National Pension in Japan for Foreigners (2025)
Quick Answer All foreign residents in Japan aged 20–59 must pay into the national pension (国民年金). The monthly premium is ¥16,980 (2025). Company employees pay via payroll into the employee pension (厚生年金) — employer covers half. When you leave Japan, you can claim back 20–36 months of contributions as a lump-sum refund (脱退一時金) within 2 years of departure. Apply before leaving. Japan’s national pension system is mandatory for most foreign residents — and many foreigners are either unaware they’re enrolled or unsure whether contributions are worth making. The good news: there’s a refund program when you leave. Here’s everything you need to know. ...