(image credit: EXIT)
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Inside Japan’s Resignation Agency Services: A Growing Escape Route from Toxic Workplaces
Resignation Agency Services (退職代行サービス) are businesses in Japan that help employees formally quit their jobs by acting as intermediaries between the employee and their employer. These services gained popularity especially among younger workers who find it difficult to resign in person due to social pressure, fear of confrontation, or company culture.
How Does It Work?
The employee contacts a service provider, usually via phone or online.
The agency confirms details like employment type, workplace conditions, and reason for quitting.
On behalf of the employee, the agency contacts the employer and handles all communications related to the resignation.
The employee is usually not required to go to work from that day onward.
Some services offer legal consultations or post-resignation support.
Why Is It Popular?
Japanese work culture traditionally values endurance and loyalty, making quitting feel shameful or selfish.
Employees, especially young workers or those in toxic environments, feel mentally exhausted or pressured.
It provides a smooth, low-stress exit for those who want to avoid direct confrontation.
Cost of the Service
Fees typically range from ¥20,000 to ¥50,000 (approx. $130–$330).
Prices can vary depending on employment status (full-time, part-time), company size, or legal complexity.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
While legal in Japan, only licensed lawyers can negotiate severance or handle disputes—other agencies are limited to communication only.
Some critics argue that the service encourages avoidance and doesn’t address root issues in the workplace.
Others see it as an essential escape tool in a rigid system where mental health support is still evolving.
Examples of Service Providers
EXIT
SARABA
退職代行ニコイチ (Nicoichi)
弁護士法人みやび (for lawyer-based resignation support)
Japan’s Resignation Agency Services (退職代行サービス) reflects a shift in attitudes toward work-life balance and employee rights. While it may seem extreme to outsiders, these services fill a real need for people trapped in difficult jobs. As awareness grows, they may also pressure employers to improve working conditions and promote healthier exit policies.
