Last updated: March 2026 | Sources: EFKA, Ministry of Health, Eurostat
Understanding Greece’s healthcare system is essential for expats. This guide covers public healthcare, private options, insurance requirements, and costs.
Greek Healthcare System Overview
Greece has a mixed public-private healthcare system:
- Public healthcare (ESY): Universal coverage, funded by taxes and social security contributions
- Private healthcare: Faster access, more amenities, out-of-pocket or insurance-covered
As of 2026, Greece spends approximately 9.5% of GDP on healthcare, slightly below the EU average.
Public Healthcare System (ESY)
Who is Eligible?
EU/EEA Citizens:
- Valid EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) provides emergency care
- For long-term stays: Register with EFKA (social security)
Non-EU Citizens:
- Must have private health insurance for visa/residency permits
- After legal residency + EFKA registration: Access to public system
- Digital Nomad/Golden Visa holders: Typically use private insurance
How to Access Public Healthcare
- Obtain AMKA (Social Security Number)
- Required for all healthcare services
- Apply at local EFKA office or citizen service center (KEP)
- Documents: Passport, residency permit, tax number (AFM)
- Register with EFKA
- Employees: Employer registers automatically
- Self-employed: Register personally
- Non-workers: Voluntary contributions possible
- Choose a Primary Care Physician
- Register at local health center (Κέντρο Υγείας) or public hospital
- Get referrals for specialists (required for full coverage)
Public Healthcare Costs
| Service | Cost with EFKA | Cost without EFKA |
|---|---|---|
| GP Visit (public) | €5-€15 | €50-€100 |
| Specialist Visit | €10-€30 | €80-€150 |
| Emergency Room | €10-€50 | €150-€500+ |
| Hospital Stay (per day) | €10-€50 | €300-€800+ |
| Prescription Medication | 25-75% subsidized | Full price |
| Lab Tests | €5-€30 | €50-€200 |
Public System Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Universal coverage for residents
- Low out-of-pocket costs
- Good for chronic conditions
- Emergency care guaranteed
❌ Cons:
- Long waiting times (weeks to months for specialists)
- Variable quality between regions
- Limited English in public facilities
- Underfunded, understaffed in some areas
- Bureaucratic processes
Private Healthcare
Why Expats Choose Private
- ✅ Shorter waiting times (often same-day)
- ✅ English-speaking doctors common
- ✅ Modern facilities and equipment
- ✅ More comfortable accommodations
- ✅ Direct specialist access (no referral needed)
Private Healthcare Costs
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| GP Visit | €40-€80 |
| Specialist Visit | €60-€120 |
| Cardiologist | €80-€150 |
| Dermatologist | €70-€130 |
| Gynecologist | €70-€140 |
| Dental Cleaning | €50-€100 |
| Dental Filling | €60-€150 |
| Blood Test (basic panel) | €40-€100 |
| MRI Scan | €250-€500 |
| CT Scan | €150-€350 |
| Ultrasound | €50-€120 |
Major Private Hospital Groups
- Hygeia Hospital (Athens) – Leading private hospital
- Mitera Hospital (Athens) – Maternity, pediatrics, general
- Iaso Hospital (Athens) – Full-service private
- Bioiatriki (Athens, Thessaloniki) – Diagnostics network
- Interbalcan Medical Center (Thessaloniki)
Health Insurance Options
1. Greek Public Insurance (EFKA)
Who qualifies: Legal residents working or contributing to social security
Contribution rates (2026):
- Employees: ~16% of salary (split employer/employee)
- Self-employed: €150-€400/month (based on income)
- Voluntary: ~€200/month
2. Private Greek Insurance
Providers:
- Interamerican
- Allianz Greece
- AXA Greece
- Eurolife ERB
- Anytime (digital-first)
Typical premiums (2026):
| Age | Single (Monthly) | Couple (Monthly) | Family of 4 (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 30 | €35-€60 | €60-€100 | €100-€160 |
| 30-45 | €45-€80 | €80-€130 | €130-€200 |
| 46-60 | €70-€120 | €120-€190 | €190-€280 |
| 60+ | €100-€200+ | €180-€350+ | €280-€500+ |
Note: Premiums vary by coverage level, deductible, and pre-existing conditions.
3. International Health Insurance
Best for: Digital nomads, Golden Visa holders, frequent travelers
Providers:
- Cigna Global
- Allianz Care
- Aetna International
- Bupa Global
- April International
Typical premiums: €80-€300+/month depending on age, coverage, and deductible
Advantages:
- Worldwide coverage (not just Greece)
- Direct billing at international hospitals
- English customer service
- Medical evacuation coverage
- Continuity if you move countries
Visa/Residency Insurance Requirements
Digital Nomad Visa
- Minimum coverage: €30,000
- Must cover: Medical care, hospitalization, repatriation
- Duration: Entire stay period
Golden Visa
- Requirement: Health insurance for all family members
- Minimum coverage: Varies, typically €30,000+
Student Visa
- Requirement: Full health insurance
- EU students: EHIC sufficient
- Non-EU: Private insurance required
Prescription Medications
How It Works
- Doctor issues electronic prescription (sent to central system)
- Take prescription to any pharmacy
- Show AMKA (social security number)
- Pay subsidized price (25-75% covered by EFKA)
Common Medication Costs (with EFKA subsidy)
| Medication | Full Price | With EFKA |
|---|---|---|
| Antibiotics (course) | €8-€20 | €2-€6 |
| Blood Pressure Meds (monthly) | €10-€30 | €3-€10 |
| Diabetes Meds (monthly) | €20-€60 | €5-€20 |
| Cholesterol Meds (monthly) | €15-€40 | €4-€12 |
Pharmacy Information
- Hours: Typically 9:00-14:00 and 17:30-21:00 (Mon-Fri), Saturday mornings
- 24-hour pharmacies: Rotating schedule (posted outside)
- Green cross sign: Indicates pharmacy (φαρμακείο)
Emergency Services
Emergency Numbers
- 166: National Emergency Medical Center (EKAB) – Ambulance
- 112: EU-wide emergency number
- 1016: 24-hour pharmacy information
Emergency Rooms
All public hospitals have 24/7 emergency departments. Private hospitals may have limited emergency services.
Major hospitals with ER:
- Athens: Evangelismos, Laiko, Sotiria, Hygeia, Mitera
- Thessaloniki: AHEPA, Hippokration, Interbalcan
- Crete: University Hospital (Heraklion), Chania General Hospital
Health Considerations for Expats
Vaccinations
Routine vaccines: Ensure up-to-date (MMR, tetanus, flu, etc.)
Greece-specific: No special vaccines required for most travelers
Common Health Issues
- Summer heat: Stay hydrated, use sun protection
- Seasonal allergies: Olive pollen (spring), grass pollen
- Mosquito-borne illnesses: Rare but West Nile Virus occurs
Finding English-Speaking Doctors
- Private hospitals in Athens/Thessaloniki: Most doctors speak English
- Islands: More limited, ask expat communities for recommendations
- Online directories: Doctors.gr, TopDoctors.gr
Maternity & Family Healthcare
Prenatal Care
- Public: Free with EFKA, regular checkups covered
- Private: €1,500-€4,000 for full prenatal + delivery
Childbirth Costs
- Public hospital: €200-€800 (with EFKA)
- Private hospital: €3,000-€8,000 (normal delivery)
- C-section: €5,000-€12,000 (private)
Pediatric Care
- Public: Free vaccinations, subsidized visits
- Private: €50-€100 per visit
Mental Health Services
Availability
- Public: Limited, long waiting times
- Private: Good availability in cities, limited on islands
Therapy Costs
- Psychologist (private): €50-€100/session
- Psychiatrist: €80-€150/session
- Online therapy: €40-€80/session
Useful Resources
- EFKA (Social Security) – Registration, contributions
- Ministry of Health – Official information
- EOPYY – Public healthcare provider
- EU EHIC Information
Need Help Navigating Greek Healthcare?
OptimaStay assists expats with healthcare setup:
- AMKA and EFKA registration guidance
- Private insurance recommendations
- English-speaking doctor referrals
- Hospital appointment coordination
- Prescription transfer assistance
- Emergency support
Book a consultation for healthcare guidance
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Healthcare regulations can change. Always verify current requirements with official sources or consult with a healthcare professional.
Related: Greek Tax Residency Guide | Cost of Living in Greece 2026
