{"id":13080,"date":"2025-11-05T21:58:21","date_gmt":"2025-11-05T13:58:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/?p=13080"},"modified":"2025-11-06T00:28:29","modified_gmt":"2025-11-05T16:28:29","slug":"international-health-insurance-in-japan-foreigners-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/international-health-insurance-in-japan-foreigners-guide.html","title":{"rendered":"Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners: Coverage, Costs &#038; How to Enroll"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners in Japan can get health insurance through the national public system or by choosing private and international plans. Anyone staying longer than three months must enroll in Japan\u2019s National Health Insurance (NHI) or the Social\/Employee Health Insurance (SHI), depending on employment status. Short-term visitors and expats seeking wider coverage, English-speaking support, or global benefits often choose private or international health insurance instead.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This guide explains everything you need to know about health insurance for foreigners in Japan, including eligibility, enrollment steps, cost ranges, and public versus private coverage. It also highlights when <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/health-insurance-plans\/international-health-insurance-plan\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">international health insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a better fit, especially for expats who want global care access, direct billing, and support navigating Japan\u2019s healthcare system.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-72' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<link rel='stylesheet' href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/compare-box\/css\/compare-72-new.css?v1.47' type='text\/css' media='all'\/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\" class=\"inserter-72-link CompareNowbutton\">\n        <div class=\"inserter-72-new\">\n            <h3>Start by Comparing <br>Insurance Plans Online<\/h3>\n            <div class=\"inserter-img-box\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/compare-box\/img\/desktop.png\" alt=\" \">\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"inserter-compare-box\">\n                <p>Browse and Compare 50,000+ <br>International Health Plans<\/p>\n                <button>Compare NOW<\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Public vs Private Health Insurance Options in Japan\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-26162 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-speaking-with-a-patient-and-taking-notes-during-a-checkup.webp\" alt=\"Image of Doctor Speaking With A Patient And Taking Notes During A Checkup with text overlay of &quot;Public vs Private Health Insurance Options in Japan&quot;\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-speaking-with-a-patient-and-taking-notes-during-a-checkup.webp 1280w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-speaking-with-a-patient-and-taking-notes-during-a-checkup-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-speaking-with-a-patient-and-taking-notes-during-a-checkup-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-speaking-with-a-patient-and-taking-notes-during-a-checkup-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-speaking-with-a-patient-and-taking-notes-during-a-checkup-150x84.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical insurance options include public health insurance and private health insurance plans. The two main public health insurance plans are National Health Insurance (NHI), and Social\/Employee Health Insurance (SHI). Private insurance can be bought through international providers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Health Insurance (NHI) Explained<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Japan\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/japanhpn.org\/en\/hs1\/#:~:text=NHI%20covers%20the,pay%20has%20increased.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Health Insurance (NHI)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> plans were created for residents who are unemployed, self-employed, work less than 30 hours a week, or students. NHI premiums will vary from person and household and are calculated based on income.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Key Benefits of Japan\u2019s NHI Plans:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hospital Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Outpatient Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mental Health Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription Drugs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Home Health Care\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dental Care<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Social\/Employee Health Insurance (SHI) Overview<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/japanhpn.org\/en\/hs1\/#:~:text=Employer%20based%20health%20insurance%20is,enrollee%20contributions%20within%20this%20plan.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Social\/Employee Health Insurance (SHI)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> plan is available to those working for Japanese employers, including foreign workers. SHI is paid for by contributions from Japanese employers and their employees.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What SHI Covers in Japan:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hospital Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Outpatient Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mental Health Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription Drugs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Home Health Care\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dental Care<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-20' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<!--<p><button class=\"mo-modal-open\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_Asia_1.jpg\" alt=\"blog banner asia 1\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/button><\/p>-->\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_Asia_1.jpg\" alt=\"blog banner asia 1\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private &amp; International Health Insurance Options in Japan\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private health insurance can be purchased in Japan to supplement the coverage already provided by the national plans. A popular choice for foreigners in Japan is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/health-insurance-plans\/international-health-insurance-plan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">international health insurance policies<\/a>, which offer comprehensive and portable benefits that can be taken globally.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benefits of International Health Insurance for Expats in Japan:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inpatient &amp; Outpatient Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cancer Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preventative Health &amp; Wellness Benefits<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dental Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optional Maternity Benefits<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mental Health Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription Drugs\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical evacuation and repatriation coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Direct billing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Worldwide coverage (can include your home country)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">24-hour emergency assistance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Renewable policies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flexibility in choosing providers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additional Expat Concierge Services<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-23' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_Asia_4.jpg\" alt=\"blog banner asia 4\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best International Health Insurance Providers in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">International health insurance is a great choice for foreigners in Japan due to its comprehensive and customizable benefits, as well as its wide global network. If you are someone who travels often, an international health insurance policy can be invaluable as it guarantees coverage worldwide.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many international health insurance providers can provide comprehensive coverage to foreigners during their time in Japan and ensure they are taken care of. Here is a list of five of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/international-health-insurance-top-10-providers.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">top international health insurance providers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with coverage in Japan:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/insurer-cigna\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cigna<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/insurer-axa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">AXA\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/now-health\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NOW Health<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/geoblue\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GeoBlue<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/img\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IMG Global<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit our website and use our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">free quote tool<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to begin comparing plans from these providers today.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who Is Eligible for International Health Insurance\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">International health insurance covers individuals, families, and groups. Whether you are traveling on your own, with your entire family, or with a group, you can secure coverage for your time in Japan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Types of Global &amp; Travel Medical Plans for Foreigners\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners and expats can choose international health insurance for their long-term travel needs, or they can purchase an international <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/health-insurance-plans\/short-term\/travel-quote\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">travel medical insurance plan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Travel medical insurance can cover foreigners for shorter periods of time, like under a year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">International health insurance offers a more comprehensive, extensive, and long-term solution to health insurance than <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/travel-insurance-finding-the-cheapest.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">travel medical insurance<\/a>. Travel medical insurance can cover medical emergencies and other inpatient care, but they are generally limited in their coverage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-59' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<!-- Blog Banner Stylesheet Import -->\n<link rel='stylesheet' href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/css\/m-blog-banner.css?ver4.1' type='text\/css' media='all'\/>\n<style>\n@media (min-width: 1200px) {\n  div.banner-insurers-container {\n    background-image: url('https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner  \/img\/blog-banner-asia-bg.png');\n\n  }\n  div.banner-insurers-card-image img.bupa {\n    width: 50px;\n    height: 50px;\n  }\n}\n<\/style>\n<!-- Blog Banner Stylesheet Import ends -->\n<!-- Blog Banner Asia -->\n<div class=\"banner-insurers-container\" style=\"background-image: url(https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/img\/blog-banner-asia-bg-mobile.png);\n\">\n  <h3 class=\"banner-insurers-title\">\n      Our Top Insurance Recommendations <span>for Asia<\/span>\n  <\/h3>\n  <a class=\"banner-insurers-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\">\n    <div class=\"banner-insurers-card\">\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-image\">\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"130\" height=\"130\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/img\/logo-cigna.png\" alt=\"Cigna\">\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-content\">\n        <ul>\n          <li>Worldwide Coverage (excluding the US)<\/li>\n          <li>Access to Cigna's trusted global network of hospitals and doctors<\/li>\n          <li>4 Core Insurance Plans<\/li>\n        <\/ul>\n        <button class=\"banner-insurers-card-button CompareNowbutton asiarecbutton\" onclick=\"window.location.href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog';\">\n        Get a Quote NOW\n        <\/button>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/a>\n  <a class=\"banner-insurers-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\">\n    <div class=\"banner-insurers-card\">\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-image\">\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"bupa\" width=\"130\" height=\"130\" style=\"width: 70px; height: 70px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/img\/logo-bupa.png\" alt=\"Bupa\">\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-content\">\n        <ul>\n          <li>Lifetime Renewal Possibilities<\/li>\n          <li>24\/7 Medical Help via Global Virtual Care<\/li>\n          <li>Direct Billing Options<\/li>\n        <\/ul>\n        <button class=\"banner-insurers-card-button CompareNowbutton asiarecbutton\" onclick=\"window.location.href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog';\">\n        Get a Quote NOW\n        <\/button>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/a>\n<\/div>\n<!-- Blog Banner Asia ends --><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health Insurance Costs in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your municipality calculates your NHI\u2019s premium based on your annual income of the previous year from January to December. For SHI, your premium will be calculated based on your salary. Your company will pay half of the premiums, and another half will be deducted from your monthly salary.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For private health insurance plans, the cost will vary depending on factors like the level of coverage, the plan chosen, and your age. Japan is among the top 20 countries with the highest health insurance costs, with a premium average of USD $ 5,079 a year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To learn more about the costs of insurance as well as the factors that affect it, check out Pacific Prime\u2019s free <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/cost-of-health-insurance-2023\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of Health Insurance Report<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who Qualifies for Japan\u2019s Public Health Insurance\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are staying in Japan more than 3 months on a non-tourist visa, you are required to apply for the Japanese public health insurance, either the NHI or the Social\/Employee Health Insurance, depending on your employment status. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can apply for the NHI by visiting your local ward or city office. You will need the correct documentation, such as a passport, visa, confirmation of employment, and proof of income from the last year. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the application has been processed, you will be issued a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ibmjapankenpo.jp\/eng\/member\/info\/mynumber.html#:~:text=The%20amended%20Health,eligibility%20verification%20system.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">health insurance card.<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enrolling in the Social\/Employee Health Insurance plan will be done through your employer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-21' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_Asia_2.jpg\" alt=\"blog banner asia 2\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pros and Cons of Japan\u2019s Public Healthcare System<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the pros of Japanese health insurance are the high standards of care and lowered medical fees, while the cons can be fewer second medical opinions and stigmatized mental health care. While universal healthcare has some significant advantages, there are drawbacks as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Pros:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>High Standards of Care<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Japan is well known for its quality healthcare system and standards of medical services. There is an emphasis placed on preventative care, and they value things like vaccinations, regular check-ups, and critical illness prevention.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Lowered Medical Fees<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Because 70% of medical service costs are paid for by universal healthcare plans, foreigners will only have to worry about paying 30% of their medical fees. However, these fees can add up, which makes adding supplemental private insurance coverage smart.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Cons:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Less Second Opinions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Doctors have much more authority in Japan than in other countries, which means that they generally believe what they say goes without question. Asking for further explanation or a second opinion can warrant some reactions from Japanese healthcare providers.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stigmatized Mental Health Care:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Japan has a significant issue with stigmatized mental health care, making it difficult for many people to reach out and get treatment without feeling ostracized.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Key Health Insurance Tips for Expats in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-26163 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/person-reviewing-documents-and-taking-notes-beside-a-laptop.webp\" alt=\"Image of Person Reviewing Documents And Taking Notes Beside A Laptop with text overlay of &quot;Key Health Insurance Tips for Expats in Japan&quot;\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/person-reviewing-documents-and-taking-notes-beside-a-laptop.webp 1280w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/person-reviewing-documents-and-taking-notes-beside-a-laptop-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/person-reviewing-documents-and-taking-notes-beside-a-laptop-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/person-reviewing-documents-and-taking-notes-beside-a-laptop-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/person-reviewing-documents-and-taking-notes-beside-a-laptop-150x84.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The language barrier is an important consideration for foreigners looking into Japanese health insurance. Not many Japanese healthcare providers speak English, so investing in a private international health insurance policy with language support benefits can help you get the care you need.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With multilingual employees available 24\/7 through customer support hotlines, international health insurance companies can help guide you through the process of accessing the care you need. This can be an invaluable tool for those who aren\u2019t fluent in Japanese yet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Healthcare Works in Japan\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Japanese healthcare system offers excellent standards of care, with an important emphasis placed on preventative healthcare. Public healthcare facilities are generally clean and accessible, though rural locations can have shorter wait times than urban hospitals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many Japanese citizens carry private health insurance to help pay the 30% of medical costs left over by their national plans. These savings can add up quickly, and with the additional benefits available through a private plan, it can add great value to Japanese resident\u2019s lives.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-22' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_Asia_3.jpg\" alt=\"blog banner asia 3\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Access Medical Care in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners can access the Japanese healthcare system through their public clinics and hospitals. Japanese hospitals are legally required to be not-for-profit, and the private health sector is generally dedicated to elective and cosmetic procedures.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doctor Visits &amp; Referral Process in Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Going to the clinic is the first step for a doctor&#8217;s visit in Japan, as they are used regularly for non-emergencies. Make sure to have your health insurance card with you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If, according to your doctor, your condition requires further treatment or assessment in a hospital, you will receive a referral letter for making an appointment with a hospital. Without a referral letter, you might be charged extra fee for non-referral service at the hospital.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emergency Care and Ambulance Services in Japan\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners can access emergency services by calling the emergency phone lines. These calls can be made across any phone in Japan free of charge, including public pay phones.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The emergency numbers are:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">119 for fire and ambulance\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">110 for police\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health &amp; Safety Tips for Expats in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners can stay safe during their time in Japan by staying aware of public transport and nightlife districts in big cities. While crime in Japan is low, pickpocketing can happen on public transport as well as in the nightlife districts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners should also make sure all of their vaccines are up to date, such as their measles, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hepatitis A<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and B, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/rabies-travel-advice.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rabies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/japanese-encephalitis-travel-advice.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Japanese Encephalitis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> vaccines. Japanese Encephalitis is a disease spread through mosquitos, and being vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FAQ: Health Insurance for Foreigners in Japan:\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can foreigners apply for national health insurance in Japan?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners can apply for Japanese national health insurance if they are staying longer than three months in the country. Those working for Japanese employers will be enrolled in the national Employee Insurance plan, and unemployed or self-employed expats can apply for National Health Insurance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What could happen if you don\u2019t get health insurance in Japan?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is required to enroll in health insurance in Japan, and if you don\u2019t, you may not be able to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.city.toshima.lg.jp\/info\/jp\/documents\/7-1-9.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">renew your visa or change your residency<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Additionally, not having adequate health insurance coverage means you will be stuck paying any medical fees they accrue.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are healthcare services free to foreigners in Japan?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healthcare services are not free to foreigners in Japan, even if they are covered under one of the country\u2019s public health insurance policies. Covered indivduals will be required to pay 30% of medical costs accrued from the medical services.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-73' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<link rel='stylesheet' href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/compare-box\/css\/compare-73-new.css?v1.67' type='text\/css' media='all'\/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\" class=\"inserter-73-link CompareNowbutton\">\n  <div class=\"inserter-73-new\">\n    <div class=\"inserter-left-box\">\n        <h3>Kickstart Your Search for the Perfect Insurer<\/h3>        \n        <div class=\"inserter-compare-box\">\n            <p>Compare over <br>50,000 Plans <br>from Top Insurers<\/p>\n            <button >Compare NOW<\/button>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    \n    \n    <div class=\"inserter-img-box\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/compare-box\/img\/mobile.png\" alt=\" \" class=\"banner-img-mobile\">            \n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/a>\n\n<style>\n\n.inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {right: -31%;}\n@media (max-width: 1199px) {\n  .inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {\n    right: -20px;\n  }\n@media (max-width: 991px) {\n  .inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {\n    right: -10px;\n  }\n}\n@media (max-width: 768px) {\n  .inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {\n    height: auto;\n    width: 30%;\n  }\n}\n@media (max-width: 512px) {\n  .inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {\n    height: 200px;\n  }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conclusion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners can secure health insurance in Japan by enrolling in the universal healthcare plan or by securing a private international health insurance plan. Understanding the benefits of securing adequate coverage for your adventures in Japan can help you be better prepared for your time abroad.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re ready to get started on finding coverage for your international adventure today, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">reach out to the insurance experts at Pacific Prime!<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> We have over 20 years of experience in providing insurance solutions to expats all across the globe, and we can help you with all your questions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find us online and use our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>free <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">quote tool<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to begin comparing plans, or reach out to us directly by calling toll-free at <a href=\"tel:1-800-868-1451\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">1-800-868-1451<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Foreigners in Japan can get health insurance through the national public system or by choosing private and international plans. Anyone staying longer than three months must enroll in Japan\u2019s National Health Insurance (NHI) or the Social\/Employee Health Insurance (SHI), depending on employment status. Short-term visitors and expats seeking wider coverage, English-speaking support, or global benefits &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":54,"featured_media":26160,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[570,217],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13080","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health","category-insurance"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Japanese Health Insurance: A Guide for Foreigners<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Foreigners in Japan can access public or private health insurance. 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