GUIDE · BANK ACCOUNT
Opening a business bank account in Japan
法人口座の開き方Hojin koza — the account your subsidy is paid into
Subsidies are paid into your business account, and payments for subsidized purchases should come out of it. Japanese banks screen new companies carefully — here is how to prepare.
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When
After
Company registration
Screening
Yes
Banks may decline without giving reasons
Prepare
Plan
Business details and where the money comes from
Subsidies
Paid in
To the business account
Why it matters for subsidies
- The subsidy is paid into a bank account in the business’s name
- Paying for subsidized items from the business account leaves clear proof
- Payments in cash or from a personal account are a common reason costs are rejected
If your account is not open yet, start early — screening can take weeks, and the subsidy timetable will not wait. See Subsidies are paid later.
Documents banks usually ask for
| Document | Japanese | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of registered matters | 履歴事項全部証明書 | Recent copy (often within 3–6 months) |
| Company seal certificate | 印鑑証明書 | If you registered a company seal |
| ID of the person applying | 本人確認書類 | Residence card or passport |
| Bank seal | 銀行印 | Some banks and online banks do not need one |
| Proof of your business | 事業内容の資料 | Website, business plan, office lease, contracts or invoices |
Requirements differ by bank. JETRO notes that banks may also look at the business, its beneficial owners and the purpose of the account.
How to avoid being declined
Helps
- A real office address (not only a mailbox)
- A website or materials that explain what you sell and to whom
- A clear source of your capital and expected transactions
- Answering the bank’s questions quickly and completely
- Japanese-speaking support for the interview if needed
Hurts
- Vague business purposes in your articles
- Large, unexplained transfers from abroad
- Missing documents or slow replies — JETRO notes delays can be judged as unreliable
- Applying to many banks at the same time without preparing
Which kind of bank?
| Type | Good for | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Online banksネット銀行 | Applying online, low transfer fees, accounting software links | Screening rules for new and foreign-owned companies; English support |
| Regional banks & shinkin地方銀行・信用金庫 | Local relationships and business loans to bridge subsidy gaps | Branch near your office; interview in Japanese |
| Major banksメガバンク | International transfers, a familiar name | Stricter screening for new companies |
Many owners open an online account first and add a local bank later, when they need a loan.
FAQ
Can a foreigner open a business bank account in Japan?
Yes. Banks look at the company and its business, not only nationality. Prepare the registration certificate, ID, proof of your business and a clear explanation of how the account will be used. Banks can still decline without giving reasons.
How long does it take to open a corporate account in Japan?
It depends on the bank and how complete your documents are. Online banks can be quicker; screening can take several weeks. Start right after registration.
Can I receive a subsidy into my personal account?
For a company, no — subsidies are paid to an account in the business’s name. Sole proprietors should use an account they use for the business.
Sources
- Setting up business in Japan — model case (bank account, capital payment) — JETRO
- Living in Japan — useful websites including banks — JETRO
This page is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. The official Japanese guidelines always take priority.
NEED HELP IN ENGLISH?
Talk to an English-speaking expert
Advisors and tax accountants who help foreign founders prepare for bank screening — in English.
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USEFUL TOOLS
- Zeirishi.com — find a tax accountant (free enquiry) ↗Japanese-language service
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