Pension (Nenkin)

年金 · Nenkin

Kokumin vs kosei pension, what you pay, and getting contributions back when you leave.

CODE: TAX-NENKIN

SYSTEM TWO-TRACK

EMPLOYEE RATE 18.3% SPLIT

NATIONAL FLAT ≈¥17K / MO*

QUALIFICATION 10 YEARS

BUREAUCRACY FRICTION

Documentation rigor 3 / 5 (MODERATE)

Processing wait 2 / 5 (LOW)

Interview demand 1 / 5 (LOW)

Cost burden 1 / 5 (LOW)

Enrollment is automatic via an employer or ten minutes at city hall. The complexity is exemptions — and the exit refund.

Mandatory Submission Pack

Verify each asset before the immigration desk sees it.

0 OF 4 PACKED

Enroll Within 14 Days REQUIRED Employees join kosei nenkin via the company. Quitters, freelancers, and students join kokumin nenkin at city hall.
Read the Nenkin Teikibin YEARLY The annual pension statement (ねんきん定期便) shows paid months and projected benefits — check it actually arrives.
Students + Low Income: Exemptions SAVE MONEY Menjo (exemption) and student deferral keep your record alive without payment. Skipping silently does not.
Leaving Japan: Lump-Sum Withdrawal ON EXIT Dattai ichijikin (脱退一時金) refunds up to 60 months of contributions, minus ~20% withholding. Claim within 2 years of exit.

General information only — immigration rules change and cases vary. Confirm with the Immigration Services Agency or a registered specialist before acting.