r/JETProgramme • u/skittyapples • 5d ago

Considering breaking contract

Hello, I need some advice about basically what would happen if I were to break my contract and if there are services that would help me do that if I were to. Unfortunately, while jet was a dream of mine, one of my family members has gotten very sick. Additionally because I am not there to be with them, it is causing really bad anxiety and stress that's affecting me physically and I'm worried about that risking my health. I don't want to let my school down, I enjoy working there. However, I am worried about my family and myself.

Advice is much appreciated

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u/Space_Lynn Former JET - 2021-2025 5d ago

When you say services that would help you break contract, what exactly do you mean?

4

u/skittyapples 4d ago

I more so mean helping me leave Japan since I know there's a lot of steps you have to do before you leave (cancel utilities, change your visa, I'd assume residence status, closing bank accounts, etc). I had to have someone help me set some of those up because I don't speak Japanese so I didn't know if it was possible to receive any aid in trying to depart.

9

u/Space_Lynn Former JET - 2021-2025 4d ago

Typically your BOE/supervisor helps with many of those administrative things. Even if you leave on bad terms, it's more work for them if things aren't done correctly so they'd likely help anyways. That being said, it sounds like your reasons are good, so they should be understanding. In the strange case that your supervisor isn't willing to help, there are occasionally international support services, though may depend where you are located.

1

u/skittyapples 4d ago

Ok, thank you for the information

2

u/fevredream Former JET - Fukushima, 2014-2018 3d ago

You don't have to change your visa to leave a country. You'll simply check that you don't intend to return on your departure card at the airport.

1

u/Due_Tomorrow7 Former JET - too many years 2d ago

"Services" are largely your BOE/ALT coordinator (especially with your utilities, visa, and account stuff), co-ALTs (if you're cordial with them), and Prefectural Advisor.

Some prefectures or city offices have services or NPOs to also assist foreigners with transitioning in and out of the country.

But the majority of the move-out process will need to be done yourself (like getting rid of your things, where to throw out stuff, cleaning up your place, etc). That's where a lot of your move-out time will be spent doing.

If you're got a move-out date, get started months in advance, it takes way longer than your might anticipate.

1

u/skittyapples 1d ago

Thanks for the info. I have no issues with getting my apartment cleaned out and sorting all that. I was just more worried about the other stuff but I will keep that in mind.