Jul 9, 2026
Refused a bank account on a spousal visa
Much to my horror, I was refused a bank account today on the basis that my residence status is "Spouse or Child of a Japanese national". Allegedly, I would have been able to open one if I had a work visa. I wonder though.
The words "it isn't because you are a foreigner", in Japanese, were used when they were breaking the news to me. But somehow, I felt like they were trying to soften a truth that still landed heavily on me.
The bank clerk I dealt with was very nice and I felt she was both embarrassed by and frustrated with the banks policies. She did give me an idea of a work around, but I won't be using it. I will place my money in another bank.
I managed to keep my cool, but inside I was stung in a way I didn't expect. I am in Japan 25 years - it is rare for me to feel like an outsider, but moments like this remind me that I'm still seen as one.
Former nickname was "Saitama". Changed it to save confusion on place review posts! Irish, 20+ years in Japan! I also write on my personal website: insaitama.com
2 Comments
helloalissa
on Jul 12
Just commenting to say that I'm surprised you don't have permanent residence after that long here. I don't know if that would have changed the bank's decision or your personal situation in the matter.
BigfamJapan
on Jul 13
@helloalissa I think she did mention permanent residency would make me eligible. I went for PR a long time ago and didn't get it - I timed it wrong after a period of going back and forth between Ireland and Japan. The thoughts of going for it again! But I think I really will need to sort it.