Greece – Health Insurance

Is health insurance mandatory in Greece?

Having adequate healthcare coverage is obligatory for legal residency in Greece, and this requirement applies throughout visa and residence permit application procedures. The specific obligations, however, differ depending on your visa category, employment situation, and nationality.

EU visitors present in Greece for up to 90 days within any 180-day window may present their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive medical care on the same basis as Greek nationals at no charge. Those planning a longer stay and intending to enter the workforce will be brought into the national social security framework.

For travellers from outside the EU, travel insurance is a compulsory requirement for a Schengen Visa, with a minimum medical emergency coverage threshold of €30,000 (as of 2024). Applicants for Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa must similarly demonstrate proof of health insurance that remains valid throughout their entire period of stay.

A number of residence permits — among them the Golden Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, and retirement visas — demand evidence of private health insurance prior to approval. Holders of residence permits that neither require nor permit participation in the local labour and social insurance system are ineligible to register for an AMKA. This applies to permits designed for people who derive their income from abroad and are not employed within Greece. Because private health insurance is a legal obligation for such visa holders, they are excluded from enrolment in the public insurance system.

Public insurance and private insurance can coexist, with public coverage being mandatory for all workers under the Greek social security framework. Employees whose employers fail to register them with EFKA, or self-employed individuals who neglect to make contributions, risk forfeiting their entitlement to public healthcare benefits.

How does the public healthcare system in Greece work?

Greece’s healthcare structure is built around a universal system called ESY (Ethniko Systima Ygeias), which delivers free or heavily subsidised medical services to residents. It draws its funding from both taxation and social security contributions. Public hospitals and clinics form the backbone of this system, though many residents and expats turn to private facilities for faster access to care.

Rather than operating as a purely tax-funded national health service in the mould of the UK’s NHS, Greece employs a hybrid model that combines elements of social insurance with a national health service. Since 2011, EOPYY (the National Organisation for the Provision of Health Services) has managed a consolidated health insurance fund and coordinated the purchase of publicly funded healthcare services delivered through the National Health System, engaging both public and private providers under contract.

EFKA serves as Greece’s overarching government-backed social security institution, also referred to as the National Social Security Fund. It provides compulsory coverage for all citizens and permanent residents of Greece and consolidates more than 50 formerly separate services — from medical treatment and parental benefits through to employment support and pensions. The system has been comprehensively digitised and is now officially designated as e-EFKA.

As of 2024, Greece operates 283 hospitals, with 55 percent in public ownership. Public hospitals contain roughly two-thirds of all hospital beds — around 19,800 in total — while the remaining 45 percent of facilities are privately owned.

EU citizens and legally resident expats can access the public system, while non-EU nationals may need private insurance depending on their visa type and employment status. ESY extends free healthcare to all citizens, residents, expats, EU nationals, and unemployed persons in Greece — provided they are registered and, where applicable, actively contributing to EFKA.

What does public health coverage in Greece include?

Legal residents registered in the social security system with an AMKA number are entitled to use public hospitals, clinics, and emergency services at little or no cost. Core medical services, routine physical examinations for children, and emergency treatment are all covered under this arrangement.

Insured individuals may select a family doctor and book appointments with private practitioners who hold contracts with EOPYY. EOPYY-contracted specialists who have not yet reached the monthly cap of 200 free consultations will see insured patients without charging them extra.

Hospital care is provided free of charge in public ESY hospitals. A referral from a doctor is typically required for planned inpatient treatment. When care is received at a privately owned hospital that holds an EOPYY contract, patients are expected to contribute towards a portion of the hospitalisation expenses, along with any additional charges stipulated in the contract between EOPYY and that facility.

Prescription medication is subsidised under the public system, with patients ordinarily covering only a modest percentage of the total price. Even when purchased privately, drug costs remain relatively low by EU standards (as of 2024). Retired individuals are required to contribute towards prescriptions, though at a reduced rate of only 10%, which is lower than that applied to other patient groups (as of 2024).

EOPYY does not hold contracts with private dental practices, meaning that any private dental consultation will be paid for entirely by the patient. As a consequence, dental care within the public system is extremely limited in reality. Optical care and most advanced dental procedures similarly fall outside public coverage for the majority of adults.

Not all treatment is provided without charge. Certain medications, specialist consultations, or complex diagnostic procedures may involve out-of-pocket expenditure. Always check the EOPYY website or the Ministry of Health for current co-payment rates and the scope of covered services, as these are subject to revision.

How do expats register for public health coverage in Greece?

The entry point to public healthcare in Greece is the AMKA — Greece’s Social Security Number. An AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης) is an 11-digit identifier that underpins all transactions related to employment, healthcare, pensions, and social benefits in Greece. Before attempting to register for public healthcare, it is important to understand that holders of residence permits which do not require participation in the local labour and social insurance system — such as the Golden Visa, the Financially Independent Person visa, or the Digital Nomad Visa — are not eligible for AMKA registration, since these permits are intended for people who generate income abroad and are not employed within Greece.

For those who are eligible — employed workers, self-employed individuals, and EU citizens — the registration process unfolds as follows:

1. Obtain a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM). Many people ask about getting an AMKA before they have an AFM, but the AFM must come first. It is issued by the Greek tax authority (IAPR/AADE). You can apply through the AADE portal or by visiting a local tax office in person.
2. Gather your documents. To apply for an AMKA, you will need your AFM along with evidence of a Greek address — a tenancy agreement, a hospitality declaration, or an E9 document for property owners will all serve this purpose. Non-EU nationals must also present their residence permit or temporary residence permit card and a valid passport.
3. Visit a KEP, KEM, or EFKA office. AMKA applications are free and can be submitted at any KEP (Citizens Service Centre), KEM (Centre for Migrant Integration), or EFKA/IKA office. Non-EU nationals may only apply for an AMKA once they have secured a temporary residence permit.
4. Submit your application. No prior appointment is needed at KEP offices, but you should arrive within operating hours, which are typically 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Hand your documents to the appropriate staff member.
5. Receive your AMKA number. After submitting your documents, your application will be processed and you will be given confirmation. A letter containing your AMKA number will subsequently be sent to your registered Greek address. Once issued, your AMKA unlocks access to a broad range of public services in Greece, including healthcare, social security, and pension entitlements.
6. Register with EFKA (for self-employed individuals). Expats employed in Greece with an AMKA number are not required to make EFKA contributions themselves — their employer handles these payments. Self-employed individuals must register directly and independently with e-EFKA at efka.gov.gr.
7. Register a personal doctor. Once your AMKA is active and contributions are being made, you can choose a family doctor and schedule appointments with EOPYY-contracted private practitioners. Registration of your personal doctor is completed through the EOPYY online portal.

Note that from April 2024, the procedure for issuing and activating AMKA numbers changed significantly. Under the revised system, the AMKA is first issued in a deactivated state and must subsequently be activated once the applicant submits the required supporting documents. Always consult e-EFKA directly for the most current requirements and procedures.

What does public health coverage cost in Greece?

All employed and self-employed individuals in Greece are required to pay social security contributions. These are calculated as a proportion of earnings and fund access to healthcare, pension rights, unemployment protection, and other EFKA benefits.

The EFKA contribution rate is established by the employer and amounts to approximately 30% of gross salary (as of 2024). This combined rate is divided between the employee and the employer. Workers employed in Greece who hold an AMKA number do not need to arrange EFKA payments personally — their employer manages these contributions on their behalf.

Self-employed individuals select their own contribution category, which directly determines both their current payments and their future entitlements. Contributions are structured in tiers based on income level and the category chosen. Always verify the prevailing contribution rates with e-EFKA, as these are reviewed and updated regularly.

Dual citizens and long-term residents holding qualifying visas can obtain an AMKA, which opens the door to basic public healthcare coverage. Those whose coverage is limited or who have not been employed in Greece can expect to encounter additional charges for consultations, appointments, and specialist services.

Without an AMKA, all medical expenses in Greece must be paid at the point of care. Private specialist appointments typically cost between €60 and €120 per consultation, while emergency treatment through the public system is either fully covered or very low-cost for registered residents (as of 2024). Confirm the most current figures through official channels, as co-payment thresholds and rates are subject to change.

What are the gaps or limitations in public health coverage in Greece?

Despite repeated attempts at reform, Greece has not managed to establish a cohesive public system underpinned by a strong commitment to social solidarity. The system has instead drifted quietly towards a de facto semi-privatised two-tier model, one that deepens social inequalities, restricts access, and undermines overall efficiency.

For certain medications, specialist treatments, or sophisticated diagnostic procedures, patients will typically face out-of-pocket expenses. Average waiting times in public hospitals — particularly in urban centres — tend to be considerable, which is why many residents and expats choose to take out private insurance to fill the gaps.

Even for those who eventually gain access to ESY, the public system can feel slow and frustrating to navigate. Appointments with specialists may be delayed by weeks or even months, staffing levels in rural areas and on smaller islands are often insufficient, and finding a public-sector doctor who can communicate fluently in English can be a challenge.

The Greek healthcare system functions relatively well in major cities, but expats living in rural communities or island locations should prepare for the possibility of having to travel for more advanced treatment. Highly specialised services are concentrated in large metropolitan centres such as Athens and Thessaloniki, meaning residents in more remote areas who require complex care may face significant journeys to access it.

As noted above, EOPYY does not contract with private dentists, so dental treatment will be an out-of-pocket expense unless you hold suitable private cover. Mental health services, while they have expanded in recent years, also remain underdeveloped within the public framework.

According to figures from the WHO’s Global Monitoring Report on Financial Protection in Health, around 17% of the Greek population spends more than 10% of household income on out-of-pocket healthcare costs. This statistic underscores the reality that for a significant proportion of the population — including many expats — the public system alone does not adequately meet all healthcare needs.

What are the advantages of international private health insurance for expats in Greece?

Private health insurance opens doors to leading private hospitals and clinics equipped with modern facilities and state-of-the-art technology, English-speaking medical staff (invaluable for those who have yet to master Greek), and dramatically shorter waiting times — a procedure such as an MRI that might be scheduled months away in the public system can often be arranged within days through a private provider.

For many expats accustomed to high-performing healthcare environments, private insurance delivers a vital sense of reassurance. It is especially valuable for those who travel frequently, since international policies extend their coverage beyond Greece’s borders.

Some Greek residents choose to travel to Germany — reachable in under an hour by air — for certain treatments. An air ambulance, however, is an expensive undertaking, and your policy would need to explicitly include medical evacuation cover. Similarly, the option to return to one’s home country for treatment in familiar surroundings makes repatriation and evacuation clauses important features to seek out.

Expats have the choice between locally based Greek insurers and international providers. Companies including Interamerican, Ethniki Insurance, Generali Hellas, and Eurolife FFH focus on coverage within Greece. These tend to be more competitively priced, operate within networks of top private hospitals, and are best suited to expats who intend to settle in Greece long-term and do not travel extensively abroad.

International providers such as Cigna Global, Allianz Care, AXA Global Healthcare, Bupa Global, and Now Health International are designed for mobile expats and globally minded individuals. They offer worldwide coverage and commonly include additional benefits such as medical evacuation, preventive health programmes, and mental health support.

What should expats look for when choosing a health insurance plan for Greece?

Healthcare coverage is a legal requirement for lawful residency in Greece, including at the point of applying for a visa or residence permit. When comparing plans, ensure that any policy you consider satisfies the specific requirements of your visa category before submitting your application — insufficient coverage can lead to a refusal.

Key considerations when evaluating health insurance plans include:

• Inpatient vs outpatient cover: Establish whether a plan covers both hospitalisation (inpatient) and day-to-day outpatient consultations, specialist visits, and diagnostic procedures. Some entry-level policies are restricted to inpatient care only.
• Pre-existing conditions: Many insurers impose waiting periods or outright exclusions for conditions diagnosed prior to the policy’s commencement. Provide a thorough and accurate account of your medical history and clarify what is and is not covered before committing to a plan.
• Direct billing with local hospitals: A policy with direct billing arrangements means the insurer settles the bill with the hospital directly, sparing you from large upfront payments. Find out which Greek private hospitals fall within your insurer’s network.
• Visa and residency compliance: A Schengen Visa application requires proof of private health insurance valid in Greece with a minimum coverage of €30,000, valid across all Schengen countries for the duration of the stay (as of 2024). Higher-tier residence permits may demand more extensive coverage.
• Portability and international coverage: Locally based insurers offer practical, cost-effective plans for expats committed to long-term residence in Greece. International insurers provide greater flexibility and peace of mind for those who travel regularly or divide their time between multiple countries.
• Mental health, maternity, and dental riders: These benefits are commonly excluded from standard plans. If they are a priority for you, seek out policies that incorporate them or allow you to attach them as optional extras.
• Employer cover: If you are employed in Greece, check whether your employer provides a supplementary group health plan. Many multinational companies offer private insurance coverage on top of the mandatory EFKA contribution regime.

Healthcare costs in Greece are generally reasonable, particularly in comparison with other residency-by-investment destinations. The price of a policy will vary according to your age, the level of coverage selected, the deductible applied, and whether dependants are to be included (as of 2024).

Are there any other health-related costs expats should be aware of in Greece?

Because EOPYY does not hold contracts with private dental practices, any dental consultation at a private clinic will be paid for entirely by the patient. Dental treatment is therefore almost exclusively an out-of-pocket or private insurance expense for the vast majority of residents, and those who require routine dental care should factor this into their budget accordingly.

Private specialist appointments typically cost between €60 and €120 per visit (as of 2024). These charges can accumulate rapidly when multiple consultations or ongoing specialist management are required. Diagnostic imaging, blood work, and other investigations ordered at private facilities will also be charged directly to the patient.

Prescription costs under the public system are subsidised for registered EFKA members, but some procedures, pharmaceutical products, or specific specialist treatments may not be fully covered by public insurance. For medications obtained outside the public system or from private pharmacies without an EOPYY prescription, the full retail price will apply.

Emergency services are accessible throughout Greece, though they come at a cost for non-residents or uninsured visitors. Ambulance services operated by EKAB (the National Centre for Emergency Care) are generally provided at no charge to insured residents in genuine emergencies, but privately arranged ambulance transfers can be considerably expensive.

Mental health services exist within the public system but remain limited in scope and availability. In recent years, new mental health provisions have been introduced in Greece. Expats with international health insurance policies have access to a broader and more comprehensive range of mental health services. Private therapy is available in major cities, with session fees typically running from €50 to €100; confirm current rates with providers and verify with your insurer whether these sessions are covered under your policy.

Vision care — including eye examinations, spectacles, and contact lenses — is largely absent from public coverage and is usually paid for out of pocket or through private insurance riders. Always confirm current charges with local providers, as prices can vary considerably between Athens, Thessaloniki, and smaller regional towns.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my home country’s health insurance in Greece?

If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) entitles you to access public healthcare in Greece, though it does not extend to private care or medical evacuation. For those from countries outside the EU or EEA, domestic health insurance policies are almost universally not recognised in Greece. You will need either an international health insurance policy or enrolment in EFKA through employment in Greece. Always confirm your level of coverage with your insurer before relocating.

Is private health insurance required for a visa to Greece?

Greece is one of the 27 Schengen area countries and requires both visitors and prospective residents to present proof of insurance when applying for a visa. The overwhelming majority of Greek visas require evidence of medical insurance coverage. The minimum threshold for a Schengen visa application is €30,000 of medical coverage (as of 2024). Longer-stay permits — including the Golden Visa, the Digital Nomad Visa, and the Financially Independent Person visa — require more comprehensive private coverage arrangements.

How long does it take to get registered for public health coverage in Greece?

Obtaining your AMKA number is generally a swift process if you arrive at a KEP or EFKA office with all necessary documentation in order. Once your documents are submitted, the application is processed and a letter confirming your AMKA number is dispatched to your registered Greek address. That said, full activation of your public healthcare entitlements typically begins only once your EFKA contributions are in place, which requires your employment or self-employment to be formally registered. Be aware that since April 2024, AMKA numbers are issued in a deactivated state and must be activated separately — check the current procedure directly with e-EFKA.

Can I get health insurance in Greece with a pre-existing condition?

Under the public EFKA/ESY system, pre-existing conditions have no bearing on your eligibility once you are registered and contributing — public coverage does not discriminate on the basis of medical history. The picture is more complicated with private health insurance, where many international providers apply waiting periods or place permanent exclusions on specific pre-existing conditions. Always provide a full and accurate account of your medical history and seek written clarification from prospective insurers regarding what is and is not covered before taking out a policy.

What happens if I need emergency medical treatment in Greece before my insurance is active?

Greece’s public healthcare system provides emergency medical services that are generally available free of charge to all individuals in urgent situations, including foreign nationals. In a genuine emergency, proceed directly to the nearest public hospital (ESY) or call 166 (EKAB — ambulance service) or 112 (general emergency number). Emergency care can also be sought at a private hospital that holds a contract with EOPYY. Note that non-urgent treatment sought without valid insurance or an active EFKA registration may result in charges being applied.

What is the AMKA and why do I need it?

The AMKA is a unique identification number that is required in order to access healthcare services — whether that means seeing a general practitioner, an ophthalmologist, or a dentist — as well as to receive insurance and employment-related benefits linked to your work in Greece. For expats relocating to Greece, freelancers operating from Greece, or spouses of Greek or EU citizens living in the country, understanding how to obtain and activate an AMKA is essential. Without one, you will be liable to pay the full cost of all medical treatment privately.

Does the Greek Golden Visa include health coverage?

The Golden Visa confers residency rights but does not automatically entitle holders to free public healthcare. Accessing public healthcare requires active participation in Greece’s social insurance system through paid employment or registered self-employment. Golden Visa investors are not covered by EFKA and are obligated to maintain private health insurance as a condition of their visa. After seven years, upon successfully acquiring Greek citizenship, they become eligible for EFKA coverage.

What is the difference between ESY, EFKA, and EOPYY?

Each of these acronyms refers to a distinct component of Greece’s public health infrastructure. ESY (Ethniko Systima Ygeias) is the National Health System — the framework of public hospitals and clinics through which medical care is delivered. EFKA is the National Social Security Fund, the government body that collects contributions and administers social insurance including healthcare entitlements. EOPYY (the National Organisation for the Provision of Health Services) was established in 2011 to consolidate health insurance into a single unified fund and to serve as the sole purchaser of publicly funded healthcare services within the National Health System. In practical terms, you register with EFKA via your AMKA, and EOPYY manages the contracted providers you access through the ESY network.