As a foreigner living in Tokyo, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"As a foreigner living in Tokyo, you will have access to public healthcare, provided you are enrolled in one of Japan's health insurance programs, such as the National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employee's Health Insurance. The Japanese healthcare system is known for its high-quality medical services, well-equipped facilities, and well-trained healthcare professionals. However, it is important to note that not all medical staff may be fluent in English, so it might be helpful to have a Japanese-speaking friend or a translation app to assist you during medical appointments. Additionally, while public healthcare in Japan is generally affordable due to the insurance coverage, you may still be required to pay a percentage of the medical costs out-of-pocket," remarked another expat in Tokyo, Japan.

"I have Social Health Insurance as an full-time employee. National Health Insurance also exists if one's job does not pay for half of insurance. Everyone is entitled to public insurance and may enroll if a resident. It costs me about 5% of my salary (and my employer pays another 5%) based on my salary in the previous year. I was enrolled with no questions of my pre-existing conditions. There are public hospitals, but I have not been to one yet. It is often the case that people with some health issue will go to a local, small practitioner that specializes in that field," said a member in Tokyo, Japan.

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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

Cigna Global Health

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Get Quote