Japanese bank account/cash/card/cashless payment

Situations when you need a Japanese bank account

A bank account in Japan is convenient for long-term living, such as receiving a salary from your workplace and paying rent and utility bills by direct debit. On the other hand, the conditions for opening an account vary depending on the financial institution and the user's situation. You may be asked to confirm your identity, address, period of stay, work/school status, etc.

Don't rely solely on cards issued overseas

Credit cards are widely used in Japan, but they may not be accepted everywhere. Additionally, there are cases where cards issued overseas cannot be used for certain online payments. It's safer to spread out your payment methods, such as carrying a small amount of cash and using multiple brands of cards.

Transportation ICs and QR payments make life more convenient

Transportation ICs can be used not only for trains and buses, but also for shopping at corresponding stores. There are also services such as QR payment, but the registration conditions and the banks and cards that can be used vary depending on the service. It's a good idea to look at the places you use frequently before choosing one.

Understand monthly fixed costs

Once you start living in Japan, you will incur fixed costs such as rent, management fees, communication, electricity, gas, water, and insurance. By listing the payment dates and amounts, it will be easier to avoid insufficient funds or forgetting payments. Especially if you are transferring funds overseas, consider the time required for exchange and remittance.

If you require specific financial product selection or tax decisions, please check with your financial institution or appropriate professional for the latest information.

Things to review after actually starting your life in Japan

Things that you didn't understand during the preparation stage will become clear to you once you actually live in Japan for a few days to a few weeks. Write down the time it takes to commute to work or school, ease of shopping, language problems, monthly expenses, etc., and check for any differences from your expectations. It is not necessary to continue with the method you initially decided on, but it is important to adjust communication contracts, travel routes, shopping locations, housing conditions, etc. to suit your lifestyle.

Organize important information in one place

In life in Japan, the number of contacts increases, such as address, contact information for work or school, housing management company, hospital, insurance, bank, telecommunications company, etc. Instead of saving it only on your smartphone, it's a good idea to make a list of the information you need and share it with your family if you have them. Make sure to save contracts, receipts, and important emails in a way that you can check them later.

Check the latest information on systems and professional judgments.

It is necessary to separate general information about daily life from professional judgments such as immigration status, law, taxation, and medical care. As systems and conditions are subject to change, please check the latest information from public institutions and contracting parties before proceeding with the procedure. For work that requires qualifications, it is important to consult with an administrative scrivener, lawyer, tax accountant, or other appropriately qualified professional.