Yokohama

1. Overview of Japan’s Social Security System

Japan’s social security system is designed to provide support for residents in areas such as healthcare, pensions, unemployment, and welfare. It is mandatory for all residents, including foreign nationals living in Japan for more than three months, to enroll in certain programs. The system is divided into:

• Health Insurance (Kenko Hoken): Covers medical expenses.
• National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin): Provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.
• Unemployment Insurance (Koyo Hoken): Offers financial support for those who lose their jobs.
• Welfare Assistance (Seikatsu Hogo): For individuals or families in financial distress.

Yokohama, as part of Kanagawa Prefecture, follows the national system but has local offices and resources to assist residents.

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2. Eligibility

Eligibility for social security programs in Yokohama depends on your residency status and employment situation:

• Health Insurance: All residents, including foreign nationals staying in Japan for more than three months, must enroll in either the National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employees’ Health Insurance (EHI) if employed.
• National Pension: All residents aged 20–59 must enroll in the National Pension system unless they are covered by an employer’s pension plan.
• Unemployment Insurance: Available to those employed in Japan and whose employer contributes to the system.
• Welfare Assistance: Available to residents who meet specific income and asset criteria.

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3. Enrollment Process

The enrollment process varies depending on the type of social security program. Below are the steps for each:

A. Health Insurance

1. National Health Insurance (NHI):

   • Required for self-employed individuals, students, part-time workers, and those not covered by employer insurance.
   • Enroll at your local ward office (区役所, kuyakusho) in Yokohama.
   • Enrollment is typically done when you register your residence in Japan.

2. Employees’ Health Insurance (EHI):

   • If you are employed full-time, your employer will handle the enrollment process.

B. National Pension

• If you are self-employed, unemployed, or a student, you must enroll in the National Pension system at your local ward office.
• If you are employed, your employer will enroll you in the Employees’ Pension Insurance (EPI), which includes contributions to the National Pension.

C. Unemployment Insurance

• Enrollment is automatic if you are employed and meet the eligibility criteria. Your employer will handle the process.

D. Welfare Assistance

• Apply at the welfare division of your local ward office. You will need to provide detailed information about your financial situation.

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4. Required Documentation

When enrolling in social security programs in Yokohama, you will need the following documents:

• Residence Card (在留カード, Zairyu Card): Proof of your legal residency in Japan.
• My Number Card (マイナンバーカード): Japan’s social security and tax identification number.
• Passport: For identity verification.
• Certificate of Residence (住民票, Juminhyo): Obtainable from your local ward office.
• Employment Contract: If enrolling in employer-based programs.
• Bank Account Information: For payment of contributions or receipt of benefits.
• Income Proof: For welfare assistance applications.

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5. Associated Costs or Contributions

Social security contributions in Japan are mandatory and calculated based on your income. Here’s a breakdown:

A. Health Insurance

• National Health Insurance (NHI): Premiums are calculated based on your income and assets. For low-income earners, subsidies may be available.
• Employees’ Health Insurance (EHI): Contributions are shared between you and your employer, typically around 10% of your salary (split equally).

B. National Pension

• The monthly contribution for the National Pension is a flat rate (as of 2023, ¥16,520 per month). Students and low-income earners can apply for exemptions or reductions.

C. Unemployment Insurance

• Contributions are deducted from your salary, typically around 0.6% of your gross income.

D. Welfare Assistance

• Welfare benefits are free, but eligibility is strictly assessed based on your financial situation.

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6. Local Offices and Assistance in Yokohama

Yokohama has several ward offices and specialized centers to assist residents with social security matters. Here are key locations:

A. Ward Offices (区役所, Kuyakusho)

Each ward in Yokohama has its own office where you can handle social security enrollment and inquiries. Major ward offices include:

• Naka Ward Office (中区役所): Central Yokohama.
• Kanagawa Ward Office (神奈川区役所): Northern Yokohama.
• Minami Ward Office (南区役所): Southern Yokohama.

B. Yokohama Pension Office (横浜年金事務所)

• Address: 1-1-2 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama.
• Services: Assistance with pension enrollment, contributions, and benefits.

C. Hello Work Yokohama (ハローワーク横浜)

• Address: 1-4-1 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama.
• Services: Unemployment insurance claims, job placement, and career counseling.

D. Welfare Division (福祉課, Fukushi-ka)

• Located within each ward office, this division handles welfare assistance applications.

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7. Important Considerations

• Language Barrier: Most forms and procedures are in Japanese. Consider bringing a Japanese-speaking friend or hiring a translator if needed.
• Deadlines: Enroll in health insurance and pension programs within 14 days of moving to Yokohama or starting a new job.
• My Number System: Ensure you have your My Number card, as it is essential for all social security-related processes.
• Exemptions and Subsidies: If you are a student or have a low income, inquire about exemptions or reductions for pension and health insurance contributions.

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8. Additional Resources

• Yokohama City Official Website: https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp (Available in multiple languages).
• Japan Pension Service: https://www.nenkin.go.jp (For pension-related information).
• Hello Work Japan: https://www.hellowork.mhlw.go.jp (For unemployment and job assistance).

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By following this guide, you should be able to navigate the social security system in Yokohama with confidence. If you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to visit your local ward office or contact the relevant agencies.