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International Social Security Agreements |
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Social security agreements were already in effect for Germany, UK, Korea, USA, Belgium, and France. A new social security agreement went into effect with Canada this March, however, the agreement only covers pensions. |
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Enforcement of Employment Contract Law |
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The Employment Contract Law (the "Law"), which provides rules regarding employment contracts, was enacted and became effective as of March 1, 2008. This new law is based on the principle of fairness and transparency for employment. This law was enacted to ensure agreement between the employee and employer and minimize conflicts. Additional care must be taken in drafting employment contracts. |
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International Social Security Agreements |
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An amended law provides for the prevention of discriminatory treatment between part-time workers and full-time salaried workers. (The provision, however, applies only to those part-time workers whose "contents of work and the responsibilities involved" are the same with those of regular workers and who "have concluded labor contracts without fixed terms.")
In addition, "while paying attention to maintaining balance with regular workers", the amended law requires the employer to endeavor in improving part-time workers’ wage and implementing education and training. The employment conditions for part-time workers should be clearly written on the contract, such as clauses for salary increases, severance payments, and bonuses. |
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Health Care System For The Elderly |
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From April 1, 2008, the Health Care System for the elderly has shifted to a new system. Individual 75 years and older will now participate in the New Health Care System for the Elderly, and accordingly move away from the traditional government health insurance system, national health insurance, and/or health insurance union. The new insurance card will be issued from the municipal office where the individual resides. Insurance premiums are determined primarily based on income and head count. The maximum annual insurance premium is ￥500,000. The premium will be withheld from the elderly's bi-monthly pension. |
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