Part-time but same work as full-time. Can I demand equal pay?

What the Law Says

Japanese law prohibits unfair treatment of part-time workers compared to full-time workers who perform the same or similar duties under the same employment conditions.

The Part-Time Workers Act (Act No. 76 of 1996) requires employers to ensure that part-time workers receive no less favorable treatment than full-time workers in terms of wages, working hours, rest periods, holidays, and other working conditions — provided their job content, responsibilities, and scope of duties are substantially the same.

Article 8 of the Act states: 'An employer shall not treat a part-time worker in a manner that is disadvantageous compared with a regular employee, taking into account the job description, responsibilities, and other circumstances.'

The Equal Employment Opportunity Law (Act No. 113 of 1985) reinforces this principle by prohibiting gender-based wage discrimination — and courts and guidance have extended its fairness logic to part-time status where work is equivalent.

Employers must review and justify any differences in pay or benefits within 30 days if requested by a part-time worker — and must provide written explanation if disparities exist.

Statutory Text

An employer shall not treat a part-time worker in a manner that is disadvantageous compared with a regular employee, taking into account the job description, responsibilities, and other circumstances.

— Part-Time Workers Act, s. 8 — Equal Treatment Obligation

What to Do

Sources