How to make it easier for foreigners to get credit cards in Japan
Many foreigners who have moved to Japan may wish to obtain a credit card. It can be difficult for foreigners to get a credit card in Japan. This is because it is difficult to prove that you have a stable income. This is especially true for students and those who have just moved to Japan.
To get a credit card in Japan, it is important to know the differences in systems and features between Japan and other countries. We will also introduce some ideas to make it easier to pass the screening process. Please note that this is not a guarantee that you will be approved.
In this issue, we will discuss why it is difficult to get a credit card in Japan and how the credit card system differs from that in other countries. Also, please take a look at what you need to bring with you when you apply for a credit card.
Why is it so difficult to get a credit card in Japan?
It is difficult for foreign nationals to get a credit card in Japan. This is because they may find it difficult to earn a steady income and to prove their identity clearly.
Foreign nationals with multiple, clear proofs of identity and stable income will likely have an advantage in getting a credit card (this is only an advantage, not a guarantee). (This is only an advantage, not a guarantee of approval.)
Features of Japanese Credit Cards
A unique feature of Japanese credit cards is that if you have one credit card, you can freely choose how to make payments with that one credit card.
A single credit card can be used for lump-sum payments, installment payments, and revolving payments.
Outside of Japan, you probably have a credit card for each payment method, such as a credit card for lump-sum payments, a credit card for installment payments, and so on.
Types of Credit Cards in Japan
Japanese credit card types are determined by rank.
In Japan, cards are divided into General, Gold, Platinum, and Black cards according to rank. (Some ranks do not apply to certain products, so please check.)
If you are creating a credit card for the first time in Japan, you should have no problem creating a credit card in the general format.
What to bring when creating a credit card
In order to apply for a credit card, you must have a document that verifies your identity. It is best to have a photo ID, such as a residence card, that proves the applicant's identity.
It is recommended that you bring several other documents to verify your identity, such as a driver's license and a copy of your residence certificate, if you have them. (A copy of the resident certificate can be issued at the municipal office of your address.)
You will also need to open an account at a bank before you can create a credit card. Please start by opening an account at a bank you can trust.
Then, once the account is opened, you can apply for a credit card.
Note that you will need the account number with which you opened the account to apply. Please note that if you have already opened an account and wish to apply for a credit card with that account number, you will need to provide proof of the account number.
You should bring your cash card or paper bankbook with you when you apply, as they contain your account number.
What you can do to avoid being screened out
We recommend that you bring as many identification documents as you can prove. It will be easier to be trusted if you bring more than one piece of identification that can be used to verify your identity.
Also, bring documentation that proves that you have a stable income. If the issuer can see that you have a stable income, your credibility will be further enhanced.
We also recommend that you initially apply for only one credit card with your chosen company. We do not recommend that you apply to multiple companies at random, hoping that you will be approved by one of the issuers.
This is because if you apply for multiple cards with different companies at one time, people may worry that you may be involved with crime. You will also be more likely to fail the screening process.
There is also a way to make a prepaid card
Prepaid credit cards can be created without screening. Students and those who have just arrived in Japan are especially encouraged to use this service, as they often do not have documents to prove stable income.
Prepaid cards can be purchased for a fixed amount or you can charge money to the card yourself.
This is an advantage because it makes it easier to keep track of how much money you have, so you do not have to worry about overspending. Prepaid cards may also be useful if you want to make purchases on the Internet.
summary
Japanese credit cards can be difficult for foreigners to issue.
Keep in mind that multiple documents that can prove your identity and that you have a stable income will make it easier to be screened. (Please note that having these two documents does not guarantee that you will be approved.)
Learn about the credit card system in Japan and enjoy a comfortable life.
