[Complete Guide] For Foreigners Living in Japan: How to Apply for Rakuten Mobile Online

When starting life in Japan, the first thing you need is a smartphone SIM card. Among the many carriers available, Rakuten Mobile is one of the most attractive options for foreigners, offering unlimited data and free domestic calls using a dedicated app.

In this article, we will explain step by step how to apply online so that even those who are not good at Japanese can easily complete the procedure.

[Complete Guide] For Foreigners Living in Japan: How to Apply for Rakuten Mobile Online

Three reasons why foreigners choose Rakuten Mobile

• Saikyo Plan: A simple and easy-to-understand pricing structure that costs 1,078 yen for months when you don't use data (less than 3GB), and 3,278 yen (tax included) regardless of how much data you use.

  
  

• Rakuten Link app: This app allows you to make calls within Japan completely free of charge .

  
  

• Foreign language support: The official website has information in foreign languages (English, Chinese, Korean, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Portuguese), so you can complete the process online without having to go to a store.

Things to prepare before applying (checklist)

To ensure the contract goes smoothly, please have the following three items ready:

1. Identification documents:

   • Residence Card *Must be within the expiration date.

   • Special permanent resident certificate

     
     

2. Credit card or bank account:

   • A card in your name, such as Rakuten Card, Visa, Mastercard, or JCB.

   • *Payment can also be made with Rakuten points.

     
     

3. Rakuten member account (Rakuten ID):

   • If you don't have one, you can create one for free during the application process.

Rakuten Mobile application procedure (5 steps)

Step 0: Campaign to earn 14,000 points if you switch carriers (MNP) and 11,000 points if you do not switch carriers

Currently, there is a chance to receive Rakuten points if you take advantage of the referral campaign . Be sure to check the latest campaign page before applying.

→ Click here to enter

Step 1: Access the official website

First, go to the Rakuten Mobile official website and apply by following the application guide, which is safe even for first-time users .

Step 2: Choose a plan

Currently, the only plan available is the "Rakuten Strongest Plan," so select this. If you don't need options (such as 15 minutes of unlimited calling), uncheck them and proceed.

Step 3: Choose your SIM type

• SIM card: A physical card will be delivered to your home.

• eSIM: If your smartphone is compatible, you can activate it on the same day.

  
  

Step 4: Upload your ID documents

Take a photo of the front and back of your residence card with your smartphone and upload it.

Important note: Please make sure your address is up to date. If your address is different, you will need supporting documentation such as a residence certificate.

Step 5: Enter your payment information and complete

Enter your payment details, review and confirm, and you'll receive your SIM card (or setup instructions) within a few days.

Points to note for foreigners

• Period of stay: If your period of stay is extremely short (such as one month remaining), your application may not pass the screening. Please apply well in advance. The documents required for the contract are listed here .

  
  

• Check smartphone compatibility: If you plan to continue using your current smartphone, please check the Rakuten Mobile network compatibility page beforehand to see if it will work with your current smartphone.

  
  

• MNP (Mobile Number Porting): If you are switching from another carrier while keeping your number, you will need to obtain an "MNP reservation number" from your previous carrier.

Rakuten Mobile is a powerful ally that helps you start your life in Japan smartly and affordably.

If you are visiting a store to apply, please go to a Rakuten Mobile store that offers foreign language support .