Changing or Losing Your Job in Japan
Comparing job offers, health insurance and pension between jobs, unemployment benefits and your residence status.
1. Compare job offers
Offers quote a gross annual salary. Convert it to take-home pay, or work out the salary you need for the take-home pay you want.
2. Between jobs: insurance and resident tax
If you do not start the next job right away, join National Health Insurance (or continue your employer's insurance) and the National Pension within 14 days. Resident tax continues, possibly as bills you pay yourself. Paying on time matters for permanent residency.
3. If you lost your job: unemployment benefits
If you were in employment insurance, you can claim benefits at Hello Work. If your residence status depends on your job, report the change of employer to the Immigration Services Agency within 14 days.
4. Retirement allowance
A retirement allowance is taxed lightly thanks to a large deduction. Give your employer the declaration so the tax is settled without a tax return.