The Shift Towards Mandatory Social Insurance Coverage in Japan: What You Need to Know

The New Era of Social Insurance in Japan

As of 2024, Japan is set to transform its approach to social insurance by mandating inclusion for a broader range of workers. Traditionally, part-time workers have often believed that social insurance does not apply to them, but this notion is about to become obsolete. The upcoming changes will require employers to provide social insurance coverage for part-time staff working 20 hours or more per week, or earning at least 88,000 yen per month.

The impact of this legislation is significant: the requirement will gradually be broadened, extending from companies with 51 or more employees in 2024 to ultimately include all companies by 2035. For businesses, this translates into a new financial obligation, while for employees, it raises concerns about reduced take-home pay and potential shifts in working conditions. Employers must navigate these changes carefully, as mismanagement could lead to labor disputes or the loss of valuable talent.

Seminar Announcement

To address these transformative changes, the Klear Human Resource Development Association will host a seminar titled "Effects of Expanded Social Insurance Coverage and Corporate Preparedness" on July 27, 2025. This session promises invaluable insights for both employers and employees navigating this new landscape. Renowned labor consultant Jun Ono, a special labor and social security attorney with over 400 presentations to his credit, will lead the seminar. His deep expertise in labor law and workplace harassment makes him an essential resource for understanding the practical implications of these changes.

Key Issues to Be Addressed

Participants can expect to gain clarity on several pressing questions:

- Defining the Threshold: How strict is the boundary for the 20 hours per week and 88,000 yen per month criteria?
- Counting Employees: Who qualifies as an employee? Are part-time workers or contracted workers included?
- Special Provisions for Burden Reduction: How much of the insurance premium will be the company's responsibility?
- Handling Concerns: How to respond if employees indicate they would rather quit than enroll in insurance?
- Updating Employment Policies: Examples of how to revise hiring and employment regulations under this new mandate.

Seminar Details

- Date: July 27, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
- Location: Klear HQ, 3-12 Kioicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 6th Floor Kioi Building
- Instructor: Jun Ono, Special Labor and Social Security Attorney and Employment Clean Planner

About the Instructor Jun Ono

Jun Ono is a highly regarded specialist in labor law, particularly in preventing harassment within workplaces. Before the enforcement of the power harassment prevention law, he has already delivered numerous training sessions focused on labor relations, exceeding 400 engagements. His lectures are well-acknowledged for their practicality, emphasizing the application of laws in a real-world context. Ono also supervises and instructs the Employment Clean Planner qualification, which trains individuals in harassment prevention and response techniques.

Employment Clean Planner Certification

This certification focuses on providing practical training for harassment prevention and response mechanisms suitable for workplaces. Over 650 individuals across Japan have acquired this qualification and apply their skills in various sectors, including businesses, local government, and educational institutions.
For more information on the qualification, check out here.

Media Inquiries

We invite media professionals to arrange interviews with Jun Ono or request expert comments on social insurance and harassment laws. We are open to accommodating various media formats and special features.