FAQ

March 18, 2016

Can I set up a company in Japan from overseas?

While it is possible to set up a Japanese company from abroad, some of the requirements to establish a company become more difficult if the founder is not present in Japan.  Specifically, it can be quite difficult for the company founder to submit the required certificate of registration for their personal seal or find a company representative who is a resident of Japan.
February 23, 2016

Do companies have a responsibility to enroll foreign nationals in the employee pension insurance system?

The Employee’s Pension Insurance (EPI) is the mandatory national pension plan set up by the Japanese government. Participation is mandatory and all full-time employees who work for companies in Japan with 5 or more employees must be covered by the EPI. Part time workers are also covered if his or her work arrangements resemble those of a regular worker.
February 23, 2016

Can foreign nationals participate in Japan’s health insurance system?

Japan’s Employee Health Insurance (EHI) System provides health insurance for workers in Japan. Employers are responsible for enrolling their employees in EHI and all employees who work for companies of more than five people must be covered. This applies equally to Japanese employees and foreign nationals. Part time workers whose work arrangements and duties resemble full time workers must also be covered by the EHI.
February 23, 2016

What are the laws regarding working hours in Japan?

Employers in Japan must provide at least 45 minutes of break time for work days that last over 6 hours and at least 1 hour of break time for a work day lasting longer than 8 hours.