Greece has a universal healthcare system called the ESY or Ethnikó Sýstima Ygeías in Greek, which translates to “National Health System.” It offers free or low-cost medical care to residents and their families through social security contributions and taxation. While the system offers broad access, public facilities often face challenges such as overcrowding, limited resources and long wait times. As a result, many expats and international students opt for private care or maintain international health insurance for more streamlined access.
Country Guides
Greece
Understanding the local healthcare system.
Key takeaways about healthcare in Greece.
- Greece’s National Health Service (ESY) provides broad coverage, funded by social insurance and taxes.
- Access to public healthcare requires registration with the national insurance system and an AMKA (social security number).
- Public hospitals struggle with staffing shortages, bed constraints, sanitation issues and long waits, especially outside major cities.
- Private hospitals are well-equipped, English-friendly and often affiliated with U.S. or other international institutions.
- Health insurance is mandatory for all non-EU visitors and residents, including students and digital nomads.
- Expats may freely purchase international health insurance abroad, with no local restrictions or penalties.
Understanding the local healthcare system in Greece.
Greece's National Health Service (ESY) was created in 1983 to offer universal healthcare coverage funded by social insurance contributions and general taxation. Despite this, public hospitals face significant challenges—overcrowding, staff shortages, older equipment, sanitation issues and long wait times for non-urgent care are common.
In contrast, the private healthcare sector is highly developed, featuring modern technology, renowned staff often trained abroad and English-speaking staff. Some hospitals maintain formal affiliations with U.S. institutions, enhancing their appeal for international patients. However, treatment in private facilities is not covered by public insurance and can be costly without private coverage.
Most healthcare services, both public and private, are concentrated in Athens and Thessaloniki. Rural and island regions generally have limited resources and may offer lower levels of care.
Greece’s health insurance requirements for expats and student travelers.
Expats
Expatriates may purchase life, pension or private medical insurance from insurers abroad without penalty or local restriction. Employers may include expats in local employee benefit schemes, though most arrive already covered by international policies from their home country. There are no specific regulations on how foreign insurers process claims in Greece.
Students Studying Abroad in Greece
U.S. students staying in Greece for less than three months (short-stay) are not strictly required to hold Schengen-compliant insurance for entry, as they do not need a visa. However, it is highly recommended to have insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical expenses and repatriation, as U.S. domestic health plans often do not adequately cover costs for care outside the U.S. For longer stays, non-EU students must maintain private health insurance to meet visa and residence permit requirements. Once enrolled in a Greek university and residing in the country, students may be eligible to register for public healthcare by obtaining an AMKA. However, public coverage may be limited, and many students choose to retain international student insurance for broader protection, including repatriation and supplemental care.
EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access public healthcare during their studies.
Regional differences in health insurance requirements.
Healthcare and insurance regulations are consistent nationwide, with no regional variations in expat or student requirements. However, access to high-quality care varies: major cities have the strongest facilities, while coverage options and service levels may be limited in islands and rural regions.
Practical considerations for accessing healthcare in Greece.
- Public hospitals may entail lengthy waits, sanitation concerns and staffing shortages.
- Private hospitals and clinics offer faster appointments, modern equipment and English-speaking staff. Many expats prefer private care for convenience and quality, especially in non-urgent situations.
- Private health insurance is essential for those who prefer private facilities or are not eligible for public coverage.
- Most quality facilities are in Athens and Thessaloniki; living elsewhere may require travel to access care.
- Schengen visa holders must carry valid travel health insurance with at least €30,000 coverage, including repatriation.
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