The Japan Post Visa credit card is ideal if you want a simple card with point rewards and no annual fee in the first year. The Japan Post Visa credit card Japan is designed for students, young professionals, and those new to credit.
You can apply fully online without going to a branch. This article covers the steps, requirements, and features in detail.
About Japan Post
Japan Post is one of the largest financial institutions in the country. It offers banking, insurance, and postal services nationwide.
Japan Post Bank operates under the Japan Post Group and is known for its strong reliability and wide accessibility.
It plays a major role in managing financial products, including credit cards. These services are trusted by millions of residents across Japan.
Key Features of the Japan Post Visa Credit Card
Here’s a breakdown of what this credit card offers. We’ll look at who it’s for, what benefits you’ll get, and which version suits your needs.
Eligibility and Card Options
These cards are available to Japan residents only. For the A Lente and Extage cards, you must be under 29 years old to apply.
The Gold Card is better suited if you spend over 1 million yen annually. The General Card offers easy access to credit and acts as a cash card as well.
Card brands include Visa, JCB, and Mastercard, depending on your preference. All versions are issued by Japan Post Bank.
Benefits You Can Expect
The A Lente card offers triple points on Amazon and other online sites. Extage gives triple points for the first three months and 1.5x from the fourth month through the first year.
The Gold Card provides free airport lounge access and doubles your reward rate. General Cards are simple but can be used for both shopping and ATM withdrawals.
Annual fees vary, but there are discounts or exemptions if you meet conditions. Each card is compatible with Apple Pay and Google Wallet.
How to Apply for the Japan Post Visa Credit Card Online?
This section will walk you through the full online application process. Make sure to prepare your documents before you begin.
- Visit the official JP Bank credit card page.
- Select the Visa card and choose your preferred version: A Lente, Extage, Gold, or General.
- Click the application button and fill in your details, including your name, address, and income.
- Submit your identification, such as a residence card and MyNumber documents.
- Confirm your submission and wait for the email confirmation from the bank.
- You will be notified if further documents or verification are required.
What Do You Need to Prepare?
To apply, prepare your residence card and MyNumber card. You may also need your JP Bank account details for verification.
Income documents might be required for the Gold Card. Students applying for Extage or A Lente may need school enrollment proof.
Ensure your contact number and email address are valid. Make sure you live at the address you provide, as that is where the card will be mailed.
What to Expect After Applying?
After you submit the form, your documents will go through a verification process. You may get a call if more information is needed.
If approved, the card will be sent to your home address. The package includes activation instructions and usage tips.
Approval depends on the bank’s screening standards and the guarantor company. Rejection may occur if requirements are not met.
Once the Card Arrives
Once your card arrives, there are three steps to complete. First, verify the card following the instructions in the package.
Then, register it on JP Bank’s online card member service. Finally, link your card to Apple Pay or Google Wallet if desired. These steps help make your transactions faster and safer.
JP Bank provides full access to your transaction history online. Support is available if you run into setup issues.
How to Use It Effectively
The card can be used online, in stores, and even for utilities. Take advantage of bonus points on Amazon and partner retailers.
Using it at least once a year may waive your next annual fee. Monitor your spending using the online account portal.
If you travel, consider upgrading to the Gold Card for airport perks. Use the family card option if you want a card for a spouse or child.
Comparing the Four Card Options
You have four card options: A Lente, Extage, Gold, and General. Each one is designed to fit different needs. Age, spending habits, and preferred features should influence your decision. Let’s break down the differences clearly.
A Lente vs. Extage
A Lente is best for online shoppers who use Amazon and other e-commerce platforms often. Extage provides higher point rewards over a longer period, but is limited to those under 29.
Both cards have no annual fee at first and offer ongoing discounts. You only get one cash card with each.
Neither includes travel perks or airport lounges. Great for first-time credit users.
Gold vs. General Card
The Gold Card is for high spenders who want benefits like double points and lounge access. It has a higher annual fee of 11,000 yen but offers value if you spend over 1 million yen annually.
The General Card is more basic but can double as a cash card. It has a low annual fee and is suitable for everyday use.
Family cards are available with both, depending on the card type. Choose based on how often you travel or spend.
Interest Rates, Fees, and Rewards
Rates and fees differ by card type. Make sure you review these before applying. Here’s what you need to know.
Interest and Fee Structure
Each card type has its own annual fee and point system. A Lente is free the first year, then costs 1,375 yen unless waived.
Extage is free for five years after sign-up. Gold costs 11,000 yen annually, with potential discounts for high spending.
General cards are free for the first year, with a 1,375 yen fee afterward, waived with use. Interest applies to unpaid balances, and Gold earns double points per 1,000 yen spent.
Contact Information for Help
JP Bank provides separate hotlines depending on the card type. Use the contact number based on whether you apply for Visa/MasterCard or JCB.
- Visa/MasterCard (General, A Lente, Gold): 0120-933-010 (Toll-free, 9:00–17:00)
- JCB Cards (Extage, Gold, General): 0120-015-870 (Toll-free) or 0570-015-870 (Mobile users)
Hours are 9:00 to 17:00. Closed during holidays and year-end (12/30–1/3). Support is available in Japanese. Bring your ID or application info when calling.
Final Thoughts: Apply with Confidence
The Japan Post Visa Credit Card is a strong option for those living in Japan. With options for young adults, everyday users, and high spenders, you can choose what fits best.
The online application process is fast and simple. If you're ready, gather your documents and apply directly through Japan Post Bank’s official site.
Disclaimer: Approval depends on JP Bank and the guarantor's screening. Read all card terms and ensure your documents are complete before applying.