What Insurance Do Foreigners Need in Japan?

Moving to Japan is exciting—but insurance is one of the most confusing topics for foreigners.

Many non-Japanese residents ask:

• Do I really need insurance in Japan?
• Is Japanese health insurance mandatory?
• What kind of insurance should foreigners get?
• Is private insurance better than national insurance?

This guide answers these questions clearly and practically.

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Quick Answer: Health Insurance

Most foreigners need at least one type of health insurance. Optional coverage depends on lifestyle:

• Health insurance (mandatory in most cases)
• Private health insurance (recommended)
• Travel insurance (short stays)
• Liability insurance (optional)
• Life or income insurance (long-term residents)

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1. Health Insurance in Japan (Mandatory)

National Health Insurance (NHI)

• For students, freelancers, part-time workers
• Managed by local municipalities
• Premium based on income

Employee Health Insurance

• For full-time workers
• Premium shared with employer
• Includes pension contributions

Internal link: Health Insurance in Japan for Foreigners (Complete Guide)

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2. National vs Private Insurance

• Public insurance covers 70% of most medical costs
• Private insurance adds English support, cashless hospitals, higher reimbursement
• Internal link: National Health Insurance vs Private Insurance in Japan

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3. Private Health Insurance

• Not mandatory but recommended for long-term residents, professionals, and families
• Internal link: Best Health Insurance for Foreigners Living in Japan

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4. Insurance for Students

• Students must enroll in NHI
• Many schools recommend additional coverage
• Internal link: Health Insurance for International Students in Japan

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5. Insurance for Working Foreigners

• Employee insurance + optional private insurance for additional coverage
• Internal link: Health Insurance for Working Foreigners in Japan

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6. Cost of Insurance

• NHI: ¥2,000–¥6,000/month
• Employee Insurance: Income-based
• Private Insurance: ¥3,000–¥10,000+
• Internal link: How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in Japan for Foreigners?

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7. Consequences of No Insurance

• Pay 100% of medical costs
• Immigration issues may occur
• Internal link: What Happens If Foreigners Don’t Have Health Insurance in Japan?

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8. Travel Insurance vs Health Insurance

• Travel insurance → short-term stays only
• Health insurance → long-term coverage
• Internal link: Travel Insurance vs Health Insurance for Japan (Long Stay)

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9. Other Types of Insurance

• Liability Insurance → covers accidental damage, often included with housing contracts
• Life Insurance → for families or long-term residents

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10. Summary: What You Really Need

• Minimum: ✅ Public health insurance
• Recommended: ✅ Private health insurance
• Situation-based: Students, workers, families
• CTA link: Best Health Insurance for Foreigners Living in Japan

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Why this guide matters

• Clear answers to core questions
• Helps avoid costly mistakes
• Guides toward reliable insurance options in Japan