Social Insurance in Japan for Foreigners — Health, Pension & Unemployment (2025)
Social insurance in Japan isn’t optional — it’s mandatory, and your employer or local ward office will expect you to be enrolled. Many foreigners arrive without understanding how the system works or what they’re paying into. Here’s a clear explanation of what social insurance covers and what it costs. The Two Systems: Shakai Hoken vs. Kokumin Hoken There are two main social insurance tracks in Japan: 1. Employees’ Social Insurance (Shakai Hoken) If you work full-time for a company, you are automatically enrolled in the employees’ social insurance system, which includes: ...