Are you an expat planning to move to Greece? Healthcare is one of the most important factors to consider when moving to a new country. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to healthcare in Greece for expats. We'll cover everything you need to know, from visa/residency health insurance requirements to public and private healthcare insurance options, as well as emergency healthcare.
Visa/Residency Health Insurance Requirements
To obtain a visa or residency permit in Greece, you will need to show proof of health insurance. The minimum coverage required for your visa/residency permit application can be provided by a simple, low-cost plan called “residence permit insurance”. This plan offers very basic coverage and provides €10,000 ($12,000) a year for hospitalization, €1,500 ($1,800) a year for outpatient care, and €15,000 ($18,000) a year for personal accidents. This coverage costs €150 ($180) per year and can meet your visa/residency permit needs if you do not qualify for public Greek health insurance or private Greek health insurance.
Emergency Healthcare
If you have an emergency and need to go to a hospital, a Greek public hospital will provide your medical care for free, regardless of your visa or residency status. The situation does not need to be life-threatening, but it does need to be roughly equivalent to what would require an emergency room visit in the United States. For example, if you have an eye infection that requires medical attention, you can visit a public hospital for free. The cost of treatment is generally very affordable, such as €4 for a prescription.
Public Healthcare Insurance
Greece offers socialized medicine through a National Health System (ESY) that provides free or low-cost healthcare to all residents who qualify. Anyone, including expat residents and their families, who contributes to the EFKA through a social security system called AMKA qualifies for public healthcare insurance.
Employment through a Greek company is the most common way to qualify for public healthcare, but you can also pay into the system as a self-employed individual working in Greece. European Union (EU) nationals can also qualify for free healthcare benefits if they have a European Health Card, which entitles the bearer to public health cover for a limited period of time.
Private Healthcare Insurance
For more comprehensive coverage, private healthcare insurance is an option that provides access to private medical facilities and services. Private health insurance plans in Greece are typically less expensive than those abroad and offer high-quality care. Many private healthcare providers offer English-speaking staff and expat-friendly services. With a private healthcare insurance plan, you can skip the long waiting times associated with public healthcare and receive immediate medical attention.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare costs in Greece are generally lower than those in other countries. Public healthcare is free or low-cost, while private healthcare insurance is less expensive than in the United States. However, the cost of medical treatment can vary depending on the specific service, so it's important to research and compare different healthcare plans to find one that meets your needs and budget.
Expats Healthcare
Expats in Greece have access to both public and private healthcare options. It's essential to research and compare different healthcare plans to find one that meets your needs and budget. When choosing a healthcare plan, it is important to consider your budget, medical needs, and the coverage offered by each plan.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is a requirement for obtaining a visa or residency permit in Greece. The minimum coverage required for your visa/residency permit application can be provided by a simple, low-cost plan called “residence permit insurance”. Public healthcare insurance is a good option if you are eligible.
Coverage provided by private healthcare insurance plans varies, but most plans include coverage for medical consultations, diagnostic tests, hospitalization, surgeries, and medications. In some cases, private insurance plans may also cover dental and vision care. When selecting a private healthcare insurance plan, it is significant to carefully review the coverage details and compare them with other plans to ensure that you are getting the coverage you require at a price you can afford.
It's also worth noting that some private healthcare insurance plans in Greece may have waiting periods before coverage begins. This means that you may have to wait a certain amount of time before you can access certain medical services or treatments. Make sure to check the details of any waiting periods before you sign up for a private healthcare insurance plan.
Another option for expats in Greece is to purchase international health insurance that provides coverage in multiple countries, including Greece. International health insurance plans can provide more comprehensive coverage than local plans and may also include coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.
Healthcare Costs
The cost of healthcare in Greece can vary depending on the type of care you need and the healthcare provider you choose. Public healthcare in Greece is generally very affordable, with most services provided at no cost or for a small fee. Private healthcare is more expensive, but still relatively affordable compared to healthcare costs in other countries.
Expats Healthcare
Expats living in Greece are eligible for public healthcare insurance if they contribute to the EFKA through a social security system called AMKA. This includes expats who work for Greek companies or are self-employed in Greece. European Union (EU) nationals can also qualify for free healthcare benefits if they have a European Health Card.
For expats who do not qualify for public healthcare insurance or who want more comprehensive coverage, private healthcare insurance is an option. Private healthcare providers in Greece often offer English-speaking staff and expat-friendly services, making it easier for expats to navigate the healthcare system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, healthcare in Greece offers a range of options for expats, including public and private healthcare insurance plans, as well as international health insurance. While public healthcare is generally very affordable, private healthcare can offer more comprehensive coverage and faster access to medical services.
When choosing a healthcare plan, it is important to consider your budget, medical needs, and the coverage provided by each plan. And, as with any insurance plan, it's important to carefully review the details and compare different options to ensure that you are getting the coverage you need at a price you can afford. So go ahead and browse our information of insurance plans at e-asfalizomai.com.