I also work in Kyoto supporting foreigners in their daily lives.
In this article, I would like to share a real case where I assisted a client with opening a bank account in Japan.
Meeting with a Thai Client
One day, I received a message from a man from Thailand:
“I recently moved to Kyoto. I'm reaching out to ask if you might be able to assist me with translation, documentation, and accompanying me while I open a personal bank account at Japan Post Office Bank.”
In short, he wanted to open an account at Japan Post Bank and asked for support with translation, paperwork, and going together to the bank.
He had just moved to Kyoto alone, with no friends or acquaintances to rely on.
Moreover, he couldn’t speak or write Japanese at all.
I honestly told him.
“I can help you fill out the forms.But my English is beginner level.
Is it okay if I use a translator app?”
His reply came quickly: “OK!”
And so, our journey to open his bank account began.
Why Japan Post Bank?
In Japan, foreigners often face special challenges when trying to open a bank account.
One of the biggest hurdles is the rule that you cannot open an account if your residence period is less than 6 months.
The “6-Month Rule” for Foreigners
To prevent money laundering, Japanese banks enforce strict conditions on foreign applicants:
- Residence in Japan for less than 6 months.
- No proof of employment.
- No student enrollment certificate.
In these cases, many city or regional banks simply refuse account opening.
What Is Money Laundering?
Money laundering means disguising money gained from crime or illegal activities as legitimate income.
Since it hides the true flow of funds, it is often linked to terrorism financing and fraud.
👉 Reference: Financial Services Agency of Japan｜Anti-Money Laundering
Why Japan Post Bank Is Different？
Japan Post Bank is one of the few exceptions.
Even foreigners with less than 6 months of residence may open an account if they meet certain conditions.
Recently, it has even become possible to apply through their multilingual mobile app.
However, my client strongly preferred going to the counter for extra security and reassurance.
Preparation Before the Day
Bank account opening can easily fail on the day if.
“Required documents are missing.”
“The account cannot be issued today.”
To avoid such situations, I carefully prepared with my client in advance.
- Checked necessary documents (residence card, passport, etc.).
- Confirmed the bank branch location was convenient for him.
- Called the bank to check if a Bankbook could be issued on the same day.
- Prepared the katakana spelling of his name and sample form entries.
These small but important steps ensured the process would go smoothly.
The Day of the Appointment
Because we had informed the bank in advance that he would come with an accompanying supporter, the procedure went smoothly from the reception.
Once at the counter,
all that remained was to submit the required documents and fill in the application form.
The bank clerk was very polite, checking each step carefully and assisting with the paperwork, which made the process less stressful.
An Unexpected Issue
However, an unexpected issue came up.
The client was still in the process of setting up his company and did not yet have clear proof of employment.
The clerk explained:
“The account and Bankbook can be issued, but some transactions such as remittances or transfers may be restricted.”
This surprised the client.And I also realized I had assumed incorrectly.
Since his residence status was “Business Manager,” I thought the company had already been established.
But missing documents could not be helped.
Since I am not an administrative scrivener or legal specialist
I could only advise him to consult with his contracted professional for further support.
A Smile of Relief
When the book was finally handed over, his expression softened and he smiled with relief.
“I couldn’t have done this alone. Thank you so much.”
That simple phrase made me truly happy.
What I did was just assist with one procedure
ut for him it was the first big step toward living securely in Japan.
Even without special qualifications, experience and support can make a real difference.
For me, this was another example of a “small job” that carries real meaning.
And I hope to continue building up these small jobs, one by one, for those who need help.
💡 If you are also looking for support with daily life procedures in Japan.
Please feel free to contact me here:
👉 Contact Page
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