Japan will introduce a new Child & Child-rearing Support Contribution Scheme starting in April 2026.
It’s designed to secure funding for policies that help families raise children and counter Japan’s declining birthrate.
👉 Cabinet Office: Child & Child-rearing Support Contribution Scheme (CFA)
Overview
- The contribution will be collected through public medical insurance premiums.
- Both employers and employees will share the cost.
- The estimated average cost (after full implementation in FY 2028) is about ¥450 per person per month.
What the funds will support
- Expansion of child allowance to cover high-school-age children and removal of income limits.
- New economic support for pregnancy and childbirth.
- The new “Any Child Can Attend” daycare program for under-3-year-olds.
- Pension premium exemptions for self-employed parents during childcare periods.
🔗 Details: Child & Family Agency
What HR and employers should do
- Confirm payroll systems can handle the new contribution from April 2026.
- Update employment and salary regulations to ensure clear explanations of deductions.
- Prepare internal materials to explain the scheme to employees.
Final note
This scheme represents a move toward “shared responsibility across generations.”
For HR teams, early preparation and clear employee communication are key.
Our office also provides bilingual (English & Japanese) support for drafting and revising employment regulations and workplace rules.
Please feel free to contact us for assistance.
