Israel is a popular destination for expats, with a rich cultural heritage and modern healthcare facilities. As an expat living in Israel, it is important to have health insurance to ensure that you have access to quality healthcare services. In this article, we will explore the health insurance requirements in Israel, the state health insurance system, how to apply for it, and the advantages of international private medical insurance.
Health Insurance Requirements in Israel
Health insurance is mandatory for all residents of Israel, including expats. The National Health Insurance Law requires all residents to be insured under the state health insurance system.
State Health Insurance System in Israel
The state health insurance system in Israel is known as the National Health Insurance (NHI) program. The NHI program provides comprehensive healthcare coverage to all residents, including expats. The NHI program is funded through taxes and is administered by four healthcare providers, known as Kupot Holim.
What does it cover?
The NHI program provides comprehensive health coverage, including medical consultations, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, prescription drugs, and preventive care. The system also covers maternity care, dental care, and rehabilitation services. In addition to healthcare coverage, the NHI program also provides disability and life insurance benefits.
How to Apply for State Health Insurance in Israel
Expats living and working in Israel are entitled to register for the NHI program. Here are the steps to follow:
Obtain a Teudat Zehut: To register for the NHI program, expats must first obtain a Teudat Zehut, which is the Israeli national ID card. This can be done by visiting a local Ministry of Interior office and providing documentation such as a passport and visa.
Choose a Kupat Holim: After obtaining a Teudat Zehut, expats must choose a Kupat Holim. There are four Kupat Holim in Israel, and expats can choose the one that best suits their needs.
Register for health insurance: After choosing a Kupat Holim, expats can register for health insurance by completing an application form and providing documentation such as proof of residency and income.
Make contributions: After enrolling in the system and choosing a Kupat Holim, expats will need to make contributions based on their income. Contributions are automatically deducted from the employee’s salary if they are employed.
Receive health insurance card: After enrolling in the system and making contributions, expats will receive a health insurance card, which they can use to access healthcare services.
Advantages of Private Insurance
While the NHI program provides comprehensive healthcare coverage, expats living in Israel may also consider purchasing international private medical insurance. Here are some advantages of international private medical insurance:
More comprehensive coverage
International private medical insurance can offer more comprehensive coverage than the NHI program. This can include coverage for elective procedures, alternative therapies, and treatments not covered by the NHI program.
Access to private healthcare facilities
International private medical insurance can provide access to private healthcare facilities, which may offer shorter wait times and more personalized care.
Portability
International private medical insurance is portable, which means that it can be used in other countries. This can be an advantage for expats who travel frequently or plan to relocate to another country in the future.
English-speaking assistance
Many international private medical insurance providers offer English-speaking assistance, which can be helpful for expats who are not fluent in Hebrew.
Health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including expats, in Israel. The state health insurance system, the NHI program, provides comprehensive healthcare coverage to all residents, including expats. Expats must register for the NHI program by choosing a Kupat Holim, completing an application form, and making contributions based on their income. While the NHI program offers comprehensive coverage, expats may also consider purchasing international private medical insurance for more comprehensive coverage, access to private healthcare facilities, portability, and English-speaking assistance. By understanding the health insurance options available in Israel, expats can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs while living in the country.
