Since 2024, stricter FSA guidelines have intensified anti-money-laundering checks. Newly formed entities, especially those owned entirely from overseas, find it hard to open an account “immediately.” Both mega-banks and online banks now demand quantitative proof of a tangible business presence in Japan. This article outlines the latest screening points and a success case.

⸻

1. Company Type and Credibility

A Kabushiki-Kaisha (KK) is generally viewed as more credible than a Godo-Kaisha (GK). Some major banks require KK status. A GK can still succeed if it demonstrates sufficient paid-in capital and a clear business footprint; online banks and credit unions have approved well-documented GKs.

⸻

2. Representative’s Residency and Verification

Banks scrutinize the Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) and whether a representative resides in Japan. If the representative lives abroad, the company should

Appoint a Japan-based director or executive

Provide office photos and lease copy

Arrange an in-person meeting and present official ID when requested.

⸻

3. Business Substance and Documentation Quality

To avoid being labeled a shell company, prepare

A Japanese business plan or service outline

Copies of issued invoices or quotes

Certified registry, articles, seal certificate

Photos of the office, lease, and landline proof.

⸻

Case Study

A GK with ¥5 million capital was formed in Osaka for rental operations. The overseas representative added a Japan-based co-investor as director. Submitting a business plan, property management contract, and office photos, plus a judicial scrivener’s endorsement, won account approval from a regional bank in three weeks. Key factors were a local director and consistent documentation.

⸻

Takeaway

Screening is extremely tough when a company is new, foreign-owned, and lacks physical presence. Success hinges on a Japan-based officer, real office, and concrete revenue plans backed by professional introduction. Allow 1–3 months post-registration for preparation while using alternative payment channels before applying with a robust document set.