Hungary, a prime Central European destination for international students, boasts affordable tuition, elite universities, and lively student life in cities such as Budapest, Pécs, and Debrecen. However, before diving into Hungarian culture and education, securing health insurance is a crucial legal and practical necessity.
Health insurance is essential for all students, whether from the EU/EEA or non-EU countries, for enrollment, university registration, and obtaining a student visa or residence permit. This guide explains insurance requirements, key coverage features, enrollment options, and lists the top 10 health insurance providers that comply with Hungary’s legal and healthcare standards for students.
🩺 Health Insurance Requirements for International Students in Hungary
The type of health insurance you need depends largely on your nationality, study duration, and funding source (e.g., scholarships or personal financing).
🇪🇺 For EU/EEA/Swiss Students
- Eligible to use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in Hungary.
- Covers state-provided medically necessary services.
- Limitations:
- ❌ Does not cover repatriation
- ❌ Does not cover private hospital services
- ❌ Excludes liability coverage, dental, or baggage loss
- Recommendation: Get private insurance to supplement EHIC for complete protection.
🌍 For Non-EU/EEA Students
- Private health insurance is mandatory to get a student visa or residence permit.
- Minimum requirements:
- ✅ At least €30,000 coverage for:
- Medical care (routine and emergency)
- Hospitalization and surgery
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Accidental death and disability
- Medical care (routine and emergency)
- ✅ Valid for the entire duration of your stay
- ✅ Must include a visa-compliant certificate
- ✅ At least €30,000 coverage for:
- Alternative: Enroll in the Hungarian National Health Insurance Fund (NEAK) by applying for a TAJ card after receiving your residence permit.
🧾 Coverage You Should Look For
A good student health insurance plan in Hungary should include:
- ✅ Emergency and routine medical care
- ✅ Hospitalization and surgical procedures
- ✅ Ambulance services and emergency transport
- ✅ Repatriation and medical evacuation
- ✅ Accidental injury and disability protection
- ✅ Third-party liability (highly recommended)
- ✅ 24/7 assistance (ideally in English)
- ✅ EU/Schengen-wide coverage
📝 How to Enroll
1. Hungarian National Health Insurance Fund (NEAK – TAJ Card)
- Cost: HUF 120,000–150,000 per year (€310–390)
- Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA students with a valid residence permit
- Application: Must apply in person at a local NEAK office with:
- Residence permit
- Enrollment certificate
- Passport and ID
- Residence permit
- Benefits:
- Access to Hungarian state medical care
- Wide network of public clinics and hospitals
2. Private Health Insurance
- Purchase online before or after arrival in Hungary
- Most providers offer instant confirmation and visa-ready certificates
- Often includes extra benefits like evacuation, mental health, dental, and travel insurance
🏆 Top 10 Health Insurance Providers for International Students in Hungary
Let’s explore the most trusted insurance companies that offer Hungary-compliant student policies, combining affordability, ease of enrollment, and comprehensive coverage.
1. Swisscare
Website: https://www.swisscare.com
- ✅ Visa and residence permit compliant
- 💡 Plans up to €500,000 in coverage
- 🛫 Includes repatriation, liability, and emergency services
- ⚡ Fast, online setup with downloadable certificates
2. Aon Student Insurance
Website: https://www.aon.com
- ✅ Custom-designed for Hungary’s visa rules
- 🔒 Coverage includes accidents, emergencies, and travel assistance
- 🧳 Can cover baggage loss, liability, and personal belongings
- 🌐 Used by many Hungarian universities
3. International Student Insurance (ISI)
Website: https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com
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- ✅ Tailored plans for Hungary
- 📄 Includes visa-ready documentation
- ⏱ 24/7 support and instant purchase options
- 🎯 Meets both short- and long-term study needs
4. Generali Studium
Website: https://www.generali.hu
- ✅ Designed specifically for students in Hungary
- 💊 Covers illness, hospitalization, and accidents
- 🏥 Access to local clinics and support in Hungarian
- 📍 May require in-person purchase or local assistance
5. Medicover Study Top
Website: https://www.medicover.hu
- ✅ Hungary-based provider, partners with many universities
- 🌐 Offers English-speaking medical services
- 📞 24/7 hotline, clinic appointments, 6-month plans
- 🏥 Clinics in Budapest and major student cities
6. IMG Global (International Medical Group)
Website: https://www.imglobal.com
- ✅ Global coverage with mental health, evacuation, and hospitalization
- 🧾 Highly flexible plans with deductible choices
- 🖥 Digital purchase and policy management tools
- 🧭 Trusted by students and expats worldwide
7. Cigna Global
Website: https://www.cignaglobal.com
- ✅ Fully compliant with Hungary’s visa and healthcare rules
- 🛠 Fully customizable: add vision, dental, and wellness
- 🌎 Access to global medical network and multilingual assistance
- 💼 Ideal for those wanting premium healthcare access
8. Allianz Care
Website: https://www.allianzcare.com
- ✅ Worldwide health plans suitable for students
- 💬 Multilingual support, fast claims processing
- 🏥 Direct billing network for seamless care
- 📄 Visa letters and documentation provided immediately
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9. APRIL International
Website: https://www.april-international.com
- ✅ Offers Europe-wide student and expat coverage
- 🗣 Excellent multilingual customer service
- 🔒 Flexible plan options, including repatriation, optical, and dental
- 💳 Fast online sign-up and certificate download
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10. Now Health International
Website: https://www.now-health.com
- ✅ Visa-compliant policies with affordable student options
- 🧮 Allows deductible customization to lower premiums
- 🚑 Comprehensive emergency and evacuation coverage
- ⚡ Rapid policy activation
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🔐 Additional Notes for Students
- ✅ Visa/Permit Application: Health insurance is a mandatory document for both processes.
- ✅ Minimum Coverage: Ensure your plan covers at least €30,000, including repatriation and emergencies.
- ✅ Plan Validity: Insurance must match the full duration of your residence permit or study program.
- ✅ University Assistance: Some institutions like ELTE, IBS, and University of Pécs offer insurance services or can guide you toward group deals.
- ✅ Documentation: Keep digital and printed copies of your policy and visa certificate with you at all times.
💡 Practical Tips for Smooth Enrollment and Coverage
- Buy insurance early: Many providers offer instant certificates—essential for visa approval.
- Supplement EHIC: EU/EEA students should always consider adding private coverage for full protection.
- Evaluate extras: Look for coverage like liability, dental, accident insurance, and baggage protection.
- Renew proactively: Don’t let your policy lapse—it can affect your residence status.
- Ask your university: Some institutions offer negotiated plans with better coverage and local access.
🎓 Final Thoughts
Studying in Hungary, whether for a semester or a full degree, requires health insurance. It’s crucial for securing your visa and residence and protects you from unforeseen health problems and expensive emergencies.
Select one of the top 10 student health insurance providers for a seamless, legal, and stress-free experience in Hungary. Options range from basic public coverage to comprehensive private plans with global benefits, catering to your needs and budget.
