ハローワークとは？ — What Is Hello Work?
Hello Work (ハローワーク), officially known as 公共職業安定所 (Kōkyō Shokugyō Anteijo), is Japan's national network of public employment security offices operated by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. It is the central hub for unemployment benefit claims, job placement services, and vocational support for anyone between jobs in Japan.
There are over 500 Hello Work offices across Japan, and using one is essentially mandatory if you want to claim unemployment benefits. But Hello Work offers far more than just benefit processing — it is a comprehensive job-seeking resource available free of charge.
Finding Your Nearest Hello Work Office
Your designated Hello Work office is determined by your home address, not your former workplace. To find the correct office:
- Visit the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare directory at mhlw.go.jp
- Search by prefecture and city
- Note the address, opening hours (typically 8:30–17:15, weekdays only), and any branch specializations
Some major cities have specialized Hello Work offices for specific groups — such as Hello Work for young people (ヤングハローワーク) or for professionals (ハローワークプラザ).
What Services Does Hello Work Provide?
1. 失業給付の申請・認定 (Unemployment Benefit Processing)
Filing for and maintaining unemployment benefits is a core function. You must register here, attend your initial explanation session, and return every 28 days for your 失業認定日 (certification appointment).
2. 求人情報の検索 (Job Listings Search)
Hello Work maintains one of Japan's largest databases of job openings, including positions not advertised on private job sites. You can search terminals on-site or access the online system at hellowork.mhlw.go.jp. Listings include:
- Full-time regular employment (正社員)
- Part-time and contract positions
- Public sector jobs
- Positions for those with disabilities (障害者求人)
3. 職業相談 (Career Counseling)
Caseworkers (職業相談員) can help you refine your job search, review your resume (履歴書 / 職務経歴書), prepare for interviews, and identify career paths suited to your skills. These consultations are free and can count toward your required job-seeking activities.
4. 職業訓練の紹介 (Vocational Training Referrals)
Hello Work can refer you to government-funded vocational training programs (職業訓練 / ハロートレーニング). Completing approved training while receiving benefits can extend your benefit period and improve your employability.
5. 各種手当・給付の案内 (Allowance Guidance)
Beyond basic unemployment benefits, Hello Work staff can explain additional allowances such as the 就業促進手当 (employment promotion allowance), 移転費 (relocation expenses), and support for those with disabilities.
The Job-Seeking Activity Requirement (求職活動)
To receive your benefits each certification period, you must show evidence of at least 2 job-seeking activities per 28-day certification period (3 for those with a benefit restriction period in the first cycle). Qualifying activities include:
- Attending a career counseling session at Hello Work
- Applying for a job through Hello Work or a private agency
- Attending a job fair (就職面接会)
- Participating in a Hello Work seminar or workshop
- Taking a vocational aptitude test
Keep all records, confirmation emails, and receipts for activities as proof.
Tips for Getting the Most from Hello Work
- Go early in the morning — wait times can be long, especially on certification days and Mondays.
- Use the online search portal before visiting — this saves time at the terminal and lets you prepare questions.
- Request the same counselor if possible — building a relationship with one advisor leads to more tailored advice.
- Bring all required documents every visit — your 雇用保険受給資格者証 and 失業認定申告書 are essential at every certification appointment.
- Ask about training programs — these can extend your support timeline significantly.
Online Services (オンラインサービス)
Hello Work has expanded its online offerings. Some procedures — including initial registration pre-application and job searches — can now be initiated online. However, most critical steps, including in-person certification, still require a physical visit. Check the official Hello Work internet service for the latest available online features.