Is health insurance required for foreigners in Poland during every stay?

The most suitable insurance policies that meet the requirements for both a visa and a residence permit are available here: KL Insurance for Foreigners: For Visas and Residence Cards

When is health insurance mandatory?

The requirement to have insurance applies to all foreign nationals from outside the European Union and the EEA in several key cases.

1. Upon entering Poland on a Schengen visa (up to 90 days)

Every non-EU foreign national must have insurance that covers:

• medical expenses,
• hospitalization,
• medical transport,
• minimum coverage amount 30,000 euros.

Without a valid insurance policy, the Border Guard may deny entry.

You can find more information about the rules here: Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland – Who Is Required to Have It and How Can You Get It?

2. When applying for a residence card (for stays longer than 90 days)

An electronic or paper residence permit requires proof that the foreign national possesses Health insurance for a residence card. The provincial office accepts only policies that meet specific conditions.

The policy must:

• cover the entire duration of the stay,
• guarantee coverage of medical and hospitalization costs,
• be submitted along with proof of payment,
• be written in Polish or English.

The detailed requirements are described here: Health Insurance and the Residence Card – Key Formalities

3. When working in Poland

A foreign national employed under an employment contract is automatically registered with the National Health Fund (NFZ) and has access to public health care. However, if they are just beginning the process of legalizing their employment, private health insurance is required until the employer formally enrolls them in the system.

4. When studying in Poland

Non-EU students must also have insurance. They may:

• purchase a private insurance policy,
• enter into a contract with the National Health Fund,
• be nominated by the university (in certain cases).

When is insurance not required?

There are situations in which a foreign national does not need to have insurance, although it is highly recommended.

1. EU/EEA Citizens

They can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If they are coming for a short tourist visit, they do not need to have additional insurance, although it is worth purchasing it for more comprehensive coverage.

2. Transit stay

If a foreign national is traveling through Poland in transit and has valid Schengen insurance, they do not need to purchase a separate policy.

Is it worth having insurance even when it isn't required?

Yes. Medical costs in Poland for uninsured people are very high, which is why private Insurance for Foreigners in Poland It provides financial security and quick access to medical care.

The most common advantages:

• emergency protection,
• no risk of high hospital bills,
• acceptance by institutions during the paperwork process,
• 24/7 support available.

Is health insurance always verified?

Yes—in the following situations:

• at the border crossing,
• at the time of submitting the visa application,
• when applying for a temporary residence permit,
• when extending a visa,
• during a check to verify the legality of a person's stay.

Failure to have insurance may result in:

• denial of entry,
• rejection of a visa application,
• a refusal to issue a residence card.

Is insurance required for every stay?

Not in every case, but in most cases, yes. This requirement applies to:

• all non-EU foreign nationals entering the country on a visa,
• all individuals applying for a residence card,
• employees and students before registering with the National Health Fund.

For EU citizens, insurance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended.