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How to Open a Bank Account in Japan

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Formal guide · updated June 11, 2026

How to Open a Bank Account in Japan

A practical checklist for opening a bank account after moving to Hiroshima, written for foreign residents, students, workers, and families. Bank rules vary, so use this as preparation rather than a promise of approval.

Quick note: This guide is practical orientation, not legal, medical, or immigration advice. For deadlines, eligibility, documents, fees, office hours, and emergencies, use the official source links below.

The practical order

Banking is usually easier after your address is registered and you have a reachable Japanese phone number. Many banks need proof of identity, residence status, address, contact details, and a reason for opening the account, such as salary, scholarship, rent, utilities, or daily spending.

Typical documents to prepare

Requirements vary by bank, branch, status of residence, nationality, length of stay, employer, and school. Prepare more than you expect to need.

  • Residence card with your current address.
  • Passport.
  • Phone number and email address.
  • Student ID, employee ID, employment certificate, or school certificate if relevant.
  • My Number document if requested for specific services.
  • Personal seal if the bank or your situation requires one.
  • Japanese address written exactly as registered.

Choosing a bank

Convenience matters more than brand prestige. Consider ATM access near home or work, online banking language, remittance needs, salary deposit requirements, branch familiarity with foreign residents, and whether your school or employer recommends a bank. Some branches are more used to international students and workers than others.

At the branch or online

If applying in person, arrive early, bring documents, and expect identity checks. If applying online, make sure your residence card address and input address match exactly. If the bank declines your application, ask what specific requirement is missing: length of stay, phone number, address proof, purpose of account, or document mismatch.

Safety and fraud prevention

Never lend, sell, or give your bank account, cash card, passbook, online banking credentials, or phone SIM to another person. Closing or updating accounts before leaving Japan is also important. If something feels suspicious, ask HIC, your school, employer, or the bank directly.

Common mistakes

Most failed applications are fixable once you know the missing requirement.

  • Trying before address registration is complete.
  • Using a nickname or spelling that does not match your residence card.
  • Not having a Japanese phone number.
  • Not being able to explain the purpose of the account.
  • Opening an account and then ignoring address or visa-status updates.

Related HiroshimaHub pages

Official sources

Official sources used

Last checked: June 11, 2026. Always confirm office hours, eligibility, fees, and required documents on the official page before visiting.

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