For those planning to live in Japan due to an overseas assignment or relocation, it is important to understand the necessary procedures in advance in order to smoothly open a bank account and set up essential utilities after arrival.
In this article, we will explain the requirements for opening a bank account in Japan, what documents are needed, and the three basic steps involved in the process.
In addition, we will introduce the types of essential utilities you should arrange when moving to Japan, as well as how to complete the procedures to start using each service. We hope this guide will be helpful as you prepare for your move to Japan.
Conditions for Opening a Bank Account in Japan
There are two main requirements for foreign residents to open a bank account in Japan:
- Staying in Japan for six months or longer
- Having a resident record (jūminhyō)
If your length of stay is less than six months, you are considered a non-resident. In this case, you may only be able to open a non-resident yen account, which comes with restrictions such as limited use of cash cards and restrictions on international money transfers.
However, if you plan to stay in Japan for three months or longer, some banks—such as Japan Post Bank (Yucho Bank)—may allow you to open a standard savings account. Since requirements vary by bank, it is recommended that you check the specific conditions in advance.
In addition, obtaining a resident record is an essential requirement for opening a bank account in Japan.
To obtain a resident record, you must register your address at the local municipal office within 14 days of entering Japan, bringing your residence card and documents that prove your address.
What You Need to Open a Bank Account in Japan
To open a bank account in Japan, you will generally need the following items:
- A personal seal (hanko)
- A Japanese phone number
- Identification documents, such as a residence card or passport
- Proof of address, such as a resident record (jūminhyō)
When opening a bank account, you must prepare a hanko that is durable and suitable for official use. Self-inking stamps (such as Shachihata) and rubber stamps are not accepted, as their impressions tend to deteriorate over time.
In Japan, a hanko is used in many situations—such as signing rental agreements—instead of a handwritten signature. For this reason, it is recommended that you prepare one in advance for general use as well.
In addition, a phone number is required to open a bank account. You may either arrange a mobile phone contract in advance, or temporarily register your company’s phone number and update it later with your personal number.
You will also need identification documents such as your residence card or passport, as well as documents that confirm your address, such as a resident record.
In some cases, banks may request proof of utility payments to verify your current address, so it is advisable to have these documents prepared as well.
Three Steps to Opening a Bank Account in Japan
The process of opening a bank account in Japan generally consists of the following three steps:
Step 1: Visit a bank branch
Step 2: Complete the application process
Step 3: Receive your cash card
Below, we will explain each step in detail.
Step 1: Visit a Bank Branch
To open a bank account in Japan, your first step is to visit a bank branch in person.
When choosing a bank, it is recommended that you check whether the bank has a large number of branches and ATMs and whether foreign-language support is available.
You should also consider whether the bank branch or ATMs are conveniently located near your home or workplace, as this will make everyday banking much easier.
Step 2: Complete the Application Process
Next, you will need to fill out an account opening application form at the bank.
In addition to basic information such as your name, address, and date of birth, you will also be asked to provide details including your employer’s name, address, and phone number, as well as a four-digit PIN for your cash card. Once completed, submit the form at the counter.
Step 3: Receive Your Cash Card
After completing the application process, you will usually receive your bankbook at the branch on the same day. However, your cash card will be sent to you later by registered mail.
Please note that the cash card can only be delivered to your registered address, and you will be required to present identification documents, such as your residence card, when receiving it.
Types of Utilities to Arrange When Moving to Japan
When moving to Japan, there are four main types of utilities you should arrange in advance:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Internet
To ensure that these utilities are available from the day you move in, it is recommended to start the application process about two weeks before your move.
Depending on the property, you may find that no gas contract is required for all-electric apartments, or that internet service is already available without the need for individual application. For this reason, it is a good idea to check the utility arrangements for your property in advance.
How to Set Up Electricity Service in Japan
Electricity service in Japan is usually set up by following the four steps below:
| How to Set Up Electricity Service in Japan | Overview |
| Step 1: Choose an electricity provider | Compare the rates and services offered by different providers and select the one that best suits your needs. |
| Step 2: Select the contract amperage | If you live alone and use a relatively small amount of electricity, around 30 amps is generally sufficient. For families, 40 to 60 amps is usually recommended. |
| Step 3: Apply for service activation | Apply by phone or online by providing your name, address, preferred start date for electricity use, and payment method. |
| Step 4: Turn on the circuit breaker | In most cases, no on-site appointment is required. Electricity will be available once you turn on the circuit breaker in your new home. |
For properties with a traditional electricity meter, you will need to turn on the circuit breaker manually. However, in properties equipped with a smart meter, electricity is typically activated automatically without any additional steps.
How to Open (Activate) Gas Service in Japan
Gas service in Japan is activated by following the three steps below:
| How to Open Gas Service | Overview |
| Step 1: Check the type of gas used in your new home | Confirm whether your property uses city gas or propane gas (LP gas). |
| Step 2: Contact the gas company to request service activation | Contact the gas provider that serves your area by phone or online and apply to have the gas service activated. |
| Step 3: Be present for the gas activation appointment | When you contact the gas company, you must schedule an activation appointment. On the activation day, you will need to be present at your new home while the technician performs tasks such as opening the gas meter, conducting an ignition test, and checking for gas leaks. This process usually takes about 20 minutes. |
Since the type of gas used—city gas or propane gas (LP gas)—determines which gas appliances can be used, be sure to confirm the gas type in advance.
How to Open (Activate) Water Service in Japan
Water service in Japan is usually activated by following the three steps below:
| How to Open Water Service | Overview |
| Step 1: Contact the water utility office | Contact the water utility office that serves your area by phone or online to complete the necessary procedures. |
| Step 2: Check whether water flows from the taps | After moving in, turn on the tap to check whether water is available. |
| Step 3: Open the water shut-off valve if water does not flow | If water does not come out, locate the water shut-off valve, which is usually found near the entrance or parking area, and turn it to the left to open the water supply. |
In some cases, water may already be available even without completing the activation procedure. However, you must still contact the water utility office to officially register the start of water service.
Steps to Sign Up for Internet Service in Japan
The process for signing up for internet service in Japan generally consists of the following two steps:
| Internet Service Setup Process | Overview |
| Step 1: Check the internet environment of your property | Properties in Japan generally fall into one of the following categories: internet-ready, free internet included, or internet-compatible.Only internet-compatible properties require you to sign up with an internet provider and arrange installation work. |
| Step 2: Sign a contract with an internet provider (for internet-compatible properties) | If your property is an internet-compatible property, choose an internet service provider and arrange the necessary installation. |
An internet-ready property is equipped with LAN infrastructure, allowing you to use the internet immediately after moving in. However, in some cases, you may still need to notify or register with the provider.
An internet-included (free internet) property not only has internet infrastructure in place but also allows you to use the service at no additional cost.
Summary: How to Open a Bank Account and Set Up Utilities in Japan
In this article, we have introduced the steps required to open a bank account in Japan, as well as how to set up essential utilities after moving in.
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