A hanko (判子) is a personal stamp used in Japan instead of (or alongside) a signature. As a foreigner, you’ll encounter hanko requirements for bank accounts, apartment leases, and official documents — but the rules have relaxed significantly in recent years.
Types of Hanko
| Type | Japanese | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Jitsu-in | 実印 | Officially registered seal — required for big transactions (property, car, large loans) |
| Ginko-in | 銀行印 | Bank seal — registered with your bank |
| Mitome-in | 認印 | Everyday seal — for deliveries, work documents, minor forms |
Do Foreigners Need a Hanko?
For most everyday needs: No. Since Japan’s 2021 digital reform push, many procedures now accept signatures instead.
You may still need one for:
- Opening certain Japanese bank accounts (less common now)
- Signing apartment contracts (some landlords still require it)
- Major purchases (car, property)
- Some employer paperwork
Banks that accept signatures instead of hanko:
- Wise — accepts signature only
- Sony Bank, Rakuten Bank — hanko optional
- Traditional megabanks (MUFG, SMBC) — may still require one
Getting a Hanko as a Foreigner
Option 1: Name Hanko (Most Common)
Get a stamp made with your name:
- In katakana (most common for foreigners) — e.g., ジョン・スミス
- In Roman letters — accepted at some places
- With your surname only — standard practice
Where to buy: ¥100 shops (pre-made), Tokyu Hands, Don Quijote, or specialist hanko shops. Pre-made katakana hanko are ¥100–500. Custom ones: ¥1,000–5,000.
Option 2: Registered Seal (実印)
If you need an officially registered seal:
- Get a custom hanko made (must be 8–25mm)
- Register at your local city hall (市役所)
- Pay a small fee (¥0–300 depending on city)
- Receive your 印鑑証明書 (inkan shomeisho) — seal registration certificate
This is required for major contracts.
Hanko for Bank Accounts
Most foreign-friendly banks now accept signatures. But if your bank requires a hanko:
- Use the same hanko every time — it must match the registered imprint exactly
- Don’t use the cheap ¥100 hanko for bank registration — the seal impression degrades quickly
- Keep it in a safe place — losing a registered hanko is a serious administrative headache
Caring for Your Hanko
- Store it upright in a case (avoid pressure on the tip)
- Clean the ink off after each use with a soft cloth
- Don’t lend it to others — it legally represents your authorization
Digital Alternatives (e-Stamp)
Japan is moving toward digital seals:
- GMO Sign, DocuSign Japan, CloudSign — digital signing platforms increasingly accepted by companies
- Government documents now accept digital signatures for many procedures