Hi everyone,
I’m looking for some guidance about fixed-term contracts in Japan.
I’ve been living in Japan a little bit over a year now and I'm currently working as an intern. I was recently offered a 6-month fixed-term contract as a keiyaku-shain. The contract doesn’t include any resignation or notice clause for me. It only says:
- voluntary resignation accepted by the company,
- mutual agreement,
- expiration of the contract period,
- or unavoidable reasons (like illness).
From what I understand, this means I can only leave early if the company agrees to let me go.
Originally, my plan was to accept the offer, secure a work visa, and then start looking for a better long-term position, while working. The company is fine overall, but I don’t really feel valued or appreciated there. Now that I’ve realized I might not be able to freely leave once I sign the contract, I’m not sure what to do anymore.
So I have a few questions:
- If I submit a resignation and the employer refuses to accept it, am I legally stuck until the end of the 6-month contract?
- Is there any legal mechanism to end a fixed-term contract early if the company doesn’t agree?
- Any general advice from people who have dealt with fixed-term contracts or visa timing in Japan?
- Can/Should I talk to the HR and ask them to add a resignation or notice clause?
Thanks in advance — any insight or personal experience would be super helpful!
by LifeSucks959