Changing / Leaving Job in Japan: Complete Guide

Q. What do I do about health insurance after quitting my job?

You choose between National Health Insurance, continuing your existing health insurance voluntarily for up to two years, or becoming a dependant on a family member's insurance. The deadlines differ: the National Health Insurance filing is due within 14 days, while voluntary continuation must be applied for within 20 days of losing insured status — the next business day if day 20 is a weekend or holiday, and by post it must arrive within those 20 days.

Q. What do I need to receive unemployment benefits after leaving a job?

Register as a job seeker at the Hello Work office for your area, then submit your separation slips. Besides slips 1 and 2 you need a My Number confirmation document, photo ID, two photographs 3.0cm by 2.4cm — which can be skipped by showing a My Number card — and a passbook or cash card in your own name. There is a seven-day waiting period from the date eligibility is determined, and leaving voluntarily adds a further restriction period.

Q. Does changing jobs affect a foreigner's visa?

If the new job falls within the activities your status covers, you do not need to change status. You must file an affiliated organisation notification within 14 days of each event — ending the old contract and signing the new one (article 19-16). Applying for a certificate of authorised employment is optional, not required. Note that for Highly Skilled Professional (i), the affiliated organisation is designated by the Minister of Justice, so changing employer requires a change of status application.