How to Enroll in the Public Healthcare System in Japan

If you're planning to enroll in the public system in Japan, this article covers the requirements for foreigners to be able enroll in the public healthcare system, the steps involved and more.

• Determine the type of visa you need
  • Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website to understand the different types of visas available, such as work, study, or family-related visas.
  • Choose the one that suits your purpose of stay.
• Prepare the necessary documents
  • Valid passport.
  • Completed visa application form, which can be downloaded from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
  • Photo (4cm x 3cm) taken within the last 3 months.
  • Certificates or documents that support your purpose of stay, such as employment contract, certificate of eligibility, marriage certificate, etc.
• Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
  • This is a document issued by a regional immigration authority in Japan, and it's usually applied for by your sponsor (e.g., employer, school, spouse) in Japan.
  • Your sponsor can apply for the COE at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau.
• Apply for a visa at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate
  • Submit the required documents, including your passport, visa application form, photo, and COE.
  • The processing time varies depending on the embassy or consulate, so make sure to check in advance.
• Arrive in Japan and obtain a Landing Permission stamp
  • Upon arrival at the airport, present your passport and visa to the immigration officer to receive a Landing Permission stamp.
• Register as a resident at your local municipal office
  • Within 14 days of finding a place to live, visit your local municipal office to register your address.
  • Bring your passport and residence card (if you have one).
• Apply for a Residence Card (Zairyu Card)
  • If you are staying in Japan for more than 3 months, you need to apply for a Residence Card at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau.
  • Bring your passport, Landing Permission stamp, and a photo (4cm x 3cm).
• Apply for a Tax Number (MyNumber)
  • Visit your local municipal office to apply for a MyNumber, which is a 12-digit individual number issued to all residents of Japan.
  • Bring your Residence Card and a document that verifies your address, such as a utility bill.
• Enroll in National health insurance
  • Visit your local municipal office to enroll in National Health Insurance, which is mandatory for all residents of Japan.
  • Bring your Residence Card and MyNumber.
• Renew your visa (if necessary)
  • Before your visa expires, visit the Regional Immigration Services Bureau to apply for a visa renewal.
  • Bring your passport, Residence Card, and any documents that support your purpose of stay.

Notes

The process of obtaining residency status in Japan can be complex and time-consuming, so it's important to be organized and patient. Make sure to double-check all required documents and consult with the relevant authorities if you have any questions. Additionally, it's recommended to learn some basic Japanese to facilitate communication and integration into Japanese society.