📊 How to Open a Securities Account in Japan as a Foreigner


 

Introduction

If you're a foreign resident in Japan and want to invest in stocks, ETFs, or mutual funds, the first step is to open a securities account.

This guide will walk you through how foreigners can open a brokerage account in Japan, what documents are needed, and which companies are foreigner-friendly.

✅ Can Foreigners Open a Securities Account in Japan?

Yes! Foreigners with a valid residence status can open a securities account in Japan.

You’ll need to:

  • Have a residence card (在留カード)

  • Have a My Number (マイナンバー) card or notification

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Have a Japanese address and phone number

📝 Note: You must also not be a U.S. citizen, as many Japanese brokers do not accept U.S. residents due to tax regulations (FATCA).

📁 Required Documents

To open your account, you'll typically need:

DocumentDescription
🪪 Residence CardMust be valid and show your visa type & address
🧾 My NumberEither the card or notification letter (12-digit number)
🛂 PassportOptional in some cases, but useful
🏠 Proof of AddressUtility bill or certificate of residence (住民票), if requested
📱 Japanese Phone NumberNeeded for SMS and identity confirmation

🏦 How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

  1. Choose a Broker
    Recommended online brokers for foreigners:

    • Rakuten Securities

    • SBI Securities

    • Monex

    • au Kabucom

  2. Go to their website
    Applications are mostly in Japanese. Use browser translation if needed.

  3. Fill in your personal information

    • Name, address, phone, email

    • Employment and income details

  4. Upload your documents
    Most brokers let you upload your Residence Card and My Number via smartphone.

  5. Verify your identity
    Some may send a postal letter or require in-person delivery to confirm your address.

  6. Wait for approval
    Usually takes 3–7 business days. You’ll receive login details by mail or email.

  7. Start trading
    Deposit money from your bank account and begin investing in stocks, funds, ETFs, etc.

💹 Types of Accounts Available

  • General Securities Account (特定口座 / 一般口座)

    • For trading stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds

    • "Tokutei Kouza" helps simplify tax reporting

  • NISA Account

    • Tax-free investing up to ¥3.6M/year

    • Foreigners with a residence card & My Number are eligible

    • Great for long-term investing

⚠️ Important Notes

  • 🔐 Your account must be in your real name — no nicknames or aliases

  • 📉 Stock trading involves risk; you may lose money

  • 💵 Most brokers do not offer English support, so translation tools help

  • 🇺🇸 U.S. citizens may not be allowed to open accounts due to U.S. tax laws (FATCA)

🧠 Tips for Foreign Residents

  • Choose a broker with a mobile app (Rakuten and SBI are best)

  • Use Google Translate to navigate Japanese forms

  • If possible, ask a Japanese-speaking friend to help with setup

  • Start with index funds or ETFs if you're a beginner

✅ Summary

StepAction
1Choose a broker (Rakuten, SBI, Monex)
2Prepare your documents (ID + My Number)
3Apply online (Japanese only)
4Wait for approval
5Deposit & start investing

✉️ Final Thoughts

Opening a securities account in Japan as a foreigner is very possible — and once you do, you'll have access to a wide range of investment options to grow your wealth while living in Japan.

Want to learn how to use your new account for NISA investing, or compare brokers in detail? Let me know, and I can help with the next article!

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