Leaving Japan

DAVE WRITES: I am considering whether or not to return to my country after having worked in Japan for almost 10 years. I would like some information on what official procedures are necessary to end my stay here, particularly with respect to my visa, income taxes, pensions, and health insurance.

When I first came to Japan, I worked on the JET Programme for three years. During that time I paid into the Employees' Pension system through my employer.

Since then I have worked for several private companies but none of them have deducted any pension contributions from my pay.