🏦 The My Number System and Your Bank Account in Japan – A Simple Guide for Foreigners

 

Introduction

If you're living in Japan, you may have heard of My Number (マイナンバー).
But what is it? And why do banks ask for it when opening or updating an account?

This article explains the relationship between My Number and your bank account in Japan, using simple English for foreign residents.

✅ What Is “My Number”?

My Number is a 12-digit ID number given to everyone with a residence in Japan, including foreigners.

Purpose of My Number:

  • Tax management

  • Social security (health insurance, pension, etc.)

  • Disaster relief and personal identification

🔒 Note: My Number is private information. Don’t share it with others unless necessary.

🏦 Why Do Banks Ask for Your My Number?

Since 2016, Japanese banks and financial institutions are required by law to collect customers’ My Number for certain transactions.

This helps:

  • Report interest income or investment earnings to the tax office

  • Prevent tax evasion or money laundering

  • Comply with legal reporting obligations

So if you're opening a new account or using investment services, your bank may request your My Number.

📋 When Do You Need to Provide Your My Number?

  • When opening a new bank account

  • When using securities or investment services

  • When starting foreign currency or time deposits

  • When the bank sends a request letter for My Number

💡 What Happens If You Don’t Submit It?

  • Your bank account won’t be closed, but...

  • Certain services (like investments or high-interest accounts) may become unavailable

  • In the future, My Number submission might become mandatory for all customers

🪪 How to Submit Your My Number

You can usually submit My Number in one of these ways:

  1. My Number Card (front and back)

  2. Notification card + ID (like your residence card)

  3. Online or mobile app submission, depending on the bank

If you're not sure, visit a bank branch for support.

🔐 Is It Safe to Share My Number?

Yes, Japanese banks must strictly protect your personal information under the law.

  • My Number can only be used for legal purposes

  • It is stored and handled securely

  • It cannot be shared with outside parties without consent

✅ Quick Summary

TopicSummary
What is My Number?A 12-digit personal ID for all residents
Why do banks ask for it?Tax reporting, legal compliance
When is it needed?Opening new accounts, investments, upon request
What if I don’t submit it?Some services may become unavailable
Is it safe?Yes, banks must protect your data by law

✉️ Final Tips

Don’t be afraid of the My Number system—it’s part of daily life in Japan now.
Make sure you check your number and be ready to submit it when your bank asks. It helps you stay compliant and access more financial services smoothly.

🖼️ Infographic Idea: "My Number & Your Bank Account – Simple Visual Guide"

Here’s a description of the infographic I can create for you:

Title:
🔢 How My Number Affects Your Bank Account in Japan

Sections:

  1. What is My Number?
    　➡ Icon of ID card + number "1234 5678 9012"

  2. Why do banks need it?
    　➡ Tax icon, lock icon (security), document icon

  3. When do I need to provide it?
    　➡ Calendar icon + "New account" / "Investment" / "Request letter"

  4. What happens if I don’t provide it?
    　❌ Investment
    　❌ Foreign currency account
    　✅ Savings account OK (basic use)

  5. How to submit
    　📲 Smartphone → App upload
    　🏦 Bank branch
    　✉️ Post mail

  6. Privacy & Security
    　🔐 Lock icon + shield
    　"Your My Number is protected by law"

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