If you’re living or doing business in Japan, owning a hanko isn’t just a cultural experience—it’s a functional necessity. While some newcomers to Japan may assume that handwritten signatures are acceptable everywhere, many transactions still require a personal or corporate seal. But when exactly do you need to use your hanko?
In this blog, we highlight seven real-life scenarios where having a properly made and, in some cases, registered hanko is absolutely essential.
1. Opening a Bank Account
Most banks in Japan ask for a hanko when opening a new account. Even if some offer the option to sign instead, a hanko provides a smoother and more traditional experience. You may also need it later for updating account details or issuing payment authorizations.
Recommended seal: Ginkōin (bank seal), usually not registered with the city office but recorded with the bank.
2. Signing a Rental Contract
When renting an apartment or office in Japan, landlords or real estate agents almost always require you to stamp your seal on the lease agreement. This confirms your identity and commitment under Japanese law.
Recommended seal: Jitsuin (registered seal), accompanied by an inkan certificate, or in some cases, an informal mitomein will suffice.
3. Getting Married or Divorced
Yes, even personal life events like marriage or divorce in Japan often involve forms that must be stamped with your hanko. These documents are submitted to the city office and are considered official government records.
Recommended seal: Jitsuin, registered at your local ward office.
4. Registering a Company
If you plan to start a business in Japan, you’ll need a corporate hanko (daihyo-in). It must be registered with the Legal Affairs Bureau before your company can be officially incorporated.
Recommended seal: Daihyo-in (representative corporate seal).
5. Power of Attorney or Legal Authorization
Whenever you’re granting someone legal authority to act on your behalf—such as handling your taxes, real estate transactions, or immigration applications—your authorization documents must be stamped.
Recommended seal: Jitsuin with inkan shōmei (certificate of seal registration).
6. Employment-Related Paperwork
Certain employment documents, including contracts, benefit enrollment, and resignation letters, may require a hanko. Especially in traditional companies or public institutions, it’s standard protocol.
Recommended seal: Mitomein for internal memos or ginkōin/jitsuin for official HR documentation.
7. Receiving Packages and Deliveries
While signatures are increasingly accepted for personal deliveries, many courier services still allow or request a hanko stamp for proof of receipt. It’s also common when receiving official documents.
Recommended seal: Mitomein (informal seal), stored conveniently near your front door.
Bonus: Business Contracts and B2B Agreements
In corporate settings, it’s customary to stamp business agreements with a company seal. Even emails or soft copies may be followed up with hard copies carrying both parties’ hanko impressions.
Recommended seal: Corporate kaku-in (square company seal) or daihyo-in.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re navigating daily errands or formal milestones in Japan, your hanko is a critical tool. It confirms your identity, signifies your intent, and ensures smooth processing across various systems.
Make sure your hanko is properly made, clearly engraved, and suited to your needs. If required, don’t forget to register it at your ward office and request an inkan certificate.
At HankoHub.com, we specialize in creating personal and corporate hanko tailored to every occasion—crafted with precision, delivered with care.
Be ready when it matters. Browse our collection today and get your seal from HankoHub.
