🏦 HAPI-JOB Guide for Foreign Residents

Opening a Japan Post Bank Account

A simple guide to the documents you need, the app and counter procedures, and important points for foreign residents.

✅ Check first

• Foreign residents with an address in Japan may apply to open an account.
• If your residence period expires within three months of the application date, renew it before applying.
• The initial deposit is ¥0.
• Your application will be reviewed, and an account may not always be opened.

🪪 What to prepare

Residence card

Check that it has your photo and shows your current address.

Student ID, employee ID, etc.

Students and technical intern trainees should prepare proof of enrollment or employment.

📱 Smartphone

Needed for an app application. Also prepare an email address that can receive messages.

🧳 Check what to bring

📱 Apply with the app

HAPI-JOB mascot applying to open a Japan Post Bank account with a smartphone

Use the Japan Post Bank Procedures App

Foreign residents use a residence card for identity verification when opening an account in the app. Use your residence card—not a My Number card or driver’s license.

1Open the app

2Scan your residence card

3Enter your information

4Apply and wait for review

🌐 App languages
Account opening for foreign residents is available in Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese, and Vietnamese. Free-text fields must be completed in Japanese.

🏣 Apply at a counter

HAPI-JOB mascot submitting account-opening documents at a post office savings counter

Apply at a savings counter of a nearby post office or Japan Post Bank branch, close to your home or workplace.

A counter procedure may be recommended if you cannot use the app or if your employer is an overseas company with no branch in Japan.

⚠️ Before applying in the app

Your residence card is being renewed

Wait until you receive the renewed residence card.

Your residence period expires within three months

Renew your residence period before applying.

Review is required

Because your application must be checked, the account may not be opened immediately.

HAPI-JOB mascot receiving a passbook and cash card by mail

❓ Frequently asked questions

Q. Can a foreign resident open an account?

A. You may apply if you have an address in Japan. Applications are subject to review.

Q. Can I apply with a My Number card?

A. Foreign residents use a residence card for an app application.

Q. I am an international student. What else do I need?

A. Prepare a student ID or another document that proves your enrollment.

HAPI-JOB mascot safely managing a passbook, cash card and PIN

📍 Find a nearby post office 📦 How to send mail and parcels 📮 What you can do at a post office

Information checked: August 27, 2026. Source: official Japan Post Bank information. Required documents, review, and available services may vary.

How to Open a Japan Post Bank Account | HAPI-JOB