Money
How do I open a bank account in Japan as a newcomer?
Register your address first, then check a bank's account-opening requirements for foreign residents. You will usually need your residence card with your current address, identification and a Japanese phone number. Students may also need a student ID.
Some banks, including Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行), accept applications from recent arrivals, but restrictions depend on your remaining stay, employment and residence classification under foreign-exchange rules. Account approval is not automatic. Check the bank's current notice about residence cards issued from 14 June 2026, as some online application systems do not yet accept the new cards.
What may vary
Requirements vary by bank and application method. Confirm accepted identification, My Number requirements and any transfer restrictions directly with the bank. A change to resident status for banking purposes may require a separate request; do not assume it happens automatically after six months.
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Sources
- Japan Post Bank
- Japan Post Bank — published
- Japan Post Bank — published
- Japan Post Bank
- Seven Bank
- Seven Bank
- MUFG Bank — published
- yuzu.help
- yuzu.help
- yuzu.help