Open a Japanese Bank Account Remotely: Best Recommendations

Published on 2024-07-31 Updated on 2024-11-04

In today’s digital era, financial services are continually innovating and becoming more convenient. For those who want to open a bank account in Japan but cannot visit in person, remote account opening has become an attractive option. This service not only provides convenience for foreign residents in Japan but also allows anyone to open a bank account without visiting a bank. Here are some Japanese banks that offer remote account opening services, along with their advantages and features.

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Shinsei Bank

Shinsei Bank, established in 1952, is one of Japan’s major commercial banks, formerly known as the Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan. Shinsei Bank has a strong presence in retail banking, corporate banking, and global markets.

Advantages:

  • Comprehensive Online Services: Almost all banking operations, including account opening, transfers, and investment management, can be completed online.
  • Multilingual Support: Offers multilingual customer service, especially in English, making it very friendly for foreign residents.
  • Low Fees: Shinsei Bank has relatively low fees for interbank transfers and ATM withdrawals.

Account Opening Process:

  • Submit an application through Shinsei Bank’s official website.
  • Upload copies of your Residence Card or Special Permanent Resident Certificate and the original copy of your Residence Certificate.
  • Wait for the bank to review and confirm your application.

BiyaPay: A More Convenient Global Multi-Asset Wallet

For those looking to open an account in Japan for cross-border remittances or investment purposes, BiyaPay offers a more convenient tool. BiyaPay provides fast, secure, and low-cost international money transfer services, supporting local transfers in most regions and countries. It enables same-day transfers with low fees, making it an ideal choice for international investors. It also supports real-time exchange of cryptocurrencies (like USDT and BTC) into major fiat currencies like USD and GBP, making financial management easier and more reliable for crypto traders.

Rakuten Bank

Rakuten Bank is one of Japan’s largest internet banks, part of the Rakuten Group, and was established in 2000. The bank offers comprehensive online banking services, including savings, loans, and investments.

Advantages:

  • High-Interest Savings Accounts: Rakuten Bank offers relatively high interest rates on savings accounts, making it suitable for long-term savings.
  • Convenient Online Services: All banking operations can be completed via the internet or mobile apps.
  • Rich Reward Points: By using Rakuten Bank services, you can accumulate Rakuten Points, which can be used for shopping and other discounts.

Account Opening Process:

  • Submit an application on the Rakuten Bank website.
  • Upload copies of your Residence Card or Special Permanent Resident Certificate and your passport.
  • Confirm account information and complete the account opening process.

GMO Aozora Net Bank

GMO Aozora Net Bank is a network bank formed by GMO Internet Group and Aozora Bank, dedicated to providing innovative banking services, especially in foreign currency accounts and internet financial services.

Advantages:

  • Various Foreign Currency Services: Offers foreign currency accounts and high-interest foreign currency deposits.
  • Free ATM Withdrawals: Provides a certain number of free ATM withdrawals per month, based on membership level.
  • Convenient Online Account Opening: Account opening can be completed online through the official website.

Account Opening Process:

  • Apply on the GMO Aozora Net Bank website.
  • Submit copies of your Residence Card or Special Permanent Resident Certificate and your passport.
  • Wait for the bank to review and notify you about the account opening.

SBI Sumishin Net Bank

SBI Sumishin Net Bank is a network bank jointly established by Sumitomo Trust Bank and SBI Holdings, providing a wide range of financial services, including banking, securities, and insurance.

Advantages:

  • Comprehensive Financial Services: In addition to basic banking services, it also offers investment and insurance products.
  • Complete Online Services: Account management, transfers, and investments can all be done online.
  • Low Fees: Particularly for domestic and international transfers, the fees are relatively low.

Account Opening Process:

  • Apply online on the SBI Sumishin Net Bank website.
  • Submit copies of your Residence Card or Special Permanent Resident Certificate and your passport.
  • Once approved, your account will be opened.

Conclusion

The remote account opening services offered by these banks provide great convenience, allowing users to complete the account opening process without having to visit the bank in person. Whether you need high-interest savings, low-fee transfer services, or comprehensive online financial services, these banks can meet your needs. By choosing the right bank and preparing the necessary documents, you can easily complete the bank account opening process in Japan and enjoy convenient financial services. For more detailed information, you can visit the official websites of these banks.