Japan Debt Collection Guide
Filing fees, claim limits, demand letter requirements, court process, service rules, and enforcement options for collecting money in Japan. Verify local court rules before filing.
Court
Summary Court
Filing Fee
JPY 1,000-JPY 30,000 (~$7-$200 USD)
Claim Limit
JPY 1,400,000 (approx $9,300 USD)
Timeline
2-4 months
Filing Instructions
- 1File a complaint at the Summary Court with jurisdiction
- 2Pay filing fee (revenue stamps)
- 3Court schedules oral argument date
- 4Serve defendant via special delivery mail
- 5Attend hearing(s)
- 6Alternative: use the payment order procedure for uncontested debts
Required Forms
- - Complaint Form
- - Evidence documents
Service Rules
Court serves via special delivery. If unsuccessful, service by publication available.
Legal Basis
Code of Civil Procedure, Articles 270-280
Enforcement Options
- - Compulsory execution
- - Wage garnishment
- - Bank account seizure
- - Property auction
Important Notes
The payment order procedure is faster for uncontested debts - no hearing needed if debtor doesn't object within 2 weeks. Most forms are in Japanese only.
Start with a demand letter
Document the claim before escalating to a court or tribunal.
Start Your Case