European Healthcare System and Insurance Options for Expats (2024)

FAQs

European Healthcare System and Insurance Options for Expats? ›

Expatriates living in Europe typically either sign up for government-subsidized insurance through the local universal healthcare system or expats purchase a private insurance plan. If you qualify for state insurance, premiums are automatically contributed from your paycheck to the government.

Spain's healthcare system is renowned for its efficiency and high standards, characterized by both public and private sectors. Managed under the Spanish National Health System (SNS), it provides universal healthcare to its citizens and residents, including expatriates who are registered in the social security system.

Almost all the countries in Europe have a universal healthcare system. There are people who call it a “free healthcare” system but it is actually not free. Each nation has its own variation; however, a common feature is that everyone has to pay for healthcare as a society.

Healthcare in Europe is provided through a wide range of different systems run at individual national levels. Most European countries have a system of tightly regulated, competing private health insurance companies, with government subsidies available for citizens who cannot afford coverage.

Health Insurance in Europe for Immigrants and Expats

There is no “European medical insurance” system per se. Healthcare remains the responsibility of each individual country. The majority of countries offer universal health care, primarily administered through socialized medicine or a multi-payer system.

How much does international health insurance cost? The annual cost of an international medical insurance plan will range from as low as $500, with limited benefits, to as much as $8,000 for a comprehensive global medical insurance policy, including coverage in the USA. The average cost is $5,500 per year.

Key findings: “The top-performing countries overall are Norway, the Netherlands, and Australia. The United States ranks last overall, despite spending far more of its gross domestic product on health care.

Be aware that you will likely have to pay out of pocket for any medical treatment, even if your insurance company provides international health care coverage. A visit to the emergency room can be free or cost only a nominal fee, or it can be expensive, depending on where you are and what treatment you need.

However, Brazil is the only country in the world that offers free healthcare for all its citizens. Also, Norway is the first country in the world to implement a free healthcare policy as far back as 1912.

U.S. health insurance plans typically do not cover regular and routine medical care required overseas. This means your health insurance won't pay for care if you need to visit a doctor for a prescription medicine, or if you need treatment for a condition that is not considered an emergency.

What is the average cost of health insurance in Europe? ›

Average cost of international health insurance in Europe

Taking into account the average premiums of 25 countries in Europe, the average cost of international health insurance in 2018 is spread out between USD 8,786 in the UK and USD 6,585 in Romania, Croatia, and Slovakia.

Most European countries have achieved a level of universal health coverage. Typically, the government provides a basic level of care access and does not use cost to the individual as a lever to regulate demand.

In 2024, the top-ranked European countries for healthcare excellence include Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, Finland, Denmark, and Italy. These nations consistently demonstrate high standards in healthcare infrastructure, accessibility, and overall health outcomes.

If you have Medicare coverage, you won't be reimbursed for international medical bills. Healthcare services received beyond U.S. borders are not covered.

Your insurance policy should have given you an international number that you can use to get in touch with your insurers. Your call will usually be dealt with by an assistance company which is appointed by the insurer to arrange the necessary medical treatment. You can also contact your local British Consul for help.

The European Health Insurance Card or EHIC is a no-cost, multi-national health insurance program. It allows European citizens and legal residents covered by a public health insurance plan or mandatory social security scheme to receive no-cost and low-cost necessary medical treatment in other member states.

Countries with universal healthcare include Austria, Belarus, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.

Switzerland

Switzerland tops the chart when it comes to the highest-paying countries for doctors and related healthcare professionals. The country is known for its highly developed healthcare system and high standard of living. Besides, acquiring a Swiss work permit is easy once you meet all the requirements.

In 2024, the top-ranked European countries for healthcare excellence include Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, Finland, Denmark, and Italy. These nations consistently demonstrate high standards in healthcare infrastructure, accessibility, and overall health outcomes.