— Three key points you should know — 

From 1 April 2025, Japan’s Employment Insurance system has changed the restriction period (kyūfu seigen kikan) for unemployment benefits. Until now, workers who quit voluntarily had to wait around two or three months before payments began. Under the new rule, the period has been shortened to one month in principle. 

However, if you resigned voluntarily without just cause twice or more within the past five years, or were dismissed for serious misconduct, the three-month restriction still applies. 

Another major change concerns education and reskilling programmes. If you began or completed training within one year before leaving your job—or after leaving—you can now receive unemployment benefits immediately, without waiting for the restriction period to end. Payment commences immediately after a seven-day waiting period 

You’ll need to submit proof of training (such as a certificate or receipt showing the start or completion date) to Hello Work when confirming your eligibility. Check with your local Hello Work office for details. 

For the official explanation (Japanese only), see the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website: 
👉 Employment Insurance Basic Allowance Information (MHLW)