Navigating EPF for International Workers: Can Contributions Shift to Japan's Social Security?

Hello Experts, I need an opinion on EPF treatment for International Workers. An employee of a company has been shifted to the Japan branch of the company. The employee instead applied for a Coverage Certificate from EPFO, which has now been approved. Post-approval and after the complete calculation of the Indian contribution, the employee now feels that the total contribution in India is very high and hence wishes to make this contribution in Japan as per Japanese laws.

My questions are:

1. Can he withdraw/cancel the Coverage Certificate for the balance period of the coverage certificate?
2. What are the implications of such withdrawal for the company?
3. Can he contribute to the Japanese social security?

Please provide your comments with the support of sections/rules/articles of bilateral agreements of Japan, etc. This matter is urgent, and an early reply is appreciated.

Withdrawal of Coverage Certificate:
- The employee may request the withdrawal or cancellation of the Coverage Certificate for the remaining period. This process typically involves formal procedures and communication with the EPFO to ensure compliance with regulations.

Implications for the Company:
- The company should be prepared for administrative adjustments and potential impacts on payroll processing, tax obligations, and compliance requirements. It is advisable to consult with legal and HR experts to manage any repercussions effectively.

Contribution to Japanese Social Security:
- The ability of the employee to contribute to the Japanese social security system depends on various factors, including bilateral agreements between India and Japan, the employee's visa status, and the specific terms of employment in Japan. It is crucial to review the applicable laws and regulations to determine the feasibility of such contributions.

Key Considerations:
- Consult with legal advisors or experts well-versed in international labor laws and bilateral agreements.
- Review the specific provisions of the India-Japan bilateral agreements related to social security contributions for international workers.
- Ensure clear communication with the concerned authorities regarding any changes in contribution preferences.
- Seek guidance from relevant government agencies or legal entities to navigate the complexities of cross-border social security contributions.

In urgent situations like this, seeking professional advice tailored to the individual circumstances is essential to ensure compliance and address the employee's concerns effectively.