Greece, famous for its universities and rich culture, attracts many international students. Before starting your studies in this historic land, securing health insurance is crucial. Regardless of being an EU or non-EU student, health coverage is legally required for entry and residence. It protects your health and finances.
Explore health insurance essentials for international students in Greece. Compare the top 10 student-friendly providers that fulfill visa and healthcare requirements.
Health Insurance Requirements for International Students in Greece
International students in Greece must have valid health insurance throughout their stay. Requirements vary based on your home country, enrollment status, and study duration.
For EU/EEA/Swiss Students:
- You can access Greece’s public health services using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
- EHIC only covers emergency care and medically necessary treatment in public facilities.
- It does not cover:
- Repatriation
- Liability coverage
- Lost baggage
- Private hospital services
- Repatriation
- 🛡️ Recommendation: Supplement your EHIC with a private insurance policy for full protection.
For Non-EU/EEA Students:
- Health insurance is mandatory for visa and residence permit approval.
- Insurance must provide a minimum of €30,000 coverage, including:
- Medical care
- Hospitalization
- Repatriation
- Medical care
- After university registration, students may also gain access to public health services.
- However, private insurance remains essential for broader, faster, and more complete care.
✅ Key Insurance Coverage Criteria
To be legally compliant and practically useful in Greece, your insurance plan should include:
- ✔️ Emergency and routine medical care
- ✔️ Hospitalization and surgical procedures
- ✔️ Accident and disability coverage
- ✔️ Medical evacuation and repatriation
- ✔️ Civil liability protection
- ✔️ Emergency dental treatment
- ✔️ Validity across Europe or globally
- ✔️ Certificate proving visa/residence compliance
🏆 Top 10 Health Insurance Providers for International Students in Greece
Here are the most trusted and visa-compliant health insurance providers for overseas students in Greece, based on affordability, coverage, benefits, and ease of application.
1. Swisscare
Website: https://www.swisscare.com
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- ✅ Visa-compliant with Greek regulations
- 💰 Affordable student-focused plans
- ⚡ Instant policy delivery for fast visa processing
- 🔁 Includes repatriation, liability, and emergency care
- 📌 Great for both short- and long-term study programs
2. International Student Insurance (ISI)
Website: https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com
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- ✅ Fully compliant with Greek visa requirements
- 🛠 Customizable coverage levels
- 📃 Immediate insurance certificate for visa applications
- 🧾 Easy online purchase
- 🌍 Designed with Greece-specific plans for students from all countries
3. Aon Student Insurance
Website: https://www.aon.com
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- ✅ Covers health, travel, and liability
- 🧳 Includes baggage loss, personal accident, and belongings coverage
- 💼 A holistic option for students wanting complete peace of mind
- 🌐 Trusted by institutions worldwide
4. Cigna Global
Website: https://www.cignaglobal.com
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- ✅ Visa-compliant for Greece
- 🧰 Customizable global coverage
- 👓 Optional dental, vision, and wellness care
- 🧭 24/7 multilingual support, vast hospital network
- 📊 Ideal for students looking for high-quality and flexible care
5. IMG Global (International Medical Group)
Website: https://www.imglobal.com
- ✅ Offers several student-friendly medical plans
- 💻 Includes mental health, emergency evacuation, and hospitalization
- 🌐 High coverage limits and flexible deductibles
- 👨⚕️ Access to telehealth services
6. Feather Insurance
Website: https://www.feather-insurance.com
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- ✅ Tailored specifically for international students
- 💉 Covers COVID-19 and other infectious diseases
- 🧾 Digital-first service: online claims and fast processing
- 📈 Strong on transparency and user experience
7. APRIL International
Website: https://www.april-international.com
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- ✅ Expat and student-specific plans
- 🌍 Covers healthcare across Europe
- 🗣 Multilingual customer support
- 💼 Great for longer stays and postgraduate students
8. MSH International
Website: https://www.msh-intl.com
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- ✅ Creative insurance solutions with flexible plan structures
- 🧳 Offers coverage for evacuation, dental, optical, and liability
- 🌐 Global provider with a large hospital network
- 📄 Visa-ready documentation
9. National Bank of Greece (Ethniki Insurance)
Website: https://www.nbg.gr
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- ✅ Local provider, fully visa-compliant
- 💶 High liability limits
- 🏥 Choose from a wide hospital network with direct billing
- 👨👩👧👦 Family discounts and student bundles available
- 📌 Ideal for students looking for a Greek-based provider
10. Now Health International
Website: https://www.now-health.com
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- ✅ Comprehensive student and expat insurance
- 🧮 Flexible deductibles to adjust premiums
- ⏱ Rapid application and approval
- 🌐 Available globally, perfect for multi-destination students
📋 Essential Facts and Visa Compliance Notes
- Minimum Required Coverage: €30,000, including repatriation and emergency medical care
- Insurance Validity: Must span the full duration of your stay in Greece
- Public Health Services: Accessible after enrollment in a Greek university, but this is often limited and slow
- Certificate Required: All providers above offer official certificates to support visa or residence permit applications
- Recommended Add-Ons: Look for policies that also include:
- Repatriation
- Baggage theft/loss
- Civil liability
- Emergency dental treatment
- Repatriation
💡 Practical Tips for Students
- Apply early: Don’t wait until the last minute—health insurance is needed for visa application processing.
- Bring printed copies: Always carry your insurance certificate and EHIC card (if applicable).
- Check university policies: Greek institutions might provide public health services after enrollment or suggest preferred providers.
- Renew on time: Ensure your policy is renewed or extended if your course duration changes.
- Understand the terms: Know what’s included, especially regarding co-payments, deductibles, and coverage limits.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Health insurance is essential, not just a formality. Whether you’re an EU citizen using the EHIC or a non-EU student needing a visa, selecting a top provider guarantees a secure, legal, and stress-free experience in Greece.
A strong insurance policy covers visa compliance, medical emergencies, dental care, and liability protection, letting you concentrate on your education and adventures in a captivating country.
