Job Discussion Forums

timmyjames1976 · Joined: 26 Jan 2005 Posts: 148

Hi,

I was reading the FAQs and looked at other threads, but I was not able to find ths information. Does one need a health check to be employed in Japan as an ESL teacher? If so, would it be better to have this check done before arriving (without a job)? I am in Taiwan now, and can get one done rarther cheaply. Any help would be great.

Apsara · Joined: 20 Sep 2005 Posts: 2142 Location: Tokyo, Japan

I never had to get one, but I have heard people mention on this forum before that they have had them done before coming. Maybe depends on employer/ nationality?

Chris21 · Joined: 30 Apr 2006 Posts: 366 Location: Japan

It depends on your employer. I'd be surprised if a conversation school required one, but many public schools and universities do.

azarashi sushi · Joined: 23 Jan 2003 Posts: 562 Location: Shinjuku

I work in a private high school and require one every year. All it involves is having an X-ray... It's very quick and easy

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

azarashi,
You got off LUCKY! In my private HS, here is the deal.

Height and Weight check.
Eye exam.
Hearing exam.
EKG
X-ray
2 minute chest thumping by doctor, followed by "are you healthy?"
urine check
stool check (2)
blood samples (3)

If you are over 40, you need a barium scan of your innards, too.
It all takes about 30-40 minutes and is free.

timmyjames1976 · Joined: 26 Jan 2005 Posts: 148

hey,

thank you for all the info everyone!

Firestarter · Joined: 12 Feb 2006 Posts: 55

My understanding is that you must get a health check whenever you begin a full time position in Japan. I had to get one for ECC.

Apsara · Joined: 20 Sep 2005 Posts: 2142 Location: Tokyo, Japan

I worked for Nova from 1999- 2001, full time, on the old 40 lesson a week contract. I didn't have to have a health check, and to my knowledge neither did anyone else I worked with.