Area guides
Japan's Healthcare System for Foreign Residents: NHI, Clinics, and How to Get Help
Japan's Healthcare System: An Overview
Japan has one of the world's best healthcare systems, and as a foreign resident staying longer than 3 months, you are required by law to enroll in health insurance. The main options are:
- National Health Insurance (国民健康保険 / NHI): For self-employed, students, and those not covered by employer insurance
- Employee Health Insurance (健康保険): Provided through your employer if you work full-time
National Health Insurance (NHI)
Who Needs to Enroll
Any foreign resident with a valid residence card (在留カード) staying more than 3 months must enroll in NHI unless covered by employer insurance.
How to Enroll
- Go to your local ward or city office (区役所/市役所)
- Bring your residence card (在留カード) and My Number card or notification letter
- Fill out the enrollment form
- You will receive your health insurance card (保険証) by mail within 1–2 weeks
How Much Does It Cost
NHI premiums are calculated based on your previous year's income and your municipality. As a rough guide:
| Annual Income | Estimated Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| ¥0 (first year) | ¥2,000–¥5,000 |
| ¥2,000,000 | ¥10,000–¥20,000 |
| ¥4,000,000 | ¥20,000–¥35,000 |
NHI covers 70% of medical costs — you pay the remaining 30% out of pocket.
Using Your Health Insurance
At the Clinic or Hospital
- Present your 保険証 (health insurance card) at reception
- Fill out a patient registration form
- See the doctor and pay 30% of the total fee
Finding English-Speaking Doctors
- AMDA International Medical Information Center: 03-5285-8088
- Japan Health Info: jhi.jp — searchable database of English-speaking doctors
- Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Medical Information Center: 03-5285-8181
Common Medical Facilities
| Facility Type | Japanese | When to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Clinic | クリニック/診療所 | Minor illness, regular check-ups |
| Hospital | 病院 | Serious conditions, specialists |
| Emergency Room | 救急 | Life-threatening emergencies |
| Pharmacy | 薬局 | Picking up prescriptions |
Mental Health Resources
Mental health support is available for foreign residents:
- TELL Japan: English-language counseling — 03-5774-0992
- Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL): Hotline and in-person therapy
- Many prefectural health centers (保健センター) offer free consultations
Important Health Cards and Documents
- 保険証 (Health Insurance Card): Always carry this to medical appointments
- お薬手帳 (Medication Notebook): Keep a record of all prescriptions
- 診察券 (Patient Card): Given by each clinic for repeat visits
Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Ambulance/Fire | 119 |
| Police | 110 |
| Medical consultation (Tokyo) | #7119 |
If you call 119 for an ambulance, the operator will ask: "救急ですか？火事ですか？" (Is it an emergency? Or a fire?) Answer "救急です" (Emergency).
Enrolling in NHI and understanding how Japan's healthcare system works will give you peace of mind during your stay in Japan.