Greece Health Insurance Foreigners
You’ve heard of feta and the Acropolis, but sorting out health insurance in greece for foreigners can feel like climbing Mount Olympus—blindfolded. You’re not alone if the red tape has you scratching your head. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to secure public or private coverage, meet visa requirements, and budget for medical visits. We’ll dive into AMKA registration, Golden Visa mandates, cost estimates, and expert tips—so you stop worrying and start enjoying life under the Greek sun. Ready? Let’s go.
Interestingly enough, Greece ranked 14th globally by the World Health Organization for expat healthcare quality and affordability in 2025 (WHO). Short answer: the system works—if you know how to tap in. Here’s a quick overview:
- Public ESY system and AMKA eligibility
- Private health insurance plans and costs
- Golden Visa & Digital Nomad requirements
- Tips for finding English-speaking doctors
Table of Contents
- Navigating Health Insurance in Greece for Foreigners: Public vs Private
- Private Health Insurance in Greece for Foreigners
- Visa-Specific Health Insurance Mandates
- Quality, Accessibility and Choosing Providers
- FAQ
- What is AMKA and how do I get it?
- Can non-EU residents use public healthcare?
- How much does private insurance cost?
- Is health insurance mandatory for the Golden Visa?
- Where can I find English-speaking doctors?
- Conclusion
Navigating Health Insurance in Greece for Foreigners: Public vs Private
Ever wondered why some expats rave about ESY while others swear by private plans?
Understanding both options matters because your residency status, budget, and peace of mind depend on it.
Public healthcare (ESY) is available once you obtain an AMKA social security number and make contributions via employment or self-employment. Benefits include subsidized doctor visits and hospital care, but wait times can be longer.
If you’re self-funded or on a visa without social security, private coverage fills the gaps. Policies start around €60 per month for basic plans and can reach €150+ for comprehensive packages with dental and maternity.
“Greece’s ESY system is robust for legal residents, but private insurance offers faster access and broader provider choice,” says Maria Savvides, Health Policy Analyst.
Actionable Takeaway: Register for AMKA through your local EFKA office. Then compare at least three private insurers to find a plan that fits your age, health needs, and region.
Private Health Insurance in Greece for Foreigners
Don’t let bureaucracy hold you back—private plans can be as quick to set up as a café frappe on a summer afternoon.
Let me explain: most visa categories (Golden Visa, Digital Nomad Visa) mandate private health insurance covering hospitalization, emergencies, and repatriation.
- Cost range: €60–€150/month
- Doctor visit: €40–€60 per consultation
- Coverage: inpatient, outpatient, dental add-ons
Example: John, a 45-year-old UK entrepreneur on a Golden Visa, chose a mid-tier plan at €80/month with outpatient and dental. When he sprained his ankle in Crete, he walked into a private clinic and was back on his feet in days—without long queues.
According to Savory & Partners, the average private plan premium is roughly €75 monthly for people aged 30–50. Not bad, right?
Actionable Takeaway: Request quotes from Allianz, AXA, and Interamerican. Check if plans are Golden Visa–compliant via Health Insurance for Foreigners: Global Guide.
Visa-Specific Health Insurance Mandates
Did you know your Greek visa might hinge on insurance details?
Golden Visa applicants need proof of a real estate purchase worth at least €250,000 plus a compliant health plan. Digital Nomads must show coverage with no deductibles for emergent care.
- Choose a plan covering at least €30,000 in emergencies.
- Ensure repatriation and inpatient coverage.
- Obtain a Greek-language certificate from your insurer.
Real Case: Lina from Canada applied for a Digital Nomad Visa. After switching from a generic EU plan to a Greek-licensed policy, her application sailed through.
Actionable Takeaway: Double-check your policy’s visa compliance at Health Insurance for Foreigners: Global Guide.
Quality, Accessibility and Choosing Providers
Quality varies—from top-tier clinics in Athens to small hospitals on the islands.
Urban areas boast English-speaking doctors and cutting-edge facilities; rural zones may require some Greek or a bit of patience.
- Major private hospitals: Hippocratio (Athens), Euromedica (Thessaloniki)
- Public hospitals: often free for ESY holders, but check wait times
- Out-of-hours clinics: available in most cities
“Expats often underestimate the convenience of private clinics in big cities,” notes a report by Global Citizen Solutions.
Actionable Takeaway: If you’re based in a smaller town, consider a matinee trip to Athens for specialist care—or opt for telemedicine services available with many insurers.
FAQ
What is AMKA and how do I get it?
AMKA is your Greek social security number. Apply at an EFKA office with passport, visa, and proof of address.
Can non-EU residents use public healthcare?
Yes—once you have AMKA and social security contributions. Self-employed expats must pay into EFKA.
How much does private insurance cost?
Expect €60–€150 monthly depending on age, region, and coverage level.
Is health insurance mandatory for the Golden Visa?
Absolutely. Your plan must cover emergencies, inpatient care, and repatriation.
Where can I find English-speaking doctors?
Major hospitals in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete offer English-speaking staff. Telehealth is an alternative.
Conclusion
Navigating Greek healthcare doesn’t have to be a labyrinth. You’ve learned how to register for AMKA, weigh public vs private plans, meet Golden Visa requirements, and find quality providers near you. Next steps:
- Register for AMKA at your local EFKA (bring ID, visa, proof of address).
- Compare private insurers and pick a visa-compliant plan.
- Secure your policy documents and submit them with your visa or residency application.
The bottom line is: with the right information and a dash of preparation, you’ll be covered in no time. So go ahead—breathe easier knowing your health is in good hands under the Greek sky!
Health insurance in greece for foreigners just got simpler.
