Japan Stretches Safety Net for Part-Time Workers

TOKYO, Feb 09 (News On Japan) - The Japanese government has taken a significant step towards expanding employment insurance coverage by approving an amendment to the Employment Insurance Act that aims to lower the required working hours for eligibility, making it easier for part-time workers to join the insurance system.

Under the current system, to qualify for employment insurance, one must work at least 20 hours a week. However, with the proposed amendment, this threshold will be relaxed to just 10 hours a week.

This change is expected to extend employment insurance benefits to approximately 5 million individuals, including part-time working women and the elderly. It will offer them financial support during unemployment or leave for childcare, enhancing their security and welfare.

The insurance premiums and benefits for the newly eligible part-time employees will align with those of the current participants.

The government aims to enact this bill during the current parliamentary session, with plans to implement the revised act by October 2028.

Source: TBS

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