If you're a foreigner living in Japan, you might encounter some difficulties getting a credit card. Local Japanese can easily get a credit card, but as a foreigner, it can have some challenges.
Fortunately, there is a credit card you can easily apply for that will allow you to earn points and experience Japan like never before. The Japan Post Visa Credit Card is one of the most popular credit cards and is an excellent partner for everyday life.
Check out what it is all about and how you can apply for the Japan Post Visa Credit Card.
Japan Post Visa Credit Card Features and Benefits
The Japan Post Visa Credit Card is loaded with features and benefits.
It is commonly used to pay for utilities and even for small purchases, and you're rewarded with a lot of points just by using it.
If you're interested in how to do it, check it out below.
Get Reward Points Every Time You Spend
Every time you use the credit card for any transaction, you immediately get 1 reward point for every JPY 1,000 spent.
You can use the card for any transaction, whether it is a large purchase or a small purchase made at the grocery store. The Japan Post Visa Credit Card is widely accepted in almost all establishments in Japan.
To use it, simply tap the card or have it scanned to continue with the transaction, and you should receive your reward points in an instant.
Redeem Points for Miles
Once you have accumulated enough points, you can then use the reward points and redeem them for miles.
We all know how important it is to collect miles, as this can be used for travel. For every point that you have, you can redeem it for 3 miles.
Take note that there is a redemption increment of 100 points for 300 miles, and the required minimum usage is 200 points for 600 miles. There is no maximum redemption limit for miles.
How to Redeem Your Miles
To redeem your points for miles, all you need to do is head over to the JP Bank Card website and log in to your account.
You will also need to use your 10-digit ANA Mileage Club membership number to log in and redeem your rewards points for miles. Submit a request and make sure that you exceed the required minimum usage.
After the application, you should be able to see the miles credited to your account after 1 week or so.
Interest Rates and Other Fees
When you have the Japan Post Visa Credit Card, you will not be paying any fee for redeeming your rewards points for miles.
The interest rate for the card will depend on your application and your financial capabilities.
This means that the interest rate will vary from one applicant to another. There are also no mentions of an annual fee or membership fee for the card on their official website.
Contact Details
For more details, you can contact their customer service at 0120-933-000 if you are using your mobile phone.
You can also use the number 03-6627-4045 in Tokyo or 06-6445-3206 in Osaka to contact their customer service.
You can also visit their main office at 2-3-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8793.
What You Need to Get the Japan Post Visa Credit Card
If you're interested in applying for the Japan Post Visa Credit Card, there are certain things that you need to prepare before you can apply.
Japan will require you to prepare these documents and is very strict with them.
Make sure that you already have a Japanese bank account, preferably in the same bank as the credit card, and a valid visa that is not a tourist visa.
You will also be required to have a personal inkan or the official seal that you used to open your account, as well as proof of address and certificate of employment.
Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved
There are certain ways to get better chances of getting approved for the card. While Japan is notorious for being very strict with foreigners, local Japanese can apply for the card without any restrictions.
If you're a foreigner, you need to be married to a Japanese citizen and have a spouse visa to improve your chances of getting the card. You also must have a government-issued driver's license.
A good credit score will also improve your chances, and being employed full-time at a Japanese establishment can help.
How to Apply for the Japan Post Visa Credit Card
Once you have all the requirements sorted out, it is time to learn how to apply for the Japan Post Visa Credit Card.
You can visit any nearby Japan Post branch to apply for the credit card, or you can apply online.
To apply, approach any bank representative and submit the requirements as well as the application form. Wait for their reply to receive the approval.
For online application, head over to their website and click on Apply. Create an account first or log in, then fill out the online application form, review the terms and conditions, and submit.
Tips for Applying for the Japan Post Visa Credit Card
Applying for the Japan Post Visa Credit Card is straightforward. Still, if you truly want the application to go as smoothly as possible, you should prepare as many documents as possible. This helps prove your identity and avoid getting rejected.
Applying personally is much more preferable as you can provide them with more documents upon application. This also lets them know that you know how to speak in Japanese, which makes the screening process much faster.
Lastly, always write your name exactly as it appears on any of your Japanese IDs, and refrain from using any abbreviations or shortcuts to your name.
Conclusion
It may be challenging for many to apply for the Japan Post Visa Credit Card, but the difficulties are very much worth it once you receive the credit card. Nowhere can you get as much value from a credit card as with the Japan Post Visa Credit Card, especially if you want rewards.
Note: There are risks involved when applying for and using credit. Consult the bank's terms and conditions page for more information.
