Working Overtime in Japan — What Foreigners Need to Know (2025)
Japan’s relationship with overtime is one of the most discussed — and most misunderstood — aspects of working life in the country. The concept of karoshi (death from overwork) entered the international lexicon for a reason. But the reality for foreign workers in Japan today is more nuanced, and there are both legal protections and practical strategies that can significantly shape your experience. The Legal Framework for Overtime in Japan Japan’s Labor Standards Act sets clear rules on overtime: ...