[2025 Edition] Best SIM Cards for Foreigners in Japan: Comparison by Needs

When starting a new life in Japan, securing a smartphone connection is just as important as finding an apartment or registering at the city hall. Contacting family and friends, using map apps, banking, and transportation apps all rely on having an internet connection.

However, as a foreigner trying to get a SIM card in Japan, you often hit three major walls: "I don't have a Residence Card yet," "I don't have a Japanese credit card," and "I'm worried about the Japanese language barrier."

This guide is designed to solve these anxieties simply. We start with the conclusion: "Which SIM is best for you?" Then, we thoroughly compare the features and costs of the three major services (GTN Mobile, Mobal, and JP Smart SIM) and explain the application process. By the end of this guide, you will be able to confidently choose the right SIM card and apply without hesitation.

【Which type are you? Recommended SIM Cards】

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Introduction: Finding the Best Long-Term SIM Card for Your Situation

To start your life in Japan smoothly, it is essential to choose a SIM card that fits your situation early on. However, understanding the many plans, technical terms, and document rules in a new country is not easy. Below, we introduce the optimal SIM cards based on your specific needs.

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Which SIM Card is Best by Purpose?

Three points for choosing a SIM card: Language Support, Pre-arrival, Cost Performance

The deciding factor for a truly good long-term SIM card in Japan is whether it is "designed to be easy for foreigners to contract." We have narrowed it down to three services widely used by foreigners living in Japan: GTN Mobile, Mobal, and JP Smart SIM. Let's find the one that matches your situation.

Quick Reference Guide

First, narrow down your candidates based on what you value most.

1. If you value Multilingual Support and Payment Flexibility: GTN Mobile

If your top priorities are "support in your native language" and "payment options other than credit cards (like convenience stores)," then GTN Mobile is your best choice.

GTN Mobile specializes in supporting foreigners living in Japan. A key feature is the ease of making inquiries and procedures in multiple languages, not just English. They also offer payment methods like convenience store payments, making it easy to sign up even if you don't have a Japanese credit card or bank account yet.

2. If you want to prepare before arriving and have no Residence Card: Mobal

If you want to "have a Japanese number and data ready before arriving in Japan" or "sign up smoothly without a Residence Card," then Mobal is your first choice.

Mobal allows you to apply online from overseas and can ship to international addresses. Many plans do not require a Residence Card and accept foreign credit cards. This service is perfect for those who want to use their phone the moment they land in Japan.

3. If you are budget-conscious and don't want to use a credit card: JP Smart SIM

If you want to "keep monthly costs as low as possible" and "pay without a credit card (e.g., Cash on Delivery)," then JP Smart SIM is the most realistic option.

JP Smart SIM offers relatively low rates and allows for "Cash on Delivery" (paying cash when the SIM is delivered). This is a very accessible option for students or working holiday makers who want to save on living expenses.

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Quick Decision Flowchart

Decision-making process to find the right SIM card

Here is a simple "text flowchart" to help you reach the best solution. Answer YES / NO in your head as you read.

1. Do you want to prepare your SIM card (Japanese number and data) before coming to Japan?

   • YES → Mobal is your first choice. You can apply from overseas and receive it there.
   • NO → Go to the next question.

2. Do you already have a Residence Card?

   • NO → If you just arrived and don't have it yet, Mobal is the most realistic option.
   • YES → Go to the next question.

3. Are you okay with paying by Credit Card? (Foreign cards included)

   • NO (I don't want to use one / I don't have one) → Go to the next question.
   • YES (No problem) → Consider how much you value multilingual support.

4. (If you don't want to use a card) Do you want to keep monthly fees as low as possible?

   • YES → JP Smart SIM is the strongest candidate (Low cost + Cash on Delivery).
   • NO (I prefer support/safety) → Consider GTN Mobile (Convenience store payment + Multilingual support).

5. (If Credit Card is OK) Are you anxious about support only in Japanese?

   • YES → GTN Mobile is best. Strong multilingual support.
   • NO (English + simple Japanese is fine) → Choose JP Smart SIM for cost, or GTN Mobile for support.

By following this flow, most people will narrow it down to one or two candidates. Let's look at the detailed comparison next.

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Full Comparison: GTN Mobile vs Mobal vs JP Smart SIM

When choosing a long-term SIM card in Japan, it is important to compare objective conditions rather than just impressions. Here, we have organized the key points of the three companies.

Features Comparison

Item	GTN Mobile	Mobal	JP Smart SIM
Japanese Phone Number	Yes (Voice + Data)	Yes (Voice + Data)	Yes (Voice + Data)
Network	SoftBank	SoftBank / Docomo	Docomo
5G Support	Some plans	Mostly 4G	Mostly 4G
eSIM	Available	Available	Available
Multilingual Support	Up to 13 Languages	English focused	English & Japanese
Contract Term	Check plan details	No Binding	No Binding
MNP (Number Portability)	Depends on plan	Supported	Supported

Fees (Initial Cost, Monthly Fee, Cancellation)

Item	GTN Mobile	Mobal	JP Smart SIM
Initial Admin Fee	3,850 JPY	Varies by plan	3,300 JPY
Monthly Fee (Approx)	From 1,628 JPY	From 990 JPY	From 1,408 JPY
Cancellation Fee	Check plan details	Generally None	Generally None

All prices include tax.

Payment Methods

Method	GTN Mobile	Mobal	JP Smart SIM
Credit Card	◯	◯ (Foreign cards OK)	◯
Convenience Store	◯ (7-11, Lawson, etc.)	✕	△ (Smart Pit)
Cash on Delivery	✕	✕	◯ (Initial fee only)

Required Documents

Document	GTN Mobile	Mobal	JP Smart SIM
Residence Card	Required for most long-term plans	Not Required (Conditions apply)	Often Required
Passport	Required	Required	Required

Delivery & Activation

Item	GTN Mobile	Mobal	JP Smart SIM
Application	Online / Store	Online from Overseas	Online
Delivery	Mail / Store	Worldwide Shipping	Mail / COD
Time to Active	Several days	within 90 minutes	1 - Several days

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Case-by-Case Guide: Solutions for Special Situations

Here, we clearly indicate the best first move for specific situations.

If you do not have a Residence Card yet

Conclusion: Mobal is the strongest candidate. Among the three, Mobal is the only one that offers long-term plans without requiring a Residence Card. You can start with just your passport and a credit card.

Strategy:

1. Cover the entire stay with Mobal.
2. OR: Use Mobal/Prepaid SIM for the first few weeks -> Switch to GTN or JP Smart after getting your Residence Card.

If you need service immediately upon arrival at the airport

Conclusion: Apply for Mobal in advance. Apply online and receive it at your home overseas. If you miss the timing, buy a prepaid SIM at the airport for temporary use.

If you want to prepare before arriving in Japan

Conclusion: Mobal is almost the only choice. Since they accept applications from overseas and ship internationally, you can secure your Japanese phone number before you even leave your country.

If you do not have a Credit Card

Conclusion: GTN Mobile (Convenience Store) and JP Smart SIM (Cash on Delivery) are the top two.

• GTN Mobile: Pay cash at convenience stores every month.
• JP Smart SIM: Pay cash to the delivery person when the SIM arrives (COD).

If you need Multilingual Support

Conclusion: GTN Mobile is overwhelmingly advantageous. They support up to 13 languages. If you are comfortable with English only, Mobal is also good. If you want to consult in your native language (Vietnamese, Chinese, etc.), GTN is the best.

If staying for 3-6 months (Short-term)

Conclusion: Choose a plan with "No Binding Period" from Mobal or JP Smart SIM. Avoid major carriers with 2-year contracts. Mobal and JP Smart SIM allow monthly cancellation without high penalty fees.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. What do foreigners need to contract a SIM card in Japan?

Generally, you need:

1. ID: Residence Card (essential for most voice plans) and Passport.
2. Address: A Japanese address (printed on the Residence Card).
3. Payment Method: Credit card, bank account, or cash (depending on the provider).
4. Device: A SIM-free (unlocked) smartphone.

Q. Can I get a SIM card without a Residence Card?

Yes, it is possible. Mobal is famous for allowing contracts with just a passport and credit card.

Q. Which SIM is best for long-term stay?

• Prioritize Support & Payment Flexibility → GTN Mobile
• Prioritize Pre-arrival Prep & No Residence Card → Mobal
• Prioritize Low Cost & Cash Payment → JP Smart SIM

Q. How long does delivery take?

• Domestic (GTN/JP Smart): 3-7 days on average.
• International (Mobal): Several days to weeks depending on the country. Apply at least 2 weeks before your flight.

Q. What if my application is rejected?

Check for:

• Blurred photos of documents.
• Expired documents.
• Mismatch between input address/name and the documents. If you still fail, try Mobal or a prepaid SIM, as their requirements are often more flexible.

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Apply Here (Official Sites)

Applying through the official websites is the safest and most reliable method.

Always verify the official domain before entering personal information.