Opening a bank account
A bank account is required to receive salaries, scholarships, etc.
Also, having a bank account is convenient to pay for electricity, gas, water, mobile phones, internet services, etc. by “direct debit" (a payment method in which money for shopping and services is automatically deducted from your account.)
The “ordinary account” is the most common account type in Japan.
Many banks set a condition for foreigners to live in Japan for at least 6 months to open an ordinary account.
[Items required to open an account]
- Resident card
- Seal (Hanko)
Some banks allow you to complete procedures with your signature.
- Phone number where you can be reached
You can use your cell phone number.
In addition, you may need an employee ID card (a card with your name and photo that you get at your company) or a student ID card (a card with your name and photo that you get at school).
Ask the bank that you open an account with for more details.
[Procedures to open an account]
You can go to the customer service counter of the bank Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm to open an account at the bank.
Be prepared to be able to say and write your name, address, and date of birth in Japanese because you will be asked at the bank counter.
Also, decide a 4-digit PIN (a number that only you know) for your cash card before going to the bank.
You will receive a bank passbook at the end of the procedure.
The cash card will be mailed to your home in a week to 10 days.
Some banks allow you to complete the procedures online. Inquire the bank you choose to open an account for the detail.
There are "net banks" that can be accessed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from a PC or smartphone as well.
Choose a bank that suits you.
[ATM (Automated Teller Machine)]
At ATMs, you can use your cash card to deposit and withdraw money to/from your account.
In addition to banks, ATMs are located at convenience stores, train stations, and many other places.
Depending on the time you use an ATM, you may be charged a fee.
You may also be charged a fee if you use an ATM at a bank other than your bank’s or at a convenience store.
[Notes to account holders]
If your address, period of stay (how long you can stay in Japan), status of residence (purpose of staying in Japan), etc.is changed, you must notify your bank.
Also, you must close your account if you will leave Japan and do not plan to return.
Consult with your bank if you plan to return to Japan and use your account again.
Do not give away or sell unused accounts.
Opening a credit card account
"Visa" and "Mastercard" credit cards issued in a foreign country can be used in Japan. But having a Japanese credit card is convenient for those who will live in Japan for a long time.
You can apply for a credit card from the website of each card company.
There are also credit cards that you can apply for at bank counters or stores.
The following items are required for a foreigner to apply for a credit card:
- Resident card
- Address in Japan
- Japanese bank account
- Phone number where you can be reached
The followings are tips to pass the credit check (examination of your information to decide whether to issue a card):
- Having several identification documents (documents that can identify you):
In addition to the residence card, passport, health insurance card, resident record certificate, driver's license obtained in Japan, etc.
- Having documentation that verifies your income:
A pay slip (a paper which your monthly salary and withheld income tax are written), withholding slip (a paper which your annual salary and withheld income tax are written), or resident tax notice (a paper which the amount of your resident tax is written.)
- Do not apply for multiple credit cards at the same time.
- Set the cash advance limit that can be borrowed to 0 yen.
Once approved, your credit card will be mailed to your home.
Electronic payment service
"Electronic payment", also known as "cashless payment", is a method of payment without using cash.
In addition to credit cards and debit cards, various payment methods such as electronic money (Suica, PASMO, etc.), using QR codes have become available at stores in Japan recently.
