Health insurance
Health insurance in Greece: EFKA vs private cover
If you live and work in Greece, health cover usually comes through the public system. Many internationals still need, or want, private insurance on top. Here is how the two fit together.
EFKA: public cover through your social security
Once you are registered as self-employed or employed in Greece, you pay social security contributions to EFKA. These contributions include public health cover through EOPYY, the national health service provider. As a freelancer you pay them every month, from the first month of your activity. For how the contribution classes work, see our EFKA guide for freelancers.
Public cover gives you access to public hospitals and contracted doctors. Waiting times can be long, and English is not guaranteed. That is why many people add private insurance.
Who usually needs private cover
- Visa applicants from outside the EU. The Digital Nomad Visa, the financially independent person permit and the Golden Visa all require proof of health insurance that covers you in Greece. Check the exact wording your consulate asks for.
- People not (yet) covered through EFKA. For example remote employees of foreign companies, retirees without an S1 form, or anyone in the months before their Greek registration is complete.
- Anyone who wants more. Private hospitals, English-speaking doctors, and cover that also applies when you travel or spend time back home.
Our own experience
We, Manoli and Leonard, have both been insured with BDAE for years. We have also travelled a lot over the past years, and it is good to know we are covered in other countries too. That is our personal experience; what is covered depends on the plan you choose with BDAE.
Our partner for international health insurance: BDAE
BDAE (Hamburg) specialises in health insurance for people living abroad. Advice and applications are handled directly by BDAE. We don't compare plans, quote prices or help with applications.
Please mention taxomade when contacting BDAE.
We may receive a commission from our partners. This does not affect the price you pay.
Health insurance is one part of your setup
Your EFKA registration, tax number and bookkeeping decide how you are covered and what you pay. Not sure your setup is complete? We check it for free.
FAQ
Do I need private health insurance in Greece?
Not if you are covered through EFKA as an employee or self-employed person in Greece; your contributions include public health cover. You usually need private insurance for a visa or residence permit, before your Greek registration is complete, or if you want private hospitals and worldwide cover.
Does EFKA include health insurance?
Yes. EFKA social security contributions include public health cover through EOPYY, the national health service provider, for you and usually your dependants.
Is private health insurance required for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes. The Digital Nomad Visa, the financially independent person permit and the Golden Visa all require proof of health insurance that covers you in Greece. Check the exact requirements with your consulate.
Can taxomade recommend a health insurance plan?
No. We work with BDAE as a partner, but advice and applications are handled directly by BDAE. We don't compare plans or quote prices.