With the development of ICT accelerating electronification of administrative procedures, various public services application can be submitted electronically. The Japan Health Insurance Association (hereinafter “the Association Kenpo”) has also started accepting electronic applications in January.
[1] Available electronic application services
The Japan Pension Service began electronic application of social insurance registration/deregistration several years ago, but the Application Kenpo’s applications had to be submitted in paper forms. On January 13, 2026, the Association Kenpo also started accepting electronic application through the internet. Insured employees can complete the procedure via smartphones or PCs by using the individual number ("My Number") card for authentication. To use this method, employees need their My Number card and install the Myna Portal application in advance.
[2] Who can use electronic application?
The electronic application system can be used by employees insured under the Association Kenpo or certified social and labor insurance consultants (“Sharoshi”). (Dependent family members of insured employees can also use a part of the system.)
Paper forms are normally filled out by employees and submitted by their companies. The columns for the certification of attendance record or wage payments must be completed by the companies. In the electronic procedure, on the other hand, companies or other agents, except for Sharoshi, cannot submit applications on behalf of employees. When a Sharoshi files applications electronically for insured workers, a letter of proxy is needed.
[3] Applicable applications
Electronic procedure is available for the application of social insurance benefits, such as the accident and sickness benefit or the child-birth benefit, as well as the procedure for the optional and continued insurance coverage. If a certificate of a company or medical institution is required, applicants take a photo of the document and upload data.
To switch from paper application to the electronic procedure, companies will need to change the internal flow and ensure that necessary applications are submitted without fail. Please also note that the electronic application system is available only on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. It is closed outside these hours, on weekends or the period from December 29 through January 3.
[Reference]
The Association Kenpo, “The electronic application service has been started (January 13, 2026)”
https://www.kyoukaikenpo.or.jp/electronic_application/
*The information is based on laws and regulations as of the date of the original article.
