Leaving Japan

Quick Answer Japan’s pension lump-sum refund (脱退一時金): Foreigners who paid pension for 6+ months and leave Japan permanently can claim back up to 3 years of contributions. Apply within 2 years of leaving Japan — from outside Japan to the Japan Pension Service. 20.42% tax is withheld but partially recoverable. On a ¥350,000/month salary with 36 months of contributions, the gross refund is ~¥567,000. Don’t leave Japan without knowing this exists — thousands of foreigners forfeit it every year. ...

What you'll learn in this guide The complete timeline and checklist for leaving Japan permanently How to claim your Japanese pension refund (lump-sum withdrawal) What to do with your Japanese bank accounts, credit cards, and investments How to cancel your residence registration and return your residence card Shipping belongings, selling furniture, and final tax filings Quick Answer Key tasks when leaving Japan: cancel residence registration at city hall (submit 転出届), apply for pension lump-sum refund within 2 years of departure, file final tax return before leaving, close/transfer bank accounts, and handle your apartment move-out properly. Start the process 2–3 months before departure. ...