Verification

Proof of identity is required when opening a bank account, depositing financial instruments or using a private safe at a credit institute in Germany. This requirement is based on the German anti-money-laundering law, which calls for the verification of identity of natural and legal entities outside of Germany. The AHK Japan undertakes the verification for persons and companies resident in Japan.

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About Proof of Identity

  • Individuals
  • Legal Entities

Individuals

Documents required for an application:

  • The proof of identity form issued by the financial institute where the account is to be opened
  • Valid passport
  • Japanese residence registration (juminhyō), issued within the last three months (in Japanese or English) 
  • If available, extract from the Japanese family register (koseki), issued within the last three months, (in Japanese, without translation) 

Interviews:

  • Reservations are necessary.
  • Appointments are available upon prior notification on weekdays, except public holidays, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
  • The intended account holder must appear in person for the proof of identity and credit check.
  • No online procedure is available.

Fee:

8,000 yen

  • Please prepare the exact amount as no change can be given.
  • The fees for the anti-money-laundering and credit check are often reimbursed by the German financial institution. Please confirm the conditions set by the bank of your choice.

Legal Entities

Documents required for an application:

  • The proof of identity form issued by the financial institute where the account is to be opened
  • Japanese commercial register, issued within the last three months (in Japanese)
  • Valid passport of at least one person authorised to act on behalf of and represent the company*
  • Japanese residence registration (juminhyō) of the person authorised to act on behalf of and represent the company, issued within the last three months (in Japanese or English)*
  • Excerpt from the Japanese family register (koseki) of the person authorised to act on behalf of and represent the company, issued within the last three months (in Japanese)*

Interviews:

  • Reservations are necessary.
  • Appointments are available upon prior notification on weekdays, except public holidays, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
  • The intended account holder must appear in person for the proof of identity and credit check.
  • No online procedure is available.

Fee:

The fee is based on the time required. We will gladly provide a preliminary estimate.

* Where several persons within the company are authorised, the passport, residence certificate and extract from the family register is required for all such persons (up to five persons).