Why You Need Cash and a Personal Bank Card
As I mentioned in #2, international students should always bring enough cash and a bank card under your own name. Here’s why:
When stores may strictly check your card name (based on my own experience):
- PIN input not allowed – if the system doesn’t let you enter a PIN, the card may be rejected.
- Signature required – if a receipt requires a signature, staff may also ask to see your ID.
- Strict shops – some shops check the cardholder name before payment. If you can’t prove it’s yours, they may even call the police in extreme cases.
First 3–6 Months: Hard to Get a Bank Account
For the first few months, students usually can’t open a Japanese bank account. Even if you manage to, transferring money may cost high fees.
Stricter Bank Reviews
Banks have become stricter. If your Japanese isn’t good enough, even at the counter, you may be refused.
For example, when I tried to open my first account, the bank gave me an article to read and asked me the meaning. If I couldn’t answer, they wouldn’t let me proceed. Not all banks do this, but it’s safer to choose a branch near schools or in areas with many foreigners.
Address Restrictions
Banks may also ask why you’re applying at a branch far from your home. For me, I said my school was nearby, so they allowed it.
Online Application
After 6 months in Japan, you can try opening an account online. If it fails, then visit a physical branch.
If You’re on a Work Visa
Those who arrive with a work visa usually can apply directly, but the final result still depends on the bank’s internal review.
💡 My Tips for Newcomers
- At first, rely on cash and international debit cards (like Wise) for daily spending.
- Once your Japanese skills and address are stable, then try to open a bank account.
- If you get rejected once, you usually have to wait at least 6 months before applying again, since Japanese banks share information.
My Own Experience
When I first came to Japan, I was 17 years old (legal adult age in Japan was 20). The bank refused my application because I was underage and didn’t have a guardian with me.
Later, when I found a part-time job, explained that I needed the account for salary, and had my school support me, the bank finally allowed me to open one.
Most international students first open a Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行) account, which is useful for basic needs like paying rent and receiving part-time wages.
After staying for 6 months, you can consider a major bank like SMBC (Sumitomo Mitsui) or MUFG (Mitsubishi UFJ) for easier transfers and online use.
Personally, I use both SMBC and MUFG, but I recommend the SMBC OLIVE card because:
- It’s 3-in-1 (debit, credit, point card)
- Easy-to-use app with a clear interface
- Simple operations
- Almost no fees for tuition transfers
I think it’s a great option for daily life. 👍