How to Live and Receive Medical Care Legally in Poland

The New Reality of Foreigners' Stay in Poland

The year 2025 brought significant changes to the rules governing the legalization of residence and access to health care for non-Polish nationals. Every foreign national planning a longer stay—whether for professional, educational, family, or humanitarian reasons—must have the appropriate Health Insurance for Foreigners. Without it, it will not only be difficult to obtain a residence permit, but also to receive medical treatment.

Legal Residence and Insurance—What Does the Law Say?

Polish law requires that anyone applying for: – a Type D visa, – a residence card, – permanent or temporary registration, – a job, or business registration, must have a valid health insurance policy. Starting in 2025, government offices will verify not only whether a person has a policy, but also its coverage, a translation of the general terms and conditions, and proof of premium payment.

Insurance and the Residence Card—What Must the Document Include?

Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland It must be valid for the entire period while awaiting a decision and for the duration of the stay covered by the permit. The policy should include: – a minimum coverage limit of 30,000 EUR, – full coverage of outpatient and inpatient medical expenses, – medical transport and emergency rescue, – no deductible, – a translation of the General Terms and Conditions into Polish.

How do I get insurance for a visa or a stay?

You can: – purchase a private KL Travel Insurance for Foreigners, – sign a contract with the National Health Fund (voluntary insurance), – be registered with the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) by your employer, – be covered by group insurance (e.g., through a university).

Private Insurance vs. the National Health Fund (NFZ) – Differences

Private insurance policy: It takes effect immediately, provides access to prompt medical care, and is often a required document for legalizing one's stay.
National Health Fund (NFZ): It requires signing a contract and waiting out a waiting period (30 days), but it provides access to public health care. Insurance for Foreigners It may be cheaper through the National Health Fund, but it's less flexible.

What is the treatment process like with insurance?

If you have private insurance, contact the insurer’s hotline—they will direct you to a facility where a foreign national can receive treatment free of charge. For the National Health Fund (NFZ), all you need is your PESEL number or passport number in the system. Remember to keep all invoices, referrals, and medical certificates.

Health Insurance for Children of Foreign Nationals

All children of foreign nationals must have health insurance—this is a requirement for admission to schools and preschools. They can be covered under a parent’s policy or registered separately with the National Health Fund (NFZ). Health Insurance for Foreigners For a child, it often costs less and covers a wide range of services.

What isn't covered by a standard policy?

Most insurance plans do not cover: – treatment for chronic conditions (unless you upgrade your policy), – psychiatric treatment and addiction treatment, – dental care (except for emergency pain relief), – pregnancy after the 24th week, – elective surgeries.

The Most Common Mistakes Foreigners Make When Legalizing Their Stay

– No translation of the General Terms and Conditions into Polish, – Purchasing a policy that is too cheap and provides insufficient coverage, – Failure to pay the premium at the time of application, – A policy covering only a few days, – No coverage for hospitalization or medical transport.

Where can a foreigner find good insurance?

It's best to use a comparison platform Insurance for Foreigners, which allows you to quickly choose a policy tailored to your age, purpose of stay, length of stay, and official requirements. Make sure the policy includes all the necessary elements and has positive reviews.

Insurance isn’t just a formality—it’s a legal obligation and a factor that affects your comfort and safety while living in Poland. A well-chosen policy opens the door to legal residency, education, employment, and health care. Choose it carefully and secure your stay in accordance with applicable law.