Overview of the Greek Healthcare System
The healthcare system in Greece, known as the National Healthcare System (Ethniko Systima Ygeias or ESY), provides universal coverage to all citizens and residents. It is a mixed system where public services are funded through social insurance and taxes, supplemented by a robust private healthcare sector. For foreign nationals moving to Greece in 2025 and 2026, understanding the distinction between public entitlement and private options is essential for legal residency and personal well-being.
Public healthcare is centralized under the Ministry of Health, while the social security organization, EFKA, manages the insurance contributions. Most medical professionals in Greece are highly trained, and many speak English fluently, particularly in urban centers and private facilities. However, the public system often faces challenges such as long waiting times for non-urgent procedures and bureaucratic hurdles for newcomers.
The Greek healthcare system is currently undergoing digital transformation, streamlining how prescriptions and appointments are managed through national online platforms.
For more official information, you may visit the Hellenic Ministry of Health website.
Public vs. Private Healthcare Coverage
Foreigners in Greece typically navigate between two main tiers of medical care. The choice often depends on the individual's residency status, employment, and the specific requirements of their visa type.
Public Healthcare (EFKA and AMKA)
Access to the public system is tied to the AMKA (Social Security Number). If you are legally employed in Greece or are self-employed, you contribute to the EFKA fund. This grants you the right to:
- Free or low-cost consultations with ESY doctors.
- Subsidized prescription medications (typically 0%, 10%, or 25% co-payment).
- Hospitalization in public wards.
Private Healthcare Options
Many expatriates and digital nomads opt for private health insurance. This is often mandatory for those applying for certain visas, such as the Golden Visa or the Digital Nomad Visa, before they are eligible for the public system. Private care offers faster access to specialists and higher-standard hospital amenities.
- Average Private Consultation: 40 EUR to 80 EUR ($44 USD to $88 USD, Jan 2026) depending on the specialty.
- Basic Annual Private Plan: Approximately 450 EUR to 700 EUR ($495 USD to $770 USD, Jan 2026) for a standard policy.
Practical Steps for Foreigners
Navigating the administrative side of Greek healthcare requires several specific steps. The process differs slightly for EU and non-EU citizens.
How to Obtain AMKA
The AMKA is the primary key to accessing public services. To obtain it, you must visit a KEP (Citizens' Service Center) or an EFKA office with your passport and residency permit. Non-EU citizens who are not yet working but have a legal basis for stay may be issued a temporary number known as PAAYPA, which transitions to a full AMKA once residency is finalized.
The Pharmacy System
Pharmacies (Farmakeio) are abundant in Greece and are identified by a green cross. They are the primary point for medication and often provide basic medical advice. Many medications that require a prescription in other countries may be available over-the-counter in Greece, though this is becoming more strictly regulated. If you have an AMKA, your doctor will issue an electronic prescription (ilektroniki syntagografisi) which is sent directly to the pharmacy system via your mobile phone.
Emergency Services
In the event of a medical emergency, services are provided regardless of nationality or insurance status, though costs may be billed later for those without coverage.
- General Emergency: 112 (European Emergency Number)
- Ambulance (EKAV): 166
- On-call Hospitals: Not all hospitals are open 24/7 for emergencies. You must check the "Efimeron" schedule online or in local news to see which hospital is on duty that night.
