FAQ Archives - Page 69 of 94 - Ohara & Furukawa

February 24, 2016

Is there a way to avoid inheriting debts in Japan?

There are two types of things that can be inherited when a relative dies: assets and debts. Most people will be happy to accept the assets of a deceased relative, but few will be willing to take on their debts. In addition, in many cases it would be unfair to force an heir to pay off the debts of a deceased relative.

February 24, 2016

When a foreign national dies in Japan, under which country’s laws is the probate handled?

Japanese laws regarding probate and inheritance generally only apply to Japanese citizens. This means that foreign nationals who lived, owned property and die in Japan will still have their assets distributed under the law of their home country, rather than Japan. This also includes foreign nationals who become permanent residents of Japan.

February 24, 2016

Can International Driving Permits be renewed?

An International Driving Permit will allow a driver licensed in another country to drive legally in Japan. However, the permit is only good for one year, at which point any foreign resident who wishes to drive in Japan should apply for and take the Japanese driving test.

February 24, 2016

What is the legal limit for drunk driving in Japan?

The laws on drinking and driving in Japan were recently strengthened, increasing the punishment depending on the amount of alcohol the driver has consumed. If the driver has consumed enough alcohol to impair normal driving ability, he or she may be punished with confiscation of the driver’s license and imprisonment of up to 5 years or a fine of up to 1,000,000 yen. Breath alcohol content of a lower level will also result in revoking the driver’s license and imprisonment of up to 3 years or a fine of up to 500,000 yen. Japanese law also has a lower standard […]