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Health insurance is one of the most important requirements when applying for a work permit in most countries.?Governments want to ensure that foreign workers have access to medical care and will not become a financial burden on the public healthcare system.?While the exact rules vary by destination, the principles are similar worldwide.?This guide explains what type of health insurance you need before and after receiving your work permit.
1. Why Health Insurance Is Required
Most immigration systems require health insurance to ensure:
• You can access medical treatment during your stay
• You are financially protected in case of illness or accidents
• The state does not bear your healthcare costs
• Your stay remains compliant with local immigration rules
Failure to show adequate coverage can delay or even result in refusal of a work permit application.
2. Types of Health Insurance Accepted for Work Permits
Countries typically accept two categories of health insurance:
A. Private Health Insurance (Before Arrival)
Most applicants must present private insurance that covers:
• Emergency medical treatment
• Hospital care
• Accidents
• Repatriation (in many countries)
This insurance must be valid from the date of entry until the moment you are officially enrolled in the country’s public health system.
B. Public Health Insurance (After Arrival)
Once you begin employment, you are usually required to switch to the national healthcare system through:
• Mandatory employer contributions
• Payroll deductions
• State-run healthcare enrollment
Public health insurance must cover the full duration of your employment contract.
3. Minimum Coverage Requirements
Although the amounts vary, most countries require health insurance that includes:
Medical coverage for at least €30,000–€50,000
This is the standard threshold in many EU and Schengen countries.
Coverage for:
• Hospitalization
• Urgent care
• Outpatient treatment
• Prescription medication
• Emergency evacuation or repatriation
• Maternity care (varies by country)
Insurance must be valid in the country where you will work, and often across the region.
4. When Must You Show Proof of Health Insurance?
You generally need to show proof at different stages:
1. Visa application stage
Private health insurance covering your stay until enrollment in public insurance.
2. Residence permit appointment
Proof of valid insurance is required for permit issuance or activation.
3. Employment start date
Employers typically register you into public health insurance systems.
5. Who Pays for the Insurance?
This depends on the country and employment terms:
• Before arrival: The applicant usually pays for the private policy.
• After arrival: Employers often cover mandatory contributions through payroll.
• Dependents: Must often have separate coverage unless covered under a family plan.
Some employers provide additional private insurance as an employee benefit.
6. What Happens If You Don’t Maintain Health Insurance?
Lack of valid health insurance can lead to:
• Work permit refusal
• Suspension or cancellation of your residence permit
• Fines
• Inability to renew your work permit
• Denial of long-term residence applications
Countries treat health insurance as a mandatory condition of legal stay.
7. Tips for Choosing the Right Insurance Plan
• Ensure the policy meets minimum coverage requirements
• Check if repatriation is required
• Verify that the insurer is recognized by immigration authorities
• Confirm the policy duration matches your work permit timeline
• Review exclusions (pre-existing conditions, maternity, dental)
• Compare plans offered by international insurers
Key Takeaway
For a work permit, you will typically need:
• Private health insurance that covers you upon arrival
• Public or employer-sponsored insurance once employment starts
• Coverage meeting specific minimum requirements (often €30,000–€50,000)
Maintaining valid health insurance is essential for both obtaining and keeping your work permit.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.?Health insurance rules vary depending on the country and work permit type.?Always check official immigration guidelines before applying.
December 11, 2025
