Employer of Record (EOR) in Japan: Hire Easily in 2024

Employer of Record in Japan (EOR in Japan)

Hire Globally, Pay Locally, Expand Effortlessly

We operate as your Employer of Record in Japan. It’s thriving economy and reputation for innovation are a magnet for foreign companies.

However, navigating its complex legal system and labor regulations can be daunting for employers unfamiliar with the market.

To help, an Employer of Record (EOR) in Japan acts as your bridge to success, streamlining the entry process and ensuring compliance with all local labor laws.

Want to have a Team in Japan TODAY?

Show me how to grow my business now!

We prefer to let others grow their business.

Want to Have a Team in Japan TODAY?

Show me how to grow my business now!

We prefer to let others grow their business.

How an Employer of Record in Japan Gets You Up and Running:

Working with an Employer of Record in Japan simplifies the expansion process for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Here’s an in-depth look at how an Employer of Record in Japan works in 3 simple steps:

Step 1: Needs Assessment and Planning

The journey begins with a consultation between you and an Employer of Record like INS Global. They’ll discuss your specific goals in Japan, including the number of employees you plan to hire, their roles, and your desired timeline.

This initial discussion ensures the Employer of Record understands your objectives and tailors their services accordingly.

Step 2: Setup, Hiring, and Onboarding

Whether you’re building a new team in Japan or transferring existing staff, the Employer of Record handles all legal paperwork, visa and work permit applications, and ensures compliance with Japan’s labor laws.

Their expertise allows them to act as your legal employer in Japan from day one. This eliminates the need for establishing your own entity, saving you valuable time and resources.

Step 3: Ongoing Support and Peace of Mind

Once your employees are operational in-country, the Employer of Record continues to support you and takes over all ongoing HR and payroll functions in Japan.

This includes processing salaries, managing employee benefits and social security contributions, and ensuring adherence to complex tax regulations.

The Employer of Record acts as your HR liaison between you and your Japan-based team, handling any administrative tasks or employee concerns that arise. 

By outsourcing these tasks, you’re freed from the costly and time-consuming systems of Japan’s labor laws. Instead, you can focus your energy on strategic business development and managing your core operations with peace of mind.

Infographic | INS Global
employer of record in japan

Employer of Record in Japan (EOR in Japan) - Summary


The Benefits of a Japanese Employer of Record

Fast Market Entry

Bypass the complexities of establishing a legal entity in Japan. An Employer of Record allows you to start operations and hire staff quickly, minimizing time to market.

Streamlined Compliance

Japan’s labor laws are known for their details and focus on harmony in the workplace. Employer of Records in Japan possess the expertise to navigate these complexities, ensuring your business remains compliant and avoids costly penalties.

Reduced Risks and Liabilities

An Employer of Record acts as your legal employer in Japan, shouldering your employees’ legal and financial responsibilities, minimizing your risks associated with employment regulations.

Focus on Your Core Business

Offload HR and payroll tasks like onboarding, visa applications, and social security contributions to your Employer of Record. This allows you to focus on core business activities and strategic growth initiatives in Japan.

Cost-Effectiveness

Employer of Record services can be more cost-efficient for smaller teams than setting up your own subsidiary as with expert support you avoid upfront incorporation costs and ongoing administrative burdens.

Testimonial

Manuel Ramos

TERAO ASIA

Managing Director

We think INS Global is a good solution about starting business in new and complex markets. Understanding the market doesn’t mean you need to set up a company immediately.

5/5

Partnering with an Employer of Record vs Company Incorporation in Japan

Due to the traditional desire for independent company structures and total control over HR functions, company incorporation in Japan has often been thought of as the default option for expanding in the region. 

However, today it’s helpful to understand the massive benefits that come with instead choosing to use an Employer of Record in Japan, such as:

  • Speed – Setting up a subsidiary in Japan can be time-consuming. Instead, an Employer of Record allows you to be operational and hire staff much faster.
  • Compliance – Both Employer of Records and incorporated companies must comply with Japanese law. To help with this task, Employer of Records provide access to local and specialist legal experts who navigate the complexities and ensure adherence.
  • Cost – While initial incorporation fees might be lower than ongoing Employer of Record fees, consider the long-term cost picture. Employer of Records can be more cost-effective for smaller teams or temporary needs as they eliminate the administrative and financial burdens of hiring entire teams of local support staff.
  • Control –  Incorporation offers greater control over HR, finances, and operations. However, Employer of Records can still provide a high level of control while minimizing your administrative workload.

Japanese Labor Law in a Nutshell

Japanese labor laws can seem intricate, but understanding key points is crucial before entering the market. Here’s a breakdown of some important aspects and how an Employer of Record in Japan can help you navigate them:

  • Contracts – Employment contracts in Japan must be written in Japanese and clearly outline terms of employment, including salary, benefits, working hours, and termination clauses. An Employer of Record can ensure your contracts comply with legal requirements and protect your interests.
  • Probationary Periods – Probationary periods are common in Japan and can last up to 3 months. An Employer of Record can guide you on setting up probationary periods that adhere to regulations while allowing you to assess new employees effectively.
  • Working Hours – Standard work hours in Japan are nominally 40 per week, though many workers typically go beyond this. Employer of Records help you track working hours and ensure compliance with overtime regulations to avoid potential penalties.
  • Paid Leave – Employees are entitled to various forms of paid leave in Japan, including national holidays, annual leave, and sick leave. An Employer of Record can track and manage leave requests and ensure proper compensation on your behalf according to Japanese law.
  • Social Insurance – Employers must contribute to social insurance for employees, covering health insurance, welfare pension insurance, and unemployment insurance. Your Employer of Record in Japan handles these contributions for you as part of the standard payroll process.
  • Severance Pay – Severance pay is required by law under certain circumstances, such as termination by the employer without cause. An Employer of Record can guide you on severance pay practices and calculations to ensure compliance.
Navigating these complexities can be time-consuming and requires staying updated on legal changes. Partnering with an EOR in Japan acts as your local legal partner, ensuring your business remains compliant with labor laws and protects you from potential risks.

5 Key Points to Remember When Choosing the Best Employer of Record for Your Business

Selecting the right Employer of Record in Japan is essential for a smooth market entry. Here are 5 key factors to consider:

  1. Experience and Reputation: Look for an Employer of Record with a proven track record in Japan and a strong understanding of your industry. Client testimonials and industry awards can indicate strong customer satisfaction.
  2. Service Scope: Ensure the Employer of Record offers the services you need or can tailor their solutions to your specific situation. This might include visa and work permit assistance, payroll processing, social security contributions management, and even assistance with recruiting top talent in Japan.
  3. Scalability: Choose an Employer of Record that can scale its services as your business grows in Japan. They should be able to handle your increasing number of employees and evolving needs.
  4. Communication and Transparency: Select an Employer of Record that provides clear and consistent communication from the start. They should keep you informed about regulatory changes, upcoming deadlines, and any potential issues in Japan. Look for a dedicated point of contact and online portals for easy access to information.
  5. Cost Structure: Compare pricing models from different Employer of Record providers in Japan. Ensure the fees are transparent and competitive, with no hidden costs. Don’t hesitate to seek third-party advice.
Employer of Record in Japan (EOR in Japan)

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FAQs

In Japan, the terms EOR (Employer of Record) and PEO (Professional Employer Organization) are often used interchangeably by clients and companies. Both handle employment responsibilities for a fee, but Employer of Records typically offer a wider range of HR and payroll functions while acting as your legal employer in Japan.

Costs vary depending on the services offered, your number of employees, and their location. With INS Global, the cost is set as a percentage of your payroll, allowing you to expand in a cost-effective and strategic way.

The national corporate tax rate in Japan is 23.2%, with a possibility of an additional local inhabitant tax of up to 12.3%, bringing the total effective tax rate to a maximum of 35.5%. However, there are various tax incentives and deductions available depending on your industry and location.

Faster market entry, reduced compliance burden, cost-effectiveness, access to local HR expertise, and minimized risk are all key advantages of partnering with an Employer of Record in Japan.

Yes, Employer of Records in Japan handle payroll processing and ensure adherence to tax and social security regulations. They can also manage employee benefits administration.

Absolutely. An Employer of Record streamlines the hiring process, eliminates the need to establish your own entity, and ensures you comply with complex Japanese labor laws with their local expertise. This allows you to focus on growing your business and reaching your target market in Japan faster while also minimizing non-compliance risk for your employees.