I. International health insurance Japan
I. International health insurance Japan
Do you need an international health insurance in Japan?
All residents in Japan, including expats, are legally required to join a public health insurance system: either the Employees’ Health Insurance (SHI) or the National Health Insurance (NHI).
However, these schemes often cover only 70% of costs and exclude international care, private rooms, or alternative treatments.
Japan offers a unique combination of tradition, innovation, and world-class infrastructure.
Its healthcare system is one of the most advanced in the world, but expats quickly discover that navigating local insurance schemes, language barriers, and access limitations can be challenging.
International health insurance in Japan provides global flexibility, premium care access, and peace of mind for those settling or working in Japan.
It also offers:
Full reimbursement without co-payments or deductibles
Access to private hospitals with English-speaking doctors
Protection during travel and temporary relocation
Higher limits for surgery, cancer treatment, and maternity
Our Japan-based advantages
What our expat clients in Japan value most
No exclusions for pre-existing or chronic conditions
Direct access to private clinics without a referral
Complete support during visa, job, or country transitions
Comprehensive mental health and preventive coverage
Maternity and pediatric care for international families
Destinations covered for Japan residents
Expats based in Japan often maintain global ties and require coverage across:
OnlyHealth ensures uninterrupted coverage wherever you reside, travel, or receive care. Benefits work worldwide without any translation needed, offering freedom of choice for the best treatment and respecting your medical care habits.
What is the average cost of medical care in Japan?
Japan offers affordable care for residents under public schemes. Without insurance or in the private system, costs can escalate quickly:
Routine medical care
Private routine care in Japan is efficient and widely accessible, but fees apply in full when not using the public system. International plans offer more direct access without co-pays.
¥7,000 to ¥15,000
¥20,000 to ¥50,000
¥8,000 to ¥15,000
Dental care
Dental care is not fully covered by national insurance and often excludes cosmetic or complex procedures. Expats frequently turn to private dentists with shorter delays.
¥6,000 to ¥12,000
¥8,000 to ¥18,000
¥40,000 to ¥80,000
¥250,000 to ¥500,000
Optical care
Japan has a large network of optical clinics, but coverage is limited. Most expats cover vision expenses themselves or rely on international plans.
¥20,000 to ¥50,000
¥3,000 to ¥6,000
¥4,000 to ¥8,000
Medical imaging
Imaging services in Japan are high-quality and available through both hospitals and private radiology centers. Prices vary depending on region and urgency.
¥40,000 to ¥80,000
¥10,000 to ¥25,000
¥12,000 to ¥25,000
¥30,000 to ¥60,000
Specialist consultations
Specialists are highly trained, but appointments often require a local referral unless you opt for private clinics. International insurance simplifies access.
¥12,000 to ¥25,000
¥10,000 to ¥20,000
¥12,000 to ¥25,000
¥15,000 to ¥30,000
¥8,000 to ¥15,000
Hospitalization in Japan
Hospital stays in Japan are efficient but costly without national coverage. International plans allow access to private rooms and specialist surgeries.
¥30,000 to ¥50,000
¥50,000 to ¥100,000
€1,500 to €3,000
¥500,000 to ¥2,000,000
Maternity (natural delivery, 5 days):
¥500,000 to ¥1,000,000
¥100,000 to ¥200,000
II. What every expat should know before moving to Japan
II. What every expat should know before moving to Japan
Relocating to Japan offers a unique cultural and professional experience, but it also requires careful planning to navigate the country’s administrative systems, housing market, and healthcare structure.
Visa and Japan residence permit
Japan offers work visas, investor visas, and family-sponsored residency. Enrolling in public health insurance is mandatory, but many expats prefer international plans for broader protection, especially for high-income or mobile profiles.
Accommodation and housing
Apartments are compact but well-maintained. Tokyo and Osaka are expensive, with monthly rents ranging from ¥150,000 to ¥400,000. Key money and agency fees are standard.
Most expats use relocation agencies to simplify the process.
| Education and schools
Japan has excellent international schools offering British, American, IB, and French programs.
Tuition ranges from ¥2,000,000 to ¥3,500,000 per year. Public schools are high quality but primarily in Japanese.
| Transport and mobility
Japan’s public transport is among the best in the world.
Trains, subways, and buses are punctual, safe, and clean. Taxis are reliable but costly.
Most expats do not need a car unless living outside major cities.
| Cost of living and housing
Japan is moderately expensive. Tokyo and Yokohama lead in cost, particularly for expat housing and schooling.
However, food, public transport, and healthcare remain relatively affordable compared to many Western cities.
| Language and integration
Japanese is essential for everyday life. While healthcare providers in major cities offer English-speaking services, language remains a barrier in many hospitals.
Cultural integration is respectful, formal, and gradual.
| Healthcare and insurance
Public insurance is widely used but partial.
International insurance provides enhanced access, no copayments, and worldwide protection.
Ideal for expats who travel, change employers, or require private specialist care.
| Employment and business
Japan offers strong opportunities in technology, finance, education, and consulting.
Work culture is formal and structured.
Entrepreneurs face administrative hurdles but benefit from a stable economy and talent-rich environment.
III. Health protection that travels with you, in Japan and beyond
III. Health protection that travels with you, in Japan and beyond
In a country where excellence is the standard, your healthcare should reflect the same.
OnlyHealth provides international insurance for expats in Japan who need simplicity, freedom, and superior care, without compromise, wherever life takes them.