How to get a health insurance
If you need to get a visa and live in the Czech Republic, you must have obligatory health insurance for emergency cases. In case you are already employed in the Czech Republic, one-third of the amount needed for your health insurance is deducted from your salary and paid to the public health insurance company. The remaining two-thirds are paid by the employer. Seems like a fair deal, ha?! However, if you are self-employed, you are supposed to pay for your health insurance yourself. There are a few insurance companies providing health insurance for foreigners to choose from.
Health insurance providers
The largest health insurance company is called VZP (Všeobecná zdravotní pojišťovna). We can also personally recommend Slavia insurance company, which specializes in the Comprehensive Health Insurance for Foreigners. Comprehensive Health Insurance is exactly what you need to apply for a long-term residence! Other insurance companies offering this type of insurance are VZP, UNIQA, Maxima/AXA and Victoria Volksbanken. Make sure that the hospital you intend to go to has a contract with your insurance company. Also note, that public health insurance does not cover private clinics and hospitals!
EU citizens
Different rules apply for EU and non-EU citizens. EU citizens may obtain the same health care in case of emergency as Czechs as long as you carry your blue insurance card (EHIC) with you. It might be tricky if you are not studying or working in the Czech Republic or if you are self-employed. In all these cases you will need to prove your purpose of stay. Keep in mind that what might be free in your country may not be free in the Czech Republic and vice versa.
Non-EU citizens
If you have a visa you’ll need health insurance for emergency cases only. In case you want to apply for a residence permit you must have a Comprehensive Health Insurance for Foreigners. Please notice, that Czech Ministry of Interior only accepts Czech health insurance companies. Companies are listed above in the Health insurance providers section.
Apps for EHIC card holders
The last but not least! Some useful apps for Android, Apple, Windows Phone, where you can find all the general information about EHIC card. The apps will also provide you with emergency phone numbers, list of covered treatments and their costs. Users will also find useful the information on how to claim reimbursement and who to contact in case you have lost your card.
Get your Health Insurance today!
Nothing to wait for, with Foreigners help you can sort out your Health Insurance card immediately! We’re a proud partner of Slavia Health Insurance company, which is providing high-quality healthcare for foreigners in the Czech Republic. Do not hesitate to contact us to learn more about your Slavia Health Insurance.
