Japanese You Need to Open a Bank Account
Navigate the paperwork and conversation at a Japanese bank — without the stress.
Opening a bank account in Japan is one of the first things you need to do — and one of the most confusing. Between the forms, the stamps, and the staff who may not expect a foreign customer, having the right phrases ready makes a huge difference. This guide covers what to say at the counter, understanding account options, and using ATMs.
At the Counter
口座を開設したいのですが。
Kouza wo kaisetsu shitai no desu ga.
I'd like to open an account.
在留カードを持ってきました。
Zairyuu kaado wo motte kimashita.
I brought my residence card.
届出印はこれで大丈夫ですか？
Todokede in wa kore de daijoubu desu ka?
Is this seal okay for the registered stamp?
キャッシュカードはいつ届きますか？
Kyasshu kaado wa itsu todokimasu ka?
When will my debit card arrive?
ネットバンキングも申し込みたいです。
Netto bankingu mo moushikomitai desu.
I'd also like to sign up for online banking.
Account Types
普通預金口座をお願いします。
Futsuu yokin kouza wo onegaishimasu.
A regular savings account, please.
給与振込用の口座が必要です。
Kyuuyo furikomi you no kouza ga hitsuyou desu.
I need an account for salary deposits.
海外送金はできますか？
Kaigai soukin wa dekimasu ka?
Can I make international transfers?
通帳は発行されますか？
Tsuuchou wa hakkou saremasu ka?
Will I get a passbook?
口座維持手数料はかかりますか？
Kouza iji tesuuryou wa kakarimasu ka?
Is there an account maintenance fee?
ATM Usage
このATMで引き出しできますか？
Kono ATM de hikidashi dekimasu ka?
Can I withdraw from this ATM?
振込をしたいのですが。
Furikomi wo shitai no desu ga.
I'd like to make a transfer.
手数料は何時まで無料ですか？
Tesuuryou wa nanji made muryou desu ka?
Until what time are transactions fee-free?
残高照会をお願いします。
Zandaka shoukai wo onegaishimasu.
I'd like to check my balance.
暗証番号を忘れてしまいました。
Anshou bangou wo wasurete shimaimashita.
I've forgotten my PIN.
Cultural Tips
- Bring your residence card (在留カード, zairyuu kaado) — it's required to open any bank account. Some banks also require proof of address (like a utility bill or your residence certificate from city hall).
- Many Japanese banks still use personal seals (印鑑, inkan) instead of signatures. If you don't have one, ask the bank if they accept signatures (サイン, sain) — most major banks now do for foreign residents.
- ATM fees in Japan depend on the time of day. Withdrawals during business hours (roughly 8:45-18:00 weekdays) are usually free, but evenings, weekends, and holidays often incur a fee of 110-220 yen.
FAQ
Which bank is best for foreigners in Japan?
Yucho Bank (Japan Post) is the easiest for new residents — fewer requirements, more locations, and staff are used to foreign customers. MUFG and SMBC are good for salary accounts. Sony Bank and Shinsei Bank offer English online banking if that matters to you.
How long does it take to open a bank account in Japan?
The in-branch process takes about 30-60 minutes. However, your cash card usually arrives by mail 1-2 weeks later. Some banks require you to have lived in Japan for at least 6 months before opening an account, though Yucho Bank and some others have no such requirement.
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