Japanese Health Insurance - What Foreigners Need to Know

Japan's Health Insurance System is known for easy access to medical care. Foreigners staying in Japan for more than three months must enroll in this Health Insurance plan.
However, the Health Insurance System is complex and may be difficult for foreigners. Understanding the system ensures you get medical services when needed.

This article covers:

• Types of Health Insurance
• How to Join
• What Health Insurance Covers

This article provides useful information for those already working in Japan and those planning to move to Japan.　

*Information as of February 2024.

Types of Health Insurance in Japan

There are various systems, but let's first learn about "Social Insurance" and "National Health Insurance".

Social Insurance (社会保険)

Those who work for a company are covered by Social Insurance. This includes Health Insurance and unemployment insurance. Premiums are automatically deducted from your monthly paycheck. It is also called Employee Insurance or “Hiyosha Hoken”.

National Health Insurance (国民健康保険)

Students, self-employed people, retirees, and employees of companies with fewer than 5 workers are eligible. Premiums vary based on where you live and your income.

 (Source: 日本の医療保険制度の仕組み)

Can Foreigners Be Enrolled in Health Insurance?

Health Insurance coverage is mandatory. All residents of Japan, including foreigners, must have Health Insurance. This unique system ensures you can live safely and afford medical care. For example, you can get immediate treatment at a hospital without paying expensive medical bills. More information about medical expenses is provided later.

Procedures for Enrollment in Japanese Health Insurance

Foreign nationals with a valid residence card staying in Japan for more than 3 months must enroll in Health Insurance.

Example: If You Work for a Company

Generally, the company will handle your insurance arrangements (Employee Insurance).

Example: If You Are Studying Abroad

Complete the National Health Insurance procedures at the municipal office of your city, ward, town, or village.

What Can Health Insurance Be Used For?

Health Insurance coverage includes:

• Medical examination (doctor checks your symptoms)
• Tests
• Medications during the examination
• Hospitalization costs
• Treatment costs
• Doctor-prescribed medicines, etc.

Depending on your insurance and treatment, some services may not be covered, so always check.

Inability to Use Health Insurance

While Health Insurance covers many medical services, some are not included. Examples include cosmetic treatments like skincare and surgery to improve eyesight.

Co-payments for Health Insurance

The co-payment for Health Insurance is 30% (different for children and those over 70 years old). When you receive treatment at a hospital, you only pay 30% of the cost. This makes Japan known for affordable healthcare.

Additionally, there is a "high-cost medical care cost system" for high medical expenses. This system applies when monthly medical expenses exceed a maximum amount.
*The maximum amount varies by age and income. (Source: 厚生労働省「高額療養費制度を利用される皆さまへ」 )

Knowing this system exists can provide comfort when you need treatment, as it reduces financial worries about medical costs.

Conclusion

Japanese Health Insurance allows foreigners to live comfortably and safely in Japan. Both Japanese and foreigners are required to join Health Insurance. Because of this system, medical treatment is very affordable.
Insurance programs may change. These changes are widely covered in the news, so stay informed by following Japanese news regularly.