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Opening a Bank Account

Open a Japanese bank account for salary, rent, and bills. You'll usually need a residence card and a registered address; some banks ask for 6+ months of stay.

1 min readChecked against official sources 2026-06-14

Contents

  • Steps
  • What to bring
  • Official sources
  • Related guides

Open a Japanese bank account for salary, rent, and bills. You'll usually need a residence card and a registered address; some banks ask for 6+ months of stay.

Where: Banks (private). The Japanese Bankers Association explains the basics. · When: Any time after you have a residence card and a registered address.

Steps

  1. 1Choose a bank (megabank, local bank, or Japan Post Bank) and visit a branch or apply online.
  2. 2Show your residence card and ID, and fill in the account application.
  3. 3Receive your passbook and cash card (the cash card often arrives later by post).

What to bring

  • ▢Residence card
  • ▢Another ID (passport, My Number Card, etc.) if asked
  • ▢Personal seal (some banks still ask for one)
  • ▢Phone number and proof of address

Official sources

  • Japanese Bankers Association - Opening a bank account↗ (opens in a new tab)

Related guides

  • →Opening a Bank Account in Japan: A Newcomer's Guide
  • →Moving-in Notification (Resident Registration)
  • →Sending money home from Japan: your options
  • →Paying for Things in Tokyo: Cash, IC Cards, QR Pay and Cards

Information, not advice

This guide is general information only — not legal, administrative, tax or other professional advice, and not a filing service. Rules and procedures can change; always confirm with the official window or website. For your specific situation, consult a licensed professional or contact the relevant government office directly.

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