I got a health check for my work permit and it was way less scary than I expected
The internet made this sound like a full NASA physical. It wasn't.What I was told to expect:
• Blood tests for everything
• Chest X-ray
• ECG
• Ultrasound
• Full physical exam
• Mental health screening
• Drug test
What actually happened:
Walked into the designated hospital (they have a specific department for foreigner health checks). Gave them my passport and a form from my employer.
Step 1: Blood draw. One tube. Took 30 seconds.
Step 2: Pee in a cup.
Step 3: Chest X-ray. Took off my shirt, stood against the machine, done in 10 seconds.
Step 4: Ultrasound of my abdomen. Gel was cold. Took 2 minutes.
Step 5: Blood pressure check.
Step 6: Doctor asked if I had any diseases. I said no. She ticked a box.
Total time: 45 minutes
Total cost: ¥400 (employer paid)
Results: 3 days later
The only "scary" part:
The chest X-ray is checking for tuberculosis. If you have TB, you can't get a work permit. But if you don't have TB (which most people don't), it's a non-issue.
Tips:
• Go in the morning, fasting (no food or drink)
• Bring your passport and employer form
• Wear a shirt that's easy to take off
• Don't stress — they're checking for serious communicable diseases, not judging your BMI
Way less intimidating than the internet suggests. Just... show up.
Anyone else stressed about the health check before their first one?
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