How to Open a Bank Account — Japan Post Bank, Regional Banks, and Online Banks

In Japan, you need a bank account to receive your salary and pay rent. However, newcomers may be refused. Let's learn the reasons and the order in which you can most easily get approved.

1. Why you might be refused

• Many banks require confirmation that you are living in Japan. If you haven't registered your residency, you'll be stopped there.
• People who have been in Japan for less than six months may have limited options for the types of accounts they can open. This is by law and not your fault.
• Submit your change of address notification at the ward office first. Doing it in the reverse order will result in extra work.

2. Where to open an account — Three ways to choose

• Japan Post Bank — A post office counter. There are many branches, and it's said to be easy to open an account even if you've just arrived. It's a good choice for your first account.
• Local Bank — Your workplace or school may specify which bank you should use. Ask if there is a specific bank you should use beforehand.
• Online Bank — Fees are low, and you can send money via app. However, identity verification is mainly done via smartphone and is often only available in Japanese. It's a good choice for your second account.

3. What to Bring

• Residence Card (with the address on the back updated).
• Passport.
• Documents showing your My Number (Notification Card, My Number Card, Resident Registration Certificate).
• Documents showing where you attend school, such as student ID or employment certificate.
• Stamp — A signature may be acceptable. Please ask at the counter beforehand.
• If the address on your Residence Card is outdated, the process will be stopped immediately. Please update the back after moving.

4. Questions asked at the counter

• What will you use it for? (e.g., receiving salary, remittances, tuition fees). A normal answer is fine.
• Place of employment or school.
• How long will you be staying in Japan (Period of stay).

5. Things to do after creating it

• Cash cards are often delivered by mail at a later date. Make sure you have a valid address to receive them at.
• Do not use your birthday as your PIN. Do not write it down and keep it in your wallet.
• Do not give your passbook or card to anyone. If someone asks to borrow your account, it will be used for criminal purposes. Refuse.

The required documents and types of accounts you can open vary by bank. Before going, check the information for foreigners at that bank.