Healthcare Costs in Japan: What Expats Need to Know

Living in Japan as an expat offers access to one of the world’s most efficient and high-quality healthcare systems. Japan provides universal health coverage to all residents, including foreigners staying longer than three months. While the government covers about 70% of medical costs, patients typically pay around 30% out-of-pocket. Without proper health insurance, these costs can still add up, especially for specialist treatments or hospital stays.

As trusted experts in expat health insurance in Asia , Alea provides all the essential information you need to navigate Indonesia’s healthcare system.

1. Understanding the Healthcare System in Japan: Universal Coverage with Public and Private Providers

Japan’s healthcare system is based on universal health insurance, ensuring all residents-including expats-have access to medical care. Coverage is provided mainly through two public insurance schemes:

• Social Health Insurance (SHI): For employees of medium to large companies, funded by payroll contributions split between employer and employee (about 5% each).
• National Health Insurance (NHI): For self-employed, part-time workers, students, and others not covered by SHI. Premiums depend on income and household size.

Both schemes cover about 70% of medical costs, with patients responsible for the remaining 30%. Seniors and low-income individuals may pay less.

Public Hospitals and Clinics:

• Provide most healthcare services, including general consultations, specialist care, dental, mental health, and prescription drugs.
• Fees are strictly regulated by the government to keep costs affordable.
• Patients can choose any hospital or clinic without referral restrictions.

Private Hospitals and Clinics:

• Operate alongside public providers and often offer more comfort, private rooms, and English-speaking staff.
• Costs can be higher, and upfront payments may be required.

2. How Much Does Healthcare Cost for Expats in Japan?

Consultations & Routine Medical Care

Healthcare costs in Japan are relatively affordable due to government regulation and universal coverage. Below are typical price ranges in Japanese Yen (JPY) and approximate Euro (€) equivalents (1 JPY ≈ 0.007 EUR).

Hospitalization & Emergency Care

⚠ Note: These costs represent the patient’s 30% share after insurance coverage. Without insurance, you would pay the full amount.

Most hospitals and clinics require patients to pay their portion at the time of service. Having supplemental private or international health insurance can help cover these out-of-pocket costs.

3.Vaccination & Preventative Healthcare in Japan

Routine vaccinations are widely available in Japan, with prices varying by clinic.

Average vaccination costs in Japan:

Public hospital: 3,000 - 8,000 JPY per dose (21-56 EUR)

International clinic: 6,000-24,000 JPY per dose (42-168 EUR)

💡 Tip: Vaccinations are generally not covered by Japan’s national health insurance, so you will pay out-of-pocket. Make sure the vaccines administered meet international standards, especially if you plan to travel or return home.

4. Do Expats in Japan Need Health Insurance?

While Japan’s universal health insurance provides excellent coverage, expats should consider additional private or international health insurance for several reasons:

• To cover the 30% co-payment and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
• To access private hospitals, private rooms, and English-speaking specialists.
• To cover treatments or services not fully included under public insurance, such as some advanced therapies or elective procedures.
• To have global coverage if you travel frequently or plan to return home.

As a leading insurance broker for expats in Asia, Alea helps you compare top international health insurers - including APRIL, Henner, and MSH—to secure the best coverage at the best price for you and your family!