- “Understanding the Importance of Hanko in Japan”: Foreigners may struggle to grasp why a personal seal is required for official transactions, such as opening a bank account or signing a lease, instead of just using a handwritten signature. The cultural significance and legal standing of hanko can be confusing for those used to signing documents.
- “Difficulty Obtaining a Hanko”: For foreigners, getting a hanko can be a complex process, especially if they don’t have a Japanese address or bank account yet. They may not know where to get a seal made or what type of hanko is needed for different purposes, such as a registered seal versus a standard one.
- “Issues with Name Transliteration”: Foreigners with non-Japanese names often face difficulties when having their names transliterated into kanji or katakana for a hanko. They may not know how their name should be written in Japanese, and mistakes in the transliteration can cause problems with document acceptance.
- “Understanding When a Hanko Is Required”: In Japan, hanko is used for various transactions, from receiving packages to signing official documents. Foreigners may find it challenging to know when a hanko is necessary or whether a signature would suffice, leading to delays or complications in everyday tasks.
- “Limited Acceptance of Digital Signatures”: While digital signatures are common in many countries, Japan still relies heavily on hanko for in-person and paper-based authentication. Foreigners used to conducting transactions online may find it inconvenient to use a physical seal in an increasingly digital world.
Foreign travelers and expatriates face regarding the use of hanko (personal seals) in Japan

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