Whether you need proof of illness for your employer, documentation for a visa application, a fitness-to-fly certificate, or a medical report for an insurance claim, obtaining a medical certificate in Japan is a common but often confusing process for foreigners. This guide explains the different types of medical certificates available, where to get them, how much they cost, and how to ensure yours is in English.
Types of Medical Certificates in Japan
The Japanese term for medical certificate is 診断書 (shindan-sho). However, there are several different types depending on your purpose:
1. Diagnosis Certificate (診断書)
This is the most common type. It states your diagnosis, the duration of your condition, and any treatment you are receiving. Common uses include sick leave documentation for employers, insurance claims, and legal proceedings. In Japanese workplaces, a diagnosis certificate from a doctor is often required if you take more than three consecutive sick days.
2. Health Certificate (健康診断書)
This certifies that you are in good health. It is commonly required for new employment, visa applications, university enrollment, and certain sports or activities. A standard health certificate typically includes height, weight, blood pressure, vision, hearing, urinalysis, chest X-ray, and blood tests.
3. Fitness-to-Fly or Fitness-to-Travel Certificate
Airlines may require a medical clearance letter if you are traveling with a medical condition, are pregnant beyond a certain week, or recently had surgery. This document confirms that you are medically fit to fly.
4. Vaccination Certificate (予防接種証明書)
A record of vaccinations received in Japan. This may be needed for international travel, school enrollment in your home country, or immigration purposes.
5. Leave of Absence Certificate (休職診断書)
For employees who need extended medical leave due to mental health conditions such as depression, burnout, or adjustment disorder, a doctor can issue a certificate recommending a specific period of leave. This is recognized by Japanese employers and is often necessary to access sickness benefits.
Getting an English Medical Certificate
This is where things get tricky for foreigners. Most Japanese clinics and hospitals issue medical certificates in Japanese only. If you need an English-language certificate, you have several options:
- Visit a clinic that provides English documentation: Some clinics in Tokyo, including Tokyo Hub Clinic, routinely issue medical certificates in English. This is the simplest option.
- Request a translation: Get a Japanese certificate from any doctor, then have it translated by a certified translator. This adds time and cost (typically ¥3,000 to ¥10,000 for translation).
- Use a notarized translation service: For official purposes (such as visa applications for other countries), you may need a notarized or apostilled translation. Your embassy or a legal translation service can help.
How Much Does a Medical Certificate Cost?
Medical certificates in Japan are not covered by health insurance — they are considered non-medical services. The cost varies by clinic and type of certificate:
| Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Simple diagnosis certificate (Japanese) | ¥3,000–¥5,000 |
| Diagnosis certificate (English) | ¥5,000–¥10,000 |
| Health certificate (standard) | ¥5,000–¥15,000 |
| Comprehensive health checkup with certificate | ¥10,000–¥30,000 |
| Fitness-to-fly certificate | ¥5,000–¥10,000 |
Note that you will also need to pay for the consultation itself. If you have health insurance and the visit includes a medical examination, the consultation portion may be partially covered.
The Process: Step by Step
- Make an appointment: Call or book online. Let the clinic know in advance that you need a medical certificate and specify the type and language.
- Bring relevant documents: If the certificate is for a specific purpose (visa application, employer request, insurance claim), bring any forms or templates that need to be completed. Some embassies and employers have their own forms.
- Consultation and examination: The doctor will examine you and discuss your medical history as needed for the type of certificate.
- Receive your certificate: Simple certificates may be issued on the same day. Certificates requiring lab results (such as health checkups) typically take 3 to 7 business days.
- Verify the details: Before leaving, check that your name (matching your passport), date of birth, and all medical details are correct.
Special Situations
Mental Health Leave Documentation
If you are experiencing burnout, depression, or severe anxiety and need time off work, a psychosomatic medicine or psychiatry doctor can issue a leave-of-absence certificate. In Japan, this is a well-established process — there is no shame in requesting one, and employers are legally required to respect it. For more on this topic, see our articles on recognizing burnout and stress management services.
Referral Letters (紹介状)
A referral letter is different from a medical certificate. It is a document from one doctor to another, providing your medical history and reason for referral. You will need one if you are being referred to a hospital or specialist. For more, see our guide on getting a referral letter in Japan.
For Visa Applications
Some countries require a medical certificate for visa applications. Requirements vary widely — some need only a basic health check, while others require specific tests (tuberculosis screening, HIV testing, etc.). Check the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate well in advance and share them with your doctor.
Tips for Foreigners
- Plan ahead: Do not wait until the last minute. Some certificates require test results that take days to process.
- Specify the language upfront: Not all clinics can issue English certificates, so confirm before your visit.
- Keep copies: Always keep a copy of your medical certificate. Once issued, getting a duplicate may require another visit and additional fees.
- Know the validity period: Most medical certificates are considered valid for three months from the date of issue, though this varies by purpose.
Get Your English Medical Certificate at Tokyo Hub Clinic
At Tokyo Hub Clinic, Dr. Ichiro Kamoshita, M.D., Ph.D., provides medical certificates in English for a wide range of purposes — employment, visa applications, insurance claims, fitness-to-travel, and medical leave. All consultations are conducted in English, so there is no risk of miscommunication. Located at Hotel New Otani Garden Court, 2F, near Akasaka-Mitsuke and Nagatacho stations.
By appointment only. Initial consultation: approximately ¥10,000–¥15,000.
Comments