Seal

You’ll encounter hanko within your first week in Japan — on rental contracts, bank forms, and official documents. Many foreigners don’t realize they need one until they’re standing at a counter unable to proceed. Here’s what hanko is, when you need it, and how to get one. 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. ...