Best Guarantor Companies for Foreigners in Japan (2026 Ranking)

In Japan, most landlords require either a personal guarantor (保証人) or a guarantor company (保証会社). Since most foreigners don't have a Japanese person who can act as guarantor, a guarantor company is usually the only option. What Guarantor Companies Do:
• Guarantee your rent payments to the landlord
• Pay rent if you default (then collect from you)
• Provide some legal and emergency support Typical Cost: 50-100% of one month's rent (paid once at move-in, or annually)

Best For: Most foreigners, especially those with limited Japanese Why We Recommend:
• Highest approval rate for foreigners
• Multilingual support (English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, etc.)
• Partnered with many foreigner-friendly real estate agencies
• Additional services: emergency support, translation help Approval Rate: ~90% for employed foreigners Cost: 50-100% of monthly rent Requirements:
• Valid visa (3+ months remaining)
• Proof of employment or enrollment
• Passport and residence card → [GTN Website](https://www.gtn.co.jp/en/)

Best For: Those rejected by other companies Why Consider:
• Known for accepting difficult cases
• Experience with various nationalities
• Reasonable fees Approval Rate: Good, even for self-employed Cost: 40-80% of monthly rent

Best For: Those with stable employment at Japanese companies Why Consider:
• One of the largest guarantor companies
• Many landlords accept Casa
• Good service quality Note: May be stricter with foreigners than GTN

Best For: Budget-conscious renters Why Consider:
• Often lower fees than competitors
• Good approval rates
• Basic but sufficient service

Tips for Success: 1. Have stable employment - Full-time employment at a Japanese company greatly increases approval 2. Prepare documents - Have all documents ready: passport, residence card, employment certificate 3. Show sufficient income - Income should be 3x+ monthly rent 4. Be responsive - Answer calls and emails promptly during screening 5. Consider using an agent - Real estate agents know which guarantor companies work best for your situation If You're Rejected:
• Try a different guarantor company
• Look for properties with landlord guarantor systems
• Consider foreigner-focused housing (Village House, etc.)

| Company | Foreigner-Friendly | English | Cost | Approval Rate | |---------|-------------------|---------|------|---------------| | GTN | ★★★★★ | ✓ Full | 50-100% | High | | JID | ★★★★☆ | △ Limited | 40-80% | Good | | Casa | ★★★☆☆ | △ Limited | 50-100% | Medium | | Liplus | ★★★☆☆ | ✗ No | 30-60% | Good |