At Meiji Academy, your well-being is our top priority. While Japan is one of the safest and most healthcare-accessible countries in the world, it is essential that every student arrives with valid travel insurance that covers both medical treatment and personal liability. We want our students to focus on what matters most: learning, exploring, and enjoying the Japan experience, without unnecessary stress or risk. That’s why we have prepared this overview of what your insurance should include and how we can support you in arranging it.
If you are staying on a visa waiver or tourist visa, you must have a valid travel insurance to study with us. Please ensure your policy is valid for the full duration of your stay in Japan. This insurance plan must include the following:
Even in safe environments, illnesses or injuries can happen. Insurance ensures access to care without high costs.
Covers the cost of medical evacuation or returning home in case of serious illness or injury.
Protects you if you accidentally damage property or cause harm to others.
Covers lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings during your trip.
Helps recover costs from cancellations, delays, or interruptions to your travel plans.
24/7 assistance for medical advice, translation, or urgent coordination while abroad.
If you are staying in Japan on a long-term visa (e.g. working holiday visa, student visa), you are required to enroll in the Japanese National Health Insurance (NHI). After arriving, visit your local ward office to register your address at that time, you will also fill out the NHI application. The cost is low, around 1,500 yen per month for the first year, and it covers 70% of medical expenses. Even if you already have private health insurance, joining the national system is mandatory! If you take any medication, bring enough with you to Japan, along with a doctor’s note explaining your prescription. Japan has restrictions on the quantity and type of medicine you can bring, so if you're staying long-term, check whether your medication or a local equivalent is available in Japan. Due to differences in drug regulations, some medications that are prescription-only in your country may not be in Japan, and vice versa. Consult your doctor or pharmacist in advance to avoid any issues.
Up to $100,000 Coverage
Coverage 100% For Inpatient & Outpatient Services
The coverage shown above is just a portion of what this travel insurance plan offers. For details on every benefit — including specific limits, co-pays, and coverage exceptions — you can review the full plan anytime.
You can request a personalized quote through our application form or contact our admissions team for a referral link. Please note that our insurance coverage from our partners is reviewed periodically and discrepancies from the list above can occur. Therefore, you will be provided with a finalized quote and complete insurance coverage by the insurance provider.
✔ Travel insurance policy (in English or Japanese)
✔ Emergency contact card or hotline info from your insurer
✔ Printed and digital copy of your insurance certificate
✔ Basic understanding of how to file a claim if needed
Yes. If you're staying on a long-term visa (e.g., student visa, working holiday visa), you are required by law to join the Japanese National Health Insurance (NHI). This applies even if you already have private coverage. Enrollment takes place at your local ward office after you arrive in Japan.
Due to differences in international drug regulations, a medicine that’s over-the-counter in your country may be prescription-only in Japan or in the worst case even prohibited. Check with your doctor or pharmacist in advance, and consult the Japan Ministry of Health website if you're unsure.
In all major cities where our school is located, there are several clinics and hospitals with English-speaking staff or interpreters. We can assist you in locating these facilities.
Yes, basic dental treatments such as cleanings, fillings, and check-ups are partially covered under NHI. However, cosmetic procedures like whitening or orthodontics are usually not covered and must be paid out-of-pocket.
In a medical emergency, dial 119 for an ambulance. Save your host family’s contact details - or, if you’re staying in a sharehouse or with an accommodation provider, their contact information - along with the nearest hospital and your insurance provider’s emergency number on your phone.
No. Most Japanese clinics do not accept foreign insurance cards at the point of service. You will need to pay upfront and submit a claim to your insurance provider later, unless you are enrolled in the National Health Insurance system.
Always carry with you: