Hi everyone,
I arrived in Japan three days ago on a spouse visa. This morning, I went to the City Hall to register my address and apply for National Health Insurance. Since I don’t speak Japanese, and the person handling my paperwork didn’t speak English, communication was a bit challenging.
He mentioned that I need to declare my income from last year (from January 1st to December 31st), including what I earned overseas, and provide the exchange rate. They will then calculate how much I need to pay for National Health Insurance (国民健康保険).
I’m a bit confused because I’ve already paid taxes, insurance, and everything in my previous country (Australia). Why do I need to declare my income and pay for health insurance again in Japan if I wasn’t even here last year? Could anyone help clarify this for me?
Thanks in advance!
by Dear_Huckleberry_991