Robert Walters Japan introduces new employee benefit: Social security benefits for same-sex partners

TOKYO, JAPAN – Specialist professional recruitment firm and BCCJ Platinum Member Robert Walters Japan announced the introduction of social security benefits for employees with same-sex partners on 1 June 2024. 
(Press Release copied below.)

Current status of same-sex marriage in Japan
Unfortunately, same-sex marriage has still not been legalised in Japan, meaning same-sex partners often miss out on the social security premium coverage their married counterparts receive. Even if a person with a same-sex partner meets the financial requirements to be a dependent, they cannot receive coverage under their partner’s Employees’ Health Insurance and Employees’ Pension Insurance – they must pay for the National Health Insurance and National Pension by themselves through the ward office.

Our new employee benefit for same-sex partners
Robert Walters Japan is now offering a financial benefit to employees who have a same-sex partner and whose partner meets the conditions for coverage stipulated by the Health Insurance Society. The benefit covers an amount equivalent to the partner’s National Health Insurance and National Pension premium.

As part of our efforts to foster a workplace that ensures equity and inclusion for all employees, Robert Walters Japan has introduced various benefits treating same-sex partners as spouses since 2020, including marriage leave and parental leave. The new benefit is an expansion of our existing benefits program, aiming to provide the same level of support as married employees for our employees with same-sex partners who are currently not legally acknowledged as dependents.

We hope that our change will inspire other organisations in Japan to move forward with similar initiatives, and we will continue to push for marriage equality.

Equity, diversity & inclusion at Robert Walters Japan
At Robert Walters Japan, diversity is more than just a policy—it’s who we are at our core. We believe in the power of a diverse workforce that champions the right for people to be their true, authentic selves, and we are committed to helping people and organisations to fulfil their unique potential by continuing to leverage our rich array of backgrounds and perspectives.
More information on Robert Walters’ DEI initiatives: https://www.robertwalters.co.jp/en/about-us/equity-diversity-and-inclusion.html