ESY via EHIC (For EU Students)
Free
Best for: EU/EEA students
Use EHIC to access Greek public healthcare (ESY). Free doctor visits, hospital care, emergencies.
Learn more
Health Insurance for Students in Greece
EU students use EHIC for free ESY access. Non-EU students need affordable private insurance from €15/month.
5 requirements 3 plan options 5 setup steps
Compare Plans Insurance Requirements
- Health insurance mandatory for all students in Greece
- EU/EEA students with EHIC can access ESY (National Health System) for free
- Non-EU students must have private health insurance for visa and residence permit
- Private insurance must meet Greek immigration requirements
- AMKA number (social security number) required to access public healthcare
Available Insurance Options
Private Health Insurance (Basic)
€15–€30/month
Best for: Non-EU students — required for visa
Covers medical emergencies, hospital treatment, GP visits. Accepted for residence permit.
Learn morePrivate Health Insurance (Comprehensive)
€30–€50/month
Best for: Students wanting private clinics and faster access
Premium coverage with private hospitals, English-speaking doctors, dental, and optical.
Learn moreCost Overview
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| ESY (For EU Students with EHIC) | Free | EU students with EHIC access ESY public healthcare for free |
| Private Insurance (Basic) | €15–€30/month | Required for non-EU students. Covers emergencies and basic care. |
| Private Insurance (Comprehensive) | €30–€50/month | Premium private care with English-speaking doctors and private hospitals |
| Doctor Visit (Private) | €40–€80 | Out-of-pocket cost for private doctor visit without insurance |
Item
ESY (For EU Students with EHIC)
Cost
Free
Details
EU students with EHIC access ESY public healthcare for free
Item
Private Insurance (Basic)
Cost
€15–€30/month
Details
Required for non-EU students. Covers emergencies and basic care.
Item
Private Insurance (Comprehensive)
Cost
€30–€50/month
Details
Premium private care with English-speaking doctors and private hospitals
Item
Doctor Visit (Private)
Cost
€40–€80
Details
Out-of-pocket cost for private doctor visit without insurance
Visa & Insurance Requirements
- Student visa requires proof of health insurance
- EU students: EHIC sufficient
- Non-EU students: Private insurance certificate required
- Insurance must cover entire stay duration and include minimum €30,000 medical coverage
- Insurance provider must be recognized by Greek authorities
How to Get Insured
Apply for Insurance (Non-EU Only)
Non-EU students: Choose and purchase private health insurance meeting Greek visa requirements (€30k min coverage).
Apply for Student Visa
Submit visa application with proof of insurance (EHIC for EU, private insurance certificate for non-EU).
Arrive in Greece and Apply for AMKA
Apply for AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης) — your Greek social security number — at the local KEP office or online.
Register with ESY (EU Students)
EU students: With EHIC and AMKA, register at a local health center (ΚΕντρο Υγείας) to access free public healthcare.
Choose Healthcare Provider
Non-EU: Use private clinics covered by your insurance. EU: Register with public health center or use private clinics.
Student Health Insurance in Greece
Greece’s ESY (Εθνικό Σύστημα Υγείας, National Health System) provides universal healthcare to residents. EU students with EHIC access it for free, while non-EU students need affordable private insurance starting from €15/month.
For EU/EEA Students — Free Healthcare
If you’re from an EU/EEA country, bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This grants you free access to Greek public healthcare:
- Doctor visits at public health centers
- Hospital treatment (public hospitals)
- Emergency care
- Prescription medications (with small co-pays)
To access ESY, you’ll need an AMKA (Greek social security number). Apply online or at KEP offices after arriving in Greece.
For Non-EU Students — Private Insurance
Non-EU students must have private health insurance for their student visa and residence permit. Greek private insurance is very affordable:
- Basic plans: €15–€30/month (emergencies, hospital, GP)
- Comprehensive plans: €30–€50/month (private hospitals, English-speaking doctors, dental, optical)
Private insurance providers include Greek insurers like Ethniki, Eurolife, and international providers like Allianz or Cigna.
Public vs. Private Healthcare
Public (ESY):
- Free for EU students with EHIC
- Good quality care but may have waiting times
- Greek language barriers in some facilities
Private:
- Faster appointments
- English-speaking doctors
- Modern facilities
- Higher costs without insurance
Why Greece?
With over 30,000 international students, Greece offers excellent universities, beautiful islands, rich history, and affordable living costs. Study in Athens, Thessaloniki, or on island campuses while enjoying Mediterranean lifestyle and accessible healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can EU students use EHIC in Greece?
Yes, EU/EEA students with EHIC can access Greek public healthcare (ESY) for free, including doctor visits, hospital treatment, and emergency care.
What is AMKA?
AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης) is your Greek social security number. It's required to access ESY public healthcare. Apply at KEP offices or online.
How much does health insurance cost in Greece?
Private health insurance for students in Greece costs €15–€50/month depending on coverage level. Very affordable compared to other European countries.
Is healthcare free in Greece for students?
Yes, for EU students with EHIC. Greek public healthcare (ESY) is free at point of use. Non-EU students need private insurance but can access affordable care.
Should I use public (ESY) or private healthcare?
EU students can use ESY for free, but many choose private clinics for English-speaking doctors and faster appointments. Non-EU students use private insurance.
Ready to Study in Greece?
EU students use EHIC for free ESY access. Non-EU students compare affordable private insurance plans.
Compare Plans