Complete guide to Japanese banks, requirements, and the best options for foreigners
A Japanese bank account is essential for receiving salary, paying rent, setting up utilities, and everyday life in Japan. While the process used to be notoriously difficult for foreigners, several banks now cater specifically to newcomers.
Requirements vary by bank, but here's what you'll typically need:
Must be valid and show your current address. Some banks require 6+ months remaining validity.
Required for SMS verification. Most banks won't accept overseas numbers.
Must match your residence card. Some banks accept temporary housing initially.
Traditional banks often require a personal seal (inkan). Online banks usually accept signatures.
Some banks require it; others accept the notification letter. Needed for investment accounts.
Most traditional banks require 6 months of residency. If you just arrived, start with an online bank or JP Post Bank.
Your options depend on how long you've been in Japan:
Several banks accept newcomers without waiting period.
Most banks become available.
Full access to all financial services.
These banks are known for being foreigner-friendly with English support:
Online Bank
Excellent English app, multi-currency accounts, competitive FX rates.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: Residence card, Japanese phone, Japanese address
Visit websiteOnline Bank
Fully online, integrates with PayPay app. No waiting period. Visa debit card.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: Residence card (3+ months validity), Japanese phone
Visit websiteRegional Bank
Designed for foreigners. No waiting period. Full account from day 1 with Visa debit.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: Residence card, Japanese phone
Visit websiteDigital Bank
Global fintech now in Japan. Multi-currency, great for international use. No waiting period.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: Residence card, Japanese phone
Visit websiteOnline Bank
Integrates with Rakuten ecosystem. Good for long-term residents.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: 6+ months residency, residence card, My Number notification
Visit websiteTraditional Bank
Most accessible traditional bank. Branches everywhere. Accepts newcomers.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: Residence card, inkan or signature, Japanese address
Visit websiteOnline Bank
Owned by 7-Eleven. ATMs in every convenience store. Good for basic banking and cash access.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: Residence card, Japanese phone
Visit websiteHybrid Bank
Good balance of online convenience and physical branches.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: 6+ months residency, residence card, Japanese phone
Visit websiteDigital Account
Not a full bank account, but excellent for international transfers.
Pros
Cons
Requirements: Residence card, any address proof
Visit websiteFor those with 6+ months residency who need full banking services:
| Bank | English | Foreigner-Friendly | Branches |
|---|---|---|---|
MUFG (三菱UFJ) Largest bank in Japan. | Limited | Medium | Most branches |
SMBC (三井住友) Good online banking. | Limited | Medium | Many branches |
Mizuho (みずほ) Less foreigner-friendly. | Limited | Low | Many branches |
Resona (りそな) Mainly Kansai region. | Very Limited | Low | Regional |
The process varies by bank type:
Download the app
Get the bank's app. Most have English versions.
Start application
Enter personal details, address, employment information.
Identity verification
Take photos of your residence card and a selfie.
Wait for approval
Usually 1-3 business days.
Receive card
Debit card arrives by mail in 3-7 days.
Find a branch
Look for branches with English support.
Bring documents
Residence card, inkan, Japanese phone.
Fill application
Staff will help you complete forms.
Initial deposit
Some banks require ¥1-1,000.
Receive passbook
You'll get a bankbook immediately. Card arrives in 1-2 weeks.
Seven Bank ATMs work with most banks.
Wise and Sony Bank offer competitive rates.
Consider phone support and complex transactions.
Credit cards usually require 6+ months residency.
Check if the app supports English.
How the bank works with payroll, utilities, investments.
Got your bank account? Time to set up other essentials.
