How to Getting a Credit Card in Japan?

Some people question how to getting a credit card in Japan. Approximately, what documents must be prepared, and what processes must be passed? But, don’t worry anymore! StuDrill will help you overcome this fear and provide a comprehensive step by step guide. 

What’s more, in this article you will know companies that offer an English service. Firstly though, you need to know what kind of requirements you should have for getting a Japanese credit card, that is:

Prepare These Essential Items for Getting a Credit Card in Japan

Getting a credit card in Japan may have different requirements than in other countries. So, it’s best to not miss out on what are the latest essential items for Japanese application. Above all, regarding documents, here’s the essential items you need to prepare:

• Passport
• ATM/Debit card
• Resident card
• Health insurance card
• ID form (a utility bill with your name on it)
• Certificate of employment – not all regions require this (if you apply online there will be questions like your employment status, size of your company, etc.)

For your information, each banking company has a series of criteria that you must fulfill. However, you should know that these criteria are not always outlined explicitly on the main page of the bank’s website, so it can be difficult for you to know it. But, don’t worry! StuDrill will reveal the information just for you, here are additional insights into the general criteria and factors to consider:

Visa/Resident Status for Getting a Credit Card in Japan

If you’re just want to stay or visit Japan for a while or work there, you must need a permit includes visa, temporary or permanent residence status. Additionally, getting permanent resident (PR) status is highly recommended when you live as a foreigner.

So, you won’t need to renew your resident status, you can work for any employer you want and it’ll be much easier to get a credit card. But, if you don’t have PR status, the type of visa you hold and the remaining validity period on your current visa will be put in consideration for making a credit card.

Employment Status

One of the criteria for getting a credit card in Japan will check, whether you are a full-time or part-time worker. Apart from that, you should also explain what type of contract, how long you have worked at your current company, how stable the position is, and how high your salary is, as additional information.

Personal Information

Apart from the basic to specific criteria, there is one important of information that you must fulfill, which is your personal life. For example, your level of proficiency in Japanese, and information regarding the partner’s ownership is also questionable. So, pay close attention to the traces of your life journey!

Credit Information

Your credit history before doesn’t have influence in this context, as Japan maintains its own databases. But, any prior credit card debts or issues will affect your current application. So, it’s important to note all the criteria from every bank to getting card in Japan. In other words, different factors can make different significance when submitting credit card applications.

Apart from specific criteria you should have, companies you choose to register credit card can also be a great influence. Especially when you’re a foreigner and need to communicate in English. This is why there needs to be a foreigner-friendly company, so everyone can get credit card in Japan easily. So, StuDrill has summarized the best credit card companies for foreigners, please take notes!

Foreign-Friendly Companies That Provide English Support

GTN EPOS

GTN EPOS is a major credit card company in Japan and operates under the Marui Group, its high approval rate for foreign applicants and offer automatic overseas travel insurance. So, of course the GTN EPOS website is also equipped with English language support. However, if you prefer to register in person, you can visit various Marui department stores which also employ English-speaking staff.

Some prime features of GTN EPOS:

• English support (website & staff)
• High acceptance rate
• Same day screening
• Overseas travel insurance

Nexus Card

Nexus Card is a deposit-based credit card. So, the first step you have to do is make a deposit, which is then used when you make a credit card transaction. Additionally, the approval process is often smoother than other credit card processes.

So, Nexus Card could be the right choice because it has been recognized as accepting foreign applicants, and the entire application process is even supported by English language support!

Some prime features of Nexus Card:

• High acceptance rate for foreigners
• English support is available, including online
• Easy application process

Rakuten

Rakuten is a prominent financial company in Japan with high approval rate for foreign applicants. When you already hold a full-time job and has a work visa, you’ll be much easier to be approved. So, you can go to check the site now or you can mail [email protected] for more information in English.

Some prime features of Rakuten:

• High acceptance rate
• Good system
• Overseas travel insurance
• Customer email service in English

Conclusion

Getting a credit cards in Japan can enhance the ease and convenience of daily life. Additionally, it enables automatic payments for various services, helps in establishing a credit history, and simplifies financial transactions.

For foreigners, navigating the requirements and application procedures might seem challenging. But, this article can reduce your worries on this matter. Thanks to a complete list of companies that are suitable for English speakers and an easy-to-understand step by step guide. So, do you feel you can get a credit card with ease now?

Even though there is a company that offers communication in English, you can’t always count on it. As it’s always better to also understand Japanese when you live in Japan. So why don’t you look for StuDrill’s newest app? With its personalized AI, it can help you to master speaking skills, vocabularies, and many more, all done by just using your fingertips! Coming soon this autumn!

Editor : Zakiah Machfir