Sweden boasts of clean cities, good standard of living, and the best universities in the world. However, in addition to the academic thrill, there is one more crucial thing that every international student has to arrange prior to their arrival and that is the health insurance. This is even more significant when you are moving with a husband or children.
The healthcare system of Sweden is superb, and initially the regulations, which define whom to serve and under what conditions, may seem quite baffling. There are students who are eligible to public care. Others will be left to completely depend on individual insurance. And families have an added complication as it is covered based on the nationality, length of stay and administrative registration.
This guide eases that process.
You will know precisely what kind of health insurance you require, how family insurance operates, the cost, and the reliable insurance companies.
Let’s start with the basics.
Why Health Insurance Is Mandatory in Sweden
Sweden requires international students to hold valid health insurance for three main reasons:
- Visa requirements
Non-EU/EEA students must show proof of appropriate medical insurance before entering Sweden. - Short-term stay limitations
Students staying fewer than 12 months are not eligible for the Swedish personal identity number (personnummer), which means they cannot fully access Sweden’s public healthcare. - Protection against high medical costs
Sweden’s public healthcare is heavily subsidised, but private and uninsured care can be expensive.
In short: insurance isn’t optional. It’s a legal and financial safety net that keeps both students and their family members protected throughout their stay.
Understanding Coverage Requirements for Different Groups
Health coverage rules vary depending on nationality, length of stay, and registration status. Here’s what each group should know.
1. Non-EU/EEA Students
If you’re from outside the EU, your requirements are straightforward but strict.
You must purchase private health insurance before arrival.
The insurance should cover:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
- Assistance services
- Minimum coverage levels as defined by your university and the Swedish Migration Agency
While minimum requirements vary, most universities expect coverage of at least €30,000–€50,000.
Short stay or long stay, non-EU students always need insurance during the initial entry period, and many continue using private insurance even if they later qualify for public care.
2. EU/EEA Students
EU/EEA nationals have a slightly easier route.
Students with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access Swedish public healthcare at the same cost as locals.
However, EHIC only covers medically necessary treatment. It does not include:
- Private healthcare
- Repatriation
- Comprehensive outpatient benefits
- Travel-related coverage
- Many dental services
That’s why many EU/EEA students still purchase supplementary private insurance, especially when relocating with children or a partner.
3. Students Staying Longer Than One Year
This group enjoys the most benefits.
Students enrolled for 12 months or longer can apply for a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer). Once registered, you gain full access to Sweden’s public healthcare system, which:
- Covers primary care
- Includes hospital care
- Offers subsidised prescriptions
- Allows access to maternal care and child health services
However, public care excludes some services such as adult dental care and private hospitals. So many families still combine public coverage with a private policy or a travel health plan.
4. Students Staying Less Than One Year
If your stay is 11 months or shorter, you’re not eligible for a Swedish identity number.
This means:
- You cannot enroll in the public system
- You must rely on private or university-provided insurance
- Your family must be insured privately as well
Most students in this category purchase a student plan plus family add-ons from international insurers.
How Family Coverage Works in Sweden
Bringing family to Sweden is common, but insurance rules for spouses and children can be tricky.
Here’s what determines eligibility:
1. Public Insurance (Through Personnummer)
Family members may access public healthcare only if:
- They hold a residence permit, and
- They have their own Swedish personal identity number
Public coverage is not automatically extended to dependents. Each family member must apply individually.
2. Private Insurance
This is where most families find the most flexibility.
Private insurers typically offer:
- Student-only plans
- Student + spouse plans
- Full family packages covering up to 2–4 dependents
Coverage depends on insurer, age, medical history, and length of stay.
Private plans are especially useful for:
- Short-term students
- Non-EU families
- Dependents waiting for residence permits
- Families needing maternity, dental, or outpatient benefits
Top 10 Family Medical Insurance Providers in Sweden (2025)
Below is a clear, trustworthy summary of the most commonly used insurers for international students and their families.
| Provider | Typical Cost (Family) | Coverage Highlights |
| Swisscare Student Europe | €150–€300/year (student), family packages available | Visa-compliant, emergency medical care, repatriation, 24/7 assistance |
| FASplus (Kammarkollegiet) | €100–€200/year (student), family plans possible | Government-backed, strong emergency care, repatriation, travel coverage |
| Aon Student Insurance | €100–€200/year (student), family options | Medical care, accident coverage, liability, legal aid, fully visa-compliant |
| International Student Insurance (ISI) | €100–€250/year (student), family plans | Medical treatment, accidents, liability, customizable benefits |
| Allianz Care | €150–€300/year (expat/family) | Worldwide plan, hospital and outpatient care, evacuation |
| AXA Global Healthcare | €150–€300/year (family/expat) | International care, hospital cover, outpatient benefits |
| Bupa Global | €150–€300/year (family/expat) | Premium global network, maternity, dental, optical options |
| Cigna Global | €150–€300/year (family/expat) | Modular plans, outpatient care, maternity add-ons |
| GeoBlue | €150–€300/year (family/expat) | Strong U.S.–EU network, emergency benefits, high limits |
| Mondassur | €100–€200/year (student), family plans | Local private insurance, affordable, visa-friendly medical coverage |
These plans differ widely in coverage depth, cost, and eligibility.
Swisscare, Aon, and Kammarkollegiet (FASplus) are among the most common for student-level needs, while Bupa, Cigna, and Allianz are ideal for families seeking more comprehensive global benefits.
Typical Costs for Student and Family Insurance in Sweden
Prices are surprisingly reasonable for basic policies but increase as benefits expand.
Basic student-only coverage
€100–€300 per year
Covers:
- Emergency care
- Accidents
- Limited outpatient benefits
- Repatriation
Ideal for short stays or students on a tight budget.
Family-inclusive student plans
€300–€600+ per year
Covers:
- Student + spouse or children
- Higher emergency limits
- Basic outpatient care
Suitable for non-EU students bringing one dependent.
Premium global plans
€500–€1,000+ per year
Covers:
- Worldwide care
- Maternity, outpatient, hospital
- Dental and optical
- Mental health
- Evacuation
These plans are the best choice for families seeking long-term, stable coverage or families with chronic health needs.
Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Family Insurance in Sweden
Most students compare plans quickly and buy the cheapest one, but that often leads to problems later.
To avoid unexpected gaps, use the following checklist.
1. Match your plan to your visa and registration timeline
If you’re a non-EU student, ensure your plan:
- Is valid for your entire stay
- Meets Swedish visa requirements
- Covers emergency care and repatriation
If your residence permit is delayed, private insurance becomes your only protection until you receive your identity number.
2. For EU students, EHIC alone is not enough
EHIC helps with basic medical care but excludes:
- Private hospitals
- Repatriation
- Many dental and optical services
A small supplementary plan can save thousands of euros.
3. Check waiting periods carefully
Many insurers have waiting periods for:
- Maternity care
- Dental care
- Pre-existing conditions
If you’re bringing a pregnant spouse or a child with chronic health needs, choose a plan with minimal or no waiting periods.
4. Compare deductibles, co-pays, and coverage limits
Two plans might look similar in price but differ hugely in what they actually cover.
For example:
- A €150 plan might have a €500 deductible.
- A €220 plan could have a €0 deductible.
Always calculate the real cost of using the plan.
5. Verify family eligibility upfront
Some insurers:
- Only cover biological children
- Limit the number of dependents
- Require spouses to provide additional documents
- Have age restrictions for children
It’s better to clarify before purchase than face complications later.
6. Consider combining public and private systems
If you’re staying more than 12 months:
- Register for a personal identity number
- Use public healthcare for routine care
- Pair it with a small private plan for dental, optical, or global travel
This hybrid approach often offers the best value.
7. Keep receipts and insurance documents organized
Sweden’s healthcare system is efficient, but reimbursements require:
- Receipts
- Medical reports
- Policy numbers
- Claim forms
Create a digital folder before you arrive.
Choosing the Best Plan for Your Situation
Here’s a simple, actionable guide.
If you are a non-EU student staying less than 12 months:
Choose: Swisscare, Aon, Mondassur, or International Student Insurance
Reason: Affordable, visa-compliant, easy to buy.
If you are a non-EU student staying more than 12 months:
Choose: FASplus + optional private add-on
Reason: You’ll access public care once you get your identity number.
If you are an EU student:
Choose: EHIC + top-up plan from Aon, Swisscare, or Cigna
Reason: EHIC doesn’t cover repatriation or private clinics.
If you are bringing your family:
Choose: Cigna Global, Allianz, Bupa Global, GeoBlue
Reason: Broader benefits, maternity options, worldwide networks.
If you need maternity care or pre-existing condition coverage:
Choose: Bupa Global or Cigna Global
Reason: Few student insurers cover maternity.
Final Thoughts: Sweden Welcomes Students, but Preparation Matters
One of the most welcoming and secure countries is Sweden to the international students. However, when dealing with healthcare needs, particularly having a family, it needs to be clear and prepared.
Hospitalization that is short typically needs personal insurance.
Long embraces open door healthcare.
When comparing the two systems, families should look at quite a number of factors to prevent coverage gaps.
References:
- Kammarkollegiet. (2024). FAS+ Insurance for foreign students in Sweden. https://www.kammarkollegiet.se
- Aon. (2024). Aon student insurance plans. https://www.aonstudentinsurance.com
- Allianz Care. (2024). International student and expat health insurance. https://www.allianzcare.com
- AXA Global Healthcare. (2024). International health insurance plans. https://www.axaglobalhealthcare.com
- Bupa Global. (2024). Worldwide health insurance plans. https://www.bupaglobal.com
- Cigna Global. (2024). International health insurance for students and families. https://www.cignaglobal.com
- GeoBlue. (2024). GeoBlue international travel and medical plans. https://www.geobluetravelinsurance.com
- International Student Insurance. (2024). Student health insurance plans. https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com
- Mondassur. (2024). International student insurance plans. https://www.mondassur.com
- Swisscare. (2024). Student health insurance for Europe. https://www.swisscare.com
- Swedish Migration Agency. (2024). Health insurance requirements for students. https://www.migrationsverket.se
- Swedish Council for Higher Education. (2024). Study in Sweden: Health and insurance information. https://www.studyinsweden.se
