1. Revolut Japan
- Overview: Revolut is a global financial super-app that has recently expanded its services to Japan. It allows for international money transfers at competitive exchange rates.
- Advantages:
- Real-time currency exchange with interbank rates.
- Offers a multi-currency account, allowing you to hold and exchange different currencies.
- No requirement for a Juminhyo during sign-up; basic identification like a passport is sufficient.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited support for some currencies compared to Wise.
- Premium features are behind a paywall.
2. N26 (in collaboration with TransferWise)
- Overview: N26 is a European digital bank that recently started operating in Japan. It partners with Wise for international transfers, offering competitive rates.
- Advantages:
- Easy sign-up process with just a passport or residence card.
- Integrated with Wise for seamless international transfers.
- Offers a modern mobile banking experience.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited availability of Japanese language support.
- Account features might be more tailored to European customers.
3. Kantan Pay
- Overview: Kantan Pay is a new service in Japan designed for quick and easy international remittances. It is a smartphone-based service, requiring minimal documentation.
- Advantages:
- Very easy to set up with just a mobile phone and basic ID.
- Low transfer fees compared to traditional banks.
- Supports multiple payout methods, including cash pick-up.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited to certain countries for transfers.
- Exchange rates may not be as competitive as Wise.
4. WorldRemit
- Overview: WorldRemit is another modern remittance service that allows for international money transfers without needing a Juminhyo.
- Advantages:
- Supports transfers to over 150 countries.
- Multiple payment methods, including cash pick-up, bank deposits, and mobile wallets.
- Quick registration process with basic ID.
- Disadvantages:
- Fees can vary depending on the destination and transfer method.
- Exchange rates might not always be the best compared to Wise.
5. KoraPay
- Overview: KoraPay is a new player focusing on the African market, offering simple and efficient money transfers from Japan to various African countries.
- Advantages:
- Tailored for remittances to Africa with low fees.
- Easy sign-up process with just basic identification.
- Fast transfers with competitive exchange rates.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited to certain African countries.
- Less established than other services, so might have fewer features.
6. TransferGo
- Overview: TransferGo is a digital remittance service gaining popularity for its fast and low-cost international money transfers, without the need for extensive documentation like a Juminhyo.
- Advantages:
- Low fees and competitive exchange rates.
- Easy registration process requiring basic ID.
- Quick transfer times, often within the same day.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited to certain regions and countries.
- Not as widely recognized as Wise, so customer support might be more limited.
7. PaySend
- Overview: PaySend is a relatively new money transfer service that focuses on simplicity and low-cost international transfers.
- Advantages:
- Flat, low fees for transfers.
- Can send money directly to cards, making it convenient for recipients.
- Quick sign-up with basic ID.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited to certain countries.
- Exchange rates may vary, so it’s good to compare with other services.
8. PayPal
- Overview: PayPal is a widely recognized platform for international money transfers. It doesn’t require a Juminhyo for account creation or transactions.
- Advantages:
- Easy to set up with just an email address.
- Widely accepted for both personal and business transactions.
- Disadvantages:
- Exchange rates can be less favorable compared to Wise.
- Fees for receiving money internationally can be higher.
9. Skrill
- Overview: Skrill is another digital wallet service that allows international money transfers without needing a Juminhyo.
- Advantages:
- Competitive fees and exchange rates.
- Supports a wide range of currencies.
- Disadvantages:
- Fewer options for cash withdrawal compared to some other services.
- Some fees may apply depending on the type of transaction.
10. Western Union
- Overview: Western Union offers both online transfers and physical locations for sending money abroad, without the need for a Juminhyo.
- Advantages:
- Available globally with a vast network of agents.
- No need for a bank account in some cases; cash pick-up is possible.
- Disadvantages:
- Higher fees compared to online services like Wise.
- Exchange rates can vary significantly.
11. PayPay Bank (formerly Japan Net Bank)
- Overview: PayPay Bank offers international transfers, and since it’s a Japanese bank, it’s easier to manage for residents. Setting up an account typically doesn’t require a Juminhyo.
- Advantages:
- Local Japanese support.
- Integrated with PayPay, a popular payment app in Japan.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited to those who can provide some form of identity verification (passport, residence card, etc.).
- Fees and exchange rates may not be as competitive as Wise.
12. Remitly
- Overview: Remitly is a money transfer service that offers various payout options, including bank deposits, cash pickup, and mobile money.
- Advantages:
- Simple sign-up process with just basic identification.
- Multiple delivery options for recipients.
- Disadvantages:
- Fees can vary depending on the destination and payment method.
- Limited availability in some countries.