Two English-friendly, foreign-currency-strong banks compared on support, deposits, receiving income, transfer fees, debit cards, and account requirements.
PRESTIA leads on English service, MultiMoney accounts, and GLOBAL PASS but bars online business-purpose transfers; Sony Bank leads on around-the-clock online remittance, eleven sending currencies, and the Sony Bank WALLET — pick by whether you value English branch support or online foreign-currency automation.
PRESTIA (SMBC Trust Bank) is built around English service and foreign currency: MultiMoney accounts hold multiple currencies, GLOBAL PASS is a multi-currency Visa debit with no listed bank transaction fee, and fee tiers reward a relationship balance (standard online ¥3,500, ¥2,000 at a ¥1m balance, free for Gold). The key limit is that online transfers cannot be used for corporate accounts or business-purpose funds.
Sony Bank is built around online foreign-currency automation: online remittance around the clock at ¥3,000 (up to three free monthly at Club S Platinum), eleven sending currencies, and the Sony Bank WALLET, which spends directly from ten foreign-currency balances (1.79% only when there is no matching balance). Both banks can receive foreign salary and pensions subject to review.
Choose PRESTIA if you value English-language branch and phone support, tiered benefits tied to a relationship balance, and a foreign-currency banking relationship. Choose Sony Bank if you want strong online foreign-currency automation, more sending currencies, and a wallet card that spends directly from foreign-currency deposits.
For a freelancer or business, note PRESTIA’s online business-purpose restriction and confirm the permitted channel; for a traveller actively managing foreign-currency balances, the Sony Bank WALLET is a standout.
Bank (English support) · SMBC Trust Bank PRESTIA
The bank most often recommended for English-language service, multi-currency accounts, and international needs, aimed at globally minded residents.
Online bank · Sony Bank
An online bank popular with residents who want strong foreign-currency features, a well-regarded app, and comparatively English-friendly service.