Insurance and Mutual Aid
Japan operates a mandatory National Health Insurance program. Additionally, student accident and liability plans safeguard against unexpected daily risks.
National Health Insurance (NHI / "Kokuho")
In Japan, a national health insurance system is available to reduce medical costs. Foreign residents who will be staying in Japan for three months or more are required by law to subscribe to the National Health Insurance program.
Registration Procedures
Register for the National Health Insurance at the municipal office in your area after completing your local resident registration.
Health Insurance Premium
Premiums are calculated according to your previous year's income (including part-time jobs). Please be sure to report your income at the municipal office, as correct calculations cannot be made otherwise.
Premium Reduction Support
Premiums are reduced if your previous year's income is below a certain threshold. However, your income must be declared in order to qualify for this reduction. Even if you had little or no income, you still need to declare it, so do not forget to file your report.
Coverage Details
When receiving treatment for injuries or illnesses, present your insurance card to pay just 30% of the total medical bill (the remaining 70% is covered by NHI). Any medical expenses not covered by insurance must be paid in full.
High Medical Costs: NHI refunds expenses exceeding your individual limit. For hospitalization, apply for an eligibility certificate in advance to keep upfront hospital payments capped at your individual limit.
Accident/Property Insurance & Mutual Aid (Kyosai)
To cover expenses incurred by unexpected accidents that are not covered by National Health Insurance, international students can register for casualty and personal liability insurance plans.
Representative Covered Scenarios
Kitchen Fire Damages
If oil catches fire while deep-frying food and burns the kitchen, requiring walls to be completely redone.
Bicycle Accidents
If you ride a bicycle and injure someone else, requiring you to pay for their medical expenses.
Theft & Burglary
If your room is burglarized while you are away, and items such as your computer or camera are stolen.
Gakkensai & Inbound Futai-Gakuso
Gakkensai: Personal Accident Insurance for Students Pursuing Education and Research. Adopted by the majority of schools (universities, graduate schools, junior colleges, etc.) to cover injuries sustained during classes, commuting, and school events.
Inbound Futai-Gakuso: Supplementary liability/accident insurance offered by Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) for international students on the Gakkensai plan.
* Note: Because these insurance plans are not available at certain schools, applicants are advised to contact their specific school to confirm.
University CO-OP's Kyosai
This is a university cooperative mutual aid insurance system that students can enroll in while attending university, providing extra safety nets for sickness, medical care, and daily life incidents.
Your school will provide you with information on various types of insurance to consider. Always ask your student affairs division.