Issues Getting Bank Account / Phone

Hello,

I'm an American who recently (a little over 1 week ago), arrived in Tokyo, got my resident card at the airport and began working at my company (received work visa before resident card).

I just finished my first week of work. I am currently staying in an Airbnb, of which I rented an apartment for 1 month. I might extend the Airbnb for another month, while looking for a more permanent apartment with 2 year lease.

I need to now get a phone number and bank account but there are some issues.

First: To get a phone number, I believe I need an address, but I don't have one, and i don't know if it's legal to use the Airbnb address since it's not my property.

Second: I need to get a bank account, but to get a bank account, I need a phone number and address, and I believe the address needs to be on my resident card. Same issue, I'm staying at an airbnb, and I can't put that address on my resident card. Also, I believe you need to show a utility bill, or some kind of proof that the address is your property.

It feels like an endless loop where I can't get a phone or bank account, because I don't have a permanent address. Anyone know what my options are? I was told Shinsei bank is a good option, do they require an address? The address is also important for receiving mail, not simply the act of opening a bank account. Possible to use my companies address to receive my mail?

I really need to have a bank account soon to start receiving my work payments. Wanted to get all your thoughts on this on the best approach, thank you.

Yes, it is very circular.

Wait until you go to get a phone number and they ask for a phone number for the contract - took me 40 minutes arguing with BicCamera a few years back before I got past that one. Also, while it is easy to get an 050 number, Shinsei could make life easier by simply saying they need a real mobile number.

I 'm pretty sure Shinsei need an address - KYC/AML rules and all that. (You'll also need a "MyNumber" card fairly soon.) You could use your work address or the AirBNB one as you are there a couple of months. You have to notify an address within two weeks to your local city hall anyway. Also, the people selling you a sim/voice plan will need to see your residence card (for eligibility) and you will need one for mail - they send you stuff".

I had similar issues when I first moved in with getting a phone number and bank account. You're okay to register your AirBNB at your local Ward Office (in fact, you're supposed to register yourself within the first 2 weeks of arriving). After you've registered, go get the phone number then finally, the bank account (Shinsei needs a non-050 Japanese number--they called it in front of me).

Good luck

Thank you for your answers.

Do I need my address printed on my resident card to get a phone number or open a bank account with Shinsei? Or can I open both without having a printed address?

Yes, you need it printed on your residence card (they'll do this when you register your address at your local City/Ward Office)