Why You Need a Japanese Bank Account

A Japanese bank account is essential for daily life. Your employer needs it to pay your salary. You'll use it to set up automatic payments (furikomi) for rent, utilities, and internet. Many Japanese services — from government procedures to online shopping — require a domestic bank account. Getting this sorted early is a priority.

The Challenge for New Arrivals

Traditionally, many Japanese banks required you to have lived in Japan for at least 6 months before opening an account. While this rule has relaxed considerably, some banks still enforce it. Knowing which institutions are foreigner-friendly from day one saves a lot of frustration.

Best Options for Foreigners

Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行 / Yucho Ginko)

Often the most accessible option for new arrivals. Japan Post Bank has branches at every post office across the country, staff are accustomed to foreign applicants, and the account can sometimes be opened with just a residence card and passport — even shortly after arrival. The downside is limited international transfer options.

Sony Bank

An online bank with English-language support and excellent foreign currency and international transfer services. Ideal for those sending money abroad. Requires a My Number and residence card.

Rakuten Bank

A popular online bank in Japan with a decent English interface. Good for everyday banking and linked to the Rakuten ecosystem. Requires registration of your My Number card.

SMBC, Mizuho, MUFG (Megabanks)

The three major Japanese megabanks have wide ATM networks and corporate acceptance, but their account-opening requirements tend to be stricter for foreigners. They often require 6+ months of residence or an employment certificate. Best pursued after you're settled in.

PayPay Bank / au Jibun Bank

Digital-first banks that integrate well with Japanese fintech apps. Useful as supplementary accounts once you have a primary account established.

What Documents You'll Need

  • Residence Card (Zairyu Card): Mandatory for all accounts.
  • Passport: Required as supplementary ID by most banks.
  • My Number: Increasingly required, especially for online banks.
  • Japanese phone number: Required for SMS verification.
  • Japanese address proof: Your registered address on your residence card is typically sufficient.
  • Employment certificate (optional but helpful): Strengthens your application at stricter banks.

Step-by-Step: Opening at Japan Post Bank

  1. Visit any post office during business hours (weekdays, typically 9am–4pm).
  2. Request an account opening form (kozakaisetsu). Ask for help if needed — staff are generally patient.
  3. Fill in the form (name, address, phone number). Many post offices now have English-speaking staff or translation aids.
  4. Submit your residence card and passport.
  5. Receive your passbook (tsucho) on the spot. A cash card (compatible with ATMs) arrives by mail within 1–2 weeks.

Sending Money Abroad

Once you have an account, you may want to send money home. Your options include:

  • Wise (formerly TransferWise): Low-fee international transfers linked to your Japanese bank account. Widely used by expats.
  • Revolut: Increasingly popular in Japan.
  • Sony Bank Wire: Competitive exchange rates directly from your account.
  • Japan Post international remittance: Available but rates and fees are less competitive.

Avoid using ATMs at convenience stores for international transfers — the fees are high and rates unfavorable.

A Note on Taxes

Japan requires residents to report foreign bank accounts holding significant assets under the kokugai zaisan chosa rules. If you maintain accounts abroad, be aware of your reporting obligations. The tax year in Japan runs January to December, and the filing period is February to March. Consider consulting a tax accountant (zeirishi) who handles expat cases.