On Air: Fukuoka City Information/2012.7.27(Fri)/11:00～

Here’s information from Fukuoka City.

National health insurance regulations for foreign nationals have been changed, effective July 9^th. The changes are as follows:

Under the previous system, foreign nationals residing in Japan for a period of one year or longer were required to enroll in the national health insurance program. However, as of July 9^th the previous alien registration system was replaced with a new system and now foreign residents, recognized on certificates of residence and who will be staying in Japan for a period greater than 3 months, are required to enroll in the national health insurance program. Following, that means that foreigners recognized on certificates of residence who will be in Japan for a period greater than three months but less than one year must enroll as well. Those listed as head of household are responsible for submitting the paperwork. However, those who receive public assistance as well as those covered by private health insurance through their employment are not able to enroll and there for submission of paperwork is not needed.

Also, even those who have a term of residence less than three months and who are therefore not listed on certificates of residence will, under law, be required to enroll in the national health insurance. This includes those with a residency status of Entertainer, Technical Intern Training, Dependent or Designated Activities. Please be aware that under the status of Designated Activities, those whose purpose is to receive medical treatment or to care for those receiving medical treatment are not able to enroll in the insurance.

Please submit all paperwork to the Health Insurance and Pension section of your local ward or branch office. Those required to enroll should bring their resident card, or old alien registration card, as well as their passport and inkan stamp, if owned.

For further information, visit www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/kokuho. Again, that’s www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/kokuho.

That was information from Fukuoka City.