I recently started working as a graphic designer for a japanese IT company and got a MUFJ credit card. I've been living in japan for ONLY 1,5 years. My boyfriend also got a MUFJ credit card. We both don't have permanent residence. It ain't impossible. In my opinion it's easier to get a local credit card if you speak Japanese. My boyfriend and i filled out the application form with kanji characters. And MUFJ approved our application in about 2 weeks.