Getting a bank account sorted is one of the first practical things you need to do after settling in Japan. Without one, receiving your salary, paying rent, and handling utilities becomes unnecessarily complicated. The good news is that it is very doable. You just need to know which bank to approach and what to bring.
Do You Qualify?
To open a bank account in Japan, you need a valid residence card (在留カード, zairyu card). Most banks require you to have lived in Japan for at least six months, but there are exceptions.
Japan Post Bank accepts applicants who have been in Japan for three months or longer. Mizuho Bank may also waive the six-month requirement if you can show proof of employment, such as a work contract or staff ID.
What Documents Do You Need?
- Residence card (在留カード)
- Passport
- Proof of address
- My Number card (some banks require this)
- Personal seal / inkan (some banks require this, but not all)
Which Bank Should You Choose?
Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行) The easiest option for newcomers. No hanko seal required. Your signature is enough. You can use your work phone number. Has branches and ATMs almost everywhere in Japan. Multilingual support is available online.
Rakuten Bank Requires only your residence card. Full English application available online or via smartphone. Good for those who prefer doing everything from their phone.
SMBC Prestia English telephone and online banking available. No personal seal required. Reliable English support throughout the process.
Seven Bank Has ATMs inside every 7-Eleven convenience store nationwide. Very convenient for everyday cash access wherever you are in Japan.
Online or In Person?
Rakuten Bank, SMBC, and Mizuho allow online or app-based account opening. MUFG requires you to visit a branch in person. If you need English assistance at a branch, go to the main branch or one located in an area with a large foreign resident population.
Quick Tips
- Bring all your documents even if the bank only lists one requirement. Branches sometimes ask for more.
- If your Japanese is limited, start with Japan Post Bank or Rakuten Bank.
- Open your account as early as possible. Most employers in Japan pay salary directly into a Japanese bank account.
SOURCE NOTE: The Financial Services Agency of Japan (FSA) publishes a free multilingual guide for foreign residents on how to open a bank account in Japan. Available at fsa.go.jp.
