This article contains affiliate links and PR content. If you purchase through these links, Imay earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!
Are you planning to change jobs in Japan?
Before you say goodbye to your current company, there’s something important you shouldn’t forget—your resignation documents.
These documents are necessary for things like:
- Submitting paperwork to your new employer
- Applying for unemployment benefits (if needed)
- Completing tax procedures
- Joining new health insurance
In this post, I’ll explain six essential documents you should receive when you leave a job in Japan.
Employment Insurance Certificate (雇用保険被保険者証)
This document proves that you were covered by employment insurance.
You will need to submit this to your new employer when starting your next job.
Separation Notice for Employment Insurance (離職票)
If you plan to apply for unemployment benefits, this document is essential.
Your company will check with you when you resign to see if you need it.
If you’re changing jobs immediately, you usually don’t need this.
Withholding Tax Certificate (源泉徴収票)
This shows your total salary and the amount of income tax withheld for the year.
You must submit this to your new employer so they can calculate your correct income tax for the rest of the year.
Inhabitant Tax Document (住民税関係書類)
You also need paperwork related to your Inhabitant Tax (住民税).
If you already have a new job lined up, give this document to your new employer.
If not, you’ll have to pay the remaining amount yourself or it will be deducted from your final paycheck.
Certificate of Loss of Health Insurance (健康保険資格喪失証明書)
This certificate is needed if you plan to switch to National Health Insurance (国民健康保険) after leaving your job.
However, if you’re starting a new job right away, your next employer will enroll you in their health insurance, so you won’t need this document.
Certificate of Retirement (退職証明書)
This document officially proves that you have resigned from your company.
If you ask for it, your employer is legally obligated to issue it.
You might need it when applying for a visa renewal or other official procedures.
Moving to a New Place After Changing Jobs?
Changing jobs in Japan often means moving to a new city or even a different prefecture.
If you’re planning a move, it’s smart to compare estimates from different companies to find the best price and service.
One recommended option is Hakobu Moving Service (ハコブ引っ越しサービス).
They offer free estimates via phone or online, giving you clear pricing and optional services beforehand.
Hakobu welcomes competitive comparison with other companies, so you can easily weigh their offer against others.
While Hakobu isn’t a multi-company comparison platform, their low-cost and transparent service makes them a solid choice—especially if you’re moving within the Tokyo area .
If you’re juggling resignation paperwork and preparing for a new job, Hakobu’s no-pressure estimate process can help your move go smoothly.

Final Tips
Before you leave your current job in Japan, double-check that you receive all these documents.
If your company doesn’t automatically provide them, don’t hesitate to ask!
Having the right paperwork will make your job change, tax filing, and social insurance procedures much smoother.
If you found this article helpful, feel free to share it with friends who are also working in Japan!
Comments