Japan Health Insurance Cards in 2026: My Number Card or Qualification Certificate?

Japan’s old health insurance card system has been replaced by a My Number-based system. In 2026, people generally prove health-insurance coverage with a My Number card registered for health insurance, known as MyNa Hokensho, or with a qualification certificate if they do not use the My Number insurance function.

What happened to the old health insurance cards?

Japan stopped issuing new traditional health insurance cards on 2 December 2024. Existing cards were allowed to continue only for their remaining validity, up to a maximum transition period.

By 2026, newcomers should not expect a newly issued traditional insurance card.

What if you do not use My Number as your insurance card?

People who do not have a My Number card registered for health-insurance use can receive a qualification certificate that allows them to show their insurance eligibility at medical institutions.

What should newcomers do after enrolling?

Once you are enrolled in the appropriate Japanese health-insurance scheme, confirm how your insurer will provide proof of eligibility. If you have a My Number card, you can register it for health-insurance use. If you do not, check that you have received the appropriate qualification certificate.

What about emergencies?

Japan has also expanded the use of My Number health-insurance information in emergency transport. Government guidance says MyNa emergency services are operating widely in 2026, but carrying your physical My Number card can still be useful because some emergency functions require the card when a patient cannot operate a smartphone.

For broader practical information, see Babylon’s Japan country guide.

Official sources

• Government Public Relations: My Number health insurance
• Government Public Relations: MyNa emergency service in 2026