the amount of data used. Up to 3GB is 1,078 yen, 3GB to 20GB is 2,178 yen, and 20GB or more is 3,278 yen for unlimited data.

When using overseas, speeds will be limited after exceeding 2GB, but data charges can be made in 1GB increments for 500 yen.

 

🔹Q: Can I switch from another mobile carrier to Rakuten Mobile?

A: Yes, you can use MNP (Mobile Number Portability) to transfer your current phone number to Rakuten Mobile. To do this, you will need to obtain an MNP reservation number from your current carrier.

 

🔹Q: Does Rakuten Mobile support multiple languages?

A: Rakuten Mobile's customer support is partially available in English. The official website can also be displayed in English. They plan to add support for Chinese and Korean in the future.

Current Rakuten Mobile employee

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The author of this blog is a current Rakuten employee. "I want to sign up for a smartphone in Japan, but can foreigners sign up with Rakuten Mobile?" " Is there a cheap SIM card that offers unlimited data for international students and those on work visas?" This "Rakuten Mobile Contract Guide for Foreigners" answers all of these questions. It provides the clearest explanation in Japan of how to sign up for Rakuten Mobile, including fees and important points to note, for foreigners, international students, and those on work visas living in Japan.
With the current referral campaign, you can earn 14,000 points if you switch carriers (MNP), and 11,000 points if you don't switch carriers . Each point is worth 1 yen, and you can even use these points to pay your mobile phone bill. Renewal contracts are also eligible to apply for the referral campaign. Make sure to take advantage of this offer when switching carriers or signing up for a new smartphone.

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