行政手続き

Social Insurance for Foreigners: Enrollment & Premiums Guide

Published 2026.06.04 ・ Updated 2026.06.05 | MRI Co., Ltd. — Zainichi Life Navi Editorial Team

Foreigners employed by a company enroll in social insurance (health insurance and employees' pension), which offers broader coverage than National Health Insurance.

① The Four Types of Social Insurance

  • Health Insurance: You pay only 30% of medical costs
  • Employees' Pension: Old-age, disability, and survivor benefits
  • Employment Insurance: Income support when unemployed
  • Workers' Accident Insurance: Compensation for work-related injury or illness

② Enrollment Requirements

If you meet the conditions below, foreigners are required to enroll just like Japanese nationals.

  • Working 20+ hours per week
  • Monthly income of ¥88,000 or more (from 2024)
  • Expected to work 2 months or longer

③ Premium Estimates (monthly, employee's share)

Monthly salaryHealth Ins.PensionTotal
¥200,000~¥9,900~¥18,300~¥28,200
¥300,000~¥14,800~¥27,450~¥42,250
¥400,000~¥19,700~¥36,600~¥56,300
💡 Your employer pays halfPremiums are split evenly between you and your employer. The figures above are the employee's share only.

④ Procedures When Leaving a Job

You lose social insurance coverage the day after you leave. Within 14 days, choose one of the following.

  • Enroll in National Health Insurance: Apply at your city office
  • Voluntary continuation: Keep your former health insurance for up to 20 months (apply within 20 days of leaving)

FAQ

Q: Can part-time workers join social insurance?Part-timers working 20+ hours a week and earning ¥88,000+ monthly may be required to enroll depending on company size (companies with 51+ employees from 2024).
Q: What is the difference from National Health Insurance?Social insurance has lower premiums and includes sickness and maternity allowances. National Health Insurance has no sickness allowance.
Q: Can foreigners receive unemployment benefits?Yes. If you are enrolled in employment insurance, you can claim benefits at Hello Work after leaving your job, provided your residence status is valid.

Sources

※Rules may change. Please check the official sites for the latest information.

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