According to official sources, the new rule is expected to come into effect during fiscal year 2025, although details of its implementation are still being finalized. Among the aspects under consideration are the minimum coverage requirements, how insurance will be verified at entry points, and coordination with travel agencies and airlines to inform tourists and facilitate the purchase of insurance before their arrival. Authorities are also considering offering temporary health insurance directly at airports and ports for travelers who have not arranged coverage in advance.
Japan has experienced a remarkable increase in international tourist arrivals in recent years, establishing itself as one of the world’s most attractive destinations thanks to its rich culture, renowned cuisine, stunning landscapes, and cutting-edge technology. In 2023, the country welcomed more than 25 million foreign visitors, and that number is expected to continue growing thanks to the lifting of post-pandemic restrictions and Japan’s reputation as a safe and hospitable destination. However, this tourism boom has highlighted certain weaknesses in the emergency care system, with hospitals and clinics on various occasions having to treat visitors who were unable to cover the costs of medical procedures, hospital stays, or expensive treatments.
The health insurance requirement proposal fits within a broader debate about the impact of tourism on Japan’s infrastructure and public services. Different stakeholders—including medical associations, local authorities, and representatives of the tourism industry—have voiced their support for the initiative, stressing that it is a reasonable measure that will promote better coexistence between visitors and residents. From an economic perspective, the requirement is not expected to deter tourism, as the cost of health insurance is relatively low compared to the potential expenses of emergency medical care in Japan, whose healthcare system is known for its high quality but also for the considerable cost of certain treatments.
Furthermore, Japan’s initiative could set a precedent in the region and be adopted by other Asian countries facing similar challenges in managing mass tourism. Countries such as South Korea and Thailand, which also receive millions of tourists each year, have begun exploring measures aimed at protecting their healthcare systems and ensuring that visitors have appropriate coverage during their stay.
While the details of the regulation are being finalized, the Japanese government has launched an information campaign aimed at future tourists and industry operators. The campaign seeks to raise awareness about the importance of traveling with health insurance and about the shared responsibility of preserving the proper functioning of public services. It also aims to prevent the future regulation from being perceived as a barrier to tourism, emphasizing its preventive nature and its role in protecting both visitors and the host country.
With this measure, Japan reaffirms its commitment to offering high-quality tourism that is safe and respectful of both its environment and its people. Once in force, the health insurance requirement for tourists is expected to become an effective tool for strengthening traveler confidence and contributing to the sustainable development of Japan’s tourism industry.
