Greece's Healthcare System

Greece operates a dual healthcare system, combining a universal public framework with a well-developed private sector.

Healthcare in Greece is accessible for citizens and resident expats.

This hybrid structure allows residents to rely on public healthcare for essential services while using private care for speed, convenience, or specialized treatment.

The public system, known as the National Health System (ESY), provides universal coverage to legal residents and is financed primarily through taxation and social security contributions.

Alongside it, Greece has a strong private healthcare sector offering faster access, English-speaking professionals, and modern facilities, particularly in major cities and popular expat regions.

Greece's healthcare model broadly follows the Beveridge system, meaning care is largely state-funded and publicly administered.

Statutory health insurance exists through social security contributions, but unlike Bismarck systems, it functions within a predominantly tax-financed national framework.

Expats working in Greece contribute to social security through EFKA (the Unified Social Security Fund) and, once registered, gain access to public healthcare services either for free or at subsidized rates.

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Public Healthcare in Greece (ESY)

Once registered as a legal resident, expats must first obtain the social security number (AMKA) and enrol with EFKA, and then they'll have access public and free healthcare services through ESY.

Public healthcare coverage includes:

• General practitioner visits;
  
  
• Hospital care and emergency services;
  
  
• Specialist consultations (usually requiring a referral);
  
  
• Subsidized prescription medication.

Public hospitals and clinics are widely available, particularly in urban centers such as Athens and Thessaloniki.

While costs are low or fully covered, waiting times can be longer, and English-language support is not always guaranteed outside major hospitals or private facilities.

Private Healthcare in Greece

Private healthcare is where Greece truly stands out for international residents.

Private hospitals and clinics are modern, well-equipped, and staffed by highly trained medical professionals, many of whom have studied or worked abroad.

Appointments are typically easier to schedule, waiting times are short, and English is commonly spoken.

Private healthcare is especially popular among:

• Investors and Golden Visa holders;
  
  
• Retirees;
  
  
• Digital nomads and remote workers;
  
  
• Families seeking international-standard care.

Despite the higher cost compared to public services, private healthcare in Greece remains significantly more affordable than in the United States and many Northern European countries.

Health Insurance Options for Foreign Residents

Healthcare coverage is mandatory for legal residency in Greece, including during visa and residence permit application processes.

In practice, healthcare coverage for foreign residents consists of two layers:

First, public coverage through ESY and EFKA. Once legally resident and contributing to social security (or registered as eligible), all individuals are entitled to access the public healthcare system.

Second, private health insurance, which is strongly recommended, particularly in the following situations:

• During the residency or Golden Visa approval phase;
  
  
• For immediate access to private hospitals and specialists;
  
  
• To avoid waiting times in the public system;
  
  
• For international coverage if travelling frequently.

Private insurance offers flexibility and peace of mind, allowing residents to combine the security of public healthcare with the convenience of private care.

Many investors opt for international insurance providers offering expat-focused plans that remain valid across multiple countries, an attractive option for globally mobile residents.

Healthcare Costs in Greece

While access to public healthcare is available after registration, private health insurance is strongly recommended, particularly during the residency process.

Healthcare costs in Greece are generally affordable, especially when compared to other residency-by-investment destinations.

Private health insurance typically costs:

• €50–€150 per month for an average adult.

Costs vary depending on age, coverage level, deductibles, and whether family members are included.

Private consultations are also reasonably priced:

• Primary care physician visits often range from €40 to €70;
  
  
• Specialist consultations typically range from €60 to €120.

Prescription medication is subsidized under the public system, with patients usually paying a small percentage of the total cost. Even when paid privately, medication prices remain relatively low by EU standards.

Emergency care through the public system is either fully covered or very low-cost for registered residents.

Healthcare and the Greece Golden Visa

Proof of healthcare coverage is mandatory for Greece's Golden Visa and other residency permits.

Applicants must show insurance that covers:

• Medical treatment in Greece;
  
  
• Hospitalization;
  
  
• Emergency care.

Most investors arrange private health insurance prior to arrival and later decide whether to maintain it alongside public healthcare access.

This approach is generally recommended as it offers flexibility, compliance with residency requirements, and long-term security.

Quality of Care and Standards

Greek doctors are highly regarded and trained in accordance with strict EU standards, with many professionals holding international qualifications or experience abroad.

Major hospitals in Athens and Thessaloniki meet EU medical standards and regulations and offer advanced diagnostics and treatments.

For residents familiar with the healthcare systems in Portugal or Spain, both the structure and quality of care will feel familiar.

Is Greece a Good Option for Healthcare?

Yes. For investors and new residents, Greece offers:

• Universal public healthcare access;
  
  
• High-quality private medical services;
  
  
• Affordable treatment and insurance costs;
  
  
• International health insurance options;
  
  
• EU-regulated medical standards.

Combined with residency-by-investment opportunities and a high quality of life, Greece stands out as a strong choice for those seeking both lifestyle benefits and long-term security.

Healthcare in Greece is reliable, accessible, and flexible, allowing residents to tailor their care to their needs and lifestyle.

Whether relying on public services, private clinics, or international insurance, residents can feel confident that healthcare is well-supported.

For investors considering Greece as their next home, healthcare is one less thing to worry about — and one more reason the country continues to attract global interest.