Japan National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken) – Complete Guide for Foreigners

All foreigners staying in Japan for more than 3 months must join health insurance. If your company doesn't cover you with Shakai Hoken, you must enroll in Kokumin Kenko Hoken (National Health Insurance).

What Does It Cover?

• Covers 70% of medical costs — you pay only 30%
• Valid at virtually all hospitals and clinics in Japan
• Premium based on your previous year's income

How to Enroll

• Go to your local City Hall (Shiyakusho)
• Find the "国民健康保険" counter
• Bring: Residence Card + Passport + proof of no employer insurance
• Fill the form → receive insurance card within 2 weeks

Monthly Premium Reference (Tokyo)

Income/yearEst. monthly premium Under ¥1M (newly arrived)¥2,000–3,000 ¥2–3M¥15,000–20,000 ¥4–5M~¥30,000–40,000

⚠️ Not enrolling doesn't exempt you — unpaid premiums can be retroactively charged for up to 2 years. Register as soon as you arrive!