How to Open a Bank Account in Japan as a Foreigner (2026)

You can't do much in Japan without a bank account. Rent, utilities, phone plans, salary — almost everything requires a Japanese bank account or credit card. And foreign-issued credit cards are unreliable here; many services reject them outright.

We work at Rakuten and have helped dozens of colleagues from overseas open their first Japanese bank account. Here's what actually works.

Why You Need One Immediately

• Rent: Most landlords require automatic bank transfer (口座振替)
• Salary: Japanese companies typically pay via bank transfer only
• Phone plan: Mobile carriers require a Japanese payment method
• Utilities: Electricity, gas, water — all set up with bank auto-pay
• Cashless payments: Services like Rakuten Pay, PayPay, and Suica auto-charge link to your bank

Without a bank account, you're stuck using cash for everything — and many services simply aren't available to you.

What You Need Before You Go

• Residence Card (在留カード) with your address registered — this means you need to do your ward office registration first
• Passport
• Phone number — Some banks require one for SMS verification. A temporary prepaid SIM works for this. If you don't have one yet, choose a bank that doesn't require phone verification.
• Your address in Japanese — Get this from your landlord, company, or school
• Your personal seal (印鑑) — Some traditional banks still require this, but most modern banks don't. Skip it for now unless specifically told otherwise.

Your Best Options

JP Bank (ゆうちょ銀行) — Japan Post Bank

Best for: Newcomers who want the fastest, most reliable option.

• Available at any post office (郵便局). There are over 24,000 nationwide.
• One of the most foreigner-friendly banks. Staff are accustomed to helping non-Japanese speakers.
• Can often open an account within days of arriving (some people report same-day).
• ATM access at every post office and most convenience stores.
• No monthly fees.
• Debit card available (Visa or JCB).

Potential downside: Limited online banking features compared to modern digital banks. International transfers can be slow and expensive.

How to open: Walk into any post office, go to the 貯金窓口 (savings counter), and say "口座を開きたい" (kōza o hirakitai — I want to open an account). Bring your residence card and passport. Allow 30–60 minutes.

Online/Digital Banks

Best for: Tech-savvy foreigners who want a modern banking experience.

Several online banks in Japan let you apply from your smartphone:

• Application process is usually in Japanese, but manageable with a translation app
• Account typically opens in 1–2 weeks after identity verification
• Full online banking with English-supported apps
• Often comes with a debit card (Visa/JCB)
• No need to visit a physical branch

What to look for: English app support, free ATM withdrawals (at convenience stores), no monthly fees, and debit card issuance.

Your Employer's Partner Bank

Many companies have a relationship with a specific bank and may help you open an account as part of your onboarding. Ask your HR department — this is often the easiest route if available.

Timeline: How Long Does It Actually Take?

Important: Even after your account is "open," you may need to wait for your cash card or debit card to arrive by mail (typically 1–2 weeks). Plan accordingly.

While You Wait: Lock In Your Phone Bonus

Here's a useful trick: you don't need a bank account to start the phone signup process. Through our employee referral, you can lock in up to ¥14,000 in Rakuten Points with just an email address. No bank account required. You then have about 2 months to complete the actual phone application once your bank account is ready.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Going too early. You must register your address at the ward office first. Without the address stamp on your residence card, banks will turn you away.

Bringing the wrong documents. Always bring both your residence card AND passport. Some banks also ask for proof of employment or student enrollment.

Choosing a bank that doesn't serve foreigners well. Some major Japanese banks have complex processes for non-residents or require a personal seal. Start with JP Bank or an online bank.

Forgetting to set up online banking. Once your account is open, immediately register for online banking (ネットバンキング). You'll need it for transfers, balance checks, and linking to other services.

Not getting a debit card. Request a Visa or JCB debit card when opening your account. Credit cards take months to get approved in Japan, but debit cards come with the account and work everywhere.

What About Credit Cards?

Getting a credit card in Japan as a new foreigner is difficult. Banks typically want to see 6+ months of salary history in Japan. For now, a debit card (linked to your bank account) works at most places that accept credit cards.

Exception: If you're part of the Rakuten ecosystem, having a Rakuten Bank account makes it easier to eventually apply for a Rakuten Card (credit card), which feeds into the SPU point system. See our Rakuten Points guide for details on how this all connects.

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