All you need to know about
health insurance in Japan

All our articles

Mutual insurance in Japan: Understanding the healthcare system

For expatriates wishing to live in Japan, understanding the insurance available is crucial. A complementary health insurance plancan be essential to avoid high medical costs and guarantee optimal coverage. Japan offers an efficient, high-quality healthcare system, based on compulsory public coverage.

The Japanese Health System

Japan has a universal healthcare system based on two main insurance schemes:

1. Shakai Hoken (社会保険) – Employee Health Insurance
2. Kokumin Kenko Hoken (国民健康保険) – National health insurance for the self-employed and other residents

Every person living in Japan for an extended period is required to be affiliated to one of these schemes. Medical expenses are covered up to 70%, leaving the patient with 30% to pay. However, certain benefits may not be covered, hence the importance of a complementary health insurance plan.

Insurance in Japan

1. Shakai Hoken : Employee Insurance: Employees of Japanese companies are covered by the Shakai Hoken, which includes not only health insurance, but also pension and unemployment insurance. Employer and employee share contributions, making it a relatively affordable and effective option.
2. Kokumin Kenko Hoken: Insurance for the self-employed: Self-employed workers, students and expatriates not employed by a Japanese company must subscribe to Kokumin Kenko Hoken. Contributions are based on income, and can be relatively high. This insurance is managed by local municipalities.
3. Koki Koreisha Iryo Seido: Insurance for senior citizens: People over the age of 75 benefit from special coverage, called Koki Koreisha Iryo Seido, which covers a large proportion of medical expenses, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

The benefits of a Mutuelle Complémentaire

Although the Japanese healthcare system is efficient, it doesn’t cover everything. Dental care, optical care and certain hospitalizations can generate additional costs. That’s why many expatriates and Japanese take out a private complementary health insurance plan to improve their coverage.

International health insurance plans such as MSH International, Cigna or April International are popular with expatriates, as they offer extensive coverage, including medical repatriation and care outside Japan. Compare all available health insurance plans for Japan on Santexpat.fr.

How to choose a mutual insurance company in Japan?

To choose the right mutual insurer, here are a few criteria to consider:

• Scope of cover: hospital expenses, consultations, dental and optical care, etc.
• Cost and budget: Evaluate value for money
• Medical network: Check which establishments are covered
• International assistance: Useful for expatriates who travel frequently

Health insurance to live in Japan

Japan’s healthcare system is of the highest quality, but it requires a good understanding to avoid unforeseen expenses. A complementary health insurance plan is highly recommended for optimum coverage and protection in the event of unforeseen medical circumstances.