If you worked in Japan as an employee, you have likely paid into Employees’ Pension Insurance, known as 厚生年金保険. But many foreign workers are not fully sure what this system covers — or what happens to their contributions after leaving Japan.
What is Employees’ Pension Insurance?
Employees’ Pension Insurance is part of Japan’s public pension system. It is generally mandatory for company employees, and both the employee and employer contribute every month.
The system is designed to provide financial support in certain life situations, especially retirement, disability, or death.
What Does It Cover?
- Old-age pension: Pension benefits after reaching retirement age
- Disability pension: Support if you become disabled and meet the requirements
- Survivor’s pension: Support for eligible family members if the insured person passes away
Foreign workers are also covered by the system while they are working in Japan and paying contributions.
The Problem for Foreign Workers
To receive regular pension benefits in the future, you generally need to meet certain eligibility requirements, including a minimum contribution period. Many foreign workers leave Japan before reaching this point.
If you leave Japan without taking action, your pension contributions may simply remain in the system, and you may never receive benefits from them.
Can You Get Your Pension Contributions Back?
In many cases, yes. Japan has a system called the Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment, often called a Japan pension refund.
This allows eligible foreigners who have left Japan to claim back part of their pension contributions.
Final Thoughts
Employees’ Pension Insurance is an important protection while you live and work in Japan. However, if you leave Japan and do not plan to return, it is worth checking whether you can claim a pension refund.
Check if you can claim your Japan pension refund
PenPos helps foreign workers claim their Japan pension refund and related tax refund. No upfront cost, success-based fee only.
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