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Remote work, or “telework,” has become increasingly common in Japan, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, for foreigners working in Japan, navigating the laws, company rules, and work culture around remote work can be confusing.
This guide explains what you need to know about remote work in Japan—covering legal rules, pay, working conditions, and practical challenges.
What Does Remote Work Mean in Japan?
■ Differences Between “Telework,” “Remote Work,” and “Working from Home”
- Telework (テレワーク): A broad term meaning working away from the company office, including from home or shared workspaces.
- Remote Work (リモートワーク): Often used casually to mean working from outside the office.
- Working from Home (在宅勤務): Specifically refers to working from your residence.
■ How is Remote Work Treated by Japanese Law?
Under the Labor Standards Act, remote work is considered regular work. The same rules on working hours, overtime, breaks, and other employment conditions apply.
■ Why Did Remote Work Spread in Japan?
The COVID-19 pandemic forced many companies to allow employees to work from home. Even after restrictions eased, hybrid work styles combining office and home work became more common.
Working Hours and Pay: What Are the Rules for Remote Work?
■ How Are Working Hours Managed?
Employers must still track employees’ working hours, even if they work remotely. This is often done using digital time-tracking systems like:
- Online timecards
- Attendance management apps (e.g., King of Time, freee, etc.)
■ Are Overtime and Holiday Work Paid?
Yes. If you work beyond your contracted hours, including overtime, late-night hours (from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.), or on holidays, you are legally entitled to additional pay.
Remote work does not remove these requirements.
■ Will I Receive a Remote Work Allowance?
Some companies provide a monthly allowance to cover home electricity or internet costs. However, under Japanese law, this allowance is optional, not mandatory.
Tip: Save on Internet Costs with Neo Charge WiFi
If you work remotely in Japan, having a stable internet connection is essential. But what if you don’t want to sign a long-term contract or pay a monthly fee when you’re not using it?
A recommended option is Neo Charge WiFi, a contract-free, pay-as-you-go pocket WiFi.
✔️ No monthly fee when you’re not using data
✔️ Simply buy GB as needed
✔️ Works with Japan’s major carriers (au, Softbank, docomo)
For example, if you only use 10 GB per month, buying a 100 GB plan for ¥6,980 could last about 10 months—only around ¥698 per month. And if you don’t use it for a few months, you pay nothing.
This flexible system is ideal for people who:
- Only work remotely sometimes
- Need WiFi while traveling in Japan
- Want to avoid expensive monthly plans
Check out Neo Charge WiFi if you want an easy, contract-free option for your remote work life in Japan.
Health and Safety While Working Remotely
■ Are You Covered by Worker’s Accident Compensation Insurance (労災保険)?
If you are injured while working, remote work is still covered by workers’ compensation insurance.
However, if the injury happens during your personal time, it is not covered. For example:
- An accident while cooking lunch → Not covered.
- An injury while moving work documents → Covered.
Performance and Communication: Common Challenges in Japan
■ Is It True That “You Must Go to the Office to Be Evaluated”?
Unfortunately, some Japanese companies still favor employees who are physically present in the office. Face-to-face communication and “visible effort” like staying late can sometimes impact performance evaluations.
However, this is gradually changing, with more companies shifting to performance-based evaluations.
■ How Do You Stay Connected With Your Team?
Remote work can lead to communication gaps or feelings of isolation. Japanese workplaces are traditionally built on in-person relationships, so regular online meetings and one-on-one conversations are important.
■ Mental Health Considerations
Isolation from colleagues can affect your mental well-being. Some companies now offer mental health support for remote workers, including online counseling and mental health checks.
Summary
Remote work in Japan is legally protected under the same labor laws as office work. However, unique aspects of Japanese workplace culture—such as the value placed on physical presence—remain.
Understanding the rules and communicating well with your employer can help you make remote work comfortable and effective.
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