International health insurance for expatriates living in Slovakia

If you are planning to move to Slovakia, taking out international health insurance is a smart and often necessary step. Local insurance providers in Slovakia offer specific plans aimed at foreigners, with varying levels of coverage. While the country offers a reliable public healthcare system, many expatriates quickly realise that additional coverage provides greater comfort, flexibility and security. 

In Slovakia, there are two main types of health insurance available for foreigners: mandatory public health insurance and commercial health insurance. Proof of valid health insurance covering the entire stay is required to obtain most long-stay visas or residence permits in Slovakia. As a foreign national, you can benefit from the Slovak health insurance system, but you must arrange for appropriate health insurance from the date of your legal stay, choosing between public and commercial health insurance options. 

International health insurance can help you navigate the system more easily and access the level of care you may be used to. It can: 

• Cover you in Slovakia and abroad 
• Reduce waiting times for consultations and treatments 
• Guarantee access to high-quality private healthcare facilities 
• Offer flexibility in choosing doctors and hospitals 
• Be tailored to your personal, family or professional needs 

Below, you will find everything you need to know about healthcare and health insurance in Slovakia. If a foreign national does not have health insurance in Slovakia, they must pay the full amount for healthcare services provided, as there are no exceptions for uninsured individuals. 

Introduction to health insurance 

Health insurance forms the backbone of the healthcare system in Slovakia, ensuring that everyone (citizens, residents, and foreign nationals) can access essential medical care when needed. The country operates a mandatory health insurance system, which means that participation is required for most people working or living in Slovakia. 

These health insurance companies offer a variety of health insurance plans that cover a broad spectrum of healthcare services. Coverage typically includes medical examinations, hospital stays, and dental treatment, providing peace of mind for individuals and families alike.

In addition to Slovak citizens, foreign nationals, such as Ukrainian citizens, can also benefit from the Slovak health insurance system, either by joining the public health insurance scheme or by purchasing commercial health insurance plans tailored to their needs. 

Understanding the differences between public health insurance and commercial health insurance is essential for making informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.  

Public health insurance is the standard option for most residents and employees, while commercial health insurance offers additional flexibility and benefits, especially for those who may not qualify for the public system or who seek enhanced coverage. By familiarising yourself with the offerings of the three health insurance companies and the structure of the Slovak healthcare system, you can ensure that you and your family are well protected, no matter your circumstances.

What you need to know about the Slovak healthcare system 

Slovakia operates a universal healthcare system based on mandatory health insurance, which is funded through a mandatory contribution from all eligible individuals. Anyone who is employed, self-employed, or officially residing in the country is required to contribute to a public health insurance scheme. 

Enrollment must occur within 8 days of becoming eligible for health insurance in Slovakia. Eligibility for health insurance in Slovakia includes being employed by a company registered in Slovakia or being a legal resident with permanent residency status. Employment for a Slovak employer at or above the minimum wage requires joining the public health insurance system. Foreigners with permanent residency status in Slovakia are required to enroll in health insurance. Obtaining health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including foreigners, and proof of health insurance is required as part of the temporary residence granting procedure. 

There are three main public health insurance providers: 

• Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa (state-owned and the largest provider) 
• Dôvera zdravotná poisťovňa 
• Union zdravotná poisťovňa 

Health insurance contributions are generally set at around 14% of gross income for employees, with the cost shared between employer and employee. Self-employed individuals contribute a similar percentage based on their income. 

This system ensures broad access to healthcare services across the country. Most essential treatments are covered, although patients may still face co-payments for certain services, medications or specialised treatments. 

Public healthcare in Slovakia 

Public healthcare facilities in Slovakia are generally well developed, particularly in larger cities such as Bratislava, Košice and Žilina. Hospitals and clinics provide a wide range of services and are staffed by trained and qualified healthcare professionals. 

Services typically covered by public health insurance include: 

• Preventive care and routine medical check-ups 
• Emergency treatments and urgent care 
• Hospitalisation (both short-term and long-term) 
• Vaccination programmes 
• Basic dental treatments 
• Prescription medications, partially or fully reimbursed 

Overall, the quality of care is considered good. However, one of the main drawbacks of the public system is waiting times. It is not uncommon to wait several weeks, or even months, for specialist appointments or non-urgent procedures. 

Private healthcare in Slovakia 

The Slovak healthcare system includes both public and private healthcare providers. Public hospitals are often understaffed and underfunded, which leads many people, including expatriates, to seek private care. 

The private healthcare sector in Slovakia has expanded significantly in recent years and plays an increasingly important role, especially for expatriates. 

Private clinics and hospitals offer a more comfortable and efficient experience, with benefits such as: 

• Shorter waiting times for consultations and treatments 
• Easier access to specialists 
• Modern medical equipment and facilities 
• More personalised patient care 
• English-speaking staff, particularly in major cities 

For expats, private healthcare is often the preferred option, as it allows greater control over treatment choices and scheduling. However, these services come at higher costs and are not fully covered by public insurance. If you seek treatment from a private provider that does not have a contract with your insurance company, you may have to pay the full cost of treatment out-of-pocket. In such cases, you will need to pay the full amount directly to the provider, as there is no contract in place to cover these costs. Always check whether your chosen provider has contracts with your insurance company to avoid having to pay the full cost yourself. 

When planning your relocation, it’s also worth considering the overall cost of living in Slovakia, including healthcare expenses, to better anticipate your budget and choose the right level of international health insurance. 

Challenges for the Slovak healthcare system 

Regional disparities 

Access to healthcare in Slovakia varies depending on the region. Urban centres such as Bratislava benefit from better infrastructure, more specialists and modern facilities. 

In contrast, rural areas and certain regions in eastern Slovakia face limitations in terms of medical resources and staff. This can result in longer travel distances, delays in diagnosis and limited access to specialised care. 

Workforce shortages and system pressure 

Slovakia has been dealing with a shortage of healthcare professionals for several years. Many doctors and nurses choose to work abroad, attracted by higher salaries and better working conditions. 

This situation puts additional strain on the public healthcare system. Hospitals and clinics can become overcrowded, leading to longer waiting times and reduced availability in some medical fields, particularly specialised care such as psychiatry or advanced treatments. 

Pharmacies and access to medication in Slovakia 

Pharmacies (lekáreň) are widely available across Slovakia, especially in urban areas, and are generally well stocked with both prescription and over-the-counter medications. To buy medicines in Slovakia, you typically need a prescription from a doctor, which you present at the pharmacy. Pharmacists are highly trained and can often provide basic medical advice for minor conditions. 

Prescription medicines are partially or fully reimbursed under the public health insurance system, depending on the treatment and classification of the drug. Health insurance may also cover or subsidize certain dietetic food products for specific medical needs, providing additional support for those requiring specialized nutrition. However, for certain specialised or imported medications, availability may be limited, and alternatives might be prescribed. 

In larger cities, some pharmacies operate extended hours or are open 24/7, ensuring access to essential medication at any time. For expatriates, it is useful to know that while many pharmacists speak English in major cities, this may be less common in smaller towns. 

Health insurance options in Slovakia for expatriates 

Expatriates living and working in Slovakia are usually required to join one of the public health insurance funds, provided they meet residency and employment requirements, including those with temporary residence. Temporary residents in Slovakia can only be included in the public health insurance system if they meet specific conditions, such as having a job or being a scholarship holder. 

Public insurance offers solid basic coverage and access to a wide network of healthcare providers through the following health insurance companies, which operate under selective contracting with healthcare facilities. This ensures reimbursement and access to services, including coverage for hospital stay and initial medical examination by general practitioners. Public insurance also guarantees that foreigners with certain statuses are entitled to healthcare under the same conditions as Slovak citizens, including children and young people under 18. 

However, it may not always meet the expectations of expatriates, especially in terms of speed, comfort and access to private facilities. Health insurance policies from foreign providers must explicitly cover Slovakia and be translated into Slovak by a sworn translator. International students in Slovakia must have health insurance, and those not covered by statutory health insurance are required to obtain private health insurance. Students from EU/EEA Member States or those studying under an international treaty (international agreement) are eligible for health insurance in Slovakia. Mandatory public health insurance in Slovakia is available to foreigners who meet specific conditions, such as having a job or being a scholarship holder.

Commercial health insurance is recommended for foreigners who cannot enter the compulsory health insurance system, providing coverage tailored to their needs during their stay in Slovakia. 

For this reason: 

• Expats without permanent residency or who are in Slovakia for a temporary stay may need to rely on private insurance solutions 
• Many expatriates choose to complement public insurance with international private health insurance 
• International plans provide broader coverage, including private healthcare and treatment abroad 

This combination allows expats to benefit from the strengths of both systems while minimising their limitations. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows EU/EEA/Swiss nationals from any member state of the European Union to access necessary healthcare in Slovakia under the same conditions as local residents during a temporary stay, but it does not replace full travel or medical insurance. Foreign nationals in Slovakia are entitled to emergency healthcare services, but they may be required to pay for these services unless they have health insurance. In some cases, they may need to pay upfront if they do not have insurance. In Slovakia, emergency medical services can be accessed by calling one of the emergency medical service lines for serious conditions such as heart attacks or major injuries. Ambulance services in Slovakia are generally free for those with state or commercial health insurance, but if you do not have insurance, the cost for ambulance services during an emergency is approximately 120 Euros. 

The healthcare system in the Slovak Republic is regulated according to European Union standards, ensuring legal protection and access to care for all eligible residents and foreigners. 

Accessing medical care in Slovakia 

Accessing medical care in Slovakia is designed to be straightforward, thanks to a well-organized network of healthcare providers that includes public and private hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. Whether you are covered by public health insurance, a commercial health insurance plan, or hold a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can receive the healthcare services you need during your stay in the country. 

For most medical concerns, your first point of contact will be a general practitioner (GP), who will assess your condition and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist or hospital for further treatment. This referral system helps ensure that patients receive appropriate care from the right healthcare provider. Holders of an EHIC can access necessary medical care during temporary stays in Slovakia, while those with public or commercial health insurance plans can seek treatment from contracted providers within the system. 

It is important to note that some services, such as dental care, may not be fully covered by public health insurance and could require additional payments or have limited coverage. When accessing healthcare, you may be asked to present your insurance card or EHIC, along with any necessary documents. The Slovak healthcare system is funded through mandatory health insurance contributions, with citizens and residents responsible for making regular payments to their chosen health insurance company. By understanding how to navigate the healthcare system and knowing your responsibilities, you can ensure timely access to quality medical services whenever you need them. 

Global Health: the reliable health insurance for expatriates 

At Global Health, we specialise in health insurance solutions designed specifically for expatriates. If you are looking for reliable and flexible international health insurance, our plans are designed to give you access to high-quality care both in Slovakia and worldwide. 

We understand the challenges of living abroad and the importance of reliable healthcare coverage. 

Our plans are flexible, comprehensive and tailored to your needs, whether you are moving alone or with your family. 

With Global Health, you benefit from: 

• Coverage valid in Slovakia, your home country and worldwide 
• Faster access to private healthcare facilities 
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation services 
• Multilingual medical assistance available 24/7 
• Access to a second medical opinion through Teladoc Health 
• Additional wellness services, including mental health support and fitness programmes 

We have been supporting expatriates worldwide for over 20 years, helping them access quality healthcare wherever they are. 

Our health advice for expats in Slovakia 

Preparing your healthcare coverage in advance is essential for a smooth relocation. 

Be proactive: take the time to assess your healthcare needs before moving. This will help you avoid unnecessary stress once you arrive and allow you to focus on settling into your new environment. 

Get informed: official resources can provide valuable information about your rights and procedures: 

• Slovak Ministry of Health: https://www.health.gov.sk/ 
• Health Care Surveillance Authority: https://www.udzs-sk.sk/ 
• European Commission page on social security rights in Slovakia 

Consider temporary coverage: if you are an EU citizen, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for short stays before registering with the Slovak system. 

By planning ahead and choosing the right insurance solution, you can enjoy your new life in Slovakia with confidence and peace of mind.