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Question:

Japanese Pension System

I'm an American who's been living in Japan for almost two years - at first as an English teacher, but now I'm a programmer here in Nagoya. It seems I have a chance to start paying into the national pension system, since I am now officially working full-time.

I hear that there are both advantages and disadvantages to being in the pension system. For my example, I plan on living and working here for about another four or five years. Is it worth it for me to join?

Region: Nagoya

Category: Finances

Locale: Living in Nagoya

Posted: Nov 30, 2007 14:38 by Moss

Answers Displaying all 2 Answers

  • If you're planning to stay long term I'm not sure that there are any advantages to being in the pension system. It almost certainly will have buckled under the pressure of Japan's ageing population long before most of us reach retirement age. The only advantage is that you might get a warm feeling knowing that you're supporting today's elderly.
    by JK Admin at May 02, 2008 17:49
  • Hi,
    as far as I know you can claim a high percentage of your pension funds once you left Japan (lump sum withdrawel). But only for a work period of up to three years, which means you probably would lose 2 years worth of payment. Have a look at this explaination http://www.tokyo-icc.jp/guide_eng/work/04.html
    by Sylvia at Feb 08, 2008 12:22