Everything foreign residents need to know about navigating the Japanese healthcare system.
Japan has universal healthcare. All residents must be enrolled in some form of health insurance.
Self-employed, freelancers, students, and residents not covered by employer insurance
Based on income, typically 5-10% of annual income
70% of medical costs covered (you pay 30%)
Register at your local ward office (区役所) within 14 days of obtaining residence
Mandatory for all registered residents. Premiums vary by municipality.
Full-time employees at companies with 5+ workers
Split 50/50 with employer, deducted from salary
70% of medical costs covered (you pay 30%)
Automatic through your employer's HR department
Generally better benefits than NHI. Includes injury/illness leave benefits.
Expats wanting supplementary or primary coverage (especially short-term residents)
Varies widely by plan and provider
Depends on policy — can cover 100% at select facilities
Purchase through international insurance broker
Good as supplementary coverage. Some clinics don't accept private international insurance directly.
Understanding the different levels of care helps you choose the right facility.
Small, neighborhood clinics for primary care. No appointment needed at most. Wait times vary but are usually short.
Larger facilities with specialized departments. Many require a referral letter (紹介状) from a clinic. Without one, expect an additional fee of ¥5,000-¥7,000.
Teaching hospitals attached to universities. Top-tier specialists and equipment. Long wait times. Referral strongly recommended.
Clinics specifically serving foreign residents. Staff speak English (and often other languages). May not accept NHI — check in advance.
Japan's healthcare is remarkably affordable. These are typical out-of-pocket costs with insurance.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| General clinic visit | ¥1,000 - ¥3,000 |
| Specialist consultation | ¥2,000 - ¥5,000 |
| Blood test panel | ¥1,000 - ¥3,000 |
| MRI scan | ¥5,000 - ¥10,000 |
| Dental cleaning | ¥2,000 - ¥4,000 |
| Prescription (common) | ¥500 - ¥2,000 |
| Hospital stay (per day) | ¥5,000 - ¥15,000 |
| Annual health check (会社) | ¥0 - ¥5,000 |
* Costs are approximate and assume 30% copay with NHI or shakai hoken. Actual costs vary by facility and treatment.
Free. Dispatchers may not speak English. State your address clearly.
For crimes and accidents. Basic English support available.
Non-emergency health advice line. Available in English in major cities.
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