What is the 内定承諾書?

Hi, I am amazed that I can’t find a clear explanation online on this. (maybe also because of my Japanese being still not that good)

Didn’t want to fill the sub but I guess at least other people will also find this post helpful.

I have received a 内定承諾書 from the company that wants to hire me. I know that this translated to “informal” acceptance letter.

This document only has some of the things we have discussed before at interviews. (mostly my obligations to the company. The benefits such as the bonus amount and frequency and the other allowances are not listed)

Is this the western “work contract”? Or will there be a full contract later once I actually join the company.

I intend to discuss this with the company since the terms listed here are not the ones I am willing to accept, but I wanted to know if this is a general thing or how does it work.

If this is the full on work contract then the fact the bonuses are not listed ( it only says they exist, no amount or how often they will be given) can just mean that they can refuse to give them to me when I start working. This is why I am a bit worried. I know the bonus was presented as being 2 times a year and there was also a commuting allowance. So it is not like I am just expecting too much without reason.

If there is another official contract later, then I don’t have to worry until then.

I would post this on u/japanlife, but I am not yet in Japan so I am not allowed to post there.

Thanks.

https://www.reddit.com/r/japan/comments/17vybmr/what_is_the_内定承諾書/