You can open an account at Japan Post Bank (Yubank) entirely through a mobile app without visiting a branch. The procedure consists of four stages: document upload, identity verification, data entry, and final confirmation. The result arrives in about two weeks, and the card is sent by mail.
Preparation and App Login
Download the Japan Post Bank app and grant camera access — you’ll need it to photograph documents. On the first screen, agree to the terms of use.
In the menu, select Open a new account. If you weren’t given a branch code, click I was not introduced to the app. Agree to data processing and tap Next.
Identity Verification and Resident Card
At the important notices stage, open, read, and confirm the terms.
In the citizenship field, select Foreign National. Make sure you have a resident card (Zairyu Card): it should show your current address, and more than three months must remain before expiration.
Select your card type. Enter the card number: two letters, eight digits, then two more letters. The app will show you where it’s located in the image.
To scan, hold the card against the upper back of your phone and keep it still. Tap Start and wait about 15 seconds until “Scan successful” appears. Upload three photos: the front of the card, a selfie for face verification, and the back of the card. Check that there are no glares and everything is clearly readable, then tap use this image.
Entering Personal Data
The app has already read the data from your card. Verify your citizenship, status, length of stay, name, date of birth, and address. Enter your name in katakana.
If you don’t have a Japanese phone number, select I don’t have a phone. Upload a document showing your school or workplace: a student ID works for students. Photograph its front side.
In the occupation field, select Student. Read the notices for non-residents. Binding My number to your account is optional. Specify that your tax residency is Japan only.
Answer the question about annual income (students typically earn up to one million yen). Enter your school’s name, address, and phone number. It’s easier to find the address by postal code, then add the house number. If there’s no room number, select no room number.
Answer no to the sanctions question.
Account Purposes, Transactions, and Security
Select the purposes for opening an account — you can choose multiple. For example, paying living expenses and receiving salary. Briefly explain why you chose this bank.
Answer questions about transaction frequency, approximate monthly amount, cash over two million yen, and international transfers. Answer honestly.
Create a four-digit card PIN (not your birthdate) and a password for the Direct internet banking service. Set a daily transfer limit, for example 150,000 yen.
Final Verification and Confirmation
At the verification stage, check all the boxes. Review the entered data once more and confirm.
Read the verification terms, agree, and provide your email address. A confirmation code will be sent there. Enter it and tap Confirm.
Be sure to save your application number. The verification result will arrive in about two weeks, and the card will be sent by mail.
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