Commonly used all over the world, debit cards allow the cardholder to make purchases and have funds debited directly from their bank account.
In this article, we summarize how to apply for and use debit cards, so please read on if you’re considering getting one.

1. Where do you apply for a debit card?

Debit cards are issued by banks. You will need to have an account at the bank that issues your desired debit card, so that the funds can be debited from your account whenever you make a purchase.
Don't have a bank account yet? Don’t worry; you can apply for a debit card when you open your new account.
When applying for a debit card at a Japanese bank, be sure to specify that you want a debit card. If you don’t, you may receive a more basic cash card, which only allows you to conduct transactions such as withdrawing or depositing funds at ATMs.

2. How do you apply for a debit card?

As mentioned above, you can apply for a debit card when you open a bank account, so the procedure is very simple.
Below, we look at how to get a debit card when you already have a bank account and when you have yet to open one with the issuing bank. Although foreign residents of Japan have to meet certain criteria in order to open a bank account.

When you already have a bank account

Bank account holders can apply for a debit card in person at your local branch or by postal mail. Nowadays, most banks also allow customers to apply for debit cards online. Banks will typically issue a debit card linked to an existing account within about one week of receiving your application.

When you do not have a bank account yet

If you do not have a bank account in Japan, you should apply for a debit card during the account opening process.
You can apply for a bank account via your chosen bank’s website, smartphone app, or at the branch nearest to your home or office. Most banks usually ask customers if they want a debit card during the account opening process.
Depending on your bank, you normally will receive your debit card, along with your account opening notification, within 7 to 10 days after application.

3. What do you do after receiving your debit card?

When you receive your debit card, you should first sign in the appropriate spot on the back of the card. The cardholder’s signature is required.
Some banks offer online banking services that allow you to check your debit card transaction history so that you can manage your funds and check your balance at any time.

Please keep the following points in mind when using your debit card.

  • If there are not sufficient funds in your account, you will not be able to use the card.
  • Payments are always debited from your account as a lump-sum, so you cannot pay for purchases in instalments or via revolving payments like when using a credit card.
  • Some merchants do not accept debit cards, such as highway toll gates and gas stations.

4. How do I use my debit card?

Using your card in Japan

Just like a credit card, you should present your debit card to the cashier when you want to pay for a purchase. Depending on the merchant, you may be asked for your signature or PIN number. If your purchase is below a certain amount, the merchant may process your payment without the need for you to provide either.

Even though debit cards only allow you to pay for your entire purchase in full, the cashier may ask you if you wish to make payments in instalments. This is because, like credit cards, many debit cards are connected to credit card networks like Visa or Mastercard.
If asked “Ikkatsu de yoroshii desho ka? (Is a one-time payment okay?),
please answer “Hai, ikkatsu de onegai shimasu” (Yes, one-time payment please.)
Please note that Japan-issued debit cards cannot be used to withdraw cash from stores, unlike point of sales (POS) systems outside Japan.

Using your card overseas

Debit cards can usually be used both inside and outside Japan to pay for purchases, as well as withdraw local currency at ATMs outside Japan. Although it is always best to double-check with your bank in advance before attempting to use your card outside Japan.

Sony Bank WALLET

Sony Bank WALLET

If you are looking for a new bank and debit card, check out Sony Bank’s debit card: Sony Bank WALLET. 
A Sony Bank WALLET combines Visa Debit functionality with a Sony Bank cash card. There are also no annual fees or initial issue fee.

If you already have an account at Sony Bank, you can easily switch from a normal cash card to Sony Bank WALLET by applying online (available from the Japanese language website only). If you don’t have an account with Sony Bank yet, you will automatically receive a Sony Bank WALLET when you open an account via the English "Open Account" app.

Sony Bank English Online Banking Restrictions
  • Persons under 20 years of age cannot open an account using this app. If you are under 20 years of age, please apply via the Japanese language website.
  • The Sony Bank WALLET smartphone app is only available in Japanese.
  • You cannot select to apply for a cash card when opening an account via the English "Open Account" app.

    You only could select the original design.

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