❓️ What to Do If Your Bank Account Is Frozen While Your Residence Card Extension Is in Progress

🎯 Who is this for?

International students in Japan whose residence card renewal is in progress and who are experiencing issues with their bank accounts.

❓ Question

My residence card extension is currently in progress, but my bank account has been frozen. Why did this happen, and what should I do?

✅ Answer

Due to stricter identity verification rules by Japanese banks, if your current residence card has expired—even if you're legally staying under a "grace period"—your bank may temporarily freeze your account until you prove your status.

We recommend that you go directly to your bank's branch and bring the following documents to request reactivation of your account:

Residence card with the "Residence Card Renewal Application in Progress" stamp on the back
Passport
Student ID Card
Application receipt issued by Immigration

📝 Additional Information

🔍 Why Did This Happen?

Recently, Japanese financial institutions have tightened procedures due to an increase in financial fraud. The National Police Agency requested that banks verify the status of foreign nationals whose residence period has ended. As a result:

Banks may restrict transactions if your residence card has expired, even if you are legally staying during the 2-month grace period after submitting your renewal or status change application.
Some major banks, like MUFG and Mizuho, have already begun freezing withdrawals or transfers from such accounts as a fraud-prevention measure.

🛑 How to Proceed

If your account has been frozen:

Collect the documents listed above.
Visit your bank’s branch in person.
Explain your situation and show that your residence card renewal is being processed.
Follow the bank’s instructions. Each case is handled individually.

⚠️ Important Notes

Banks may send you emails or letters requesting verification of your residence status. Don’t ignore these.
Processing times may vary by bank. Some banks do not disclose when exactly these requests are sent, so check your mail frequently.
There is no guarantee your account will be unfrozen immediately—decisions are made case by case.

💡 FAQs / Tips

Tip 1: Apply for your residence card renewal as early as possible—up to 3 months before your current card expires.
Tip 2: Let your bank know about your residence card renewal status right after submitting the application.
Tip 3: Always read messages and letters from your bank to avoid sudden account restrictions.

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