Health Insurance in Poland: A Complete Guide for Residents and Expats

Poland, a member of the European Union and a growing destination for international students, professionals, and tourists, boasts a well-structured healthcare system. Health insurance in Poland plays a pivotal role in ensuring that both residents and foreign nationals can access medical services when needed. Understanding how health insurance works in Poland is essential for anyone planning to live, work, or study in the country.

1. Overview of the Polish Healthcare System

Poland operates under a universal healthcare system, which means that every resident has the right to access basic healthcare services. The system is managed by the Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia (NFZ) — the National Health Fund. The NFZ is responsible for collecting mandatory health insurance contributions and distributing funds to healthcare providers.

There are two main types of health insurance in Poland:

• Public health insurance (through the NFZ)

• Private health insurance

2. Who Needs Health Insurance in Poland?

Health insurance is mandatory for:

• Polish citizens

• EU/EEA nationals residing in Poland

• Non-EU nationals holding a work visa or residence permit

• International students and researchers

• Employees working for Polish companies

Anyone staying in Poland for more than 3 months must be insured, either through the public system or by purchasing private insurance.

3. Public Health Insurance (NFZ)

Most people in Poland are covered through the public healthcare system via the NFZ. Contributions are deducted automatically from salaries for employees, while self-employed individuals are responsible for paying their own contributions.

a) Who Is Covered?

The NFZ covers a wide group of people, including:

• Employees and their families

• Pensioners

• Children and students (under specific conditions)

• Registered unemployed persons

• Pregnant women

• Individuals on maternity/paternity leave

Foreigners working legally in Poland are also entitled to register with the NFZ and benefit from the same services as Polish citizens.

b) What Does NFZ Cover?

NFZ covers a broad range of healthcare services, such as:

• General practitioner visits

• Hospitalization

• Emergency services

• Surgeries and medical procedures

• Specialist consultations (with referral)

• Maternity care

• Mental health services

• Prescription medications (partial reimbursement)

However, long waiting times and limited access to specialists are common complaints in the public system, which is why many choose to supplement it with private insurance.

4. Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance in Poland is optional but popular, especially among expats, companies, and people who value faster access to doctors.

a) Benefits of Private Insurance

• Shorter waiting times

• Access to private clinics and specialists without a referral

• English-speaking medical staff

• Extended working hours in private facilities

• Online appointment booking

Private health insurance providers offer packages tailored to individuals, families, or corporate groups. These can range from basic consultations to comprehensive plans including dental care, diagnostic tests, and even international coverage.

b) Top Private Insurance Providers in Poland

Some of the most well-known private insurance companies include:

• Lux Med

• Medicover

• Enel-Med

• Signal Iduna

• PZU Życie

These companies operate their own network of clinics and hospitals, often in major cities like Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, and Gdansk.

5. Health Insurance for Foreigners and Expats

Foreigners must ensure they have valid health insurance throughout their stay in Poland. The type of insurance depends on their status:

a) EU/EEA Citizens

EU and EEA citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access emergency healthcare in Poland. However, for long-term stays, registration with the NFZ or purchase of private insurance is necessary.

b) Non-EU Citizens

Non-EU nationals must have insurance to obtain a visa or residence permit. They can:

• Register with the NFZ (if working or studying)

• Purchase private insurance from a local or international provider

• Use travel health insurance (for short-term visits)

6. Student Health Insurance

International students studying in Poland have multiple options for health insurance:

• Public Insurance (NFZ): If the student has a residence permit or is under a student exchange program, they can register with the NFZ. Monthly contributions are around 55–65 PLN (about 13–15 EUR).

• Private Insurance: Many universities recommend private plans, especially for students who prefer English-speaking doctors.

• Home Country Insurance: Some students continue using insurance from their home country if it has international coverage.

7. Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance

Many Polish employers provide private health insurance packages as a work benefit. These packages often include access to a network of private clinics, routine checkups, and discounts on specialist visits.

Employer-sponsored insurance is highly valued and is often part of the employee negotiation process. It saves individuals from having to organize and pay for private plans themselves.

8. Cost of Health Insurance in Poland

Public Insurance (NFZ):

• Usually deducted from salaries

• For the self-employed: around 381 PLN/month (as of 2025)

• For students: approximately 55–65 PLN/month

Private Insurance:

• Basic plans: 100–200 PLN/month

• Comprehensive packages: 300–600 PLN/month

• Family packages: Vary depending on age and coverage

Prices may vary depending on the insurer, location, and the range of services included.

9. How to Register for Health Insurance

NFZ Registration:

1. Complete the ZUS ZUA form (for social security registration)

2. Submit to the local ZUS office

3. Obtain confirmation of insurance

4. Visit a clinic or NFZ branch to choose a family doctor (lekarz rodzinny)

Private Insurance:

1. Compare plans from different providers

2. Fill out application and pay the premium

3. Receive membership card and access to online systems for booking appointments

10. Common Challenges and Tips

• Language Barrier: In public facilities, English may not be widely spoken. In private clinics, English-speaking staff is more common.

• Waiting Times: Public system appointments can take weeks. Private insurance drastically reduces waiting periods.

• Documentation: Always carry your insurance card (NFZ or private) and a valid ID when visiting clinics.

• Emergency Care: In emergencies, care is provided regardless of insurance, but follow-up costs may be billed if you're uninsured.

Conclusion

Health insurance in Poland is both accessible and essential. While the public system offers solid basic care through the NFZ, private insurance adds convenience and flexibility, especially for foreigners and professionals. Whether you're planning a short-term stay or moving to Poland for work or study, securing proper health coverage is not just a legal requirement — it's a crucial step toward ensuring your peace of mind and wellbeing.