JMNETGUIDING YOUR JOURNEY IN JAPAN
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Step 4 of 6

Set up banking

Prepare for opening and maintaining a bank account in Japan after establishing your residence.

Overview

Banks and other deposit-taking financial institutions in Japan have their own account-opening procedures. Required documents and eligibility checks can differ between institutions. Financial institutions verify customer information such as identity, address, period and status of residence, and employment information as part of their customer-verification procedures.

Requirements

  • Choose a financial institutionCheck the account-opening requirements of the financial institution you intend to use. Procedures and required documents differ between institutions.
  • Be ready for identity verificationFinancial institutions verify customer information when opening an account and may verify it again when necessary after the account has been opened.

Documents and items

  • Residence cardA residence card is one example of identification that may be requested when opening an account. Confirm the exact identification requirements with the financial institution.
  • PassportA passport is another example of a document that may be requested. Requirements differ between financial institutions.
  • Employment or student identification where applicableAn employee ID card or student ID card is among the examples identified by the Financial Services Agency. Whether it is required depends on the institution and your circumstances.
  • Other institution-specific itemsSome financial institutions may request additional items, such as a personal seal. Check the institution's current instructions before applying.

Actions

  • Check the institution's requirementsReview the account-opening procedure and required documents directly with the financial institution before applying.
  • Apply for the accountProvide the requested documents and customer information through the financial institution's account-opening procedure.
  • Keep your registered information currentAfter opening an account, respond to requests from your financial institution to confirm or update customer information when necessary.
  • Notify the institution about residence-period changesIf you extend your period of stay or are applying to extend or change your status of residence, follow your financial institution's instructions for notifying it and updating the relevant information.

Practical notes

  • Account-opening procedures and required documents are not identical across Japanese financial institutions.
  • A financial institution may be unable to open an account or may restrict account use if required customer information cannot be verified.
  • Never sell, give, or transfer your bank account, cash card, or related access to another person.
  • Before leaving Japan permanently, check with your financial institution about any procedures required for your account.

Official sources