Japan’s Wills System to Be Reformed: Wills Can Be Created Using a Computer
AKIRA YAMAMOTO.AKIRAOn June 17, 2026, a law to reform Japan’s wills system was enacted and was promulgated on June 24.
Under the current system, a holographic will (a handwritten will) must, in principle, be handwritten in its entirety by the testator, except for certain parts such as an inventory of assets.
Under the revised system, a new type of will called a “Deposited Will” will be introduced. This will allow a will created using a computer or other device to be deposited with the Legal Affairs Bureau.
A Deposited Will may be prepared in its entirety using a computer or other device, and may be submitted either as electronic data or as a printed document.
However, simply creating a will on a computer and saving it will not make it legally valid. The testator must complete the prescribed procedures before a will deposit officer, including orally stating the entire contents of the will, and the will must be deposited with the Legal Affairs Bureau.
In addition, under the current system, a holographic will must bear the testator’s seal. Under the revised system, this requirement will be abolished.
The reform will provide an additional option for people who may find it difficult or burdensome to write an entire will by hand.
Although the amended law has already been promulgated, the provisions concerning the wills system have not yet taken effect.
The amendment abolishing the seal requirement for holographic wills and certain other changes will take effect on a date to be specified by Cabinet Order within one year from the date of promulgation. The provisions introducing Deposited Wills and related changes will take effect on a date to be specified by Cabinet Order within three years from the date of promulgation.
For more information, please visit the website of the Ministry of Justice of Japan (in Japanese).
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