This is Stephanie of IMS Legal Professional Corporation. At IMS, we offer a complimentary eligibility check for those looking to apply for permanent residence. As many of you may know, one of the requirements for permanent residency is to have on-time pension payments for the past two years.
However, recently, we have heard of instances where the applicant's spouse is not enrolled in pension because they are currently unemployed. This is a common misconception, and one that can negatively affect the main applicant's application for PR!
“Am I required to pay into the Japanese pension system even if I’m not working?”
The short answer is: Yes, in most cases.
If you are registered as a resident in Japan, aged 20 to 59, you are generally required to enroll in the public pension system—regardless of your nationality or employment status.
Overview of Japan’s Public Pension System
Japan has two main types of public pension programs:
- National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin): For self-employed individuals, students, unemployed persons, and foreign residents aged 20–59 who are not covered by an employer’s plan.
- Employees’ Pension (Kosei Nenkin): For company employees, with contributions shared between the employer and employee.
Even if you're not working, in general, you’re still expected to enroll in the National Pension system.
However, there are a few important exceptions or relief options:
- Student Special Payment Exemption: If you're a student with low income, you can apply for temporary exemption.
- Payment Deferral System: Unemployed or low-income individuals may qualify for deferred payments.
- Social Security Agreements: If your home country has a pension treaty with Japan (e.g., the U.S., Germany, Australia), you may be exempt under certain conditions.
Effect on Permanent Residency Applications
If your spouse is considered your dependent, even if they are not applying for PR at the same time, you are considered responsible for their pension enrollment status. Failure to enroll your dependents when required is seen as neglecting your social obligations. Therefore, your PR application may be at risk of rejection.
If there is one thing to remember, Immigration is very strict when it comes to the payments for the following:
- Pension
- Taxes
- Health insurance
Even a payment of one day late can result in a denial!
For pension-related questions, please contact your local pension office. If you have questions about Japanese visas, permanent residency, or your residence status, please feel free to contact us.
Please note that the information provided in this blog is current as of now. It is your responsibility to check the latest information on official government websites.
For more information, please contact us below ↓
https://imsvisa.support/en/contact/
