Quick Answer: Japanese law requires My Number for international money transfers. Financial institutions typically need to collect your My Number, and transfers exceeding ¥1 million cumulatively per year are reported to the National Tax Agency (NTA). Non-compliance can result in penalties. All licensed remittance services (Wise, PayForex, Western Union, banks) require My Number registration.
Legal Framework
The Act on Use of Numbers to Identify a Specific Individual (マイナンバー法) requires financial institutions to collect My Number for certain transactions, including international remittances. This is part of Japan's efforts to prevent tax evasion and money laundering.
Reporting Thresholds & Requirements
| Threshold | Requirement | Who Reports |
|---|---|---|
| Any international transfer | My Number typically need to be provided to the service provider | You (to the provider) |
| Cumulative >¥1M/year | Service provider files 国外送金等調書 (foreign remittance report) with NTA | Financial institution |
| Single transfer >¥1M | Reported individually to NTA | Financial institution |
| Any amount (for tax filing) | You may need to report foreign income sources on your tax return | You (tax return) |
What Services Report to Tax Authorities
All licensed remittance providers in Japan are required to report to the National Tax Agency. This includes:
- Banks (MUFG, SMBC, Mizuho, JP Bank, etc.) — report all international wires
- Wise — reports as a registered funds transfer service provider
- PayForex — reports as a registered funds transfer service provider
- Western Union — reports through its Japanese partner
⛔ Warning: Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Refusing to provide My Number may result in your transfer being blocked or your account being restricted
- Using informal channels to avoid reporting requirements is illegal (violation of 外国為替及び外国貿易法)
- Under-reporting foreign remittances on tax returns can trigger audits and penalties
- Penalties can include fines and, in serious cases, criminal prosecution
What My Number Documents Are Accepted
💡 Tip: If you haven't received your My Number notification card or it was lost, you can obtain a residence certificate (住民票) showing your My Number from your city/ward office. This is accepted by most remittance services.
Q: Does the NTA automatically tax my remittances?
No. International remittances themselves are not taxed. However, the NTA uses remittance data to verify tax returns. If you are sending overseas income or receiving money from abroad, you may need to report it as income. Sending your own savings to family is not income and not taxable, but the NTA may ask for documentation.
Q: I'm leaving Japan — do I still need to report?
If you are leaving Japan permanently, you should file a final tax return before departure. Any remittances made during the tax year should be accounted for. After departure, the Japanese tax obligations end (unless you retain Japan-source income).
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Japan's reporting requirements for international transfers. It is not tax or legal advice. Please consult a qualified tax advisor for your specific situation. Regulations may change.
