Opening a Bank Account in Japan as a Foreign Resident

Opening a bank account

You need a Japanese bank account to be paid, to pay rent and to set up direct debits for bills. With your residence card, a registered address and a phone number, most people can open one in a single visit or online.

Bring

Residence card, phone number, often a hanko

Bank transfers

Furikomi, used for rent and salaries

Some banks

Limit accounts in your first six months

What you need

Bring your residence card with your address on it, a Japanese phone number and, at some banks, a personal seal (hanko or inkan), although most now accept a signature. Banks may ask about your job and why you want the account. A letter from your employer or school helps.

Under foreign exchange rules, people who have been in Japan for less than six months can be treated as non-residents unless they work for a Japanese company. Some banks therefore only open a full account after six months, or ask for proof of employment.

Where to open one

Japan Post Bank (Yūcho) has branches and ATMs in post offices across the country, which is handy outside big cities. The big banks, such as MUFG, SMBC and Mizuho, are convenient for salaries. Online banks such as Rakuten Bank, Sony Bank and SBI Shinsei Bank have English apps and low fees, though their conditions for foreign residents vary.

Paying rent and bills

Rent is usually paid by bank transfer (furikomi) or direct debit (kōza furikae). Utilities can be paid by direct debit, credit card, or at a convenience store with the paper bill. Your employer will want your branch name, branch number and account number to pay your salary.

Cash is still common in Japan, but card, QR-code payments such as PayPay and transport IC cards are now widely accepted.

Tips

Go to a branch near your home or work. Banks may turn away applicants who live far from the branch.
Ask whether the bank card can also be used as a debit card. It helps until you can get a Japanese credit card.
ATM fees depend on the time of day and the machine. Your own bank's ATMs during the day are usually free.
Close your account or keep it active when you leave Japan. Selling or lending your account is a crime.

Words you will see

口座 kōza: bank account
振込 furikomi: bank transfer
口座振替 kōza furikae: direct debit
印鑑・はんこ inkan / hanko: personal seal
通帳 tsūchō: bankbook
キャッシュカード kyasshu kādo: bank card

Next step Renting an apartment

Requirements differ by bank and branch. Check with the bank before you go. Rules and fees can change and vary by city. Check with your city office or the official service before you go.