Yes, you can open a Japanese bank account, but the process depends on your visa status and how long you plan to stay
Foreign residents can open bank accounts at most Japanese banks, but you will need a valid visa, a residence card, and proof of a Japanese address. The major banks—Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho—all accept foreign customers, as do regional banks and post offices. The catch is timing: you typically need to be physically present in Japan to open an account in person, and some banks have stricter rules about which visa types they accept.
If you are a short-term visitor without a residence card, you cannot open a regular account. Some banks offer limited accounts for tourists, but these come with restrictions on transfers and withdrawals. If you are moving to Japan on a work visa, student visa, or spouse visa, you can open a full account within days of arrival.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid residence card and proof of a Japanese address; tourist visas do not may have access to for standard accounts.
- Major banks like Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho accept foreign residents, but regional banks and post offices may have fewer restrictions.
- The process takes 15 to 30 minutes in person and requires your passport, residence card, and a personal seal (hanko) or signature.
- Some banks offer online-only accounts that skip the in-person visit, though availability varies by bank and visa type.
- Once your account is open, you can receive international transfers, but sending money abroad usually requires a separate application or higher account tier.
What documents you need to bring
Bring your passport and your residence card (zairyu card). The residence card is the key document—it proves you have a legal address in Japan and a valid visa. If you do not have one yet, you cannot open an account until you register with your local ward office and receive it.
You will also need proof of your address. A residence card itself serves as proof, but some banks ask for a utility bill or rental agreement as backup. Bring both if you have them. Finally, bring a personal seal (hanko) or be prepared to sign documents instead. Many banks now accept signatures from foreign customers, but calling ahead to confirm saves a trip.
Which banks accept foreign residents and their requirements
The three megabanks—Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho—accept foreign residents at most branches. They require a residence card and passport, and the process is straightforward. However, some branches in smaller cities may have different policies, so calling ahead is worth the time.
Regional banks vary. Some welcome foreign residents without question; others require you to have worked at a local company or have a Japanese guarantor. Post offices (Japan Post Bank) are often the most flexible and have branches everywhere. Shinsei Bank and Sony Bank offer online accounts that may skip the in-person requirement, though you will still need a residence card and a Japanese phone number to set up online banking.
If you are on a tourist visa, some banks offer limited accounts for visitors. These typically allow you to deposit and withdraw cash but restrict international transfers and online banking. Ask at the counter whether a visitor account is available; not all branches offer them.
The step-by-step process at the bank
Walk into a branch with your passport, residence card, and hanko or be ready to sign. Tell the staff you want to open an account (koza wo hirakai tai desu). They will hand you an application form in Japanese and English. Fill in your name, address, phone number, and employment status. The form takes five minutes.
Hand the form back with your documents. The staff will verify your residence card, check your address, and ask basic questions about the account's purpose (personal use, salary deposits, savings). They will then print your account number and issue your bankbook (passbook) and card on the spot. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes. You can start using the account immediately for deposits and withdrawals at ATMs.
Online banking setup happens separately, either at the bank or at home. You will receive a temporary password and can log in to the bank's website or app to set up transfers and bill payments. Some banks require you to visit a branch again to activate international transfer features.
Visa types and account restrictions
Work visas, student visas, spouse visas, and long-term resident visas all may have access to for full accounts with no restrictions. Temporary visitor visas (tourist visas) do not may have access to for standard accounts, though some banks offer limited visitor accounts as noted above.
If you are on a working holiday visa, you can open a full account. If you are waiting for your residence card to arrive after landing, most banks will not open an account until you have it in hand, even if your visa is valid. The residence card is the document that proves your address and legal status in Japan.
Some banks restrict international transfers for new accounts or require a higher balance to activate that feature. Ask about this when you open the account if you plan to send money abroad. You may need to visit the branch again or call to request international transfer access.
Sending and receiving money internationally
Receiving international transfers is usually available immediately once your account opens. You will need to provide your bank name, branch name, account number, and SWIFT code to the sender. Your bank can give you this information in writing.
Sending money abroad (remittance) often requires a separate application or a visit to the branch. Some banks restrict this feature for new accounts or require a minimum balance. The fee for outbound transfers varies by bank but typically ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 yen per transfer, plus a currency conversion fee. Processing time is usually three to five business days.
If you send money frequently, ask about the bank's remittance options when you open the account. Some banks offer better rates or faster processing for regular transfers. Wise (formerly TransferWise) and other money transfer services are also available in Japan and sometimes offer better rates than banks for international transfers.
Online-only accounts and alternatives
Shinsei Bank, Sony Bank, and Rakuten Bank offer accounts that can be opened partly or entirely online. These accounts typically have lower fees and better interest rates than traditional banks. However, you still need a residence card and a Japanese phone number to verify your identity. Some require an initial in-person visit or a video call with staff.
If you cannot visit a branch in person, check whether the bank you want offers online account opening. Call their English support line or visit their website to ask. Be aware that online-only banks may have fewer ATM locations or charge fees for cash withdrawals at other banks' ATMs.
What happens if you leave Japan
You can keep your Japanese bank account open after you leave, even if your residence card expires. However, the bank may freeze or close the account if it detects no activity for a long period (usually one to two years). Some banks require you to notify them when you leave and may ask for a forwarding address outside Japan.
If you plan to return to Japan, keeping the account open is convenient. If you do not plan to return, you can close it by visiting a branch or sending a request by mail. You will need to provide your account number and a copy of your passport or residence card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Japanese bank account before I arrive in Japan?
No. You must be physically present in Japan and have a residence card to open a standard account. Some banks may allow you to start the process online, but you will need to complete it in person at a branch. Plan to open an account within your first week after arriving.
What if I do not have a hanko seal?
Most banks now accept signatures from foreign customers instead of a hanko. Call the branch ahead of time to confirm, or simply ask the staff when you arrive. If they require a seal, you can buy an inexpensive one at a convenience store or stationery shop for 300 to 500 yen.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
You will receive a basic bankbook and card on the day you open the account. A full debit card with your name printed on it may take one to two weeks to arrive by mail. You can use the temporary card at ATMs immediately.
Can I open an account if I am on a tourist visa?
Standard accounts require a residence card, which tourist visas do not provide. Some banks offer limited visitor accounts that allow cash deposits and withdrawals but restrict transfers. Ask at the bank's counter whether this option is available.
Do I need a Japanese phone number to open an account?
A phone number is not required to open the account itself, but you will need one to set up online banking and receive verification codes. If you do not have a Japanese number yet, you can add it to your account later once you get one.