Quick Answer
Cancel NHI at your city/ward hall when you submit your moving-out notification (転出届). Premiums are pro-rated — you may receive a refund for overpaid months. Final tax settlement should be done before departure or through a tax representative. Your insurance coverage ends on your departure date.
Insurance Cancellation Checklist
2-4 Weeks Before Departure
At City/Ward Hall (Day of Moving-Out)
Premium Refund: How It Works
| Scenario | What Happens |
|---|---|
| NHI — overpaid premiums | Pro-rated refund for months after departure. Can be transferred to Japanese bank account or received by mail before leaving. |
| NHI — underpaid premiums | typically need to settle before departure. Unpaid premiums can cause issues if you return to Japan. |
| Shakai Hoken — leaving employer | Employer handles cancellation. Premium refund (if any) processed through employer. |
| Pension refund (脱退一時金) | Separate from insurance. Apply within 2 years of departure for a partial refund of pension contributions. |
After Insurance Ends: Coverage Gap
Your Japanese health insurance ends on your departure date. For the gap period between cancellation and arriving at your destination:
- Consider travel insurance for the journey home
- Complete any scheduled medical procedures before cancellation
- Obtain a certificate of insurance history if your destination country requires proof of prior coverage
💡 Important: Tax Representative
If you leave Japan before your final tax return is due, designate a tax representative (納税管理人) who can file on your behalf and receive any tax refund. This is a common step that many people miss, potentially losing refunds of ¥50,000-¥200,000.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Departure procedures vary by municipality and insurance type. Visit your city/ward hall well in advance of your departure date to confirm required steps. Failing to properly cancel insurance can result in continued billing.
Last updated: April 2026.
