Health insurance: types for international students

Are you planning to study in Poland? Good health insurance is a must and gives you peace of mind every day. The choice is not easy, because foreign students have various options available to them. This guide explains what types are available and when to choose which one.

We will discuss NFZ, private insurance policies, and university packages. We will outline visa requirements and practical differences in coverage. If you want to learn more about this topic, visit our guide or check out the section types of health insurance.

Public insurance with the National Health Fund (NFZ) provides access to benefits on the same terms as for Polish citizens. For some students, this is the most advantageous option. It requires signing a contract with the NFZ branch and paying regular contributions.

EU/EFTA students can use their EHIC for essential healthcare during their stay. Non-EU citizens can usually join the NFZ voluntarily as students. You will need proof of identity and confirmation of enrollment at a Polish university.

The premium is payable monthly and varies over time. After signing the contract with the National Health Fund, you will receive a number that you will use at medical facilities. The coverage applies to treatment within Poland. It is advisable to keep your premium payment receipts.

Private policies are most often chosen for visa purposes and at the beginning of a stay. They provide coverage for medical expenses, organization of medical assistance and transport, as well as 24/7 emergency center support. The options cover foreigners staying in Poland.

Typical coverage includes hospitalization, outpatient treatment, diagnostics, emergency dental care, purchase of medication, and medical transport. The policy also covers repatriation and organizes assistance until the patient returns or is transported to their home country. Often, continued treatment after the incident is available.

A policy with a clear cost limit, preferably from EUR 30,000 upwards, will be useful for your visa application. See practical tips in the article. visa insurance.

Standard exclusions include chronic illnesses, high-risk sports, planned treatment, childbirth after 32 weeks of pregnancy, and mental disorders. Many policies allow you to purchase extensions, e.g., for chronic illnesses or sports, for an additional premium.

When applying for a visa, also check work visa procedures. The documentation requirements are similar and indicate what records consulates often accept.

Many universities cooperate with private clinics. University packages provide quick access to general practitioners and basic diagnostics. However, they often do not cover repatriation or high treatment cost limits, which are required for visa purposes.

EU/EFTA students can use their EHIC card for medically necessary services during their stay. The EHIC does not cover transport back to their home country or private services. It is therefore worth considering taking out a private supplementary policy and checking our guide for more examples.

Below are the key criteria that will help you tailor your coverage to your needs and visa requirements.