What you need to know before and after arriving in Slovakia.
Health insurance is one of the most important things to arrange before starting your studies in Slovakia.
Besides protecting your health, valid health insurance is often a requirement for obtaining a visa or residence permit. Understanding how the system works will help you avoid unnecessary stress and ensure that you can access medical care when needed.
Health insurance allows you to access healthcare services such as:
In many situations, proof of health insurance is also required during immigration and residence procedures. (Migration and Home Affairs)
If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country, the process is relatively simple.
You can usually use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) issued by your home country.
The EHIC allows you to receive necessary healthcare in Slovakia under the same conditions as Slovak citizens when using public healthcare providers. It generally covers:
✔ emergency treatment
✔ visits to public doctors
✔ hospital care
✔ urgent medical services
However, some services may still require co-payments or may not be fully covered. (Study In Slovakia – English programs)
More information about EHIC:
If you come from outside the EU/EEA, the rules are different.
Most non-EU students must obtain private health insurance before applying for a residence permit in Slovakia. Insurance is generally required for the entire duration of your stay. (Study In Slovakia – English programs)
Typical requirements include:
✔ coverage valid in Slovakia
✔ emergency medical treatment
✔ hospitalization
✔ medical repatriation
✔ sufficient coverage limits
Without valid health insurance, your residence permit application may not be approved.
In some situations, yes.
Foreign students may become eligible for Slovak public health insurance if they meet specific legal conditions, such as:
For most international students, however, private insurance remains the primary option, especially at the beginning of their stay.
Slovakia currently has three public health insurance companies:
For students who are not eligible for public insurance, commercial health insurance products are available through providers such as Union and other international insurers. (Union.sk)
Once you have valid insurance, you can register with a general practitioner (GP).
In larger cities such as Bratislava and Košice, finding English-speaking doctors is usually easier than in smaller towns.
Useful resources:
In an emergency, call:
🚑 155 – Ambulance
🚓 158 – Police
🚨 112 – General European emergency number
Emergency care is available throughout Slovakia, including in Košice.
Understanding health insurance requirements can be confusing, especially if you are moving to Slovakia for the first time.
At EDUKE, we can help international students understand the insurance requirements, prepare the necessary documentation, and find suitable insurance options for their stay in Slovakia.
Health insurance is not just another administrative requirement—it is an essential part of living and studying safely in Slovakia.
EU students can generally rely on their EHIC card, while most non-EU students will need private health insurance before arriving. By arranging your insurance early, you can focus on your studies and enjoy your time in Slovakia with peace of mind.
👉 For more practical guides about studying and living in Slovakia, visit www.eduke.sk.