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SBI Shinsei Bank still works in English, but how you reach it has changed. You get English internet banking and English web support. English phone calls ended in October 2024. Since July 2026, non-Japanese customers can open an account by mail only. Here is what that means for you as of October 2026.
Key facts (as of October 2026)
- English services: English website, English internet banking (PowerDirect), and English support through web forms and callbacks.
- How to open: Apply online, then return a paper form by mail. Branch opening for non-Japanese customers ended from July 2026.
- Who can apply: Residents of Japan with a personal Japanese phone number. Under 6 months in Japan is OK only if you work or study here.
- Hanko: Not needed. You can sign instead.
- Time: About 2 to 3 weeks until your cash card and PIN arrive.
What English services does SBI Shinsei offer now?
The bank’s English site lists English internet banking and customer support as a main feature. (SBI Shinsei) Its FAQ says all terms and services come in Japanese or English only. (SBI Shinsei)
| Service | English? | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Website and FAQ | Yes | SBI Shinsei |
| PowerDirect (internet banking) | Yes | SBI Shinsei |
| SBI Shinsei Bank app | No, Japanese only | SBI Shinsei |
| Phone (PowerCall) | No English since October 1, 2024 | SBI Shinsei |
| Web forms and callback | Yes | SBI Shinsei |
| Monthly statements | English on request | SBI Shinsei |
| Branches | Mainly Japanese | SBI Shinsei |
At branches, some staff speak English, but the bank says they may not always be available. It suggests bringing someone who understands Japanese. (SBI Shinsei)
So the English path today is mostly online. Use PowerDirect on a computer or phone browser rather than the app.
What changed, and when?
Three changes affect English speakers. Each comes from an official bank notice.
| Date | Change | Source |
|---|---|---|
| October 1, 2024 | English support for incoming phone calls ended | SBI Shinsei |
| January 7, 2025 | Operators stopped handling some transfers and product setups. You do these in PowerDirect instead | SBI Shinsei |
| July 2026 (scheduled) | Branch account opening for non-Japanese customers ended. Opening is by mail only | SBI Shinsei |
Lost card and fraud reports still go to 0120-456-022, 24 hours a day. (SBI Shinsei)
For other questions, use the Web Form Consultation. You can send it any time, and the bank may reply the next business day. (SBI Shinsei) If you prefer to talk, book a callback through the web form. (SBI Shinsei)
The bank won’t share account details with a friend who calls the Japanese line for you. Contact the bank yourself through the forms. (SBI Shinsei)
Can you open an account?
You can apply if you live in Japan and have a personal Japanese phone number. A work number or someone else’s number won’t do. (SBI Shinsei)
As a foreign national, you also need to fit one of three groups. The bank lists them in its FAQ. (SBI Shinsei)
| Group | Who fits |
|---|---|
| A | Permanent Resident, Spouse or Child of Japanese National, or Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident |
| B | In Japan 6 months or more, or working for a company with an office in Japan |
| C | In Japan under 6 months, if you write your workplace, school, or place of study on the form |
Part-time work does not count for group C. People with diplomatic, official, or short-term stay status can’t apply. Neither can people here under 6 months who don’t work or study. (SBI Shinsei)
The 6-month line comes from Japan’s foreign exchange law, not just this bank. We explain it in How to Open a Bank Account in Japan as a Foreigner.
Each person can hold one account. Joint accounts are not available. (SBI Shinsei) Approval is not guaranteed, so leave time in case you need another bank.
How do you open an account by mail?
The whole process happens by post. You don’t need to visit a branch. (SBI Shinsei)
- Apply online. Use the English application page. (SBI Shinsei)
- Get the paper form. The bank mails you a printed application form. (SBI Shinsei)
- Fill it in and sign. A hanko is not necessary. (SBI Shinsei)
- Mail it back with your documents. See the list below.
- Receive your cash card and PIN. This takes about 2 to 3 weeks, and longer in busy periods. (SBI Shinsei)
Your post office must be able to confirm your address. Otherwise, your card and PIN may come back to the bank. (SBI Shinsei) The bank also recommends applying well in advance. (SBI Shinsei)
Which documents do you send?
You send two items. The bank’s English page lists them. (SBI Shinsei)
Item 1: a photocopy of your residence card. Copy both sides. Name, address, birth date, and card number must be easy to read. If your card shows no “Date of Permission,” add an original juminhyo (certificate of residence, 住民票) showing 6 months in Japan.
Item 2: one of these.
- A photocopy of your Japanese driver’s license, issued more than 6 months ago
- A photocopy of the front of your My Number Card
- An original juminhyo issued within the past 6 months
- An original utility bill receipt issued within the past 6 months
Your name and address must match on the form and on your ID. The bank won’t accept a nickname. (SBI Shinsei) If your ID shows an old address, update it first. (SBI Shinsei)
U.S. taxpayers must also send a W-9 and a CRS self-certification form. The bank does not return documents you send. (SBI Shinsei)
Can you send and receive money overseas?
You can receive money from abroad in 12 currencies, including USD, EUR, and GBP. Funds go into the matching foreign currency account. Register your My Number before a transfer arrives. (SBI Shinsei)
Give the sender the SWIFT code LTCBJPJT or LTCBJPJTHED. The bank doesn’t use IBAN or other codes. (SBI Shinsei)
To send money abroad, the bank recommends SBI Remit’s service. If you used the old GoRemit service, you need to apply again. (SBI Shinsei, SBI Shinsei)
What do you need to do after opening?
Update your residence card each time you renew it. Upload the new card in PowerDirect under registered information. The bank also mails a reminder before your period of stay ends. (SBI Shinsei)
Can you invest through SBI Shinsei?
You can buy investment trusts through the bank, but not in your bank account. The bank acts as a broker for SBI Securities or Monex. You need a securities account at one of them. (SBI Shinsei)
Investment trusts are not deposits. The principal is not guaranteed, and deposit insurance does not cover them. (SBI Shinsei)
SBI Securities and Monex accept foreign nationals by mail, not online. Their screens and support are in Japanese. Compare options in Best NISA Accounts for Foreigners.
How does SBI Shinsei compare with other banks?
SBI Shinsei suits people who want English online banking and don’t mind applying by mail. PRESTIA offers English phone banking but charges ¥2,200 a month unless you meet its conditions. (PRESTIA) See all options in Best Banks in Japan for Foreigners.
FAQ
Does SBI Shinsei Bank still have English support?
Yes, online. You get English internet banking and English web forms with callbacks. English phone support ended on October 1, 2024. (SBI Shinsei)
Can I open an SBI Shinsei account at a branch?
Not as a non-Japanese customer. Branch opening ended from July 2026, and you now apply by mail. (SBI Shinsei)
Can I open an account in my first 6 months in Japan?
Yes, if you work for a company with an office in Japan or study here. Write the details on your form. Part-time work doesn’t count. (SBI Shinsei)
Is the SBI Shinsei Bank app in English?
No. The bank describes the app as Japanese only. Use PowerDirect for English. (SBI Shinsei)
How long does opening take?
About 2 to 3 weeks after you send the form. It can take longer in busy periods. (SBI Shinsei)
Do I need a hanko?
No. You can open a PowerFlex account with your signature. (SBI Shinsei)
This article is general information, not financial, tax, or investment advice. Information is as of October 5, 2026. Bank rules change often, so check SBI Shinsei Bank’s official pages before you apply. Sources: SBI Shinsei Bank English site, account opening notice, support change notice, and the FAQ pages linked above.