Disclaimer: Since official English terms and translations are rarely fixed or agreed upon across sources and documents and some may even overlap in translation, it is best to learn and use the Japanese terms when referring to each topic and to keep the English terms in mind simply for your own reference.
Motherhood is a tough job, but it’s even harder when you potentially lose income for taking extended time off work. However, there are benefits available to working moms expecting a new baby. So what types of support are available to women on maternity leave in Japan?
In this guide, we’ll take a look at what maternity leave is, the benefits available for expectant mothers, and how to apply for them.
For information on childcare leave, check out our guide here.
To learn more about the other types of leave and holidays, check out our guide here.
Table of Contents
Maternity Leave 産休
The sanzen sango kyūgyō（産前産後休業）has two parts:
- The first is the prenatal period. For single births, this is the 6-week (42 days) period before the expected date of birth. For multiple births (e.g. twins), however, the prenatal period will be 14 weeks (98 days) instead.
- The second is the postnatal period. This is the 8-week (56 days) period after the date of birth.
If the date of birth is delayed, then the delay will be added to the prenatal part of maternity leave. Otherwise, the postnatal period is the 8-week period after birth.
Can I take maternity leave?
The right to take maternity leave is protected under Japanese law and available to all working mothers, regardless of whether they are full- or part-time workers. Mothers (and fathers) are also protected against unfair treatment by their employers for requesting or taking maternity or childcare leave (for more information see the Revised Child and Family Care Leaves Act and Equal Employment Opportunities Act). This includes mothers who choose to give birth overseas.
Can I work during maternity leave?
While some new moms stay home to take care of their babies, other new moms might want to return to work or work part-time while on maternity leave. There is no law prohibiting this, but it’s best to consult your company on whether they would be willing to let you work during this period or if you are allowed to take up a temporary/part-time job while you are on maternity leave.
Maternity Leave Benefits in Japan
Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum 出産育児一時金
All expectant mothers are entitled to a one-time lump sum for childbirth called shussan ikuji ichijikin（出産育児一時金）regardless of their health insurance coverage (i.e. with employer-based insurance, non-employer-based, or dependent under their spouse). The lump sum amount will depend on the medical institution where you give birth. If the medical institution is a member of the Japan Obstetric Compensation System（産科医療補償制度）, the lump sum amount is ¥420,000. If it isn’t, the lump sum amount will be ¥404,000; this includes hospitals outside of Japan. For multiple births, the lump sum will be paid for each child.
This lump sum is provided by the Japan Health Insurance Association（全国健康保険協会・協会けんぽ）to help cover the cost of giving birth. Expecting mothers can apply for the lump sum in two ways.
- The mother can apply for the lump sum to be paid directly to the medical institution where she gives birth.
- In this case, if the amount was paid directly to the medical institution but the cost of giving birth was less than the lump sum amount, the mother can apply to receive the remaining amount.
- The mother can apply to directly receive the lump sum if the medical expenses were already paid beforehand.
Each method has a different application process. Please keep in mind that you will need to submit different forms and documents for each one. For example, if you give birth overseas, you will need to submit a Japanese translation of documents certifying the birth of your child to apply for the maternity leave allowance.
Maternity Leave Allowance 出産手当金
An additional allowance called shussan teatekin（出産手当金）will also be provided to the mother if she has employer-based insurance or koyō hoken (see our social insurance guide for more information). The amount the mother will receive is 2/3 of her average salary. This allowance also has two parts (prenatal and postnatal) which can be received separately or together.
Mothers who are dependents under their spouse’s health insurance or are enrolled in non-employer-based insurance (NHI) will still receive the childbirth and childcare lump sum, but not the maternity leave allowance.
Additionally, the employer is not required to pay any portion of the employee’s salary during this time. If the employer chooses to pay any amount of salary, the amount of maternity leave allowance the employee receives will decrease accordingly.
In addition, if the employee receives a salary (even if it’s only a portion) it will be subject to tax as normal.
If the actual date of birth is later than expected, the allowance will cover the delay period as well. For example, if the mother receives her full salary during her leave period, she will no longer receive maternity leave allowance since it only covers up to 2/3 of her average salary.
If a mother decides to resign from her company during maternity leave, she can still receive maternity allowance as long as she satisfies the following conditions:
- The mother resigns within 42 days of giving birth.
- The mother is not working on the date of her resignation (including a new job at a different company).
- She was enrolled in shakai hoken for at least 1 year by the time she resigned.
- She was already receiving maternity leave allowance or was qualified to receive the allowance when she resigned.
How to Apply
Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum 出産育児一時金
There are two ways for mothers to apply for the shussan ikuji ichijikin lump sum:
- For direct payment, the expectant mother will need to apply through the medical institution where she will give birth. The medical institution will then submit the application to the insurer for payment. However, not all medical institutions use this method, so it’s important to check with your preferred institution beforehand.
- If the cost of childbirth is less than the lump sum amount, the mother may claim the difference by submitting the childbirth and childcare lump sum internal payment request / balance application（健康保険出産育児一時金内払金支払依頼書・差額申請書）to the Japan Health Insurance Association. The application form will be sent around 3 months after childbirth.
- If the hospital fees are paid out of pocket, the mother may claim the remaining amount of the allowance by submitting the childbirth and childcare lump sum payment application（健康保険出産育児一時金支給申請書）to the Japan Health Insurance Association.
Maternity Leave Allowance 出産手当金
This allowance can be received by submitting an application to the health insurance society your company belongs to, also called kenkōhoken kumiai（健康保険組合）in Japanese. Alternatively, you could submit it to the Japan Health Insurance Association. This process is usually done by your employer, but you can also do it yourself if you prefer. It’s best to check with your company’s HR department to know which process your company follows and where the application should be submitted.
Also, you can either apply for the prenatal and postnatal portions separately or apply for both at the same time at the end of your maternity leave. Some women prefer to do the latter as the application requires documents from your employer.
If you run into any problems when applying for maternity leave, you can visit the Employment / Equal Opportunity Division (Office), Municipal Labour Bureau Hours: 8:30-17:15 (closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, end of year and the New Year). However, please bring someone who can speak Japanese if you do.
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Glossary
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Maternity Leave | 産休・産前産後休業 | sankyū・sanzen sango kyūgyō |
| Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum | 出産育児一時金 | shussan ikuji ichijikin |
| Maternity Leave Allowance | 出産手当金 | shussan teatekin |
| Japan Health Insurance Association | 全国健康保険協会・協会けんぽ | zenkoku kenkō hoken kyōkai・kyōkai kenpo |
| Health Insurance Society | 健康保険組合 | kenkō hoken kumiai |
| Japan Obstetric Compensation System | 産科医療補償制度 | sanka iryō hoshō seido |
| Application for Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum Payment | 健康保険出産育児一時金支給申請書 | kenkō hoken shussan ikuji ichijikin shikyū shinseisho |
| Application for Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum Internal Payment Request / Balance | 健康保険出産育児一時金内払金支払依頼書・差額申請書 | kenkō hoken shussan ikuji ichijikin uchibaraikin shiharai iraisho sagaku・shinseisho |
References
The list below should only be used as a guide to help answer additional questions you may have. In addition, the information provided in this guide should not be taken as legal advice. It is best to cross-reference with official channels such as your local city hall and official government websites.
*These websites are in Japanese so we recommend you view them on Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge with a translation add-on.
Government Websites
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/file/06-Seisakujouhou-11900000-Koyoukintoujidoukateikyoku/0000169713.pdf
Information on maternity leave and childcare leave
https://www.bosei-navi.mhlw.go.jp/ninshin/sanzen_sango.html
1. Early pregnancy, mid-pregnancy
2. Maternity leave and childcare leave
3. Requirements and procedures for taking childcare leave
4. Taking care of your child after returning to work
5. Overtime, holiday work, restrictions on late night work, modified hours, and hazardous work
6. Case study examples
https://www.kyoukaikenpo.or.jp/g6/cat620/r311/
Frequently asked questions about maternity leave
https://www.kyoukaikenpo.or.jp/g3/cat315/sb3080/r145/
Application for Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum Payment
Application for Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum Internal Payment Request / Balance
Required documents, an example form, and conditions for receiving payment
The Japan Obstetric Compensation System and Childbirth Loan System
https://www.kyoukaikenpo.or.jp/g2/cat230/r125/
Application for Maternity Leave Allowance Payment
Required documents, an example form, and conditions for receiving payment
https://www.kyoukaikenpo.or.jp/g6/cat620/r310/
Frequently asked questions about the childbirth and childcare lump sum
https://www.nenkin.go.jp/service/kokunen/menjo/20180810.html
National Pension Insured Person’s Notification Form
(to apply for exemption from paying nenkin)
Applying for an exemption from paying nenkin before and after childbirth
HR Websites
https://www.roudou.net/ki_sanikukaigo.htm
What is maternity leave?
How to apply for childcare leave before or during maternity leave
https://money.rakuten.co.jp/woman/article/2019/article_0345/
Childcare and long-term care leave laws in Japan
Information for fathers
https://money.rakuten.co.jp/woman/article/2019/article_0314/
What is maternity leave and how long is it?
Can I apply? How do I apply?
How much money can I receive (childbirth and childcare lump sum, maternity allowance, insurance and pension exemption, childcare leave benefits)?
What if I change jobs/am on a fixed-term contract?
https://money.rakuten.co.jp/woman/article/2018/article_0113/
Childcare leave benefits for mothers and fathers
Support for when childcare leave has ended
https://money.rakuten.co.jp/woman/article/2018/article_0095/
Maternity leave allowance (eligibility and amount)
How long can I claim maternity leave allowance?
When can I receive it and how do I apply?
https://money.rakuten.co.jp/woman/article/2018/article_0054/
How much is the childbirth and childcare lump sum?
Maternity leave allowance (eligibility and amount)
Childcare leave benefits and how much you can receive (upper limit)
What happens if I quit/lose my job?
Cesarean birth and things to be aware of
Maternity leave and childcare leave for part-time workers.
Childcare leave for men
What is matahara (maternity harassment)? Know your rights.
https://keisan.casio.jp/exec/system/1528684593
Online calculator for maternity leave allowance, childbirth and childcare lump sum, and childcare leave allowance
To use, enter the expected date of birth, the number of expected births, and your monthly salary.
https://www.rakuten-insurance.co.jp/media/article/2019/068/
Financial assistance during pregnancy
Maternity leave allowance and childbirth and childcare lump sum amount
Childcare leave benefits and subsidies
Tax, social security exemptions, children’s allowance
https://nao-netbusiness.com/maternity-allowance/
Conditions for receiving maternity leave allowance, when to apply, and when to expect the payment
Average cost of pregnancy and normal childbirth in Japan
Featured image by Sincerely Media on Unsplash
76 Comments
I’m a regular employee in Tokyo japan for 5 years,
I want to know if I can spend my maternity leave In my country (outside japan)will I also have same benefits for those who give birth in japan?
Actually, my husband is a Japanese.
My second questions is, if I report my child birth in the japan embassy in my country, can I also apply the maternity leave benefits in japan Embassy to be send in the city hall where I am reside in japan?
Hello Girly, thank you very much for the question.
You are still qualified to receive the childbirth and childcare lump sum even if you give birth overseas. However, since hospitals overseas are not part of the direct payment scheme, you will need to cover the costs before applying for the lump sum.
If you meet the requirement to receive maternity leave allowance (i.e. you are enrolled in shakai hoken), then you can apply for it as well. However, please note that either you or your employer will be the one to apply for it, not the Japanese embassy. Also, you will need documents from your employer and additional documents because you’re giving birth overseas (i.e. Japanese translations of documents certifying the birth) to apply for the maternity leave allowance.
In addition, both the lump sum and allowance will only be paid to a Japanese bank account.
Please refer to this webpage https://media.o-sr.co.jp/question/question-26663/ for more information. We also highly encourage you to consult with your company’s HR department.
Kokumin hoken can I apply a , maternity leave.
Hi Zenaida, thank you for your question.
Yes, you are able to apply for maternity leave under kokumin kenkō hoken. You can also apply for the childbirth and childcare lumpsum. However, the maternity leave allowance is not available to those under kokumin kenkō hoken.
We hope this helps!
How to apply. Maternity leave.
Childbirth and childcare lump sum. How many months to receive a pay. Pls give me example
Hi Zenaida.
Our apologies for the late reply. To apply for Maternity Leave, please speak with your employer.
To apply for the Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum, please see this section of the guide: https://thetokyolife.jp/maternity-leave-japan/#apply
How much you receive and when you receive it will depend on which method you use when applying for the lump sum. The lump sum is either ¥420,000 or ¥404,000 depending on where you give birth.
We hope this helps!
Thank you for your advice.
Yes, I am enrolled in Shakai Hoken.
If the process of receiving maternity leave financial benefits is from shakai hoken to my japan bank , can my company receive that financial support in behalf of me , then can they send the money to my bank account (outside japan) ?
I have a follow up question, if I resign during my maternity leave will it affect the maternity leave benefits?
Hi Girly, we’re glad to help!
With regards to receiving the maternity leave allowance, you need to provide a bank account in your name in the application. Therefore, your company cannot receive it on your behalf.
Yes, you may still receive the maternity leave allowance after resigning from your company. However, to qualify, you need to satisfy the following conditions:
1. You resign within 42 days of giving birth.
2. You are not working on the date of your resignation (including new employment at a different company).
3. You were enrolled in shakai hoken for at least 1 year by the time you resign.
4. You are already receiving maternity leave allowance or are qualified to receive the allowance when you resign.
Given the above, it is suggested that you resign during maternity leave but AFTER you have started receiving the maternity leave allowance.
For more details please refer to this website: https://mamari.jp/13149 (Japanese).
Hello! Is it possible to work some days while on maternity leave in Japan? Thank you ^^
Hi Kate, thank you very much for the question.
The right to take maternity leave is protected under Japanese law and companies therefore respect that you need this time to look after your newborn child.
However, there is no law prohibiting you from working while you are on maternity leave. With that said, please consult your company on whether they would be willing to let you work during this period or if you are allowed to take up a temporary/part-time job while you are on maternity leave.
For more information, please refer to this blog post: https://premama-blog.com/working-from-home/ (Japanese).
We hope this helps!
Good day,
Thank you for your insight. It it very helpful.
I have follow up questions.
1. Is the prenatal 6 weeks and postnatal 8 weeks is paid or not? If it paid how much can I expect?
2. After giving birth to a child ,how long is the process , how long I should wait to receive the maternity leave financial benefits ?
3. If My monthly salary is 250,000 yen before taxes, and it will become 200,000 yen after taxes how much is my maternity leave financial benefits?
Hi Girly, we hope you had a good winter break!
As stated in the guide, whether or not you receive a salary during maternity leave will depend on your employer’s own policies since Japanese companies are not required to pay you a salary during maternity leave.
Normally, the maternity leave allowance is 2/3 of your daily wage (calculated as your monthly salary / 30 days) multiplied by the number of days you are on maternity leave. Maternity leave includes any delays to the actual date of birth (from the estimated date of birth on your application for maternity leave allowance) .
Additionally, if your employer decides to pay any portion of your salary while you are on leave, the amount of maternity leave allowance you receive will decrease accordingly. This is because the allowance is only up to 2/3 of your normal salary. Moreover, while the maternity leave allowance is tax-exempt, any salary you receive during maternity leave is subject to taxation as normal.
Unfortunately, we cannot provide an estimate for how long the application process takes since it will depend on who does the application (you vs your employer) and how soon the required documents are submitted to the appropriate office.
We hope this helps!
Hello,
I just want to clarify which insurance injapan can have a maternity leave/allowance? Ty
Hi Aish, thank you for the question.
To receive the maternity leave allowance, you need to be enrolled in your company’s shakai hoken. You cannot receive the maternity leave allowance if you are a dependent under your spouse’s shakai hoken or enrolled in kokumin kenko hoken (National Health Insurance).
We hope this helps clarify things!
Good day!
I just wanted to ask regarding on the salary that you will receive during maternity leave?
My maternity leave starts last year september 22, 2020 and i gave birth october 22, 2020. I worked for about 32weeks as what my company advised me to be able to receive monthly salary. I haven’t receive anything yet from shakai hoken as what my company told me that the said shakai hoken will provide the salary. Though i receive a hagaki today from kenko hoken. I just wanted to ask & clarify if that kenko hoken is the shakai hoken that the company told me? Thank you very much. Hoping for your response. Godbless.
Hi Bel, thank you for your question.
Yes, kenkō hoken (健康保険) is indeed the health insurance part of shakai hoken (社会保険).
We hope this helps clarify things!
Is that true that in Tokyo their will be additional 100,000円 will be given to child birth?
Is this cash or coupon?
Hi Girly.
With regards to this aid amount, it is still only a proposal that needs to be brought to the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly. Please wait until an official decision is made (whether the proposal is approved or rejected) and published on a reliable news source. we will also follow this news though. Thank you!
We hope this helps!
I’ve been working for my company a year now and in good standing with shakai hoken. My contract ends in August, and I can continue to work with another contract offer. However, as I start a pregnancy I don’t want to continue working full time, I would like to change to part time in my renewed contract. My company has said they support maternity leave and would help w paperwork. My question is, do I still qualify for Maternity Leave Allowance (would like coverage until my baby is 1 years old) as a part time worker?? Please help! An email back is fine or a link where I can find this information would be appreciated!!
Thank you!!!!
Hi Expecting Mama. Thank you very much for the question!
We apologize for the delayed response.
Eligibility to receive the maternity leave allowance depends on your health insurance. That is, since maternity leave allowance is only available under shakai hoken, as long as you are still enrolled in your company’s shakai hoken under your new contract, you can still receive the allowance.
Please be advised, however, that since the amount you are eligible to receive depends on your salary, you will receive a lower amount on a part-time contract compared to a full-time contract. In addition, the maternity leave allowance only covers the 14-week period of maternity leave. From there, you will need to apply for childcare leave which you can receive until your child turns 1 year old.
For more information on childcare leave, please see our separate guide: https://thetokyolife.jp/childcare-leave-and-benefits-in-japan/
We hope this helps!
I have a question regarding with june and December bonus. Is if am under maternity leave can i still receive the june and December bonus as i am a regular employee in tokyo?
I give birth in November 21 n I’m in maternity leave n papers works are help by company but paper work r return back due to mistake in noticeThey said fill the wages up to 2021 Jan last But I don’t receive any salary from 10/13 n how can I fill that paperwork up to 2021/1/31 so that I post without fill up the paper but again it return back I’m felling confused shall I get some salary from company up to 2021/1/31 please help me reply me
Hi Rupa. Thank you for the question.
We’re sorry to hear about your current situation. Please let us know if we understand this correctly. You took maternity leave in October 2020, gave birth in November 2020, and now you’re applying for your maternity leave allowance is that correct?
The reason why they need you to fill in wages from October 2020 to January 2021 is because some companies pay salary during maternity leave. Since maternity leave allowance is based on your salary, you need to write if you received any salary from October 2020 to January 2021. However, since you already said that you did not receive any salary from October 2020 to January 2021, simply write the amount as ¥0 when you submit the application again.
We hope this helps!
Are you a regular employee??
I am also interested , if during maternity leave you can receive the December bonus？did you received a regular December bonus or lesser amount?
Hi Shika. We apologize for the delay in answering your question.
Since bonuses are counted as part of your salary, you can receive one if your employer decides to pay your salary while you are on maternity leave. This is not required by law, however, since the maternity leave allowance usually acts as the income source for mothers who are on maternity leave. The amount of bonus you receive will depend on your contract with the company, again if they decide to pay your salary while you are on maternity leave.
We hope this helps!
Hi Lyon,
My wife gave birth to our son at the beginning of January and we will be leaving for HK in mid April as I have a new job there. We have been advised that the maternity leave allowance for the period up to and after the birth (up to 14 weeks) will be paid in either mid or late April. When do you recommend my wife resign from her role? We were originally planning on doing it after receiving the maternity payment (we hoped it would be paid in March) however this might not now be possible because of timings. My wife has been paying social insurance for over a year and so she is entitled to the maternity payments. We just want to make sure we don’t do anything that means we forfeit them!
Thanks for your help
Hi MLH. Thank you for your question.
There are a few stipulations for eligibility to receive the maternity leave allowance.
1. Your wife resigns within 42 days of giving birth.
2. Your wife is not working on the date of her resignation (including new employment at a different company).
3. You wife was enrolled in shakai hoken for at least 1 year by the time she resigns.
4. You wife was already receiving maternity leave allowance or is qualified to receive the allowance when she resigns.
As you mentioned, your wife is already qualified (4) because she satisfies the requirement (3). Given the nature of your plans for April, working on her resignation date (2) seems to be out of the question as well. With that said, the only concern will be the timeline of your wife’s resignation (1). Please consult her company regarding this.
In addition, a Japanese bank account in your wife’s name is required to receive the maternity leave allowance. Your wife may retain her bank account after leaving Japan so we highly recommended that you look into options for online banking that allow you to remit the amount to a Hong Kong bank account.
We hope this helps clarify things for you and your wife!
Thank you for coming back – appreciate the guidance. It all seems clear that we are eligible except for point 1) as my child is 8wks old now. My wife will talk to her company this week. It seems a bit strange that the earlier you resign post birth the better? Maybe we ask her firm to push through the maternity pay at an earlier date so we receive it before we leave for HK. Do you have any point of reference for the 42 day rule please?
Thanks again
Hi MLH.
Please refer to the following link. It’s in Japanese but it contains a lot of relevant information for mothers who are resigning from their companies but wish to claim their maternity leave allowance.
https://mamari.jp/13149
We hope this helps!
Hi there,
I just found out that I’m pregnant now, and I’m planning to give birth in my own country (outside Japan) without resigning from my current company. I have a working visa, but my visa is only until January 2022, and from that time I might still be in my country. Can I renew my visa before going home? Moreover, based on what I read, I’m still eligible for the childcare benefits/lump sum even I give birth outside Japan. My question is, should I apply for it after giving birth or before going back to my county? Do I need to be physically present here in Japan for the application and before I will receive the lump sum? Or they will just send it to my Japan bank acct? Also, I want to know if I can use the maternity leave benefit earlier? Like 6-7 months of pregnancy? Hope you could help me. Thank you.
Hi Nur Jannah. Thank you for your question.
Usually, a person can apply for visa renewal up to 3 months before the expiration of their current visa. However, if it is impossible to renew your visa because of something like an extended stay abroad (like a business trip), you may be allowed to apply earlier than 3 months from the expiration of your current visa. With regards to your situation, please consult your company and the immigration office to confirm whether or not you will be allowed to do this, especially since your company will always need to provide certain documents for a visa renewal application such as your work contract.
Maternity leave can only be taken from 6 weeks before your expected due date (14 weeks if you are having twins or more). Your company should apply for the maternity leave allowance on your behalf and you may still receive it even if you are overseas, however, it will be paid to your account in Japan and not to a local bank in your country.
Since you will be giving birth outside of Japan, you can only apply for the childbirth and childcare lump sum after giving birth. This is because you need documents from the hospital (receipt of childbirth costs and proof of childbirth) in order to apply for the lump sum. Please consult your local ward office to confirm how you may apply for and receive the childbirth and childcare leave lump sum.
We hope this helps!
Hello,
I have been on childcare leave for the last 10 months. I am planning on returning to work in two months and have already signed a contract. But I am having family issues and am thinking of canceling my contract and returning to my home country. Will I be legally required to pay back the maternity and child care leave if I don’t return back to work?
Hi Amel. Thank you for your question.
If you decide to resign during childcare leave, you will no longer be eligible to receive payments scheduled after your resignation date. However, you do not have to refund any of the payments you have received up to that point.
Since the period of maternity leave has already passed and you have already received the maternity leave allowance, there should be no problem. You do not have to refund this either.
We hope this helps!
Hello I have some concern regarding with the maternity benefit here in Japan. I’m 8months pregnant now. I worked for 4months when I got pregnant under shakai hoken and then decided to resign in my company. I would like to ask some help if it is still possible for me to avail the maternity benefit even if I worked only for 4months? I’m currently under the Health insurance of my husband now .
Hi Eljean. Thank you for your question.
Unfortunately, as mentioned in our article, you must currently be enrolled in shakai hoken or have been enrolled in shakai hoken for at least 1 year to be eligible to receive the maternity leave allowance. You are still eligible to receive the childbirth and childcare leave allowance though. To receive the childbirth and childcare leave allowance, please coordinate with the hospital where you will give birth.
We hope this helps!
Hello, I, gave birth overseas last January 11 and came back to my work after I finished my maternity leave. I, submitted the necessary documents to my HR last March 15. I, would like to ask if how long does it take to process my maternity benefits. Does anyone know? Because l, am thinking maybe there is a lacking document that until now I, don’t hear or see any progress.
Hi Erine.
Maternity leave allowance is usually paid 1 month after maternity leave ends, provided an application was submitted immediately. Please ask your employer about the status of your application, particularly to confirm if the kyōkai kenpo has received your application.
For more information, please refer to this link: https://money.rakuten.co.jp/woman/article/2018/article_0095/
We hope this helps!
I just started a job in February (part time ) and full time in May. I found out I was pregnant in April ( I literally took in when I started the job in late February)
I’m on the social insurance. As it stands, I would have to take maternity leave from October as I’m due mid -November.
Here’s my question. I haven’t informed my boss yet about my pregnancy. Also my contract is 1year contract to end in April.
I’m really curious to know where I stand? What’s the consequence of informing my boss late? What are the chances of my contract not renewed?
Thank you
Hi Bella. Thank you for your question.
Of course, informing your employer as soon as possible is important, but rest assured that your right to take maternity leave is protected by law. This includes actions taken against you for taking maternity leave such as terminating your employment on the basis of your pregnancy or anything that would negatively affect your workplace environment. Informing your employer as soon as you can about your plans is the most sensible thing to do for now.
If you run into any problems, we strongly recommend consulting a labor lawyer for proper legal advice. You can also visit the Employment / Equal Opportunity Division (Office), Municipal Labour Bureau Hours: 8:30-17:15 (closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, end of year and the New Year). However, please bring someone who can speak Japanese if you do.
We hope this helps!
I gave birth here in japan last april and i ‘m on maternity leave now i have my own shakai hoken and i have also contract to my company until now
When can i receive my maternity allowance ? I gave birth april 1 ,2021
And can i still receive bonus this july and dec from my company ? Thank you
Hi Ericel.
Maternity leave allowance is usually paid 1 month after maternity leave ends, provided an application was submitted immediately. Please ask your employer about the status of your application, particularly to confirm if the kyōkai kenpo has received your application.
Please refer to your contract to know the specific conditions for receiving the July and December bonus. If you are supposed to receive a bonus in July and December, taking maternity leave should not affect that. Your company cannot and should not take any actions against you for taking maternity leave.
For more information, please refer to this pdf copy of the Revised Child and Family Care Leaves Act and Equal Employment Opportunities Act:
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/children/work-family/dl/160802-01e.pdf (English)
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/children/work-family/dl/160802-01j.pdf (Japanese)
You can also visit the Employment / Equal Opportunity Division (Office), Municipal Labour Bureau Hours: 8:30-17:15 (closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, end of year and the New Year). However, please bring someone who can speak Japanese if you do.
We hope this helps!
Hi! Is it true that you have to be enrolled in shakai hoken for at least a year so that you can be eligible for maternity leave and the 1 year or 1.5 years childcare leave? I gave birth in Japan 5 years ago and pregnant again now. At that time, I was only working with them for 11 months that’s why they said I’m not eligible for the childcare leave which supposed to pay me 60% of my monthly salary for 1-1.5 years.
I just started at my new job 4 months ago and I haven’t been making 120 hours a month so they asked me either I add hours or quit shakai hoken. But I just found out that I’m pregnant. I’m confused of what to do. Do I quit the shakai hoken and get the kokuminken hoken? Which will benefit me more? But continuing shakai hoken wouldn’t be worth it if there’s this “you supposed to be working for at least a year” rule.
I hope you can help me asap. I need to make a decision asap. Thank you.
Hi Christine.
Unfortunately, you have to be enrolled in shakai hoken to be eligible to receive maternity leave allowance, as stated in our article. It is NOT necessary for you to be enrolled in shakai hoken for 1 year to take maternity leave or receive maternity leave allowance. Your right to this type of leave is protected by law and your company is not allowed to harass, penalize, or otherwise negatively affect your workplace environment simply because you are pregnant and want to take maternity leave.
For more information, please refer to this pdf copy of the Revised Child and Family Care Leaves Act and Equal Employment Opportunities Act:
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/children/work-family/dl/160802-01e.pdf (English)
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/children/work-family/dl/160802-01j.pdf (Japanese)
You can also visit the Employment / Equal Opportunity Division (Office), Municipal Labour Bureau Hours: 8:30-17:15 (closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, end of year and the New Year). However, please bring someone who can speak Japanese if you do.
We hope this helps you.
i gave birth on october 13, but I will end my 3 years contract on work july 31.they will confiscate may health insurance.it is possible to apply a maternity allowance. before i end my contract 11 weeks before i gave birth.
Hi Sylvia.
Unfortunately, it sounds like you plan on resigning on July 31, 2021, but you won’t be giving birth until October 13, 2021. Maternity leave starts 6 weeks before giving birth (please refer to https://thetokyolife.jp/maternity-leave-japan/#maternity-leave) . To receive maternity leave allowance, you need to be on maternity leave.
You will not qualify for maternity leave if you resign 11 months before giving birth, and since you won’t be on maternity leave, you cannot receive maternity leave allowance.
Please refer to this comment to see if you are eligible to receive maternity leave allowance after resigning.
https://thetokyolife.jp/maternity-leave-japan/#comment-188
We hope this helps!
Good day, my sister is now 5 months pregnant, before she was haken shain for three years, and enrolled in shakai hoken for three years.
Can she still avail maternity leave allowance, because her broker told her two options:
1. she will pay the full amount of shakai hoken for 8 months or
2. she will be enrolled under her husband shakai hoken, and choose number two started last month, can she still avail or acquire the maternity leave benefits?
By the way, her due is on Nov. 2021.
Hi Nhyka.
Unfortunately, she needs to have shakai hoken to qualify for maternity leave allowance (https://thetokyolife.jp/maternity-leave-japan/#benefits-allowance). She does not need to be enrolled in shakai hoken for 8 months before qualifying.
We strongly recommend consulting a labor lawyer for proper legal advice. You can also visit the Employment / Equal Opportunity Division (Office), Municipal Labour Bureau Hours: 8:30-17:15 (closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, end of year and the New Year). However, please bring someone who can speak Japanese if you do.
We hope this helps!
Good day, I am now receiving the maternity leave benefit, i have receive twice one is
35 days, and the other was for 65 days.
I want to know how many days is the maternity leave i will be receiving and how to compute.
Thank you in advance.
Hi Nhyka.
The duration (how many days) you are on maternity leave will depend on whether there was a delay or not. Normally, maternity leave lasts for 98 days for a single birth.
Please refer to this section https://thetokyolife.jp/maternity-leave-japan/#benefits-allowance to learn how to calculate the amount of your maternity leave allowance. You can also use this online tool to get a better idea: https://keisan.casio.jp/exec/system/1528684593 (Japanese)
We hope this helps!
Hello Sir, I have been working in Japan since 2014 on a skilled worker visa. This is my wife’s September 16th delivery date. I have to take care of my wife’s maternity and newborn baby. What benefits can I get from the Japanese government during this period? If I have to take time off work for maternity care and newborn care, my monthly salary will not come and my life will be more difficult. In such a situation, is Hello Work helping me or not? Where can I get help?
Hi Sharma.
If you work full-time and have been paying for koyō hoken（雇用保険）for at least 12 months in the past 2 years, you can receive childcare leave allowance. For more information, please read this article: https://thetokyolife.jp/childcare-leave-and-benefits-in-japan/
If your wife was working AND paying for her own shakai hoken, she can receive maternity leave allowance. She is also eligible to receive a one-time lump sum for childbirth regardless of her working status. (https://thetokyolife.jp/maternity-leave-japan/#benefits)
We hope this helps!
Good day.,
I want to know can I apply for maternity leave if I am only 10 months in the new company and I am under shakai hoken … isn’t counted my payment to my previous company to make up my 1 -year shakai hoke payment
Hi Rachel.
Regardless of your working conditions (full-time vs part-time, etc.), you are entitled to maternity leave. Also, since you are enrolled in shakai hoken you are eligible to receive the maternity leave allowance.
If you encounter any problems, you may refer to the Revised Child and Family Care Leaves Act and Equal Employment Opportunities Act:
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/children/work-family/dl/160802-01e.pdf (English)
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/children/work-family/dl/160802-01j.pdf (Japanese)
You can also visit the Employment / Equal Opportunity Division (Office), Municipal Labour Bureau Hours: 8:30-17:15 (closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, end of year and the New Year). However, please bring someone who can speak Japanese if you do.
We hope this helps!
Hello how much can receive the childbirth and childcare allowance lumpsum even if given birth outside japan.. Thanks ❤️
Hi Dally.
You will receive ¥404,000 if you give birth outside of Japan. If you give birth outside of Japan, you have to pay for your own expenses before you can apply for the lumpsum. Keep in mind you need a Japanese bank account to receive the lumpsum.
You will need to get a Japanese translation of the document from the hospital to apply for the lumpsum. This is needed to prove that you gave birth there.
We hope this helps!
Hello sir,
I am employee of the company in japan & enrolled with social insurance(社保）＆ my wife is in dependents(扶養者）of mine.
My wife is pregnant. As i want to know that, can i apply for the “ChildBirth & Childcare leave Allowances”?
If i can apply what are the procedures??
With regards.
Hi Aayam.
Yes, your wife can receive the Childbirth and Childcare Lump Sum even if she is a dependent under your insurance. However, she cannot receive the Maternity Leave Allowance unless she has her own social insurance (not a dependent).
You can see the procedures here: https://thetokyolife.jp/maternity-leave-japan/#apply
We hope this helps!
Good day!
I would like to ask about the Maternity Leave and Childcare Leave. I am expected to give birth this December 30,can I still take those leave even if my contract is expiring next year of January? I am a part time worker and been working in the same company for 2 years and 10 months.
Hi Rixia.
Our apologies for the delayed response. You can still apply for maternity leave in this case. However, if you decide to not renew your contract after starting maternity leave, you will need to fulfill the following to continue receiving maternity allowance.
1. You resign within 42 days of giving birth.
2. You don’t work on the date of your resignation (including a new job at a different company).
3. You were enrolled in shakai hoken for at least 1 year by the time you resigned.
4. You were already receiving maternity leave allowance or were qualified to receive the allowance when you resigned.
We hope this helps!
Thank you for the reply.
My boss told me that I can’t take Maternity leave because of my contract. They told me that they can only let me use my Paid Leave.
Is there any way I can fight for my right? At first they said I can take it and just a couple weeks ago they told me I can’t take Maternity Leave and Childcare Leave because of my contract. I have been enrolled at the company’s Shakai Hoken too.
Hi Rixia.
The best thing you can do in this situation is to speak with your company’s HR department to try to resolve your concern. If you need further assistance, you can visit the Employment / Equal Opportunity Division (Office). However, please bring someone who can speak Japanese if you do.
Tokyo Employment / Equal Opportunity Division (Office)
〒 102 – 8305千代田区九段南１-２-１九段第３合同庁舎14階
14F Kudan Government Building 3, Kudan-minami 1-2-1, Chiyoda-ku, 102 – 8305
If you live outside of Tokyo, please find your nearest regional office using this link: https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/000177581.pdf
The prefecture names are displayed on the left-most column.
We hope this helps!
Good day sir,
I just want to ask if am still eligible for maternity leave allowance even if i used injury and sick allowance 2months before my maternity leave due to high risk for premature birth. I gave birth last September 13 and my maternity leave ended last nov 8.
Hi Ayumi.
Yes, you should still be eligible to receive maternity leave allowance.
Hi! I am 14weeks pregnant and decided to resign from work a week ago because of severe morning sickness. I’m paying my own shakai hoken for the last 3yrs but now im a dependent in my husbands shakai hoken due to my resignation. By next month(May) im going home to my own country and give birth outside japan. Am I still eligible for the maternity leave allowance or the childbirth lump sum?
Hello AAC,
Thank you for posting your question.
If you resigned during maternity leave, you may be able to apply for benefits.
You should apply to your spouse’s company for the lump sum.
However, if you are planning to give birth overseas, we think you should check with the person in charge at your spouse’s company,
as we think you will need to prepare supporting documents.
We hope this information is able to help you.
Best regards,
The Tokyo Life
Hi thetokyolife.jp
I am a full time employee and is paying shakai hoken. I was pregnant with due date on Sept 25. However, I gave birth earlier during 32w6d on 6 august. How can I calculate my maternity leave date?
I was taking paid leave until 5 august.
TIA!
Hello Rose,
Thank you for your question. Maternity leave is based on the actual date of birth.
If you give birth on August 6th, your prenatal leave will be from June 26th to August 6th, and your postnatal leave will be from August 7th to October 1st.
By the way, childcare leave will be from October 2nd to August 5th next year.
We hope this is of some help to you.
With warm regards,
The Tokyo Life
Hello Yusanne,
Thank you for your question. Maternity leave is based on the actual date of birth.
If you give birth on August 6th, your prenatal leave will be from June 26th to August 6th, and your postnatal leave will be from August 7th to October 1st.
By the way, childcare leave will be from October 2nd to August 5th next year.
We hope this is of some help to you.
With warm regards,
The Tokyo Life
Hello! I am currently have my 1 year full time employment contract (aprl 1-march 31) is renewable every year maximum of 5 years, I am on my 2nd year contract, on april 1st will be my 3rd year contract..however, Im pregnant and my estimated delivery date will be on April 5, my question is, if I choose to be renewed to become part time instead of full time on my next contract on April next year, can i still be used my shakai hoken? Because my employer told me if once i choose to be on part time, i will need to return my shakai hoken, however my Estimated delivery date will be on April 5.. im afraid i cant get my maternity lumpsum if i dont have my card on hand once im on hospital. or should i continue my full time contract so i can still use my shakai hoken??
Hello Kitty,
Thank you very much for your question.
Depending on the size of the company, even part-time workers may be eligible for social insurance,
depending on the number of hours worked per day and per week.
Lump-sum maternity benefits are available if you have been continuously enrolled in social insurance for at least one year
and if you give birth within six months of losing your social insurance status.
In any case, it is important to fully consider whether you will continue to work full time or choose part time after giving birth.
We hope this is of some help to you.
With warm regards,
The Tokyo Life
Your page is so helpful!
Thank you so much for your efforts in advance!
I know I am ticking all the boxes for maternity allowance and me and my company are currently preparing all documents (due date 12/27).
However, as I will be a single mom, the maternity allowance is crucial for me and my babies well-being.
Therefore, I’m planning to apply pre-birth.
I am aware that I have to apply twice in that case.
Is the 1-month rule the same for the pre-birth allowance?
E.g. if I apply in October, I will receive the first payment in December?
Your help would be greatly appreciated!!!
Hello Pia,
Thank you very much for your question and kind words. We are happy that you find our page helpful.
If the documents are complete, the maternity allowance will be paid approximately one month after the application.
We hope you have a healthy baby.
With warm regards,
The Tokyo Life
Hello sir,
Thank you for your helpful page.
I am currently pregnant and I’m working since 2 years on 6 months contacts (renewed every 6 month). I am scared if I tell my employer I’m pregnant they will not renew my contract so I want to hide my pregnancy(under a fake pretext). So far a success.
I’m planning on renewing my contact, announce my pregnancy and then take the maternity leave shortly after. Is it legal to announce a pregnancy very soon before taking the maternity leave?
Thank you
Hello Chloe,
Thank you for your question. Basically, a fixed-term contract employee should not be dismissed because of pregnancy.
Unless the pregnancy makes it impossible for you to continue the work you are doing, or you agree to the termination.
We hope this is of some help to you.
With warm regards,
The Tokyo Life
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