Congratulations on registering your address in Japan.
Now that you have your official place of residence, it’s time for the next crucial step: getting your National Health Insurance (国民健康保険 – Kokumin Kenko Hoken) card.
Think of this as your “magic card” for healthcare in Japan, covering 70% of most medical bills.
It’s an essential safety net for your new life here.
If you haven’t registered your address yet, you must do that first.
→ Moving to Japan?【Your First Step】How to Register Your Address
Who Needs to Join National Health Insurance (NHI)?
Basically, anyone staying in Japan for more than three months who is not covered by an employer’s health insurance (Social Insurance or Shakai Hoken 社会保険) must join.
This includes:
- Students
- Freelancers
- Part-time workers not eligible for company insurance
- People who are currently unemployed
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Card
The process is surprisingly simple.
Just follow these steps.
Step 1: Where to Go
You need to go to your local City or Ward Office (市役所/区役所 – Shiyakusho/Kuyakusho).
Look for the counter labeled “National Health Insurance” or “国民健康保険”.
Step 2: What to Bring
Make sure you have these documents with you:
- Your Residence Card (在留カード – Zairyu Card)
- Your My Number Card (or the paper “Notification Card” if you haven’t made the card yet)
- Your Passport
Your My Number is essential for this process.
If you’re not sure how to get your card, our guide explains it all.
→ Your Ultimate ID in Japan: How to Get a My Number Card
Step 3: What to Do at the Counter
Don’t be nervous about the language barrier.
Simply show your Residence Card and say: “Kokumin Kenko Hoken ni hairitai desu.” (I want to join the National Health Insurance).
They will give you an application form.
You just need to fill in basic information like your name, address, and date of birth.
Receiving Your Card & Paying the Premiums
In many cases, you will receive your insurance card on the same day.
However, some offices may mail it to you later.
Now for the most important part:
This insurance is not free. You must pay monthly premiums.
You will receive payment slips in the mail.
You can pay them at any convenience store (konbini).
Failing to pay can lead to serious problems, so please pay them on time.
Don’t Forget! When to Update Your Insurance
You must report to the city/ward office within 14 days if:
- You move to a different city or ward.
- You get a job and join your company’s health insurance (to withdraw from NHI).
- You leave a job and lose your company’s insurance (to join NHI).
Keeping your information updated is your responsibility.
While the process might seem like a hassle, this little card is your passport to peace of mind and affordable healthcare in Japan.
Get it done, and enjoy your life here with confidence.
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Once you have your health insurance, it’s a good idea to know where to buy medicine for minor issues like a cold or headache.
A Foreigner’s Guide to Japanese Drugstores: Must-Buy Items and Tips
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