🏦 National Pension Premium Up ¥410/Month

❓ What's changing?

From April 2026, the National Pension premium increases from ¥17,510 to ¥17,920 per month (+¥410). Premiums are adjusted annually based on prices and wages. The full Old-Age Basic Pension also rises to ¥70,608/month. Foreign residents aged 20-59 living in Japan are required to enroll, making this a direct impact.

👥 Who's most affected

• ●Category 1 insured (self-employed, freelancers, students, unemployed)
• ●Foreign students on student visas (student payment deferral available)
• ●Foreigners between jobs or after resignation (switching from company to Category 1)
• ●Former technical interns waiting for Specified Skilled Worker transition

📝 Can't afford premiums?

Low-income individuals can use the "Exemption System" (full, 3/4, half, or 1/4 exemption). Students can defer payments through the "Student Payment Special System." Exemption periods still count toward pension eligibility — always apply. Continued non-payment without applying risks losing disability and survivor pension eligibility.

✈️ Lump-sum withdrawal upon leaving Japan

Foreign nationals leaving Japan can claim a "Lump-Sum Withdrawal Payment" based on their premium payment period (up to 5 years). The claim must be filed within 2 years of departure.