Upcoming Changes in Disability Employment Regulations
As of July 2026, the disability employment rate mandated by law in Japan will increase to 2.7%. This change brings with it significant responsibilities for businesses, particularly those with a workforce of 37.5 employees or more. Companies with over 100 employees that do not meet the new quota will be liable for a monthly fee of 50,000 yen for each employee short of compliance, amounting to an annual cost of up to 600,000 yen. The upcoming regulations not only entail financial implications but also necessitate careful planning and compliance measures that could impact company operations.
Impact on Companies with Over 100 Employees
For organizations that exceed 100 employees, understanding the precise counting methodology and compliance strategies becomes crucial. Missteps in calculating the number of eligible employees or misunderstanding the criteria could lead to unanticipated financial burdens. Businesses must start evaluating their employment practices and developing comprehensive strategies to ensure they meet the upcoming quota requirements.
Important Seminar Announcement
To address these changes and assist companies in strategizing, the Clea Human Resource Development Association will host a seminar. The session will take place on January 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Association's headquarters located in Chiyoda, Tokyo. This seminar aims to inform media and journalists on the implications of the new laws and provide valuable insights into practical steps for compliance.
Key Questions Addressed in the Seminar
The seminar will specifically tackle several pressing questions including:
- - When exactly will the 2.7% disability employment rate become effective?
- - How is the threshold of 37.5 employees determined in practice?
- - How are part-time workers and those with severe disabilities counted towards the quota?
- - What is the full financial implication in terms of payment for businesses that fail to meet the employment rate?
- - What benefits can companies receive if they surpass the required employment quota?
- - What practical steps can be taken if immediate recruitment of disabled individuals is not feasible?
- - How can companies effectively utilize vocational transition support offices?
Speaker Profile
The seminar will feature Jun Ono, a certified social insurance labor consultant. He has extensive experience, delivering over 400 training sessions on harassment and labor issues within corporations and educational institutions. Jun is known for his focus on translating legal requirements into actionable practices, making his lectures highly regarded. He also serves as a supervisor and lecturer for the Employment Clean Planner qualification program.
About the Clea Human Resource Development Association
Established in 2023 as a group company of SA, the Clea Human Resource Development Association is dedicated to providing qualifications and training related to employment, labor, and harassment prevention. With over 650 professionals trained in the Employment Clean Planner program, the association is committed to protecting workers and their families while offering education directly applicable to real-world practices. For more information, visit the official website:
Clea Association.