Unemployment Insurance in Japan Explained (雇用保険・失業保険 for Foreign Residents)
- 成美 太田
- 13 分前
- 読了時間: 3分
If you’re working in Japan as a foreign resident, it’s important to understand unemployment insurance, known in Japanese as 雇用保険（こようほけん） or 失業保険（しつぎょうほけん）.
Many foreigners don’t realize they are already enrolled, or that they can receive support if they lose their job.
In this article, we’ll explain what unemployment insurance in Japan is, who can receive it, and how to apply, in simple terms.
What Is Unemployment Insurance in Japan?
Unemployment insurance in Japan is a temporary financial support system for people who lose their jobs.
If you become unemployed, this system helps:
Cover basic living costs
Reduce financial stress
Gives you time to look for your next job
Who Can Receive Unemployment Insurance?
To qualify, you generally must meet all of the following conditions:
✔ You were enrolled in unemployment insurance
Most people are enrolled automatically if they:
Worked 20 hours or more per week
Were employed under a proper work contract
✔ You lost your job (or your contract ended)
This includes:
Contract expiration
Layoffs
Company downsizing(Voluntary resignation may still qualify, but with different conditions.)
✔ You are actively looking for work
You must:
Register at Hello Work
Regularly report your job-search activity
How to Apply for Unemployment Insurance
Step 1: Go to Hello Work
Visit your local Hello Work office as soon as possible after leaving your job.
Step 2: Bring the required documents
You’ll usually need:
Documents from your previous employer
Your Residence Card
Your My Number (if you have one)
Bank account details
Step 3: Register and explain your situation
What you must do:
Register as a job seeker
Report why you left your job
Receive guidance on benefits and job searching
Hello Work staff will explain:
When payments start
How much you can receive
What you need to do to continue receiving benefits
Important Things Foreigners Should Know
Unemployment insurance is not permanent,it’s temporary support
You must actively look for work to continue receiving payments
Your visa status still matters, always confirm you can job-hunt legally
Missing Hello Work appointments can cause your payments to stop
If you’re unsure, always ask Hello Work staff directly, they are used to supporting foreign residents.
Final Thoughts
Changing jobs in a foreign country is difficult, but knowing your rights makes a real difference. Unemployment insurance exists to support you during these transition periods. Knowing how the system works and preparing yourself can make this process easier. Unemployment insurance is an essential safety net for anyone working in Japan. By confirming your enrollment status, keeping your employment documents, and understanding how Hello Work operates, you put yourself in a far stronger position if circumstances change.
If this article helped clarify things, feel free to share it with fellow foreign workers in Japan.
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■ About the Author
Andrew Smith
Originally from Louisiana, USA, Smith is an English educator and content creator based in Ehime, Japan. With a background in media production and experience as an NBA digital reporter, he moved to Japan in 2020 driven by his passion for Japanese culture. After four years teaching English across all age groups, he joined Globarx in 2025, where he now leads business English initiatives（Globarx English） and social media outreach for North America.
