Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purpose only and should not be considered as professional insurance advice. Always read the full policy T&Cs before making any insurance decision.
Summary: Best Insurance for Digital Nomads in Japan (2025)
- Health insurance is required for Japan's Digital Nomad Visa and strongly recommended for all visitors due to high medical costs without coverage.
- Genki is the best choice for Digital Nomad Visa applicants and longer stays, offering low deductibles and acceptance at Japan's international hospitals.
- SafetyWing is an affordable alternative for shorter stays or nomads exploring Asia-Pacific from a Japanese base.
- Both providers allow online sign-up from anywhere, work with Japan's visa requirements, and are trusted in the digital nomad community.
- Always verify your insurance meets Japan's current Digital Nomad Visa requirements before purchasing.
Scroll down for a full comparison, practical tips, and answers to common digital nomad insurance questions for Japan.
Looking for the best insurance as a digital nomad in Japan?
We get a lot of questions about this, and for good reason. Japan has become a dream destination for remote workers with its new Digital Nomad Visa, but navigating healthcare without Japanese language skills and understanding insurance requirements can be challenging. As a team dedicated to helping digital nomads find the best solutions worldwide, we've researched options, compared real experiences, and gathered feedback from the Nomadwise community and remote workers in Japan.
In this guide, you'll find practical advice, honest comparisons, and answers to the insurance questions we hear most from digital nomads heading to Japan. Our goal is simple: help you find coverage that works with Japan's system, meets visa requirements, and lets you focus on experiencing this incredible country.
Why digital nomads need insurance in Japan
Japan offers an unmatched blend of ancient culture and cutting-edge technology. With lightning-fast internet, incredible safety, efficient transportation, and the new Digital Nomad Visa, it's becoming a top choice for remote workers. But unlike some countries, health insurance is mandatory for the Digital Nomad Visa and essential for everyone else.
Japan's healthcare is world-class, but without National Health Insurance (which tourists and digital nomads can't access), costs add up quickly. A doctor visit might cost ¥5,000-10,000 ($35-70), while emergency care or hospitalization can reach hundreds of thousands of yen.
Without proper insurance, you'll pay everything upfront. Having the right coverage keeps your Japan experience worry-free and ensures you can access care when language barriers make navigation difficult.
Travel insurance vs digital nomad insurance: What's the difference?
Many nomads arrive in Japan with basic travel insurance, only to discover it doesn't meet visa requirements, excludes longer stays, or won't cover routine care.
Here's a simple comparison of travel insurance and digital nomad insurance:
Duration
Travel insurance: Only covers short trips, usually days or weeks.
Digital nomad insurance: Covers you for months or even years, with flexible extensions.
Visa Compliance
Travel insurance: Rarely accepted for Digital Nomad Visas.
Digital nomad insurance: Often provides documentation meeting visa requirements.
Buying Coverage While Abroad
Travel insurance: Usually must be purchased before leaving home.
Digital nomad insurance: Can be started or renewed while already in Japan.
Remote Work Readiness
Travel insurance: Not designed for working abroad.
Digital nomad insurance: Built specifically for remote workers.
Routine & Ongoing Care
Travel insurance: Emergency coverage only.
Digital nomad insurance: Many include routine care (check policy details).
Adventure Sports & Activities
Travel insurance: Limited coverage for activities.
Digital nomad insurance: Better coverage for active lifestyles.
Need more details? We've created a full comparison here:
👉 Travel Insurance vs Digital Nomad Insurance
How to choose a digital nomad insurance for Japan
Common mistakes we see:
- Choosing cheap plans that Japan immigration won't accept
- Forgetting Japan is cash-based and many clinics require upfront payment
- Not considering the language barrier when choosing support options
Here's what actually matters:
- Digital Nomad Visa documentation: Can your insurer provide paperwork Japan immigration accepts?
- English support: 24/7 help is crucial when navigating Japanese healthcare.
- Natural disaster coverage: Earthquakes and typhoons are real risks.
- Direct billing: Some international hospitals accept this, saving you upfront costs.
- Asia-Pacific coverage: Perfect for exploring from your Japan base.
- Flexible terms: Monthly cancellation for changing plans.
- Reasonable deductible: Lower is better in expensive Japan.
Overview: Comparing the best insurance options for digital nomads in Japan
Genki's coverage works well with Japan's healthcare system and major international hospitals, with some facilities offering direct billing for inpatient care.
Why we recommend it:
- Lower deductible ($55 per claim, waived for inpatient care)
- Digital Nomad Visa documentation available
- Coverage up to $1.1 million per year
- Direct billing at select international hospitals
- Monthly renewal, cancel anytime after first month
- Emergency dental, ambulance, and repatriation included
- 24/7 English support for language barriers
Monthly price: Starting from $58 (€52.50)
Best for:
- Digital Nomad Visa applicants
- Stays of 3+ months
- Those wanting lower out-of-pocket costs
Why we recommend it:
- Affordable pricing ($56.28/4 weeks for ages 18-39)
- $250 deductible per claim
- Covers all of Asia-Pacific
- No maximum stay limits in Japan
- 30 days home country coverage per 90 days
- Perfect for multi-country Asia trips
- Electronics and adventure sports add-ons available
Monthly price: About $60 per month
Best for:
- Budget-conscious nomads
- Using Japan as an Asia travel hub
- Shorter stays or visa runs
Genki vs SafetyWing comparison
Consider Genki if: You're applying for Japan's Digital Nomad Visa, staying 3+ months, want lower deductibles ($55), need visa documentation, or value 24/7 English support for navigating Japanese healthcare. Learn more about Genki's coverage.
Consider SafetyWing if: You're on a tight budget, using Japan as a base for Asia travel, comfortable with higher deductibles ($250), or planning shorter stays. Explore SafetyWing's options.
Explore more digital nomad insurance options
While Genki and SafetyWing are popular among Japan's digital nomads, your specific needs might differ. You might need specialized coverage for winter sports in Hokkaido, higher electronics limits, or specific earthquake protection.
Visit our complete directory of digital nomad insurance providers to compare additional options for your Japan journey.
Essential insurance tips for Japan
- Keep copies in English and Japanese: Some hospitals appreciate basic Japanese translations of key information.
- Download translation apps: Google Translate's camera feature helps with medical forms.
- Know English-speaking hospitals: St. Luke's (Tokyo), Kobe Kaisei Hospital, and major university hospitals often have English support.
- Carry cash: Many clinics are cash-only. ATMs at 7-Eleven accept foreign cards.
- Understand pharmacy rules: Many Western medications require prescriptions or are unavailable.
- Natural disaster prep: Know earthquake procedures and ensure coverage includes natural disasters.
- Seasonal considerations: Summer heat/humidity, winter sports injuries, and spring hay fever are common issues.
Note: Japan's National Health Insurance is only for residents with proper visas. Digital nomads must rely on private international insurance.
FAQ: Digital nomad insurance in Japan
What is the best insurance for digital nomads in Japan?
We believe Genki and SafetyWing are the best options for digital nomads in Japan. Genki excels for Digital Nomad Visa applicants and longer stays with its low deductible and visa-ready documentation. SafetyWing works well for budget-conscious nomads or those using Japan as an Asia-Pacific hub. Both are trusted by the remote work community and designed specifically for digital nomads.
Can a foreigner get health insurance in Japan?
Yes, but options vary. Tourists and digital nomads typically use international insurance like Genki or SafetyWing. Only residents with long-term visas can join Japan's National Health Insurance (NHI). The Digital Nomad Visa requires private international insurance, not NHI.
Do I need travel insurance in Japan?
Insurance is mandatory for the Digital Nomad Visa and highly recommended for all visitors. While Japan is safe, medical costs without insurance can be overwhelming. Even minor issues become expensive when you're paying out-of-pocket.
Is Japan good for digital nomads?
Absolutely! Japan offers incredible infrastructure, safety, culture, and the new Digital Nomad Visa makes it more accessible. Challenges include language barriers, higher costs than Southeast Asia, and complex bureaucracy. Most nomads find the experience incredibly rewarding.
How much does health insurance cost for digital nomads in Japan?
Most digital nomad insurance plans for Japan cost $55-70 per month. Prices vary based on age, coverage level, and deductible. This is much more affordable than paying for Japanese healthcare without insurance.
What's required for Japan's Digital Nomad Visa insurance?
The visa requires private health insurance covering your entire stay. The insurance must be from a recognized provider and include standard medical coverage. Both Genki and SafetyWing can provide appropriate documentation, but always verify current requirements with Japanese immigration.
How do I handle emergencies in Japan without speaking Japanese?
Call 119 for ambulance (they have some English support). Many international hospitals in major cities have English-speaking staff. Your insurance's 24/7 support can also help coordinate care and translation.
Does insurance cover earthquakes and natural disasters in Japan?
Most digital nomad insurance covers medical treatment resulting from natural disasters. However, always verify this specifically when choosing your plan, as Japan's seismic activity makes this coverage essential.
Our Recommendation
For most digital nomads in Japan, we recommend Genki for Digital Nomad Visa applications and longer stays with its lower deductible and visa documentation. SafetyWing is excellent for shorter stays and those wanting affordable coverage while exploring Asia.
Get your quote and coverage set up in just a few minutes online:
See Genki's latest offer for Japan digital nomads
Check SafetyWing for flexible Japan coverage
