If you’ve moved to Poland as a student, worker, or expat, one of the most important things you’ll need is health insurance. Whether you’re visiting a doctor, applying for a residence card, or enrolling at a university, having valid health coverage is often required.
In this article, we’ll explain how to register for health insurance in Poland, step-by-step, and help you choose the option that fits your situation best.
✅ Do You Need Health Insurance in Poland?
Yes—health insurance is required for most foreigners living in Poland. It’s needed for:
- Applying for a temporary residence permit (karta pobytu)
- Visiting public healthcare facilities
- Avoiding expensive private medical costs
- Registering at universities (for students)
🩺 Types of Health Insurance in Poland
1. Public Health Insurance (NFZ – Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia)
This is Poland’s national public health system.
You can access it if you:
- Are employed in Poland (your employer pays into it)
- Are a student or spouse and register voluntarily
- Pay a monthly contribution yourself (self-employed or unemployed)
2. Private Health Insurance
This is optional, but useful if you:
- Want faster appointments or English-speaking doctors
- Need additional services outside the public system
Popular providers include:
- Medicover
- LuxMed
- PZU Zdrowie
📑 What Documents Are Needed?
To register for NFZ (public health), you usually need:
- Passport or residence card
- PESEL number (Polish personal ID)
- Proof of address in Poland
- University enrollment letter (for students)
- Employment contract (if working)
🏁 How to Register for NFZ (Step-by-Step)
- Go to the Local NFZ Branch
Find your nearest NFZ office (search: NFZ oddział + your city). - Fill Out the Application Form
Ask for help if you don’t speak Polish—some staff may speak English. - Submit Your Documents
Provide your ID, address confirmation, and other paperwork. - Pay Monthly Contributions (If Voluntary)
If you’re not employed, you can register voluntarily and pay a fixed monthly fee (around 55–70 PLN/month for students). - Receive Proof of Insurance
You’ll get a certificate or confirmation document for use in hospitals and clinics.
🧠 Important Tips
- Students: Some universities handle NFZ registration for you. Ask at your student office.
- Employed persons: Your employer will automatically enroll you in the NFZ system.
- EU citizens: If you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you may be covered for temporary stays.
🩻 What’s Covered Under NFZ?
Public insurance covers:
- General practitioners (family doctors)
- Hospital care
- Emergency services
- Basic medications
- Specialist consultations (with referrals)
Private insurance usually offers:
- Faster access to doctors
- English-speaking clinics
- Appointments without referrals
🎯 Final Thoughts
Health insurance in Poland is a must-have if you want peace of mind and full access to medical services. Whether you’re a student, worker, or just getting settled, registering for NFZ or a private plan is a smart move.