I am a US-Japan dual citizen who moved to Japan about 4 years ago.
During my first year in Japan, I was unemployed for large periods but worked several odd jobs/part time jobs from time to time. I was enrolled in NHI and the National Pension Program then. Unfortunately, due to a bit of self-admitted negligence, I didn’t pay my pension for the whole year.
From year 2-4, I found a full time job and enrolled in the company’s pension program (and the company’s health insurance as well).
Due to some personal reasons, in a few months, I am planning on exiting the work force for about a year (although I may do part time jobs or freelance work), but I will still reside in Japan. So, I will need to visit the city office to re-enroll in the NHI and National Pension Program again.
I am bracing for a bit of grilling that I have an outstanding balance for my pension (from before I entered my company) and need to pay it off. I do have some savings so I could afford it if necessary. Should I just go to the city office while I am employed and pay it off, and then go again when I am unemployed to enroll in the NHI and NPP, or should I just go after I am unemployed?
by Notfunbutnecessarry