My agent keeps asking me to get a hanko for this, however my bank (Shinsei) also didn’t require this when I setup account, and I have been using signature since day 1 in Japan without issue.
Get one isn’t really difficult, the problem is I might lose it when it’s not being used for too long, so if it’s not a must, I would prefer not using it.
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Keep in mind, they aren’t asking for just any old hanko either, they are asking for a registered hanko at city hall. This is common in lots of transaction documents (like selling a car for instance).
In the end though, doesn’t matter what we tell you, if your agent is asking for it, better go get it cuz you’re not gonna change their mind.
it’ll cost you 1000 yen to make and a nominal fee at city call to certify. keep it with your passport or some other important document so you know where it is and don’t lose it.
and go to the gym and work on you stampin’ muscles, cos buying property means you’re gonna be pressing that seal like your life depends on it… over, and over, and over
edit: if you don’t understand why it’s necessary and how it’s different to a stamp (not) required to set up a bank account, you might not be ready for the leap of responsibility that is buying property.
I had to get a registered stamp to buy property. It’s not just the mortgage you’re “signing” but the title transfer as well, which isn’t related to Shinsei.
Seals for buying property (実印 jitsuin) and seals for the bank (銀行印 ginkōin) are not in the same category. The bank one is up to the bank, but for property you definitely need a registered seal (jitsuin).
You need that, and to be able to write your name and address *in Japanese* 150 times.
Do you think your agent doesn’t know? It is required. And personally I’d get a good one. Also it might be necessary to use your name on it not just any.
This is one of those times where it’s a thousand times more work to fight the system. Hundred stamps and writing your name and address could be in just one meeting. Also signature here often means writing out your full name so a hanko is better
If you’re going to live in Japan, you really need to start adapting to life here.
Yes, a stamp is required for many things, such as buying property, signing any major contracts, filing for divorce, etc.
ultimately at the end when you buy a house you need to register your Hanko at the ward office. for a 印鑑証明書（inkanshoumeisho) its required to sign the papers for the loan
Your city/ward office has a desk for registering your seal for important stuff.
There are online services that will have an ancient craftsman carve one for you.
Don’t worry, you won’t lose it, because you’ll only need to carry it to specific meetings where you need to use it. The rest of the time it will be safely stored in your firesafe at home, along with your other important documents.
You’d need jitsuin as other people said, I want to add that don’t use it for other purposes in daily paperwork for the security reasons. Therefore I strongly recommend you buy a second (cheapish) hanko.