Japan has signed several pension agreements with other countries in an effort to provide social security benefits to people who have lived and worked in multiple countries. These agreements, also known as Totalization Agreements or Double Taxation Agreements, aim to prevent individuals from being subject to double social security taxation and to ensure that they are eligible to receive social security benefits based on their combined work histories.

As of 2021, Japan has signed pension agreements with 19 countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, among others. These agreements are based on the principle of equal treatment and aim to ensure that people who have worked in both countries are not disadvantaged when it comes to receiving social security benefits.

Under these agreements, individuals who have worked in both Japan and one of the partner countries may be able to receive social security benefits from both countries based on their combined work histories. The specifics of the agreements vary depending on the country in question, but they generally apply to retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

For example, under the agreement between Japan and the United States, U.S. citizens who have worked in Japan and paid into the Japanese social security system may be eligible to receive both U.S. and Japanese social security benefits. In general, the agreements require that an individual have paid into the social security system of both countries for a specific period of time in order to be eligible for benefits.

In addition to providing social security benefits to individuals who have worked in multiple countries, these agreements also benefit companies that have employees working overseas. By preventing double taxation, companies are able to reduce their costs and simplify their payroll processes, making it easier to send employees abroad.

Overall, Japan`s pension agreements with other countries play an important role in providing social security benefits to individuals who have lived and worked in multiple countries. Whether you are a citizen of Japan or one of the partner countries, it is important to understand the specifics of these agreements in order to ensure that you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.