LINEMO: Is this cheap Japanese SIM Card Worth a Try?

Are you struggling with searching for an affordable SIM card plan in Japan? You’re not the only one feeling lost. We’ve been there, so we’ve discovered and believe that LINEMO may have the plan for you! On a side note, and a fun fact, Japan’s mobile phone services came out with cheaper monthly plans as Japan’s Prime Minister, Yoshihide Suga, instructed ministers to lower the mobile phone fees. The suggestion was made in September 2020, and mobile service companies started several new plans in Spring 2021. LINE offered a phone data service known as LINE Mobile, which is one of the cheapest options in the Japanese market. Unfortunately, they have already stopped accepting new customers, however, they now offer a new service called, “LINEMO.”

Related article: 3 SIM Cards in Japan; What Are the Differences?

Table of Contents

What is the LINEMO SIM card?

LINEMO is a new Japan SIM card service using Softbank as the carrier. It’s a new service from LINE Mobile which offers plans for an affordable  price compared to the previous LINE Mobile plan. The LINEMO SIM card can be used for all phone users except models older than locked iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus devices. The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus or lower cannot be used because the SIM lock feature cannot be unlocked. If you’re not sure about your phone version, you can consult with LINEMO customer support center through their website by clicking here.

How do I apply for the LINEMO SIM card?

Nowadays, you can easily apply for a SIM card using your laptop or mobile phone. It’s so simple that you just need to visit their website and complete the application in minutes. In a similar way, LINEMO offers an effortless registration process. You can visit their website to apply by clicking here.

What documents do I need to prepare for LINEMO’s application?

• Japanese nationals:

1. Driver’s license
2. National Health Insurance Card + supplementary documents (Certificate of your original Residence Card or utility receipts)
3. My Number Card
4. Japanese passport
5. Basic Resident Registration Card + auxiliary documents (Certificate of your original Residence Card or utility receipts)
6. Social insurance card + supplementary documents (Certificate of your original Residence Cardor utility receipts)
7. Handicapped person’s notebook (if applicable)
8. Rehabilitation notebook (if applicable)
9. Mental disability certificate (if applicable)

• Non-Japanese nationals:

1. Residence Card (if your status of residence is “Permanent Resident”) 
2. Special Permanent Resident Certificate (if your status of residence is “Special Permanent Resident”)
3. Residence card + foreign passport (if your status of residence is different from the above)

How much do I have to pay per month for the LINEMO SIM card?

Last but not least, we, at Smiles, believe that the monthly phone bill is what makes many people consider which SIM Card would fit their needs and budget. In contrast with our previous article, which showed and explained Rakuten Mobile, Line Mobile (no longer open for new users) and OCN Mobile, LINEMO only offers a one-price plan for customers. Currently, it’s 2,728 JPY (tax included) for 20 GB. As an added bonus, LINEMO has a ‘LINE GIGA FREE’ service. In other words, you can use the LINE app; chat, send and receive photos/videos and even do video calls for FREE (they will not count towards your 20 GB data). Check here to see more details 

So, have you found the SIM card you wanted in Japan? Would you like to try the new LINEMO or stay with your current mobile phone carrier? Please let us know if you would like to know more about other mobile phone carriers or services in Japan!