{"id":26916,"date":"2025-12-08T21:39:48","date_gmt":"2025-12-08T13:39:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/?p=26916"},"modified":"2025-12-08T21:39:48","modified_gmt":"2025-12-08T13:39:48","slug":"public-vs-private-health-insurance-japan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/public-vs-private-health-insurance-japan.html","title":{"rendered":"Public vs. Private Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners: Which Should You Choose?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners in Japan with public health insurance can choose to purchase supplemental private health insurance to extend their coverage further. While enrolling in a public health insurance scheme is mandatory for foreigners staying over 90 days, private health insurance is optional.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are you a foreigner <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/living-abroad-in-japan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">living abroad in Japan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">? Your health insurance options will vary depending on the length of your stay. The insurance experts at Pacific Prime wrote this guide to help expats understand <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/country\/asia\/japan-health-insurance\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">health insurance in Japan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We will explain details about public health insurance and private <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/international-health-insurance-in-japan-foreigners-guide.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">health insurance in Japan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, sharing the most recommended health insurance providers and more. We will then give tips on how to pick the best plan for yourself or your family in Japan. Keep reading to learn more!<\/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;\">Should Foreigners Choose Public or Private Health Insurance in Japan?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-26922 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riverside-view-of-tokyo-with-high-rise-buildings-along-the-water.webp\" alt=\"Image of Riverside View Of Tokyo With High-rise Buildings Along The Water with text overlay of &quot;Should Foreigners Choose Public or Private Health Insurance in Japan?&quot;\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riverside-view-of-tokyo-with-high-rise-buildings-along-the-water.webp 1280w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riverside-view-of-tokyo-with-high-rise-buildings-along-the-water-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riverside-view-of-tokyo-with-high-rise-buildings-along-the-water-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riverside-view-of-tokyo-with-high-rise-buildings-along-the-water-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/riverside-view-of-tokyo-with-high-rise-buildings-along-the-water-150x84.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The choice between public and private health insurance will vary depending on several factors, such as the duration of your stay in Japan, your healthcare needs, and more. If you are staying in Japan for over 90 days, you won\u2019t have the choice to opt out of public insurance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners planning to stay in Japan for under 90 days are recommended to purchase travel medical insurance or a short-term health policy for their trip. Students on a strict budget staying in Japan for a year or more may want to rely only on their public health insurance coverage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For foreigners to understand which choice is the right one for them, they will need to learn more about Japan\u2019s public health insurance system and private health insurance options.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Public Health Insurance in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Japan provides public health insurance to citizens and noncitizens through its universal health insurance system. This universal healthcare system is funded mostly through individual contributions and taxes. Japan has had universal healthcare coverage since 1961.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The universal health insurance system provides both citizens and foreigners with access to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/best-hospitals-in-japan-for-expats-and-visitors.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high-quality hospitals<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and clinics. Enrollment in the universal health insurance system is <\/span><b>mandatory<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The three health insurance schemes included in this system are:<\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>National Health Insurance (NHI): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provides coverage to the self-employed, the unemployed, those who work less than 30 hours a week, international students, and retired residents aged 75 or younger.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Employment-based health insurance: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provides coverage for employees, where employers and employees share mandatory contributions.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Health insurance for the advanced elderly: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provides coverage for individuals who are aged 75 and over.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Foreigners enrolled in one of these health insurance plans will pay a monthly premium and a copayment for whatever medical service they receive. The rate of health insurance premiums will vary between plans.\u00a0<b><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Copayments are the same across the different health insurance plans, with cost-sharing varying according to age. Young children and the elderly will pay less in copayments. There are also monthly maximum limits for out-of-pocket costs for insured members.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once members have reached their monthly maximum limit for out-of-pocket costs, they will be reimbursed or not charged for further services for the remainder of the month. This maximum limit is calculated based on income.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-24' 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_5.jpg\" alt=\"blog banner asia 5\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Health Insurance in Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.city.kita.lg.jp\/_res\/projects\/default_project\/_page_\/001\/001\/709\/kokuhonotebiki2025_english.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Health Insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> scheme is available for expats who are living in Japan for longer than three months and fit one or more of the following criteria:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Self-employed<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unemployed<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Work less than 30 hours a week<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">International students<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Retired and aged 75 or younger<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The National Health Insurance covers a variety of medical expenses in Japan, including most inpatient services and dental care. They do not cover vaccines or immunizations. Refer to the table below for more information on what is and is not covered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"2\"><b>National Health Insurance Coverage<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medicines and medicinal supplies<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Covered<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treatments, surgeries, and other procedures<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Covered<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vaccines and immunizations<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not covered<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hospitalization<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Covered<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cosmetic procedures and orthodontics<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not covered<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nursing care and in-home nursing care<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Covered<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Physicals and medical check-ups for members under 40<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not covered<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NHI members aged 40 to 74 are eligible for NHI vouchers for medical check-ups to screen for diabetes, high blood pressure, and other illnesses. NHI members will also receive a lump-sum benefit of JPY 500,000 (around USD $3,246) for pregnancy and childbirth, as well as for stillbirth or miscarriage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An additional benefit is a sum paid toward funeral expenses if an insured member dies. The sum paid per member is JPY 70,000 (around USD $454). This benefit will not be paid if the insured has another insurance policy that covers funeral expenses.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To enroll in the National Health Insurance, foreigners will need to visit their local city or ward office within <\/span><b>14 days <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">of moving to their residence. Take all necessary documents with you, like your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/jp.usembassy.gov\/services\/visas-japan-u-s-citizens\/#:~:text=If%20you%20will,and%20Fukuoka%20Airport.\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Residence Card<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, passport, proof of address, financial documents, and so on.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The exact documents you will need may vary depending on your situation and the municipality, so expats are recommended to inquire with the relevant service counter for details. You will also need to fill out an application at the service counter.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Employer-Based Health Insurance in Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nenkin.go.jp\/international\/japanese-system\/employeespension\/employee.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Employer-based health insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is provided for individuals employed by large- to small-sized companies. Foreigners with a valid work visa are eligible for this health insurance. Employers and employees share mandatory contributions for this insurance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Government subsidies for employer-based health insurance depend on the size of the company. The employee contributions are taken from their monthly paychecks. Benefits may vary depending on your employer and company but generally include the following:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hospitalization coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Outpatient coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mental health coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Home nursing coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dental coverage\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners working in Japan will be<\/span><b> automatically enrolled in the employer-based health insurance scheme through their employer.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health Insurance for the Advanced Elderly<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ibmjapankenpo.jp\/eng\/member\/outline\/system01.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health insurance for the advanced elderly<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> requires all individuals aged 75 and over to enroll. This includes individuals who are employed and dependents. The health insurance for the elderly scheme is overseen at the prefectural and municipal levels.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Individuals with this health insurance plan pay a premium deducted from their pensions and will pay a 10% copayment for their medical services. The health insurance for the elderly scheme is supported by government subsidies. <\/span><b>Individuals are automatically enrolled in this scheme when they turn 75.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benefits included in this scheme are the same as the others, providing benefits like:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hospitalization coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Outpatient coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mental health coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Home nursing coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dental coverage\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While this insurance scheme is primarily made for those aged 75 and older, individuals with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC1484411\/#:~:text=the%20eligibility%20is%20limited%20only%20for%20the%2015%20ageing%2Dtype%20disabilities%20(e.g.%20Alzheimer%27s%20disease%2C%20stroke%2C%20etc).\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">certain disabilities<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can enroll between the ages of 65 and 74 years.<\/span><\/p>\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;\">Private Health Insurance in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners visiting Japan for under 90 days can purchase private health insurance coverage for their trip to offer medical protection. Foreigners staying in Japan for over 90 days can purchase private health insurance to supplement their public health insurance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This supplemental private health insurance can provide expats with access to private hospital rooms, their choice of providers, and assistance with out-of-pocket costs not covered by their NHI plans.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private health insurance can be purchased from local or international health insurance providers. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/health-insurance-plans\/international-health-insurance-plan\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">International health insurance plans<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> provide the added benefit of being globally portable, allowing expats to take these plans with them as they travel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private health insurance is not mandatory in Japan, unlike public health insurance. Still, it can be an invaluable resource for expats seeking more comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travel Medical Insurance and Short-Term Health Insurance for Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/health-insurance-plans\/travel-insurance-and-short-term-health-insurance-for-expats\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travel medical insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/health-insurance-plans\/short-term-health-insurance-plans\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">short-term health insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are additional options for private health care coverage in Japan. Travel insurance is best suited for tourists in Japan, while short-term insurance is available for those staying longer than a month but under a year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travel medical insurance provides health insurance coverage in addition to coverage for travel-related risks. Travel insurance is popular with tourists due to its customizable length of coverage, covering anywhere from two weeks to several months.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Short-term health insurance plans typically offer coverage for one to 12 months, making them an excellent choice for short-term visitors in Japan. Individuals on temporary assignments, digital nomads, and other global working professionals benefit most from this short-term medical insurance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Short-term health insurance typically provides more comprehensive medical care coverage than travel medical insurance. To compare different travel and short-term insurance options, use Pacific Prime\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/health-insurance-plans\/short-term\/travel-quote\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">free quote tool to compare insurance quotes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also check out the article below to learn more about travel insurance in Japan:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/best-travel-insurance-japan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Best Travel Insurance in Japan for Travelers<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\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;\">Recommended Private Health Insurance Providers in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/top-japan-insurance-companies-expats.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">top recommended international health insurance providers for Japan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are <\/span><b>Cigna Global, Allianz Care, Bupa, <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and <\/span><b>NOW Health International<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. These international providers offer comprehensive plans with global portability for their members.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cigna Global Plans for Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/insurer-cigna\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cigna Global<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a leading international health insurance provider worldwide and in Japan that offers coverage for individuals and families. Cigna is one of the largest international health insurance providers, with a broad global network of 1.65 million hospitals, doctors, and clinics.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats can choose between Cigna Global\u2019s four core insurance plans: <\/span><b>Silver<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Gold<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Platinum<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>Close Care<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. These plans vary in annual maximum limits and benefit limits, but some standard benefits shared between plans include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inpatient coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mental health care coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Global Health Assistance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Different deductible options<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cancer treatment coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private hospital room coverage\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visitor accommodation costs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Worldwide coverage (including or excluding the US)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allianz Care Plans for Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/allianz\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allianz Care<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an international health insurance company that provides its services in 75 countries and over 58 languages. They offer international health insurance to expat individuals and families in Japan through their plans <\/span><b>Allianz Care Base<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Allianz Care Enhanced<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>Allianz Care Signature<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Key features across these separate plans are:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flexible deductible options<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical repatriation coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private hospital room coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inpatient coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cancer treatment coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expat Assistance Program (EAP)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Olive Health &amp; Wellness Support Program<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\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<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bupa Global Plans for Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/bupa\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bupa Global<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an international health insurance provider that offers insurance for individuals and families in Japan and worldwide. Bupa Global provides four core plans: <\/span><b>Major Medical, Select, Premier, <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and <\/span><b>Elite<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, with Elite being the most comprehensive plan of the four.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plan benefits vary between the four core plans. Some of the shared benefits across all four plans include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private hospital room coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical evacuation coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">24-hour medical help through Global Virtual Care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Second medical opinions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Direct access to specialists without referral\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NOW Health International Plans for Japan<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/insurers-and-partners\/now-health\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NOW Health<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an international health insurance provider that offers expats in Japan comprehensive coverage through their <\/span><b>SimpleCare<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>WorldCare<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> plans. SimpleCare and WorldCare come with different coverage tiers, providing expats with greater flexibility in their choices.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Annual maximum limits and covered benefits vary across NOW Health\u2019s plans. Some of the shared benefits included across all plans are:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inpatient and day-patient coverage<\/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;\">Cancer treatment coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day-patient or outpatient surgery<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Organ transplant coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost Comparisons: Public vs. Private Health Insurance in Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-26923 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-holding-cash-and-a-pill-bottle-to-represent-medical-costs.webp\" alt=\"Image of Doctor Holding Cash And A Pill Bottle To Represent Medical Costs with text overlay of &quot;Cost Comparisons: Public vs. Private Health Insurance in Japan&quot;\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-holding-cash-and-a-pill-bottle-to-represent-medical-costs.webp 1280w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-holding-cash-and-a-pill-bottle-to-represent-medical-costs-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-holding-cash-and-a-pill-bottle-to-represent-medical-costs-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-holding-cash-and-a-pill-bottle-to-represent-medical-costs-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/doctor-holding-cash-and-a-pill-bottle-to-represent-medical-costs-150x84.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Public health insurance in Japan is generally more affordable than private health insurance plans due to government subsidies. Private health insurance coverage can still save members in the long run due to savings in out-of-pocket costs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The average annual international health insurance premium for an individual policy is USD $5,228 (around JPY 816,640). The average yearly cost for a family policy is USD $14,670 (around JPY2,291,52). The monthly premium costs of public health insurance will depend on your income.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Deciding if private health insurance is worth the cost is a personal decision for foreigners, dependent on many factors. If you value high coverage and customizable benefits, you will value a private health insurance policy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To learn more about the factors that affect the cost of health insurance, download our guide below:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/cost-of-health-insurance-2024\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Cost of International Health Insurance Report 2024<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tips to Choose the Right Health Insurance Plan for You<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners can choose the right health insurance policy by comparing policies, considering their necessary coverage, reading reviews and ratings, using an insurance broker, and taking into account their budget.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Consider Necessary Coverage: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before shopping for private health insurance plans, consider what coverage you will need. Do you have a medical condition that may require medical support? Consider purchasing a plan with medical emergency coverage.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Consider Your Budget: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the determining factors of which policy you choose will be what you can afford, but don\u2019t choose the cheapest plan simply to save money. You will want to ensure that you are adequately protected at a price that works for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Read Reviews and Ratings: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When researching the best private health insurance providers, take your time to read reviews and ratings on the company. This will give you a good idea of how they treat their customers.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Compare Policies: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You should compare health insurance policies across a variety of insurance providers so you can ensure you are getting the best deal for your money. Comparing plans can be done independently using <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">our free quote tool.<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use an Insurance Broker: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the easiest ways to simplify the process of choosing a private health insurance plan is to use a reputable insurance broker like Pacific Prime. We can help you compare plans and understand complicated insurance jargon, all <\/span><b>for free.\u00a0<\/b><\/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<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently Asked Questions:\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can foreigners have both public and private health insurance in Japan?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners can have both public and private health insurance in Japan. Many expats choose to purchase supplemental private health insurance to help pay for out-of-pocket costs left over by their public health insurance coverage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do I have to enroll in the NHI if I stay longer than 90 days in Japan?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats are required to enroll in the NHI or another applicable public insurance scheme if they stay in Japan longer than 90 days. Expats who are self-employed, unemployed, work less than 30 hours a week, international students, or retired and under 75 are eligible for the NHI.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can travel insurance offer me medical protection in Japan?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travel insurance can offer medical protection in Japan if you choose a plan that specifically states it provides medical coverage in addition to the standard travel benefits. Travel medical insurance is available through international providers like Allianz, AXA, and IMG Global.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Does Japan have a high-quality healthcare system?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/health-care-in-japan-for-expats.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Japan has a high-quality healthcare system <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">with modern and updated technology and interiors, high standards of care, and easy access to specialists. Expats seeking medical care can rest assured that they will receive quality care while in Japan.\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:\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreigners choosing between public and private health insurance in Japan should consider how long they are staying in Japan, their healthcare needs, and the level of protection they would like. Public health insurance is mandatory for foreigners staying long-term in Japan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are you ready to begin shopping for private health insurance coverage for Japan? Contact the insurance experts at Pacific Prime. We partner with a diverse range of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/top-japan-insurance-companies-expats.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">top international health insurance providers in Japan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and across the globe.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We are brokers with over 20 years of experience in providing insurance solutions to expats and digital nomads worldwide. We can help you understand insurance quotes and plans and offer our unbiased advice. If you\u2019d like to compare plans on your own, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">feel free to use our free quote generator<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019d like to read more helpful guides for expats in Japan, check out our articles below:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/how-to-enroll-pay-manage-health-insurance-japan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Enroll, Pay &amp; Manage Health Insurance in Japan as a Foreigner<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Japan Health Insurance for Digital Nomads &amp; Remote Workers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/cost-of-living-in-japan-for-expats.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of Living in Japan: Essential Guide for Expats<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/best-places-to-live-japan.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12 Best Places To Live In Japan For Expats<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/japanese-encephalitis-travel-advice.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Japanese Encephalitis: Travel Advice<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Foreigners in Japan with public health insurance can choose to purchase supplemental private health insurance to extend their coverage further. While enrolling in a public health insurance scheme is mandatory for foreigners staying over 90 days, private health insurance is optional.\u00a0\u00a0 Are you a foreigner living abroad in Japan? Your health insurance options will vary &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":54,"featured_media":26918,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1713,570],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-26916","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-expat-insurance","category-health"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Public vs Private Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners: Which Should You Choose?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn why foreigners can benefit from private health insurance in addition to their public health insurance coverage in this guide from Pacific Prime.\u00a0\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/public-vs-private-health-insurance-japan.html\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Public vs Private Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners: Which Should You Choose?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn why foreigners can benefit from private health insurance in addition to their public health insurance coverage in this guide from Pacific Prime.\u00a0\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/public-vs-private-health-insurance-japan.html\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Pacific Prime&#039;s Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pacificprime\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-12-08T13:39:48+00:00\" 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