Health Insurance for Foreigners – What Should You Know Before Coming to Poland?

Health Insurance for Foreigners – What Should You Know Before Coming to Poland?

Are you planning a trip to Poland for tourism, education, or business? One of the most important things to take care of before crossing the border is Health Insurance for Foreigners. The right insurance policy can protect you from high medical costs and ensure quick access to the medical care you need. Find out what you need to know!

Is health insurance mandatory in Poland?

For many foreigners Health Insurance in Poland is a requirement for legal residence. If you are applying for residence card, you must provide proof of valid health insurance that will cover medical expenses in the event of illness or an accident.

The requirement to have insurance applies, among other things, to:

• students and pupils,
• non-EU workers,
• people applying for temporary or permanent residency,
• family members of Polish citizens.

Types of Health Insurance Available to Foreigners

In Poland, foreign nationals can choose one of two main options:

1. Health Insurance Through the National Health Fund (NFZ)

This Voluntary health insurance for a foreign national, which allows you to use the public health care system. To obtain it, you must sign a contract with a branch of the National Health Fund (NFZ) and pay your premiums regularly. In 2025, the monthly premium is approximately 719 PLN, but the exact amount depends on each individual's circumstances.

2. Private health insurance

This is the most common form of insurance chosen by people staying in Poland for a short period of time. Insurance Policy for a Foreign National may include:

• medical expenses (KL),
• hospitalization,
• medical transport,
• Accident Insurance (consequences of accidents),
• 24/7 assistance.

Good Health Insurance for Foreigners It helps you avoid unexpected expenses, which can amount to as much as several thousand zlotys.

Insurance and Residence Card

If you are applying for residence card, you must provide proof that you have a valid Health insurance for a residence card. Government offices accept both private insurance policies and insurance provided by the National Health Fund (NFZ). It is essential that the document include information about the scope of coverage and the validity period.

How much does health insurance cost for a foreigner?

Policy prices vary depending on the scope of coverage, the insured person’s age, and the length of stay in Poland. For example:

• short-term stay (e.g., 30 days): starting at 80 to 200 zł,
• Long-term insurance for a residence card: starting at 400 to 1,500 PLN per year,
• Private health care packages: starting at 100 zł per month.

This is a relatively small expense compared to the cost of medical treatment in Poland—for example, a single visit to the emergency room can cost as much as 500–1,000 PLN without insurance.

What should you look for when choosing insurance?

Before you sign the contract, make sure that your Health Insurance for Foreigners includes:

• outpatient and inpatient treatment,
• medical transport,
• treatment of sudden illnesses and accidents,
• minimum cost coverage 30,000 euros (often required by government agencies).

It's also a good idea to check whether your insurance covers COVID-19 and whether you have access to customer service in your language.

Insurance for Foreigners in Poland – Summary

Don't risk going without medical care. Proper Insurance for Foreigners in Poland This isn't just a formal requirement—it's also a guarantee of safety. Choose a policy that fits your needs and enjoy a worry-free stay in Poland.

Would you like to learn more or purchase the right one? Health Insurance for Foreigners? Contact us—we'll help you choose the best option for your situation.