NISA 2025 Guide: How to Open a NISA Account in Japan

One Coin English Team

6 months ago

If you’re living in Japan or planning to move here soon, setting up your finances is probably high on your to-do list. One great way to build your savings and start investing is by opening a NISA account. Whatever your plans are for living in Japan, understanding how NISA works can help you make the most of your money in Japan.

This NISA 2025 guide will walk you through what a NISA is, how to open an account as a foreigner, what documents you’ll need, and which providers are popular and beginner-friendly.

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What Is NISA?

NISA stands for Nippon Individual Savings Account. It’s a tax-free investment account offered by the Japanese government to encourage residents to grow their wealth. Similar to the UK’s ISA or the U.S. Roth IRA, NISA allows you to invest without paying taxes on capital gains or dividends.

There are two main types of NISA accounts:

Tsumitate NISA: A long-term, monthly savings account approach designed for small, consistent investments. It’s ideal for beginners and low-risk investors.
General NISA: Offers more flexibility and higher limits. Suitable for those with some knowledge of financial products.

Can Foreigners Open a NISA Account?

Foreigners living in Japan can open a NISA account, as long as they meet a few requirements. You must be a legal resident with a valid My Number, and you’ll need to provide some documents to prove your eligibility.

Opening a NISA account is a smart move even if you’re not planning to stay in Japan forever. It allows you to grow your savings account through tax-free investment while you’re here, and if you plan to stay long-term, the benefits are even greater.

Documents You’ll Need

To open a NISA account, you’ll generally need:

A valid Residence Card (在留カード）
Your My Number (Individual Number)
A Japanese bank account
Personal seal (hanko) or signature

Some providers may also ask about your visa type, employment status, or duration of stay. If you’re unsure, visiting a bank in person or calling customer support can help clarify requirements.

Where to Open a NISA Account: Top Providers

Here are some of the most popular NISA providers in Japan:

1. Rakuten Securities （楽天証券）

Rakuten is one of the most popular platforms for both Tsumitate NISA and Growth NISA accounts. It’s known for its low fees and smooth integration with Rakuten Bank. If you’re already banking with Rakuten, opening a NISA account can be especially convenient. The website and support are entirely in Japanese, but many foreigners manage successfully with a bit of guidance or help from a friend.

2. SBI Securities (SBI 証券）

SBI offers a comprehensive range of investment products and has built a reputation as a reliable choice for both new and experienced investors. While the site is in Japanese, users who are comfortable with basic forms or online translations generally find it manageable.

3. Monex Securities（マネックス証券）

Monex is appreciated for its clean layout and detailed investment information. It’s often recommended to beginners looking for a well-organised platform and thoughtful educational tools. The platform operates entirely in Japanese, but its structured layout makes it one of the easier interfaces to navigate for non-native speakers.

4. Major Banks (MUFG, SMBC, Japan Post Bank)

For those who prefer in-person assistance, many traditional banks allow you to open a NISA account at your local branch. This can feel more approachable than doing everything online, especially if you’re already a customer. Some staff may have limited English ability, so preparing basic Japanese terms or bringing someone bilingual can help.

Why Choose Tsumitate NISA?

For most beginners, Tsumitate NISA is the best place to start. You can invest as little as ¥100 per month, and the products available are generally low-risk mutual funds designed for long-term growth. The tax-free period extends up to 20 years, giving you plenty of time to build wealth gradually.

It’s a great option if you’re working part-time, studying, or just getting started with financial planning in Japan. You can also automate your contributions, so you don’t need to actively manage the account every month.

Tips Before You Apply

Make sure your My Number and bank account are active and up to date.
Compare fees and minimum investment requirements across platforms.
You can only open one NISA account at a time, so choose your provider carefully.

Smart Money Moves for Life in Japan

Opening a NISA account is one of the most efficient ways to start your financial journey in Japan. Whether you’re here short-term or settling down for the long term, understanding and using NISA can help you make smarter choices about savings and investment.

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