Why Foreigners Get Rejected When Opening a Bank Account in Japan
Have you ever felt confused or frustrated after being rejected while trying to open a bank account in Japan? You prepared all the documents, yet the application was denied with no clear explanation. As a foreigner, opening a bank account in Japan is often more complicated than it appears, with many hidden requirements not clearly explained in official guides.
This article focuses specifically on Japan. For general reasons that apply across multiple countries, see our full guide on opening a bank account abroad .
1. Why is opening a bank account in Japan so difficult?
For foreigners, opening a bank account in Japan often feels significantly more restrictive than in many other countries. Even with a residence card and registered address, applications are frequently rejected. This is largely due to Japan’s strict anti–money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) framework.
Japanese banks are required to carefully evaluate residence status, length of stay, and the specific purpose of the account. While official notices may suggest that basic documents are sufficient, many applications fail due to non-documentary factors that are only evaluated at the counter.
2. The commonly overlooked “length of stay” issue
One of the most common real-world rejection reasons is the remaining length of stay. Officially, foreigners planning to stay more than three months are considered eligible, but in practice this threshold is often not enough.
Many applicants are rejected or delayed when they have less than six months remaining on their residence period. From the bank’s perspective, customers who may leave Japan soon create long-term administrative and compliance challenges.
If your residence period is close to expiration, your application may fail even if all documents are complete. Applying shortly after renewing your visa significantly improves your chances.
3. No Japanese phone number? Why applications often fail
Another major obstacle is the absence of a Japan-issued mobile phone number. Many foreigners are surprised to learn that overseas numbers or internet-based phone services are not accepted for identity verification.
Japanese banks rely heavily on phone-based verification and SMS authentication. Without a local mobile number, identity confirmation often fails automatically, making account opening impossible.
For this reason, securing a Japanese mobile phone line is often the true first step toward opening a bank account in Japan.
4. The account purpose banks are most suspicious of
Banks in Japan place strong emphasis on why you are opening the account. Vague answers such as “for living expenses” may raise concerns and lead to rejection or extended review.
Students should clearly state purposes like tuition payments and daily expenses, while workers should explain salary deposits and bill payments. A clear, specific explanation that matches your visa type and documents is essential.
If you cannot clearly articulate your account purpose, the bank may classify your application as high risk.
5. Practical tips to open a bank account successfully in Japan
- Apply with sufficient remaining stay: Aim for six months or more remaining on your residence period.
- Secure a Japanese mobile number first: A local phone line is essential for verification.
- Prepare a clear account purpose: Support your explanation with enrollment letters or employment contracts if possible.
- Prepare solid proof of address: Ensure your address is registered and supported by additional documents if requested.
- Choose experienced branches: Some branches are more familiar with foreign customers than others.
Major banks and Japan Post Bank are often considered more accessible, but policies vary by branch and may change over time. Requirements can differ even within the same bank.
| Category | General Requirement | Additional Expectation for Foreigners | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length of stay | 3+ months planned stay | 6+ months remaining preferred | Apply after visa renewal if possible |
| Phone number | Valid contact number | Japan-issued mobile required | Open a local phone line early |
| Account purpose | General explanation | Clear and document-matched purpose | Prepare detailed explanations |
| Address | Registered residence | Additional proof often required | Prepare resident record or bills |
Opening a bank account as a foreigner in Japan can be challenging, but with proper preparation and a clear understanding of how banks assess risk, most rejections can be avoided.
(Reference: Japanese banking regulations and general AML/CFT guidelines)
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