I’m on a 6 month startup visa and need to open a bank account as part of the preparations to start a business. Are there any banks that will allow me to open an account having been in Japan for less than 6 months without a job? I was interested in Sony Bank, but they require proof of employment in order to use their services before being a resident longer than 6 months.
5 comments
Did you ask about a business account?
PayPay
I know you said you were avoiding it, but JapanPost might be your best bet
I just went through this process. Your only real choice is Yucho bank (Japan Post). None of the other banks will allow you to open an account on a 6 months visa without a regular job at a Japanese company. I would also recommend finding a Japanese speaker who can help you and go do it in person – the mail application process is currently backed-up and can take over a month. In person I was able to open it same day.
Back in 1998, I opened an account after being in the country for less than 2 weeks, and about 2 months before landing a job.
Your visa status is more likely to be an issue.
What visa are you on?