Reactivating Old Bank Accounts in Japan as a US Citizen Returning for Work: Advice Needed

Hi everyone,

I’m a US citizen who lived and worked in Japan over 5 years ago. During my time there, I set up bank accounts with both Shinsei and Mizuho. However, I haven’t used these accounts since I cleared them out and left Japan.

Fast forward to now—I’ve recently accepted a new remote job with a Japanese company and am getting a work visa now, but I plan to live abroad while working, so I’ll be filing as a non-resident (<183 days in Japan, no long term lease). My priority is to get set up with banking ASAP so I can get paid without any issues.

My main question is: Does anyone know if Shinsei or Mizuho deactivate accounts if they’ve been inactive for a long period? If so, what’s the process to reactivate them, or is it more advisable to start fresh with new accounts?

I’m also considering opening accounts with JP Post and Sony Bank as backups since I’ve heard they’re relatively easy to set up. But before I go that route, I’d like to optimize my chances of using my existing accounts to avoid any unnecessary flags or complications.

Any insights or advice would be appreciated, especially from those who’ve had similar experiences.

Thanks!

by hodlingon

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