Healthcare Overview for International Students
Greece provides healthcare services through the National Health System (ESY), which includes public hospitals, health centers, and emergency services. For international students, access to this system is determined by their nationality and the type of residence permit they hold. All students residing in Greece are legally required to have health insurance coverage, which is a prerequisite for both visa issuance and the granting of a residence permit.
The Greek healthcare system operates on a decentralized model where primary care is provided by local health centers and PEDY (National Primary Health Care Network) units, while secondary care is handled by public hospitals. In addition to the public sector, Greece has an extensive network of private clinics and diagnostic centers that many students choose to use for faster service.
European Students and the EHIC
Students who are citizens of European Union (EU) member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland are eligible to use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card allows holders to access public healthcare services under the same conditions and at the same cost as Greek insured citizens.
Key points regarding the EHIC in Greece include:
- Coverage: It covers necessary, state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay. This includes emergencies and chronic illness treatment.
- Cost: Many services are free or require a small co-payment (typically 25% for medications).
- Validity: The card must be valid for the entire duration of the student's stay in Greece.
EU students should ensure they obtain the card from their home country’s health authorities before arriving in Greece. If a student requires specialized treatment not covered by the EHIC, they may need to supplement it with private insurance.
Non-EU Students and Private Insurance
Students from countries outside the EU/EEA must possess a private health insurance policy to obtain a Student Visa (D-Visa) and a residence permit. The Greek authorities require specific minimum coverage limits to ensure the student can cover potential medical expenses without burdening the public system.
The insurance policy must generally cover the following:
- Hospitalization: Minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR ($32,400 USD, Jan 2026).
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for outpatient care and prescriptions.
- Repatriation: Costs associated with medical repatriation or remains.
The cost of a basic private health insurance policy for students in Greece typically ranges from 150 EUR ($162 USD, Jan 2026) to 250 EUR ($270 USD, Jan 2026) per year, depending on the provider and the extent of coverage. Students can choose between international providers or local Greek insurance companies.
The AMKA Social Security Number
The AMKA (Arithmos Mitroou Koinonikis Asfalisis) is the Greek social security number required for working, paying social security contributions, and accessing the public health system's electronic prescription platform. While international students with private insurance may not always need an AMKA for basic visits, it is essential for those who intend to work part-time or access subsidized medication.
To apply for an AMKA, students must visit a KEP (Citizens' Service Center) or an e-EFKA office with the following documents:
- A valid passport and student visa.
- A certificate of enrollment from the Greek university.
- Proof of residence (e.g., a lease agreement).
For non-EU students who do not yet have a permanent residence permit, a temporary number called PAAYPA may be issued in specific circumstances, though this is primarily used for asylum seekers and specific high-risk groups. Most degree-seeking students will transition to a standard AMKA once their residency is formalized.
Accessing Medical Services and Pharmacies
In Greece, pharmacies (Farmakeio) are easily identifiable by a green cross sign and are the primary point of contact for minor health issues and prescriptions. Most pharmacies are open during standard business hours, but a rotation system ensures that "duty pharmacies" are open 24/7 in every district.
Emergency Services
In case of a medical emergency, students should use the following contact numbers:
- 112: The European Emergency Number (multilingual).
- 166: EKAV (National Center for Emergency Care) for ambulances.
Note: Public hospitals in Greece operate on a "duty" (efimeria) schedule. Not every hospital is open for emergencies every day. Students should check the daily hospital schedule online or via local directories before heading to an ER.
Summary of Costs
While the public system is largely subsidized, students should be aware of the following estimated out-of-pocket costs for 2025/2026:
- Private GP Consultation: 30 EUR to 60 EUR ($32 USD to $65 USD, Jan 2026).
- Prescription Co-payment: 10% to 25% of the drug's value if covered by AMKA.
- Public Hospital Visit (without insurance): Fees vary significantly by procedure; emergency stabilization is generally provided regardless of ability to pay, but subsequent billing applies.
