Health Insurance in Slovakia - What Every International Student Must Know
Going abroad to study medicine or dentistry is a big adventure, but it also comes with many formalities. One of the most important things every student in Košice must arrange is health insurance. In Slovakia, having valid health insurance is mandatory – without it, you may face problems getting medical help, renewing your visa, or even completing your university registration.
Is health insurance mandatory?
Yes. Every student, regardless of their country of origin, must have valid insurance throughout their entire stay in Slovakia.
Types of health insurance
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
Students from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland can use the EHIC. With this card, they are entitled to necessary healthcare within Slovakia’s public health system, under the same conditions as Slovak citizens. However, it does not always cover private clinics or additional services. - Slovak public health insurance
EU students can also register with one of the Slovak health insurance companies, such as Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa (VšZP), Dôvera, or Union. Registration is free, but you need to provide documents such as proof of study, residence permit, and passport. - Commercial (private) health insurance
Non-EU students are required to purchase private health insurance that covers treatment in Slovakia. Insurance companies offer special packages for international students, usually including hospital care, doctor visits, and emergency treatment. Prices vary depending on the scope of coverage, so it’s worth checking the offer before arrival.
What should health insurance include?
- visits to a general practitioner
- specialist consultations (with referral)
- hospital treatment and surgeries
- emergency medical services
- basic prescription medicines
It is very important to read the policy details carefully, as private insurance often has coverage limits and exclusions.
How to arrange health insurance?
EU students should bring their EHIC and consider registering in the Slovak public system for full access. Non-EU students should contact an insurance company as early as possible – ideally before departure – and purchase a policy valid in Slovakia. It is also worth using the help of an insurance agent or agency in your home country – they can advise you on the best solution and help you avoid problems with inadequate coverage.
Why is this so important?
Medical costs without insurance can be very high. Even a short hospital stay may cost several hundred euros. Having valid coverage protects you from financial risks and allows you to fully focus on your studies.
Final tip
It’s best to arrange insurance before leaving your home country. This way, from the very first day in Košice, you will have full health protection and won’t have to worry about additional formalities.
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Filip Rzepecki
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Dentist, entrepreneur, coach, and alpine skiing competitor. He began working as a recruitment intermediary in 2011 while studying dentistry in Bratislava.
Max Szal
co-founder
Marketing manager, lawyer, entrepreneur. Co-founder of a recruitment agency helping candidates from around the world gain admission to their dream university.
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