Major Japanese news outlets (such as the Asahi Shimbun) have reported a highly critical update regarding the residence screening process for foreign nationals. In line with the government’s policy to “streamline” and tighten immigration reviews, it has been revealed that local municipalities are now directly sharing information with the Immigration Services Agency regarding foreign residents whose National Health Insurance premium defaults are deemed malicious or persistent. Consequently, outstanding insurance premium defaults may now lead to the denial of visa renewals or changes of status. While this policy currently targets “malicious” cases, we frequently observe clients—especially those transitioning from a “Student Visa” to a employment visa such as the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa—putting off their National Health Insurance payments. Even if you have successfully graduated and secured a job offer (Naitei), if your visa transition is denied due to insurance premium defaults, all your hard work up to this point will go down the drain.

Our office strongly advises all clients, particularly students planning to transition to a work visa, to “completely clear any National Health Insurance defaults before initiating the application process.”

1. Verify outstanding payments: Thoroughly double-check whether you have any unpaid payment slips sitting at home.
2. Visit the municipal office immediately if defaulted: If you have outstanding debts, visit your local ward office (Yakusho) before filing your visa application to pay in full, or consult them regarding payment restructuring plans (such as installments) if immediate full payment is difficult.

Immigration screenings are becoming more stringent year by year. Cases where “I didn’t know” is no longer accepted as an excuse are rising sharply, so ensure you prepare thoroughly well in advance! If you have any anxieties regarding visa changes, renewals, or health insurance procedures, please reach out to our office at any time. We are here to support your application process step by step with precision.