Health & Travel Insurance for Poland
Navigate mandatory and recommended student health and travel insurance options for your studies in Poland.
Student Insurance Plan
Understanding Insurance Requirements for Poland
Health and travel insurance are essential components of your study journey to Poland. As an international student, having appropriate insurance coverage is not just a recommendation—it's a legal requirement for your visa application, residence permit, and university enrollment.
Legal Requirements
- Valid for the entire duration of your stay in Poland
- Minimum coverage amount of €30,000 (approximately 130,000 PLN)
- Must cover all medical expenses including hospitalization
- Must be valid in all Schengen countries
- Must include repatriation coverage
Why Insurance Matters
- Medical expenses in Poland without insurance can be costly
- Required for residence permit application upon arrival
- Protects you in case of accidents or unexpected illnesses
- Many universities check insurance status during enrollment
- Emergency medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of euros
Insurance Approaches for Different Students
EU/EEA Students
Can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for basic coverage. Consider supplementing with private insurance for comprehensive protection.
Non-EU Students
Must obtain comprehensive health insurance that meets Schengen and Polish requirements. This is mandatory for visa and residence permit.
Exchange Students
Check if your home university or exchange program provides coverage. If not, you'll need to arrange your own policy meeting Polish standards.
Important: Insurance requirements may change, and specific universities might have additional insurance requirements. Always verify the latest information with your university and the Polish embassy or consulate in your country before travel.
Mandatory Health Insurance for Poland
Poland has specific mandatory health insurance requirements for international students. The requirements differ based on your nationality, program duration, and enrollment status. Understanding these details will ensure you're properly covered throughout your study period.
National Health Fund (NFZ)
Poland's public healthcare system (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia)
The NFZ is Poland's state-funded healthcare system that provides medical services to insured individuals. As an international student, you have several options to access this system:
- Students from EU/EEA countries can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- International students can voluntarily sign an agreement with NFZ (monthly fee of approximately 55-60 PLN)
- Students with part-time employment in Poland may receive NFZ coverage through their employer
Advantages of NFZ
- • Free or low-cost basic healthcare access
- • Coverage throughout Poland
- • Access to public hospitals and clinics
- • Coverage for most basic medical procedures
Limitations of NFZ
- • Potential waiting times for specialists
- • Limited English-speaking medical staff in some facilities
- • Not all treatments and medications covered
- • May not meet Schengen visa requirements on its own
How to Register with NFZ
- Visit your local NFZ branch with your passport, student ID, and residence permit
- Complete the voluntary health insurance form (ZUS ZZA)
- Pay the monthly premium (can be set up as automatic payment)
- Receive confirmation of registration and your NFZ identification number
- Choose a primary care physician (lekarz POZ) in your area
Note: Even with NFZ coverage, non-EU students will typically need supplementary private insurance to meet Schengen visa and residence permit requirements.
NFZ vs. Private Insurance Comparison
| Feature | NFZ (Public Insurance) | Private Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | ~55-60 PLN (~€12-13) | ~150-500 PLN (~€35-110) depending on coverage |
| Visa/Residence Permit Compliance | Partial - May not meet all requirements | Full - When policy meets requirements |
| Access to English-speaking Doctors | Limited - Varies by facility | Better - Often includes multilingual services |
| Waiting Times | Can be long for specialists | Typically shorter |
| Medical Repatriation | Not included | Often included in international policies |
| Dental Coverage | Basic only | More comprehensive options available |
| Paperwork | More complex registration process | Streamlined online processes |
Required Insurance by Student Category
EU/EEA Students
- • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is sufficient for basic healthcare
- • Consider supplementary private insurance for better coverage
- • Register your EHIC with NFZ upon arrival
Non-EU Degree Students
- • Comprehensive private insurance meeting Schengen requirements
- • Minimum €30,000 coverage
- • Optional: Additional NFZ coverage for better access to public healthcare
Exchange Students
- • Check if your program includes health insurance
- • EU students: EHIC is sufficient
- • Non-EU: Same requirements as degree students
PhD/Research Students
- • If employed by university: May receive NFZ through employment
- • If on scholarship: Check if insurance is included
- • Non-EU: Private insurance still required for residence permit
Recommendation: For most international students, a combination of NFZ registration plus a private insurance policy that meets Schengen requirements provides the most comprehensive coverage. This combination ensures both visa compliance and good access to healthcare services in Poland.
Insurance Options for International Students
International students in Poland have several insurance options to choose from. We've compiled the most reliable and popular choices to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs, budget, and duration of stay.
International Insurance
Global providers with Poland coverage
- Designed specifically for international students
- Meets Schengen visa and residence permit requirements
- Usually includes multilingual support and services
- Coverage often extends to travel within Europe
Popular Providers
- • Allianz Care Student Health Insurance
- • AXA International Student Insurance
- • Cigna Global
- • SafetyWing (digital nomad/student insurance)
Polish Insurance Providers
Local insurance companies
- Tailored specifically for the Polish healthcare system
- Often has established networks with local hospitals
- May offer student-specific discounts
- Documentation already in format accepted by Polish authorities
Popular Providers
- • PZU Health (PZU Zdrowie)
- • SIGNAL IDUNA
- • Allianz Poland
- • ERGO Hestia
University-Partnered Plans
Insurance through your institution
- Often discounted rates through university partnerships
- Pre-verified to meet university and visa requirements
- Easy enrollment through university administrative offices
- Sometimes offers on-campus medical services
How to Access
- • Check with your university's international office
- • Look for information in admission documents
- • Ask during orientation sessions
- • Enrollment may be integrated with registration
Recommended Insurance Strategy
Many international students in Poland opt for a combination of insurance options to ensure comprehensive coverage:
Short-term Students (Up to 6 months)
- Comprehensive travel insurance that meets Schengen requirements
- EU Students: Rely on EHIC and consider supplementary private coverage
Long-term Students (Degree programs)
- Private international or Polish insurance policy (for visa requirements)
- Voluntary NFZ registration (for comprehensive local healthcare access)
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Insurance
Balance premium costs against coverage benefits and deductibles
Ensure all essential services are included and verify coverage limits
Check if policy has a network of providers in your city in Poland
Research how easy it is to file claims and typical processing times
University-Specific Requirements
Some Polish universities have specific insurance partnerships or requirements beyond the standard visa regulations. Always check with your university's international office for any institution-specific insurance guidance or offers.
What Your Insurance Should Cover
Understanding exactly what your insurance policy covers is crucial to ensure you have adequate protection during your stay in Poland. Below are the essential coverages your policy should include, as well as recommended additional protections.
Essential Coverage (Required)
- Emergency Medical Treatment
Coverage for unexpected illnesses and injuries requiring immediate medical attention
- Hospitalization
Coverage for room and board, nursing care, and other hospital services
- Medical Repatriation
Coverage for transportation back to your home country in case of serious illness or injury
- 24-Hour Emergency Assistance
Access to 24/7 helpline for medical emergencies and assistance services
- Minimum Coverage Amount
At least €30,000 coverage (required for Schengen visa and residence permit)
Important: These coverages are the minimum requirements to satisfy Polish visa and residence permit regulations. Your insurance certificate must explicitly list these coverages.
Recommended Additional Coverage
- Outpatient Care
Coverage for doctor visits, specialist consultations, and diagnostic tests
- Prescription Medications
Coverage for prescribed medications, especially for chronic conditions
- Dental Care
Coverage for emergency dental treatments and basic dental care
- Mental Health Services
Coverage for psychological consultations and therapy sessions
- Personal Liability
Coverage for accidental damage to property or injury to others
Expert Tip: While not mandatory for visa purposes, these additional coverages provide more comprehensive protection for everyday healthcare needs during your studies in Poland.
Understanding Coverage Limits & Exclusions
Common Coverage Limits
- Per-incident cap (maximum amount per medical event)
- Annual or total policy coverage limit
- Deductibles or excess amounts you must pay first
- Co-payments (percentage of costs you must cover)
- Sublimits for specific services (e.g., dental, evacuation)
Typical Exclusions to Watch For
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Injuries from high-risk activities (extreme sports)
- Preventive care or routine check-ups
- Treatment for self-inflicted injuries
- Injuries sustained while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Insurance Policy Verification Checklist
Before purchasing an insurance policy, verify that it meets all requirements by checking the following:
Minimum €30,000 clearly stated in the policy
Poland and all Schengen countries included
Entire duration of your planned stay in Poland
Explicitly mentioned in the policy
24/7 assistance hotline clearly provided
Available in English or with certified translation
Accessing Healthcare with Your Insurance
Understanding how to use your insurance effectively in Poland ensures you receive the care you need without unexpected costs. Here's a practical guide to accessing healthcare services with your insurance coverage.
Before Seeking Medical Care
- 1Carry Your Insurance Card
Always have your physical or digital insurance card with your policy number and emergency contact details
- 2Understand Your Policy's Network
Know if your insurance has direct billing arrangements with specific hospitals/clinics in Poland
- 3Save Emergency Numbers
Polish emergency number (112), your insurance 24/7 assistance hotline, and your embassy's contact
- 4Verify Pre-authorization Requirements
Some treatments may require pre-approval from your insurance provider
Pro Tip: Download and install your insurance provider's mobile app if available. Most insurance apps let you access digital ID cards, find in-network providers, and start claims directly from your phone.
When Receiving Medical Care
- 1Present Your Insurance Information
Show your insurance card at registration and ask if they accept direct billing with your provider
- 2Contact Your Insurance Hotline
For emergency situations or if the facility requires payment upfront, call your insurance assistance line
- 3Request Detailed Receipts and Reports
Get itemized bills, medical reports, and prescriptions in English if possible
- 4Pay and Keep All Documentation
If you pay out-of-pocket, keep original receipts and complete documentation for reimbursement
Language Tip: Ask your insurance provider if they offer translation services. Some insurance plans include phone translation to help communicate with healthcare providers who don't speak English.
Filing Insurance Claims
If you paid for medical services upfront, you'll need to file a claim with your insurance provider for reimbursement. Follow these steps:
Required Documents
- Completed claim form (from your insurance provider)
- Original itemized bills and receipts
- Medical reports, test results, and prescriptions
- Copy of your passport and visa
- Police report (for accidents or incidents requiring police intervention)
Claim Submission Process
- Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible after receiving treatment
- Complete the claim form with accurate details about the treatment and costs
- Attach all required documentation (scan or photograph for online submission)
- Submit via the insurer's app, online portal, email, or mail as specified
- Keep copies of all submitted documents and note your claim reference number
- Follow up if you don't receive confirmation within the timeframe specified by your insurer
Time Sensitivity: Most insurance policies have a claim filing deadline (typically 30-90 days after treatment). Submit your claim as soon as possible to avoid denial based on late submission.
Navigating Poland's Healthcare System
Primary Care
Visit a general practitioner (lekarz POZ) for non-emergency conditions. Many private clinics offer English-speaking doctors.
Specialist Care
Referrals from primary care may be required. Private insurance often offers faster access to specialists.
Pharmacies (Apteka)
Identified by a green cross. Some medications require prescriptions. 24-hour pharmacies available in major cities.
Emergency Care
For emergencies, call 112 or go to the emergency room (SOR - Szpitalny Oddział Ratunkowy).
Useful Medical Polish Phrases
Insurance Costs Comparison
The cost of insurance varies based on coverage level, provider, age, and duration. Below is a comparison of typical insurance costs for international students in Poland to help you budget effectively.
Average Monthly Insurance Costs by Coverage Level
| Insurance Type | Basic Coverage | Standard Coverage | Comprehensive Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polish Private Insurance | 150-200 PLN (~€35-45) | 200-350 PLN (~€45-80) | 350-500 PLN (~€80-115) |
| International Insurance | 180-250 PLN (~€40-55) | 250-400 PLN (~€55-90) | 400-700 PLN (~€90-160) |
| NFZ (Public) | ~55-60 PLN (~€12-13) Fixed | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| University Plans | ~130-180 PLN (~€30-40) | 180-300 PLN (~€40-70) | 300-450 PLN (~€70-100) |
BBasic Coverage
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization for acute conditions
- Limited medical repatriation
- Meets minimum Schengen requirements
Best for: Short-term stays or budget-conscious students
SStandard Coverage
- All basic coverage benefits
- Outpatient doctor visits
- Basic diagnostic tests
- Limited prescription medication coverage
- Emergency dental treatment
Best for: Students staying 1-2 semesters
CComprehensive Coverage
- All standard coverage benefits
- Specialist consultations
- Advanced diagnostic procedures
- Extensive prescription coverage
- Non-emergency dental care
- Mental health services
- Higher coverage limits
Best for: Full degree students (3+ years)
Cost-Saving Strategies
Smart Insurance Choices
- 1Compare multiple insurance providers before purchasing
- 2Look for student discounts or university partnerships
- 3Consider NFZ (public insurance) + basic private insurance combination
- 4Opt for annual payments instead of monthly for discounts
- 5Choose higher deductibles if you're generally healthy
Additional Considerations
- 1EU students: Use your EHIC and supplement with affordable private insurance
- 2Part-time employed students may qualify for NFZ through employer
- 3Check if your home country's insurance already covers international travel
- 4Use preventive healthcare strategies to minimize medical needs
Expert Tip: The most cost-effective approach for long-term students is often a combination of NFZ (for basic public healthcare access) plus a basic private insurance plan that meets Schengen visa requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about health and travel insurance for students planning to study in Poland.
QDo I need health insurance to apply for a Polish student visa?
Yes, proof of health insurance is a mandatory requirement for a Polish student visa. Your insurance must cover medical expenses and repatriation costs with a minimum coverage of €30,000 and be valid throughout the Schengen area for your entire stay in Poland.
QCan I use my existing insurance from my home country?
Yes, if your existing insurance policy explicitly states that it covers your medical expenses in Poland/Schengen countries with a minimum coverage of €30,000, includes repatriation, and is valid for your entire stay. You'll need to provide documentation in English or Polish confirming these details for your visa application.
QAs an EU student with EHIC, do I need additional insurance?
While the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers basic public healthcare in Poland, it has limitations. It doesn't cover private healthcare, repatriation costs, and some specialized treatments. For comprehensive coverage, we recommend supplementing your EHIC with additional private insurance that covers these gaps.
QWhat happens if I don't have insurance in Poland?
Without insurance, you would need to pay for all medical costs out-of-pocket, which can be extremely expensive. Additionally, valid health insurance is a legal requirement for your visa and residence permit. Not having insurance could lead to visa issues, problems with your legal stay in Poland, and difficulties during university enrollment.
QDoes NFZ public insurance meet visa requirements?
Generally, NFZ insurance alone does not meet all Schengen visa requirements as it typically doesn't include medical repatriation coverage. Non-EU students usually need to purchase private insurance that explicitly states coverage for all Schengen visa requirements for their visa application, then can optionally sign up for NFZ after arrival for additional local healthcare access.
QWhen should I purchase insurance for Poland?
You should purchase insurance before applying for your visa, as proof of insurance is required during the visa application process. Ensure your policy starts from your planned arrival date and covers the entire duration of your stay. For long-term students, you can initially purchase a policy covering 6-12 months and extend it after arrival.
QHow do I find English-speaking doctors in Poland?
Most private clinics in major Polish cities have English-speaking staff. Your insurance provider may have a network of partner facilities with English-speaking doctors - check their website or app for this information. University international offices often maintain lists of recommended English-speaking healthcare providers. Additionally, your embassy might provide references to medical professionals who speak your language.
Still Have Questions?
Insurance regulations can be complex and vary based on individual circumstances. If you have specific questions about insurance requirements for Poland or need help selecting the right policy, our experts can help.
Secure the Right Insurance Coverage
Our team can help you identify and obtain the most suitable insurance policy for your study journey to Poland.
Get Insurance Assistance