Temporarily leaving Japan - what happens to my stocks/NISA?

[ricardocantu]

I’ll try to keep my long story short:
I came to Japan about 12 years ago. I’ve been investing for the last 7 or so years, so I have a regular taxed account as well as a NISA account with a big part of my savings. I have a Japanese wife and a child now. My wife works for the government, and she applied for (and might therefore get) an overseas post next year. We plan to go together. These posts are normally for about 3 years, after which we probably come back to Japan (unless we decide to stay, but for now let’s say the plan is to return). While I’m overseas, I would also want to look for work there (and not be a total ‘himo’). My current residence status here in Japan is permanent resident.

My questions are:
When one leaves the country, is he/she forced to sell his/her stocks/NISA? Even if there is a plan to come back?
Is the answer for the above the same for Japanese people that leave? (Actually I am currently in the application process for Japanese nationality)

[RetireJapan]

It depends on the bank/broker, but for temporary overseas stays (for work etc.) they will usually freeze the account and let you use it again when you come back. Check with your bank/broker for their specific policies.