Healthcare in Greece for expats
How the healthcare system works for a foreign resident — whether you can use public care, how good it is, and what private cover actually costs. Information current as of 2026; verify current rules before relying on it.
System
Public + private mix
A public system alongside a large private sector — expats commonly choose private care for speed, English, and comfort.
Care quality
Private cover
$50–120/mo
Healthy adult, 30–45. Get a quote.
Public access for foreign residents
Residents get an AMKA social-security number and, once contributing via EFKA (or holding an S1), register with EOPYY to use public healthcare on the same basis as Greek citizens.
Official source →What works well
Once you hold an AMKA and EOPYY cover, public care is inexpensive, and private clinics in Athens and Thessaloniki are good value with many English-speaking doctors.
What to watch out for
Public hospitals can be under-resourced with waiting lists and informal gaps, so most expats carry private insurance; you must secure an AMKA and a contribution route first.
Healthcare eligibility, costs, and system rules change and vary by residency status, nationality, region, and age. This is directional information current as of 2026 — not medical or insurance advice. Confirm your access eligibility with the official source and get a private quote for your own situation before relying on either.
Moving to Greece?
Get the expat toolkit — visa routes, cost of living, arrival checklist, and healthcare guide for Greece — plus a heads-up when the rules or figures change. One email, no spam.
Information only, not legal advice — we never file anything with any government. Requirements change; verify with the official source or a licensed immigration advisor before you apply.
Healthcare in Greece: FAQ
Can I use public healthcare in Greece as an expat?
Residents get an AMKA social-security number and, once contributing via EFKA (or holding an S1), register with EOPYY to use public healthcare on the same basis as Greek citizens.
How much does private health insurance cost in Greece?
For a healthy adult aged 30–45, comprehensive local or international cover in Greece typically runs about $50–120 per month. Premiums rise with age, pre-existing conditions, and plan breadth — treat this as a starting band and get a personalised quote for your situation.
What is the healthcare quality like in Greece?
Greece's healthcare rates as "Good" by international measures. Once you hold an AMKA and EOPYY cover, public care is inexpensive, and private clinics in Athens and Thessaloniki are good value with many English-speaking doctors.
What should expats watch out for with healthcare in Greece?
Public hospitals can be under-resourced with waiting lists and informal gaps, so most expats carry private insurance; you must secure an AMKA and a contribution route first.
What type of healthcare system does Greece have?
Greece runs a "Public + private mix" healthcare model. A public system alongside a large private sector — expats commonly choose private care for speed, English, and comfort.