Opening a Corporate Bank Account in Japan as a Foreign Director: 5 Essential Tips for Success

Setting up a company in Japan as a non-Japanese shareholder and director can be a rewarding venture. However, one of the biggest challenges for foreign entrepreneurs is opening a corporate bank account in Japan.

Due to increasing anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, banks have become extremely cautious, especially when dealing with companies led by non-resident or foreign directors.

In this article, we share five practical and critical points to help you successfully open a business bank account in Japan — written by a licensed tax accountant specializing in international tax.

🏦 Why is it so difficult for foreign directors to open a bank account in Japan?

Over the past few years, Japanese financial institutions have become highly cautious about foreign-owned companies, especially those newly established or with limited domestic operations. Common reasons for rejection include:

No clear proof of business activity
Virtual office address only
Representative director not residing in Japan
Lack of Japanese-language communication ability

Fortunately, with the right preparation, these challenges can be overcome.

✨ 5 Key Tips to Successfully Open a Bank Account in Japan as a Foreign-Run Company

1. 📄 Show Clear Evidence of Real Business Activity

Banks want to confirm that your company is not merely a shell. You’ll need to provide materials that demonstrate business substance.

Examples include:

A detailed business plan (preferably in Japanese)
Company website, landing page, or SNS presence
Contracts, invoices, or supplier orders
Screenshots of products, platforms, or services

💡 Even before starting operations, preparation materials can show your credibility.

2. 🏢 Have a Physical Office in Japan (Not a Virtual One)

Banks are unlikely to approve accounts for companies that list only virtual or rental offices as their head office.

Be ready to provide:

A real office lease contract
Utility bills (electricity, gas, water)
Photos of the interior and exterior of your office

🔍 “Presence” is a key factor — even a small space adds legitimacy.

3. 🪪 Prove Your Residency and Japanese Presence as the Director

Japanese banks prefer directors who actually live in Japan and can be contacted locally. Having the proper visa status and documentation is critical.

Important documents:

Valid residence card (e.g., Business Manager Visa)
Japanese address and certificate of residence (住民票)
Utility bills in your name
Japanese-speaking ability, or a reliable interpreter

🗣 Japanese language is not mandatory, but having a local assistant is helpful.

4. 👨‍💼 Work With a Trusted Japanese Professional

Banks feel more secure when they know your company is backed by a local professional.

Recommended partners:

Licensed Japanese tax accountant (Zeirishi)
Bilingual administrative scrivener (Gyoseishoshi)
International visa consultant or legal advisor

✍️ We can introduce you to qualified bilingual experts who support foreign-owned businesses.

5. 🧭 Leverage Introductions and Professional Referrals

Sometimes, the most effective method is to open an account through professional or client referrals. Japanese banks value relationships and credibility.

You may try:

Introduction from your accountant or legal advisor
Business associations (e.g., Chamber of Commerce)
Referrals from other companies using the same bank

🤝 “Introductions open doors” — especially in Japanese business culture.

🧘‍♂️ Final Thoughts: Careful Preparation is the Key

Opening a corporate bank account in Japan as a foreigner is certainly challenging — but not impossible. With proper documentation, real business plans, and trusted local support, you can make it happen.

If you’ve already been rejected or don’t know where to start, feel free to contact our office.