How to Send Money via Bank Wire from Japan
Answer Box
Bank wire overview: Available at major banks (MUFG, SMBC, Mizuho) and Japan Post Bank. Fees: 2,500-7,500 yen. Processing: 2-5 business days. Best for large transfers or when recipient requires bank-to-bank only. Bring passport, Residence Card, and My Number.
Bank Wire Transfer Fees
| Bank | Transfer Fee | Exchange Markup | Process Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| MUFG (Mitsubishi UFJ) | 3,000–7,500 yen | ~1 yen/USD | 2-4 days |
| SMBC (Sumitomo Mitsui) | 3,500–7,000 yen | ~1 yen/USD | 2-4 days |
| Mizuho | 3,500–7,500 yen | ~1 yen/USD | 2-4 days |
| Japan Post Bank | 2,500 yen | ~1.5 yen/USD | 3-5 days |
How to Send a Wire Transfer
At the Branch
- Visit during business hours (9:00-15:00 weekdays)
- Bring: Bankbook/cash card, Residence Card, My Number, recipient bank details
- Fill out the overseas remittance form (海外送金依頼書)
- Provide: Recipient name, address, bank name, SWIFT code, account number
- Confirm amount, fees, and exchange rate
Online Banking
Some banks offer online international transfers at lower fees. MUFG and SMBC allow online remittance after registering for the service at a branch. Limits may be lower than in-person transfers.
When to Use Bank Wires
- Transferring large amounts (1 million+ yen)
- Recipient's country is not supported by Wise/PayForex
- Recipient requires bank-to-bank documentation
- Property purchases or tuition payments abroad
Q: Why are bank wire fees so high?
Bank wires involve correspondent banks (intermediaries) that each charge fees. The exchange rate markup adds hidden cost on top of the stated fee. For amounts under 500,000 yen, online services like Wise are typically cheaper.
Q: Can I send in yen or must it be foreign currency?
You can choose to send in JPY or convert to the destination currency. Sending in JPY means the recipient's bank handles conversion at their rate, which may or may not be favorable.
※ This article is for informational purposes only. Fees and rates vary by bank and transaction. Confirm current terms at your bank.
