Opening a Bank Account in Japan
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:
Residence Card (ε¨ηγ«γΌγ)
Must be valid and show your current address. Some banks require 6+ months remaining validity.
Japanese Phone Number
Required for SMS verification. Most banks won't accept overseas numbers.
Japanese Address
Must match your residence card. Some banks accept temporary housing initially.
Inkan or Signature
Traditional banks often require a personal seal (inkan). Online banks usually accept signatures.
My Number Card (optional)
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:
Just Arrived
Limited options, but several banks accept newcomers.
Established Resident
Most banks become available.
Long-term Resident
Full access to all financial services.
These banks are known for being foreigner-friendly with English support:
Sony Bank
RecommendedOnline Bank
Excellent English app, multi-currency accounts, competitive FX rates.
Pros
- Full English support
- No monthly fees
- 11 currency accounts
- Visa debit card
- Accept newcomers
Cons
- β’No physical branches
- β’Cash deposit at ATMs only
- β’Phone support in Japanese
Requirements: Residence card, Japanese phone, Japanese address
Visit websiteRakuten Bank
Online Bank
Integrates with Rakuten ecosystem. Good for long-term residents.
Pros
- Rakuten Points
- Easy credit card approval
- Securities account
- Good interest rates
- ATM convenience
Cons
- β’App partially in English
- β’Requires 6+ months residency
- β’Customer service in Japanese
Requirements: 6+ months residency, residence card, My Number notification
Visit websiteJP Post Bank (γγγ‘γιθ‘)
Traditional Bank
Most accessible traditional bank. Branches everywhere. Accepts newcomers.
Pros
- 17,000+ ATMs nationwide
- Accepts newcomers
- No minimum balance
- Easy cash deposits
- Wide branch network
Cons
- β’Limited English
- β’Basic features only
- β’No multi-currency
- β’Outdated online banking
Requirements: Residence card, inkan or signature, Japanese address
Visit websiteShinsei Bank
Hybrid Bank
Good balance of online convenience and physical branches.
Pros
- English support
- Free ATM withdrawals
- GoRemit transfers
- Physical branches
- Gaica prepaid card
Cons
- β’Requires 6+ months residency
- β’Limited branch hours
- β’Some services Japanese only
Requirements: 6+ months residency, residence card, Japanese phone
Visit websiteWise (Multi-currency Account)
Digital Account
Not a full bank account, but excellent for international transfers.
Pros
- Best exchange rates
- 50+ currencies
- Debit card available
- Fast international transfers
- Full English
Cons
- β’Not a Japanese bank account
- β’Can't receive salary directly
- β’No cash deposits
- β’Limited for domestic use
Requirements: Residence card, any address proof
Visit websiteFor those with 6+ months residency who need full banking services:
| Bank | English | Foreigner-Friendly | Branches |
|---|---|---|---|
MUFG (δΈθ±UFJ) Largest bank in Japan. | Limited | Medium | Most branches |
SMBC (δΈδΊδ½ε) Good online banking. | Limited | Medium | Many branches |
Mizuho (γΏγγ») Less foreigner-friendly. | Limited | Low | Many branches |
Resona (γγγͺ) Mainly Kansai region. | Very Limited | Low | Regional |
The process varies by bank type:
Online Banks (Sony, Rakuten)
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.
Traditional Banks (JP Post, MUFG)
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 Β₯1-1,000.
Receive passbook
You'll get a bankbook immediately. Card arrives in 1-2 weeks.
ATM Access
Seven Bank ATMs work with most banks.
International Transfers
Wise and Sony Bank offer competitive rates.
English Support
Consider phone support and complex transactions.
Debit/Credit Card
Credit cards usually require 6+ months residency.
Online Banking
Check if the app supports English.
Integration
How the bank works with payroll, utilities, investments.
- β’Open Sony Bank or JP Post Bank first β they accept newcomers
- β’Get your phone number sorted before applying β SMS verification is required
- β’Bring an inkan to traditional banks even if not required β it speeds up the process
- β’Apply on weekday mornings. Avoid month-end and year-end
- β’Keep your first account even after opening others β multiple accounts is normal
- β’For salary, most employers prefer traditional banks. Check with HR
- β’Don't close your home country bank account immediately
- β’Save your bankbook and cards separately
Related Guides
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Next Steps
Got your bank account? Time to set up other essentials.