Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland

Foreigners are increasingly choosing to stay in Poland for longer periods—whether for work, study, or family reunification. Regardless of the reason, every foreigner should have the appropriate health insurance, which will allow him to receive medical care when needed. In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step—from choosing the right insurance to purchasing it and using it.

Does a foreigner need to have health insurance in Poland?

Yes. In accordance with current regulations, Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland is required in most cases. Individuals staying on the basis of visas, residence cards or under the visa-free travel program, must have insurance coverage that pays for medical treatment, hospitalization, or medical transport. This applies in particular to:

students,
employees,
people applying for a temporary residence permit,
family members of Polish citizens,
refugees and persons under temporary protection.

What types of health insurance are available for foreigners?

A foreigner in Poland can choose from two main types of insurance policies:

1. Public Health Insurance (NFZ)

Eligibility for enrollment in the National Health Fund (NFZ) applies, among others, to people employed in Poland, students from non-EU countries, and foreign nationals with EU long-term resident status. For those who are not employed, it is possible to sign up a voluntary agreement with the National Health Fund (NFZ) and pay their own premiums.

2. Private health insurance

The most commonly chosen option, especially by those applying for residence card. Private insurance policies offer access to services at private facilities, and the scope of coverage is often broader than that provided by the National Health Fund (NFZ). It must:

cover the costs of medical treatment in Poland,
be valid for the entire planned duration of the stay,
have a minimum coverage limit of 30,000 EUR.

Check out a sample offer and learn more:
KL Insurance for Foreigners: For Visas and Residence Cards

What documents will be required?

To purchase Health Insurance for Foreigners, the following are usually required:

a passport or other form of identification,
a residential address in Poland (sometimes required by the insurer),
insurance application or online form,
a document confirming residency status (e.g., visa, residence card),
PESEL number (optional, for the National Health Fund).

What is the step-by-step process for purchasing insurance?

Step 1: Specify the duration and purpose of your stay in Poland
Step 2: Decide whether you want private or public insurance
Step 3: Compare offers and choose an insurer
Step 4: Sign the contract online or in person
Step 5: Keep your policy and make a copy of it for the authorities (e.g., when applying for a residence card)

Does the insurance policy need to be translated?

Yes—when dealing with government agencies (e.g.,. Provincial Office), the policy should be in Polish or translated by a certified translator. This is important, especially if the insurance was purchased abroad.

What does a typical insurance policy for a foreign national cover?

The scope may vary depending on the plan you choose, but it typically includes:

doctor's appointments and specialist consultations,
outpatient treatment,
hospitalization,
medical transport,
emergency dental care,
COVID-19 treatment (in select policies).

What should you look for when choosing insurance?

Scope of coverage: Does it apply only to Poland, or does it also apply to other EU countries?.
Insurance coverage amount: The higher, the better (at least 30,000 EUR).
Policy term: It must cover the entire stay.
Approval by government agencies: The policy should be recognized by provincial offices.
Availability of the Polish language in documents.

Can I change my insurance after I arrive?

Yes, if your immigration status changes (for example, if you find a job or start college), you can:

cancel private insurance,
switch to the NFZ (public health insurance),
change the policy to one with broader coverage.

Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland It’s not just a formal requirement, but above all, real protection in case of illness or an accident. Whether you’re planning a short stay or intend to stay longer, it’s worth getting a good insurance policy. If you’re looking for a quick and reliable solution, check out:
KL Insurance for Foreigners: For Visas and Residence Cards

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