How to open a bank account in Japan for British expats

Japan is one of the most popular foreign destinations for UK expats and tourists, especially the major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya.

If you’re considering relocating to Japan for work, retirement or to start a business, you’ll need a local bank account.

This is an important step in getting settled, but can be tricky for expats trying to negotiate a new system.

This guide is here to help, covering everything you need to know on opening a bank account in Japan. So read on for all the details on how to apply, the documents you’ll need, fees, and the lowdown on expat-friendly Japanese banks.

We'll also show you a smart alternative to a bank for managing your money in Japan. Open a Wise account and you’ll be able to hold and manage your money in 40+ currencies, including GBP and JPY. You can also spend on a linked debit card in 150+ countries

Learn more about the Wise account 🌍

Moving to Japan and want to take your savings with you? With Wise, you can send secure and trackable large amount transfers to Japan and 140+ countries worldwide for low fees* and mid-market exchange rates.

Simply email our expert team or request a call back below.

Get expert support for your large transfer 📞

How to open a bank account in Japan as a non-resident?

Foreigners can open a bank account in Japan, but you’ll need to have lived there for at least 6 months.¹ This means it’s not usually possible to open an account as a non-resident from abroad.

However, some banks may offer non-resident accounts if you meet certain requirements, such as Tokyo Star Bank.²

The process of opening a bank account in Japan is relatively simple if you have all necessary documents. You can do it online (depending on your documents, and the bank) or in person.

Apply in a branch and your account could be opened the same day, and you’ll get your debit card there and then. But otherwise, your card will arrive in the post in a few days.³

Most of the larger banks in Japan offer online banking, and some such as SMBC and SBI Shinsei Bank offer English-speaking services and staff. This is ideal for those who are new to Japan and haven’t had time to practice the language.

📚 Banks in Japan

Do you need a bank account in Japan?

It’s pretty essential to have a local bank account when living in Japan, as it’s needed for receiving your salary, paying your bills and buying property.

And if you’re starting a business in Japan, you’ll definitely need one.

However, you may be able to manage for a short time with an international account, or a multi-currency solution such as the Wise account to send, spend and receive money in Japanese yen (JPY).

But ultimately, you’ll find life much easier with a Japanese bank account, so it’s best to open one as soon as you’re eligible.

📚 Buying property in Japan

Can you open a bank account in Japan as a British expat?

Yes, you can open a bank account in Japan as a UK expat, as there are no rules preventing foreign citizens from opening bank accounts there.

However, most banks will require you to have lived in Japan for at least 6 months and are on a long-term visa.¹ You may also be accepted as a new arrival if you can prove you’re working in Japan, such as with an employee ID card.⁴

You’ll need to make sure you have all your documents ready - we’ll cover exactly what you need shortly.

Can you open a Japanese bank account online as an expat from the UK?

Many Japanese banks let you open a bank account online, or at least start the process online. Some, such as Mizuho Bank, let you use your smartphone to apply.

But crucially, in most cases you’ll need to be a resident of Japan before you can apply. You’ll need to provide a residence permit or some other form of ID that you can only get once you’ve moved to Japan.

For banks that do accept non-resident applicants, such as Tokyo Star Bank, they’ll need you to visit a branch in person.²

📚 Transferring large sums of money abroad

What documents do you need to open a bank account in Japan?

The process of opening a bank account in Japan can vary from bank to bank, and so can the documents required.

But generally, you’ll need the following ready:⁵

• ID documents
• Proof of address
• Your Japanese phone number

Proof of identity

Some banks may ask for one or more of the following, depending on your residency status and how you apply (i.e. on a phone, online or in person):⁵

• Residence card (known as the Zairyū Card)
• Special Permanent Resident Certificate
• My number (Individual Number) Card
• Driver's License (issued in Japan)
• Health Insurance Eligibility Certificate (issued in Japan)
• Passport.

You may also be asked for your visa documents.

📚 Certificate of Eligibility in Japan

Proof of address

A utility bill or rental contract from the last 6 months should suffice as proof of a Japanese address.⁵

Additional documents and details

Depending on the bank, you may also be asked for:

• Your Japanese phone number
• Proof of employment, such as your employee ID card
• A Hanko seal - this is a hand-carved stamp used in place of a signature and denotes authorisation. However, most banks will now accept a signature in place of this.

Best Japanese bank accounts for expats

Most Japanese banks will work with foreigners who have an established residency in Japan, and some even offer their services in English as well as Japanese.

There are international banks such as HSBC operating in the country, but unfortunately they tend to focus on business and corporate finance, rather than serving retail customers.

If you’re new to the country, your best bet is with a major bank such as SBI Shinsei Bank, Mizuho, MUFG or SMBC Trust Bank. There are also some banks which offer non-resident accounts, such as Tokyo Star Bank.

SBI Shinsei Bank

Headquartered in Tokyo, commercial bank SBI Shinsei Bank offers retail banking, institutional and corporate services, and consumer finance products.

It offers a wide network of ATMs through partners such as Seven Bank (and Seven-Eleven stores) and Japan Post Bank and post offices.

Its everyday banking products include a Yen Deposit (PowerFlex) Account, a simple account for ATM deposits and withdrawals, transfers, and automatic monthly payments for utility bills. You can even choose the colour of your cash card.

There’s also a Foreign Currency Deposit Account for your savings in a choice of currencies.

For UK expats, the SBI Shinsei Bank website, online banking and many other services are available in English.

SMBC Trust Bank (PRESTIA)

One of the largest banks in Japan, SMBC Trust Bank operates the retail banking brand PRESTIA. This has a foreign national focus, although it doesn’t offer non-resident accounts.

It offers expat-friendly services in English, with products such as foreign currency accounts, multi-currency debit cards and real estate trust services.

For everyday banking, you can choose its Yen Savings account which comes with a cash card and a full range of payment services. It can be managed via online and mobile banking. You can also apply via smartphone if you have the right documents.

Mizuho

Another of the country’s biggest banks, Mizuho serves both retail and institutional businesses, and has a wide network of branches and ATMs.

One of its best features is its smartphone application process, where you can apply with just your ID (as long as you’re a permanent resident). You can then manage your account by app, although it does take a few weeks to receive your cash card.

Another option for simple day-to-day money management is its Mizuho General Account, through which you can receive your salary and pension, pay utility bills, and make cash withdrawals. You can also earn and use Mizuho Points with your daily transactions.

MUFG

Owned by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, MUFG Bank is one of the largest in Japan, and is also one of the world’s biggest financial institutions. It offers a full range of retail and corporate banking and finance solutions, and a wide network of branches and ATMs.

If you’re new to Japan, you may want to check out its Yen Deposit Savings Account. It’s ideal for everyday payments, receiving your salary and making ATM withdrawals.

You can apply for accounts in branch - the bank does accept applications online or via smartphone, but usually only from Japanese citizens.

Tokyo Star Bank

A final option worth considering is Japanese commercial bank Tokyo Star Bank, and this is because it’s one of the few banks which offers non-resident accounts. This includes a Yen Deposit Account for everyday banking.

You’ll need to provide the right documents, and make an appointment to visit a branch in person to open your account. Find out more here.

Other banks and money management alternatives worth looking into

Along with traditional banks, Japan also has a number of digital banks to choose from. This includes:

• Rakuten Bank - Japan's largest online internet bank, which offers fully digital banking services and integration with the wider Rakuten ecosystem to earn and spend reward points.
• Sony Bank - a major digital-first bank offering foreign currency accounts, home loans, investment trusts, and debit cards
• Revolut - Revolut offers a choice of monthly plans, including a free Standard plan. All include a debit card and basic banking services, with more perks and features added the more you pay for your monthly plan.

You can also check out other non-bank alternatives, which don’t have a banking licence but offer services such as accounts, payments and cards.

This includes the money services provider Wise, which has a multi-currency account for receiving yen, an international debit card, transfer services and handy mobile app available to use in Japan.

What are the banking fees and costs in Japan?

When you open a bank account anywhere in the world, be sure to check the fees and charges list carefully. They may be quite different to what you’re used to back home.

In Japan, there are a few fees to watch out for, including fees for money transfers and withdrawing cash from Japanese ATMs.

These vary considerably between banks, but take a look below for a rough idea of what costs to expect:

📚 ATMs in Japan

Wise - A smart, transparent way to manage your JPY

Looking for a convenient, low-cost way to manage your money in Japan and internationally?

The Wise account, from the money services provider Wise, offers a modern alternative. It’s an international account for sending, spending and converting money in 40+ currencies – including Japanese yen (JPY) and British Pounds (GBP).

Get paid in Japan with the Wise account, you can receive a salary, pension or domestic bank transfers directly into your account.

You’ll get the mid-market exchange rate for all of your foreign currency transactions, with no hidden markups and low, transparent fees*.

You can also get a Wise card for a one-time fee of just £7 to spend in Japan and 150+ countries worldwide. For added convenience, simply connect it to digital wallets like Google or Apple Pay.

Open your Wise account 🌍

**Investments in funds are never guaranteed and your capital can be at risk. In the UK, Interest and Stocks are provided by Wise Assets — this is the trading name of Wise Assets UK Ltd, a subsidiary of Wise. Wise Assets UK Ltd is authorised as an investment firm and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our FCA number is 839689. We do not give investment advice, and you may be subject to pay tax. If you're not sure, seek qualified advice. You can find more information about the funds on our website.

Thinking of opening a business or expanding to Japan? Wise also has a business account with lots of great features.

Open a Wise Business account online

FAQs

Is there a free Japanese bank account for non-residents?

Yes, it is possible to get a free everyday bank account in Japan. Most banks offer them, but often only to residents.

One of the exceptions is Tokyo Star Bank, which has non-resident accounts which are free to open and have no monthly maintenance fees (although fees for other services will apply).

Can you use your UK bank account in Japan?

It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to keep using your UK account while in Japan, unless you’re only there for a short period. It’s best to check with your UK bank before you move.

It’s likely that you’ll need to open a local bank account once you’ve arrived in Japan. Alternatively, you could look into UK banks such as HSBC which offer expat accounts.

Can you open a bank account in Japan as an international student?

You should be able to open a bank account as an international student, but you may struggle with the 6-month residency rule. Some banks won’t give you an account until you’ve been there 6 months.

One option to try in the meantime is Japan Post Bank, where you can visit a local branch or post office with your passport and student ID. Staff are known to be familiar with the process for non-residents, so they should be able to help you with your application.¹⁰

---

Sources used:

1. SBI Shinsei Bank - Opening an account with SBI Shinsei
2. Tokyo Star Bank - Opening a non-resident account (personal account)
3. Expatica - How to open a bank account in Japan
4. SMBC - Opening an account as a foreigner
5. SBI Shinsei Bank - Required documents for PowerFlex
6. SMBC - Service charges
7. SMBC - ATM Service / Shopping
8. MUFG - Bank transfer fee
9. SMBC - Transferring funds
10. JSCC - Opening an account in Japan for students

Sources last checked on date: 30-Jul-2026