🏥 What Medical Insurance Should International Students in Japan Get?


Introduction

If you are coming to Japan as an international student, one of the most important things to prepare is health (medical) insurance.

Japan has both public health insurance and private insurance options. This guide explains which type you must join, what options are available, and how to protect yourself from expensive medical bills.

✅ Do International Students Need Health Insurance in Japan?

Yes!
All international students staying in Japan for more than 3 months are legally required to join National Health Insurance (NHI / 国民健康保険).

Even if you are healthy, joining NHI is essential because:

  • It covers 70% of your medical costs

  • Without it, a hospital visit can cost hundreds of thousands of yen

🏥 1. National Health Insurance (NHI)

📌 What is it?

NHI is a public insurance system managed by the city or ward office.
It is for students, freelancers, part-time workers, or anyone not covered by company insurance.

✅ Who is eligible?

  • All foreigners with a residence card

  • Staying in Japan more than 3 months

  • Living in a Japanese city (with residence registration)

💸 How much does it cost?

  • Cost varies by city and your income

  • For students with no or low income, the monthly premium is often ¥1,000–¥3,000

📝 How to apply?

  1. Register your residence at city hall

  2. Apply for NHI at the same time

  3. Receive your NHI card (保険証)

📎 You must bring your residence card and passport.

🩺 2. Optional: Private Health Insurance

You may also choose to buy private insurance for extra coverage.
This is not mandatory, but can help with:

  • Hospital cash benefits (get paid if hospitalized)

  • Coverage for accidents or injuries

  • Translation services

  • Overseas coverage (for temporary return trips)

Some popular private insurance options for students:

  • Student Insurance Plans from language schools or universities

  • Global insurance companies like AXA, Tokio Marine, Sompo

💡 Tip: Check if your school offers a group insurance plan — they are usually cheap and helpful.

🚑 What Is Covered by NHI?

ServiceNHI Covers
Doctor visits✅ Yes (70%)
Hospitalization✅ Yes (70%)
Surgery✅ Yes
Prescriptions✅ Yes
Dental care✅ Basic care only
Vaccines❌ Not covered unless required by law
Vision care❌ Not covered (glasses, contacts, etc.)

⚠️ What If You Don’t Join?

If you do not join NHI:

  • You may be charged full medical costs (100%)

  • Visa renewal may be more difficult

  • You may be fined or asked to pay back premiums

📝 Some schools require proof of insurance at enrollment.

✅ Summary

TypeNational Health Insurance (NHI)Private Insurance
Mandatory?✅ Yes❌ No
Cost¥1,000–¥3,000/month (varies)¥2,000–¥10,000+ depending on coverage
Covers70% of medical billsExtra cash, accidents, hospital stay, translation
Who provides it?Your local city officeSchool or private company
Recommended?✅ Yes (required)👍 Optional but helpful

✉️ Final Tips

As an international student in Japan, having proper health insurance is not just a requirement — it’s protection for your peace of mind.

  • 📌 Join NHI as soon as you register your residence

  • 🤝 Ask your school if they offer additional coverage

  • 💡 Consider private insurance if you want extra protection

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