International student
Study, part-time work, and money that fits a visa.
Who this is for
You are studying in Japan on a student visa, managing a tight budget and part-time work rules.
Money as a student is about basics done well on a small budget: a working bank account, cheap remittance from family or home, and staying within the hours your visa allows for part-time work.
You can still build good habits and a thin credit history now that pay off if you stay after graduation.
Your money priorities
- Open a student-friendly bank account
- Set up low-cost remittance for support from home
- Track the part-time work hours your visa permits
- Get a starter card if eligible and pay in full
Watch out for
- Exceeding permitted work hours risks your visa
- Watch remittance markups on small, frequent transfers
- Know the tax rules if you earn beyond a threshold
Recommended courses
Money basics in Japan
How everyday money works here: banks, cash culture, My Number, and the bills you cannot ignore.
Budgeting and an emergency fund
A simple system to track spending, control fixed costs, and build a safety buffer before you invest.
Credit and cards in Japan
How credit history works here, how to get approved, and how to avoid the revolving-credit trap.