Mandatory to register address change of owner?

What the Law Says

Japanese law requires property owners to update their registered address when it changes, to ensure accuracy of the real property registry — a public record essential for legal certainty and transactions.

Under the Real Property Registration Act (Act No. 123 of 2004), any person whose name appears in the real property registry — including owners, lessees with registered rights, or mortgagees — must notify the Legal Affairs Bureau of a change in domicile or residence.

The obligation applies specifically to the 'registered domicile' (tōroku shonin) listed in the registry. If that address changes, the registrant must file a notification of change without delay.

Failure to comply may lead to administrative penalties and can hinder future registration applications (e.g., transfers or mortgages), as the registry must reflect current contact information for legal notices.

Statutory Text

A person whose name is registered in the real property registry shall, without delay, apply for registration of a change of domicile or residence if such domicile or residence has changed.

— Real Property Registration Act, Act No. 123 of 2004, s. 36 — Registration of Change of Domicile or Residence

Statutory Text

A person who fails to make the application under the preceding Article shall be liable to a fine not exceeding fifty thousand yen.

— Real Property Registration Act, Act No. 123 of 2004, s. 135 — Penalty

What to Do

Sources