If you're trying to figure out how to send money from Japan abroad — whether to support family back home, pay rent overseas, or manage savings — you have more options than ever. But the choices can feel overwhelming, especially with a language barrier. This guide breaks down the most practical options, compares their costs and speeds, and walks you through what you'll need to get started.
The Short Answer: Which Option Should You Use?
For most foreign residents in Japan, online transfer services like Wise or Remitly will save you the most money compared to using a Japanese bank. Banks are safe and familiar, but they typically charge higher flat fees and use less favourable exchange rates. If speed and low cost matter, start with an online service. If you prefer an over-the-counter option with no internet account needed, Japan Post (Yucho) is a solid choice.
Your Main Options for Sending Money from Japan
1. Japanese Banks (Megabanks and Regional Banks)
Major banks such as MUFG, SMBC, and Mizuho all offer international wire transfers. You can usually do this at a branch counter or, in many cases, through online banking.
- Fees: Typically a flat transfer fee plus a separate handling charge. Exchange rates often include a margin added by the bank. Check the latest figures on each bank's official website, as fees change.
- Speed: Usually 2–5 business days depending on the destination country.
- What you need: Your bank account, the recipient's full name, bank name, branch, account number, SWIFT/BIC code, and the recipient's address.
- Language: Some online banking interfaces have limited English. Branch staff at major banks in cities can often assist in English.
Banks are a reliable option if you already have an account and want to keep everything in one place, but compare the total cost (fee + exchange rate margin) before sending.
2. Japan Post Bank (Yucho)
Japan Post offers international money transfers through its network of post offices across Japan. This is a convenient option if you live outside a major city or prefer handling things in person.
- Fees: A flat fee applies per transfer. Confirm current rates on the Japan Post official website.
- Speed: Generally 3–5 business days.
- What you need: A Yucho bank account (or you can send cash at some counters), the recipient's bank details including SWIFT code, and your residence card.
- Coverage: Not all countries are supported. Check the Japan Post website for the current list of available destinations.
3. Wise (formerly TransferWise)
Wise is a popular online transfer service used by many foreign residents in Japan. It is registered and regulated in Japan under the Payment Services Act.
- Fees: A small percentage-based fee plus a fixed charge. Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden markup — this is one of its biggest advantages. Always check the fee estimate on the Wise website before sending.
- Speed: Many transfers arrive within a few hours to 1 business day, though times vary by country.
- What you need: A verified Wise account (requires your passport or residence card), the recipient's bank details, and a Japanese bank account or debit card to fund the transfer.
- Languages: The Wise app and website are fully available in English.
4. Remitly
Remitly is designed specifically for sending money to family abroad and is well known for transfers to Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Latin America.
- Fees: Fees and exchange rates vary by destination and delivery speed (Economy vs. Express). Check Remitly's website for a live quote before committing.
- Speed: Express transfers can arrive within minutes to hours; Economy transfers take longer but may offer a better rate.
- What you need: A verified Remitly account, your residence card or passport, and a Japanese bank account or card to fund the transfer.
- Good for: Sending to the Philippines, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Brazil, and many other destinations common among residents in Japan.
Quick Comparison: Sending Money from Japan Abroad
| Service | Typical Fee Structure | Exchange Rate | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese Banks | Flat fee + handling charge | Bank rate (includes margin) | 2–5 business days | Existing account holders, large transfers |
| Japan Post (Yucho) | Flat fee | Post office rate | 3–5 business days | No internet required, rural areas |
| Wise | % fee + fixed charge | Mid-market rate | Hours to 1 day | Low cost, transparent, English app |
| Remitly | Varies by speed and country | Competitive rate | Minutes to a few days | Sending to Asia, South Asia, Latin America |
This table is a general guide only. Fees, rates, and speeds change frequently. Always check the official website of your chosen service for the latest information before sending.
What Documents Do You Typically Need?
Regardless of which service you use, expect to provide:
- Your residence card (在留カード) or passport for identity verification
- Your Japanese bank account details (for funding online transfers)
- The recipient's full name, bank name, branch, account number, and SWIFT/BIC code
- The recipient's address (required by most services)
- Sometimes: the purpose of the transfer (e.g., family support, personal savings)
First-time transfers may require additional identity verification steps. This is normal and required by Japanese law to prevent money laundering.
Tips to Keep Costs Down
- Compare the total cost, not just the fee. A lower fee with a bad exchange rate can cost you more overall.
- Use a fee calculator on Wise or Remitly before sending — you can see exactly how much arrives at the other end.
- Avoid sending on weekends or public holidays if speed matters; processing may be delayed.
- Check if your destination country has any local receiving fees — sometimes the recipient's bank charges a fee on their end.
- Send larger amounts less often if flat fees apply, to reduce the number of times you pay them.
Summary: Choosing the Right Way to Send Money from Japan
There is no single best answer for everyone — the right service depends on where you're sending money, how much, and how quickly it needs to arrive. That said, most foreign residents in Japan find that online services like Wise or Remitly offer a good balance of low cost, speed, and ease of use, especially since they work in English and are straightforward to set up.
If you prefer to handle things in person or don't yet have an online banking setup, Japan Post is a reliable and accessible option. And if you already have an account with a Japanese megabank, it's worth checking their international transfer terms — sometimes for larger amounts the total cost is competitive.
Whatever you choose, always confirm the latest fees and supported countries on the official website before sending. Money transfers are well-regulated in Japan, and your funds are protected — so once you know your options, sending money home is a straightforward process. You've got this.