Introduction
To live in Japan, having a bank account is essential. It's convenient for receiving salaries and paying rent or utility bills. However, opening a bank account in Japan might seem a bit difficult. In this article, we’ll explain the steps for foreigners to easily open a bank account in Japan.
1. Prepare the necessary items
To open a bank account in Japan, you will need to prepare the following three items:
- Residence Card (proof of your stay in Japan)
- Passport (your country’s ID)
- Seal (Inkan) (a stamp with your name)
- Some banks may also require your My Number (Individual Number).
2. Visit a nearby bank
Once you have prepared the necessary items, visit a nearby bank. It is recommended to choose a major bank such as Mitsubishi UFJ Bank or Sumitomo Mitsui Bank.
3. Complete the procedures at the bank
When you arrive at the bank, tell the staff, "I want to open a bank account." The staff will give you the necessary forms to fill out. If you don’t understand something, feel free to ask the staff for help.
4. Complete the account opening
After submitting the forms, the bank staff will verify your information. If there are no issues, your bank account will be opened. Once your account is created, you will receive a bankbook and a cash card. Sometimes it may take a little while before the cash card can be used.
5. How to use an ATM
After opening your bank account, you can withdraw and deposit money using an ATM. If you're unsure how to use the ATM, you can ask the bank staff.
6. Important Notes
Account opening conditions: Some banks may only allow people who have lived in Japan for more than six months to open an account. Be sure to check before visiting.
Fees: Some banks may charge account maintenance or transfer fees. It’s a good idea to confirm these beforehand.Service
hours: ATM and bank counter services may have set operating hours. Be especially mindful of weekends and late-night hours.
Conclusion
Opening a bank account in Japan may take a bit of effort, but once you have it, life becomes much more convenient. It will streamline receiving your salary and paying your bills. Don’t hesitate to ask the bank staff if you have any questions, and proceed with confidence.
