This section explains some basic information briefly which should be recognized by foreigners working in Japan or intending to do so.

Foreign nationals who are permitted to work in Japan and those who are not.

When you look for a job.

Labour related laws you need to be aware of

When you resign from a company

Other insurance systems for workers

Other insurance systems for workers

• Workmen's Accident Compensation Insurance System

  According to the Workmen's Accident Compensation Insurance Law, establishments with more than one worker are covered by the Workmen's Accident Compensation Insurance. Prescribed insurance benefits shall be paid for an injury, disease, physical handicap or death to workers resulting from their work or commutation.

  The following insurance benefits will be paid at the worker's request:

  1. Medical compensation benefits or medical treatment benefits will be paid in case a worker undergoes medical treatment for an injury or diseases.
  2. Non-duty compensation benefits or absence benefits will be paid from the 4th day of the medical treatment in case a worker does not receive wages for not being able to work due to treatment.
  3. In case a worker is disabled from working, physical disability compensation benefits or disability benefits, etc. will be paid according to the degree of physical disability.
  4. In case a worker dies, survivors compensation benefits or survivors benefits will be paid. (For further information, on the Workmen's Accident Compensation Insurance System, please contact the Labour Standards Inspection Office )
• Health Insurance System

  As long as foreign nationals are regularly employed by a covered establishment, the Health Insurance applies to them, therefore they need to join in this system. Also, among foreign nationals who have no regular employment, those who have done foreigner's registration expecting to stay in Japan for one year or longer are to join in the National Health Insurance.

  By participating in the Health Insurance, the insured and their dependents will be paid medical benefits and allowances needed in case they receive medical treatment for a disease or injury.

• Welfare Pension Insurance System, National Pension Insurance System

  As long as foreign nationals are regularly employed by a covered establishment, the Welfare Pension Insurance applies to them, therefore it is necessary for them to participate in this system. Also, among foreign nationals who have no regular employment and those who have done foreigner's registration are to join in the National Pension Insurance.

  By participating in the Pension Insurance, pensions and allowances will be paid out of the contributions in case of a worker's old-age, handicaps, death, etc.

  Moreover, a lump-sum withdrawal payment shall be paid to those who have been participating in the Pension Insurance System in Japan by taking appropriate request procedures after leaving Japan. The lump-sum withdrawal payment will be paid in principle to those who meet all of the following conditions if an application is filled within 2 years after departure from Japan.

  The conditions for receiving the lump-sum withdrawal payment :

  1. Persons who do not possess Japanese citizenship.
  2. Persons who have paid insurance premiums for welfare pensions or national pensions for 6 months or more.
  3. Persons who do not have a place of residence in Japan.
  4. Persons who have never had the right to receive pension payments ( including allowances for the handicapped).

     [ For further information on the Health Insurance System and the Pension Insurance System, please contact the Japan Pension Service Office ]

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