What documents are required to open a bank account in Japan? Which banks are more foreigner-friendly?

Relocating to JapanBank Account OpeningBanking for ForeignersJapanese BankingDocument RequirementsBank Recommendations
Created At: 8/11/2025Updated At: 8/17/2025
Answer (1)

Hello! For friends who have just arrived in Japan or are preparing to come, opening a bank account is indeed one of the top priorities—life can be pretty difficult without it. It's not exactly hard, but it's not super simple either, mainly because there are quite a few rules. Don't worry, I'll walk you through my experience step by step. By the end, you'll have it all figured out.

Essential "Tools" You Need to Open a Bank Account in Japan

Think of these documents as your "identity passport" in Japan. Banks need them to confirm "who you are," "where you live," and "why you're in Japan."

I. Core Required Documents (Non-Negotiable)

  1. Residence Card (Zairyu Card)

    • What it is: This is your ID card in Japan, used even more often than your passport. You'll receive it at the airport upon entry.
    • Key Point: Your address must be registered on the back of the card! This means you need to register your address at your local ward office (区役所 Ku-yakusho) or city office (市役所 Shi-yakusho) first. Staff will write your address on the back. Banks will not accept a Residence Card without a registered address.

  2. Personal Seal (Hanko / Inkan)

    • What it is: Japan's version of a personal signature—a small stamp engraved with your surname. While some banks now accept signatures, having a seal makes many things much easier in Japan.
    • How to get one: No need for anything fancy. Head to Don Quijote (ドン・キホーテ) or a local stamp shop (印鑑店 Inkan-ten). For around 1000-2000 yen, you can get one made. Tell the staff it's for opening a bank account (銀行印 Ginko-in)—they'll understand. Usually, just your surname is sufficient (e.g., "Wang" or "Smith").

  3. Passport

    • What it is: Self-explanatory. Serves as supplementary ID proof.

  4. Japanese Mobile Phone Number

    • Key Point: It must be a Japanese number! Used for receiving verification codes and as your contact number. It's mandatory on the application form. So, getting a Japanese SIM card is a step you need to take before opening your bank account.

  5. Residence Certificate (Juminhyo)

    • What it is: An official "proof of residence" issued by your ward or city office, listing your name, address, residence status, etc.
    • Note: Some banks (especially stricter ones) may require this. When you register your address at the ward office, you can request one for a few hundred yen to have it ready.

II. Bonus/Potentially Required Documents

  • Student ID Card or Employment Certificate: Proves your identity and income source, giving the bank more confidence.
  • My Number Card: While not absolutely essential for opening an account, many banks (especially for online applications) now request it. Having one makes the process smoother.

A Very Important Rule: The "6-Month Residence" Requirement

This is a hurdle many newcomers face. Japanese regulations impose functional restrictions on bank accounts for foreigners who have resided in Japan for less than 6 months.

  • What does this mean? Many major banks (like MUFG Bank, SMBC, Mizuho, etc.) will either outright refuse to open accounts for foreigners residing less than 6 months, or only offer a "non-resident account." These accounts often lack features like international transfers.
  • What to do? Don't panic! There's a "magic solution" to bypass this.

Foreigner-Friendly Bank Recommendations

Considering the "6-month" rule, I've categorized banks. Choose based on your situation.

Tier 1: Essential for Newcomers — ゆうちょ銀行 (Japan Post Bank)

Japan Post Bank Logo

  • Why recommend it?

    1. Most newcomer-friendly: It's typically the most accommodating bank for foreigners residing less than 6 months. If your documents are complete, you'll likely succeed.
    2. Nationwide network: Available at any post office counter or ATM, making deposits and withdrawals super convenient.
    3. Relatively simple procedures: Compared to traditional mega-banks, its application forms and processes are somewhat streamlined.

  • Minor Drawbacks: The app and online banking experience is somewhat basic. International transfers can be more cumbersome than with other banks.

  • My Advice: No matter what, open a Japan Post Bank account as your first account! With it, you can receive your salary, pay rent, and handle basic living expenses in Japan. After residing for 6 months, you can open accounts at other banks as needed.

Tier 2: Feature-Rich & Foreigner-Friendly

Consider these once you've lived here for 6 months, or if you want to try:

  1. 新生銀行 (Shinsei Bank / SBI Shinsei Bank)

    • Pros: Offers English support for online banking and customer service! A huge plus if your Japanese isn't strong. The account opening process is also quite clear, and it's popular among foreigners in Japan.
    • Note: Now part of the SBI Group (called SBI Shinsei Bank). Services and products may have changed slightly, but it's still a solid choice overall.

  2. 楽天銀行 (Rakuten Bank)

    • Pros: A pure online bank with no physical branches. If you frequently use Rakuten Market, have a Rakuten credit card, or use Rakuten Mobile, its point system is very rewarding. The app is excellent, and transfers are easy.
    • Cons: Being online-only means all operations are done remotely. If you encounter issues, there's no physical counter for in-person help.

Tier 3: Traditional Mega Banks

Includes 三菱UFJ銀行 (MUFG Bank), 三井住友銀行 (SMBC), みずほ銀行 (Mizuho Bank).

Mega Banks Logos

  • Pros:

    • Highest credibility, most recognized by companies.
    • Vast ATM networks and numerous service branches.
    • Comprehensive services: loans, investments, etc.

  • Cons:

    • Strict: Rigorously enforce the "6-month residence" rule.
    • Cumbersome procedures: Complex application forms; expect to write a lot of Kanji and Katakana.
    • Limited English support: Branch services are primarily in Japanese. You might find English-speaking staff only at major branches in areas like central Tokyo with high foreign populations.

  • Recommendation: If your Japanese is good and you plan to stay in Japan long-term, consider opening an account with one of these as your main bank after residing for 6 months.

Summary of My Recommendations

  1. Just arrived in Japan? Head straight to the post office and open a 【Japan Post Bank】 account. This is your "newbie protection" account, solving the problem of getting from zero to one.
  2. Lived here 6+ months, but Japanese still limited? Consider 【Shinsei Bank】; its English support is a big help.
  3. Love online shopping and points? Try 【Rakuten Bank】; linking it with the Rakuten ecosystem is very effective.
  4. Confident in Japanese, seeking stability and full services? Open an account at one of the big three: 【MUFG Bank】, etc.

Final Tips:

  • Before going to the bank, write your name and address in Katakana on a piece of paper. Copying it onto forms will be much easier.
  • Go on a weekday before 3:00 PM, as Japanese banks close early.
  • Your bank card and passbook (通帳 Tsucho) usually won't be given to you on the spot; they'll be mailed to your address within a week. Make sure your mailbox can receive mail.

I hope this information helps! Opening a bank account in Japan is the first step to settling into life here. While it can be a bit of a hassle, it feels very rewarding once it's done. Best of luck!

Created At: 08-11 12:28:40Updated At: 08-12 02:34:38