Fukuoka

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Health Insurance

Overview of the Japanese health insurance system, including how to enroll and use it in Fukuoka.

Sections

1. Types of Health Insurance in Japan

In Japan, there are two primary types of health insurance systems:

a. National Health Insurance (NHI) - ε›½ζ°‘ε₯康保険 (Kokumin Kenkō Hoken)

  • Who it’s for:
    • Self-employed individuals, students, part-time workers, retirees, and anyone not covered by employer-sponsored insurance.
    • Foreign residents staying in Japan for more than 3 months.
  • Coverage:
    • Covers 70% of medical costs (patients pay 30% out-of-pocket at clinics and hospitals).
    • Includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, and some dental care.

b. Employee Health Insurance (EHI) - η€ΎδΌšδΏι™Ί (Shakai Hoken)

  • Who it’s for:
    • Full-time employees working for companies or organizations.
    • Employers are required to enroll their employees in this system.
  • Coverage:
    • Similar to NHI, covering 70% of medical costs.
    • Includes additional benefits such as maternity leave compensation, injury compensation, and family coverage.

2. Costs of Health Insurance

The cost of health insurance in Japan depends on your income and the type of insurance you are enrolled in.

a. National Health Insurance (NHI)

  • Premiums:
    • Calculated based on your income, assets, and the number of dependents.
    • For low-income earners, premiums can be reduced or subsidized.
    • In Fukuoka, the average monthly premium for a single person is around Β₯10,000–Β₯20,000, but this varies.
  • Payment:
    • Paid monthly, quarterly, or annually at your local city or ward office.

b. Employee Health Insurance (EHI)

  • Premiums:
    • Typically 7–10% of your monthly salary, with your employer covering half of the cost.
    • Includes pension contributions (εŽšη”ŸεΉ΄ι‡‘, Kōsei Nenkin).
  • Payment:
    • Automatically deducted from your paycheck.

3. Application Procedures

The application process differs depending on the type of insurance.

a. National Health Insurance (NHI)

  1. Where to Apply:
    • At your local ward or city office in Fukuoka (εŒΊε½Ήζ‰€, Kuyakusho).
    • Examples: Hakata Ward Office, Chuo Ward Office, etc.
  2. Required Documents:
    • Residence Card (εœ¨η•™γ‚«γƒΌγƒ‰, ZairyΕ« Kādo).
    • Passport.
    • My Number Card (γƒžγ‚€γƒŠγƒ³γƒγƒΌγ‚«γƒΌγƒ‰) or notification letter.
    • Proof of address (e.g., rental contract or utility bill).
    • Bank account details (for premium payments).
  3. Steps:
    • Visit the National Health Insurance counter at the ward office.
    • Fill out the application form with assistance from staff.
    • Receive your NHI card (ε₯康保険証, Kenkō Hokenshō) on the same day or within a few days.

b. Employee Health Insurance (EHI)

  1. Where to Apply:
    • Your employer handles the application process.
  2. Required Documents:
    • Residence Card.
    • My Number Card.
    • Bank account details (for salary and deductions).
  3. Steps:
    • Provide your employer with the necessary documents.
    • Your employer will enroll you in EHI and pension systems.
    • Receive your health insurance card from your employer.

4. Eligibility Requirements

  • Foreign Residents:
    • Must have a valid visa and plan to stay in Japan for more than 3 months.
    • Must register your address at the local ward office within 14 days of moving to Fukuoka.
  • Short-Term Visitors:
    • Not eligible for NHI or EHI. It’s recommended to purchase private travel insurance before arriving in Japan.

5. Local Considerations in Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a foreigner-friendly city with resources to help residents navigate the health insurance system. Here are some local tips and resources:

a. Multilingual Support

  • Fukuoka City provides multilingual assistance for foreign residents.
  • Visit the Fukuoka City International Center for guidance on health insurance and other services.

b. Ward Offices in Fukuoka

  • Each ward office has a National Health Insurance counter. Major ward offices include:
    • Hakata Ward Office: 2-8-1 Hakataekimae, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka.
    • Chuo Ward Office: 1-1-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka.
    • Sawara Ward Office: 1-1-1 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka.
  • Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:45 AM–5:15 PM.

c. Hospitals and Clinics

  • Many hospitals and clinics in Fukuoka accept NHI and EHI. Some facilities offer English-speaking staff, such as:
    • Fukuoka Red Cross Hospital (福岑血十字病陒).
    • Fukuoka City Medical Center (η¦ε²‘εΈ‚εŒ»η™‚γ‚»γƒ³γ‚ΏγƒΌ).

d. Payment Assistance

  • If you are struggling to pay your NHI premiums, you can apply for a reduction or exemption at your ward office. Bring proof of income and explain your situation.

6. Additional Tips

  • Carry Your Insurance Card: Always carry your health insurance card when visiting a clinic or hospital.
  • Private Insurance: Consider purchasing private insurance for additional coverage, such as international medical evacuation or non-covered treatments.
  • Annual Renewal: NHI premiums are recalculated annually based on your previous year’s income. Be sure to report any changes in income or address to your ward office.

By following these steps and utilizing the resources available in Fukuoka, you can ensure that you are properly enrolled in Japan’s health insurance system and have access to affordable healthcare services. If you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your local ward office or the Fukuoka City International Center.