For work-related reasons I may be getting sent to Japan. I've been looking through several bank websites, phone websites, etc. and I seem to be running into some circular 'chicken-and-egg' related requirements for setting up an account.
For example – For setting up a Shinsei Bank account, the B-type documents requested include things like an original copy of a utility bill receipt. I don't see how I'd be able to have one of these prior to opening the account, given that I'd need a Japanese bank account in order to set up the necessary payment(s).
I'm also aware of the Hanko system (and that it is being somewhat phased-out). I'm given to understand there are different tiers/types of Hanko an individual might have – is there a way to simply have one, that you use for everything, both formal and informal document(s)?
Is there a particular order I should follow, i.e. Hanko->Banking ->Lease-> Phone? Are Hanko stamps necessary for foreign workers?
The company I work for is quite large and we have a Tokyo branch, so I'm sure there are internal resources that will provide some guidance on this process, but in the interest of getting a head start I wanted to see if there were any recommendations regarding pitfalls to avoid, common mistakes I can sidestep, etc.
by TheDoritosPope