Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG): Overview and Account Opening Guide

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) is Japan’s largest financial institution and one of the top ten banks in the world by market capitalization in 2025. Headquartered in Tokyo, MUFG is part of the Mitsubishi Group, a global conglomerate with diversified businesses across finance, industry, and services.

MUFG operates in more than 50 countries, serving corporate clients, retail customers, and high-net-worth individuals. Known for its financial stability, conservative management style, and global investment reach, MUFG is a preferred choice for companies doing business in Japan as well as individuals seeking secure international banking services.

Bank Profile

• Founded: 2005 (merger of Mitsubishi Tokyo Financial Group and UFJ Holdings; roots trace back to the 19th century)
• Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
• Market Cap (2025): ~USD 320 billion
• Global Presence: 50+ countries, with branches in Singapore, Hong Kong, London, and New York
• Key Services: Retail banking (savings, deposits, loans, cards) Corporate and institutional banking Investment banking and capital markets Private banking and asset management Trade finance and treasury services

Why Choose MUFG?

• Japan’s largest and most stable bank, backed by the Mitsubishi Group
• Strong expertise in corporate finance and trade services
• Expanding global presence in Asia, Europe, and the Americas
• Solid reputation for prudence and regulatory compliance
• Trusted partner for multinationals operating in Japan

Account Types Available

1. Personal Accounts Yen-denominated checking and savings accounts Foreign currency deposits (USD, EUR, GBP, etc.) Debit and credit cards
2. Business Accounts Domestic corporate accounts for Japanese companies International settlement accounts for multinationals Trade finance and treasury solutions
3. Private Banking Targeted at high-net-worth individuals (threshold: USD 1–3 million+) Services include estate planning, discretionary investment management, and cross-border wealth solutions

Account Opening Requirements

For Individuals (Japan Residents):

• Valid Japanese government-issued ID (MyNumber card, driver’s license)
• Proof of address in Japan (utility bill, residence certificate)
• Employment or income proof (optional for standard accounts)

For Non-Residents / Foreign Clients:

• Valid passport
• Proof of overseas residential address (bank statement, utility bill)
• Japanese visa or residence permit (if opening account in Japan)
• Tax identification number (for FATCA/CRS compliance)

For Corporate Accounts:

• Certificate of Incorporation / Business registration in Japan
• Articles of Association / Corporate charter
• Tax registration number
• Identification of directors and shareholders
• Proof of registered office address

Step-by-Step Account Opening Process

1. Initial Contact Visit an MUFG branch in Japan or an international office (Singapore, Hong Kong, London, New York). Corporate and private banking clients should approach dedicated relationship managers.
2. Document Submission Provide required identity, residence, and financial documents.
3. Compliance and Review MUFG performs KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) checks. Extra scrutiny applies for non-residents and cross-border clients.
4. Approval Timeline Personal accounts: 5–7 business days Corporate accounts: 2–4 weeks Private banking: 3–5 weeks, depending on complexity
5. Account Activation Clients receive account credentials, banking cards, and access to MUFG’s online/mobile banking systems.

Advantages & Considerations

Advantages

• Strong financial security and global credibility
• Excellent services for corporates and international businesses
• Reliable private banking and wealth solutions
• Multi-currency offerings attractive for cross-border clients

Considerations

• Non-residents face stringent requirements to open personal accounts in Japan
• English-language services are limited at smaller branches
• Higher entry requirements for premium/private banking

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can foreigners open a MUFG account in Japan?
A1: Yes, but they generally need a valid Japanese visa/residence permit and proof of local address. Without residency, options are limited.

Q2: Does MUFG operate in Singapore?
A2: Yes. MUFG Singapore provides a wide range of corporate, trade, and treasury services, as well as select wealth management solutions.

Q3: What is the minimum deposit requirement?
A3: For basic savings accounts in Japan, deposits can start from JPY 1,000–5,000. Private banking requires significant assets (USD 1M+).

Internal Link

• Link from Global Top 20 Banks by Market Cap 2025 → “Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG)” anchor text
• Related banks: [HSBC Guide], [Citigroup Account Opening], [Bank of China Overview]

MUFG, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Japan banks, account opening, corporate banking, private banking

About the Author

Helen Lili – Editor, Research Lead
Helen leads tariff analysis and product change tracking. She maintains the normalized dataset that powers our comparison tables and ensures each claim links back to a dated primary source. Read more articles