National Pension System

All residents turning 20 must enroll in Japan’s National Pension plan

Everyone living in Japan, including foreign residents, aged between 20 and 60 must enroll in the National Pension System. After enrolling, if you fulfill the necessary criteria you will receive the Basic Pension for the Elderly. If you were to become disabled due to an injury or illness, you would receive the Basic Disability Pension. If you were to pass away, your spouse and/or children would receive the Basic Survivors’ Pension. If you are not a Japanese citizen and leave Japan without receiving a pension, you can claim a lumpsum withdrawal refund within two years after your departure if you have paid at least six months of the premium payment period.

Enrollment is unnecessary if you are:

• Enrolled in an employee pension plan
• A dependent spouse of a person enrolled in an employee pension plan
• A citizen of a country which has concluded a social security agreement with Japan and thus exempt from enrolling in Japan’s National Pension plan
• Person with medical stay or long stay visa for sightseeing and recreation

Payment method / payment slips

Once you have submitted your notification of enrollment, the Pension Office sends you payment slips. Please make the payments at banks, convenience stores, or any other applicable locations. Credit card and bank transfer payments are also acceptable. Premium discounts are available if you opt for advance lump-sum payment.

Exemptions

Exemptions systems are available for anyone having difficulties paying the premiums. Please inquire for more information.