Does a foreigner need to have health insurance in Poland? Regulations

The Requirement to Have Health Insurance—Who Is It For, and When?

Polish law clearly stipulates that foreigners staying in the territory of the Republic of Poland must, in many cases, have valid health insurance. This applies both to individuals entering Poland on a visa and to those planning a longer stay related to, for example, study, work, or family ties. In 2025, the applicable regulations not only confirm the requirement to have such coverage but also specify its scope and the forms accepted by government agencies and institutions. The most important rules are set forth in the Act on Foreigners and in the regulations governing the National Health Fund (NFZ).

Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland – What Are the Requirements?

Generally, a foreign national must prove that they have valid health insurance in two cases: when applying for a national visa or a residence card, and during the validity period of the visa or residence card. This insurance must guarantee coverage of medical expenses within Poland, and the coverage amount must not be less than 30,000 euros. In practice, this means that a foreign national applying to legalize their stay should have a document confirming that they have insurance covering outpatient treatment, hospitalization, medical transport, and other emergencies. If such a policy is not provided, the application may be rejected. This is precisely why it is so important to secure coverage in advance and choose a reliable insurance plan tailored to the foreign national’s needs. Check out our current offers: Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland.

Foreigners and the National Health Fund—Can They Get Health Insurance?

Foreigners legally residing in Poland may, depending on their residence status, be subject to mandatory or voluntary health insurance through the National Health Fund (NFZ). For example, a foreigner employed by a Polish company or running a business here is automatically covered by health insurance through the contributions paid. Students, doctoral candidates, and individuals participating in professional internships, on the other hand, may enroll in the NFZ voluntarily by signing the appropriate agreement and paying a monthly premium. People without access to the NFZ—such as tourists or visitors on short-term visas—must have an alternative solution, namely a private insurance policy.

Health Insurance for a Residence Card – An Essential Part of the Legalization Process

One of the key requirements for obtaining or renewing a residence card in Poland is presenting valid health insurance. Regardless of the purpose of your stay—whether it’s for work, study, or family reunification—you cannot successfully submit an application without an insurance policy. It’s worth remembering that officials not only require you to present the document itself but also verify the scope of coverage, the validity period, and the amount of coverage. Therefore, the insurance for your residence card should be carefully selected and meet all formal criteria. You can read more about the formalities here: Health Insurance and the Residence Card – Key Formalities.

Travel Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland—Is It Enough?

For many people staying in Poland for a short time—for example, for tourism, business, or family reasons—a well-structured travel insurance policy may be a sufficient solution. This type of insurance covers the costs of medical treatment, hospitalization, medical assistance, transportation back to the country of origin, and many other risks. However, the coverage amount and scope of protection must comply with the requirements of Polish law. Find out when this type of coverage is mandatory: KL Travel Insurance for Foreigners – When and Why Is It Mandatory?

When is a foreign national not required to have health insurance?

Foreign nationals who are covered by health care under international agreements or insured in another EU/EFTA country, and whose stay in Poland is temporary, may be exempt from the requirement to have insurance. In such cases, a document entitling the individual to receive medical services in Poland—such as an EHIC card—must be presented. However, each situation should be considered on a case-by-case basis, and failure to comply with this requirement may result in the rejection of an application for legalization of stay or a refusal to provide health care services.

Voluntary Health Insurance for Foreigners – A Solution for the Unemployed

Foreigners who do not have access to mandatory insurance (e.g., economically inactive individuals, children, seniors) may enter into a voluntary agreement with the National Health Fund (NFZ). In 2025, the monthly premium is determined on an individual basis and may vary depending on the length of the gap in coverage and the person’s specific circumstances. This solution provides access to public healthcare facilities, which is crucial for health security in the event of illness or an accident. See more: Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland – Who Is Required to Have It and How Can You Get It?

The Consequences of Not Having Health Insurance in Poland

Lack of valid health insurance can lead to serious administrative, financial, and health-related problems. First, a foreign national will not be admitted for treatment at public NFZ facilities without paying in advance. Second, the costs of private medical care in Poland are high and can reach several thousand zlotys per day of hospitalization. Additionally, a lack of insurance results in a negative decision in the process of legalizing one’s stay—regardless of whether it concerns a temporary residence card or a permanent residence permit.

Which insurance should you choose—travel insurance or long-term health insurance?

Choosing the right insurance depends on the length and purpose of a foreign national’s stay in Poland. For short-term visitors (e.g., Schengen visa holders), KL travel insurance is the best option. However, for long-term plans—such as studying, working, or permanent residence—comprehensive health insurance or enrollment in the National Health Fund (NFZ) will be required. You can find the full range of options tailored to the needs of foreign nationals in Poland here: Travel health insurance for foreigners in Poland