For EU citizens/For non EU citizens

Healthcare System in Europe: Differences Between EU Citizens and Non-EU Citizens

1. EU Citizens:

• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): EU citizens can use the EHIC to access state-provided healthcare during temporary stays in other EU/EEA countries and Switzerland. This allows them to receive medical treatment under the same conditions and at the same cost as locals, either free or at a reduced price.
• Coverage Includes:
  • Emergency medical care (e.g., ambulance services, emergency room visits).
  • Necessary medical treatment for chronic or pre-existing conditions that become necessary during the stay.
  • Maternity care (unless the purpose of the stay is to give birth).
• No Need for Special Visa: EU citizens can freely travel and receive healthcare within the EU without needing special visas or permits.
• Public vs. Private Healthcare: EHIC only covers public healthcare. Any private healthcare services must be paid for out of pocket or through private insurance.

2. Non-EU Citizens:

• No EHIC Access: Non-EU citizens are not eligible for EHIC and cannot access state-provided healthcare at the same rates as EU citizens.
• Travel Insurance Required: They usually need to have travel health insurance to cover medical expenses during their stay in Europe. This is often required when applying for a Schengen Visa.
• Healthcare Costs: Non-EU citizens must pay full price for medical services, which can be expensive without insurance.
• Emergency Care: In emergencies, they will receive medical assistance, but they are responsible for all costs incurred.
• Private Insurance Options: Many non-EU travelers opt for private international health insurance, which may cover a broader range of services, including private hospitals.
• Visa and Residency Requirements: Depending on the purpose and length of stay, non-EU citizens might need special health coverage as part of their visa or residence permit requirements.

Summary of Key Differences:

Aspect	EU Citizens	Non-EU Citizens
Access to EHIC	Yes	No
Healthcare Costs	Same as locals (free or reduced price)	Full price (unless covered by private insurance)
Insurance Needed	Not mandatory (EHIC covers most needs)	Travel or international health insurance required
Emergency Care	Covered under EHIC	Available but fully chargeable
Visa Requirements	No special health insurance required	Health insurance often required for visa approval

For non-EU citizens traveling to Europe, healthcare costs and insurance options can vary significantly depending on the country and type of treatment needed. Here’s a breakdown of the most important information:

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1. Healthcare Costs for Non-EU Citizens

• Full Price for Medical Services: Non-EU citizens generally pay the full cost for medical treatments, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care. These costs can be quite high without insurance.
• Cost Examples (Approximate):
  • Doctor’s Visit: €50 – €150 per visit, depending on the country and specialist.
  • Emergency Room Visit: €100 – €500, not including tests or treatments.
  • Hospital Stay: €500 – €2,000 per day, depending on the hospital and treatment required.
  • Medication: Prices vary, but non-EU citizens typically pay the full retail price.

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2. Insurance Requirements and Options

• Schengen Visa Requirement:
  • Non-EU travelers visiting Schengen Area countries for short stays (up to 90 days) must have travel health insurance with the following requirements:
    • Minimum coverage: €30,000 for medical expenses.
    • Coverage area: All Schengen countries.
    • Includes: Emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation (returning to home country in case of severe illness or death).
• Long-Term Stays:
  • For long-term stays (e.g., students, workers, or expats), private international health insurance is required. The policy should cover a broader range of services, including preventive care, chronic conditions, and sometimes dental and vision care.
  • Some countries require proof of comprehensive health insurance as part of the residency permit application.

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3. Types of Insurance for Non-EU Citizens

• Travel Health Insurance:
  • Short-term coverage for emergencies, accidents, and sudden illness.
  • Typically valid for trips up to 90 days.
  • Often required for Schengen Visa applications.
• International Health Insurance:
  • Comprehensive coverage for long-term stays, including preventive care, routine check-ups, and chronic conditions.
  • Recommended for students, expats, and digital nomads.
  • Usually allows access to private hospitals and specialists.
• Local Health Insurance:
  • In some countries, non-EU residents can purchase local insurance once they receive a residence permit.
  • These policies are often cheaper but may have limited coverage compared to international plans.