Moving to Japan and getting your own place? Then you’ve probably heard something about NHK and a mysterious fee that comes with it. 🤔
In this simple guide , we’ll explain:
Let’s make sense of it all, together!
What is NHK?
NHK (Nippon Hoso Kyokai) is Japan’s public TV broadcaster – like Japan’s version of PBS or the BBC. It’s not funded by taxes, but by TV reception fees paid by viewers like you.
According to Japanese law (Broadcast Act, Article 64), if you have a TV or anything that can receive NHK broadcasts – even a smartphone with a tuner – you legally need to sign a contract and pay the NHK fee.
✅ Yes, this rule applies to everyone, including foreign residents, no matter how long you’re staying.
💸 How Much Do NHK Fees Cost?
Here’s a quick breakdown of NHK fee prices (as of 2025):
- Terrestrial broadcast only: ¥2,200 every 2 months
- Terrestrial + satellite: ¥3,900 every 2 months
✨ Tip: People in Okinawa may get a small discount.
You can pay monthly, every two months, or annually, and there are small discounts for long-term plans or automatic bank payments.
👀 Who is the “NHK Guy”?
The “NHK guy” is the nickname for sales reps hired by NHK. These people used to go door-to-door asking residents to sign up and pay the fee.
Since 2023, NHK officially stopped the door-knocking practice, but sometimes people still report visits, especially in big cities like Tokyo or Osaka. If someone comes to your door about NHK, stay calm, ask for ID, and confirm the details.
🛂 Do Foreigners Have to Pay NHK?
Yes. If you’re living in Japan and have a TV or any NHK-capable device, you’re legally required to sign the contract and pay.
Since 2023, new rules made it even stricter. If you delay signing and later agree, you may have to pay double penalties, plus back payments. Ouch! 😖
Only very specific exceptions apply – for example, if you don’t own any device capable of receiving NHK (like if you use your TV only as a monitor for Netflix or gaming). But you may need to prove it.
❌ What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
If NHK believes you should be paying but aren’t, they may take the following steps:
- Unnamed Letter – A general reminder asking if you have a TV and to sign up.
- Named Letter + Contract – They’ve confirmed you have a TV and now want you to sign.
- Warning Notice – Sent by NHK’s Special Measures Center. It’s more serious.
- Court Notice – If you keep ignoring, legal action may follow.
📊 In 2024, NHK reported 11,705 payment requests and 613 lawsuits due to non-payment.
So even if you’re new to Japan, NHK isn’t something you want to ignore.
📝 Final Tips from Tokyo International Friends & Events
- If you move into a new apartment and don’t have a TV, you’re not required to pay – but be prepared to explain or show proof.
- If someone visits claiming to be from NHK, always ask for official ID.
- Signing up and paying early can help avoid bigger issues or penalties later on.
🗾 Welcome to Japan!
Getting a handle on things like NHK fees is part of settling into life in Japan. We’re here to help you through it all – from understanding the rules to making new friends and joining fun local events in Tokyo!
Follow Tokyo International Friends & Events for more helpful guides, local events, and updates for expats, travelers, and newcomers in Japan.
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