Greece Healthcare System: Medical Benefits for Golden Visa Holders

When considering a move to a new country, few factors are more important than the quality and accessibility of healthcare. For Golden Visa investors, particularly those with families or planning for retirement, knowing that you will be well cared for is not just a benefit—it’s a fundamental requirement.

Greece offers a modern, dual-sector healthcare system that provides both security and choice. It combines a universal public system with a thriving, high-quality private sector, ensuring that all residents have access to excellent medical care.

One of the mandatory requirements for the Golden Visa application is securing private health insurance, which immediately opens the door to this premium level of service.

This guide provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the Greek healthcare system in 2025, explaining how it works for Golden Visa holders, the benefits of both public and private options, and what you can expect in terms of quality, cost, and access.

The Two Pillars of Greek Healthcare: Public vs. Private

The healthcare system in Greece is built on two pillars, giving residents a choice in how they receive their care.

• The Public System (ESY): The National Health System, known as ESY, provides universal healthcare coverage to all citizens and legal residents who contribute to social security. It is known for its skilled doctors but can sometimes be characterized by long wait times and older facilities, particularly outside of major cities.
• The Private System: This sector has grown rapidly and is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, modern equipment, and exceptional patient service. It is the primary choice for most expats and Golden Visa holders, offering immediate access to specialists and English-speaking staff.

Private Healthcare: The First and Best Choice for Golden Visa Holders

For Golden Visa applicants, the private healthcare system is the most relevant and immediate option.

Mandatory Private Insurance:

A key requirement for obtaining and renewing your Greek Golden Visa is to have a valid private health insurance policy that covers you and all dependent family members in Greece. This is a non-negotiable part of the application.

Benefits of the Private System:

• Immediate Access & No Wait Times: You can typically see a specialist or schedule a procedure within days, not weeks or months.
• High-Quality Facilities: Private hospitals in Athens and Thessaloniki are on par with the best in Europe, featuring modern technology, comfortable private rooms, and a patient-centric approach.
• English-Speaking Staff: From doctors and nurses to administrative staff, English is widely spoken in the private sector, eliminating any language barriers during your care.
• Affordability: Compared to the US and many other Western European countries, the cost of both private insurance and out-of-pocket treatments in Greece is significantly lower, without compromising on quality.

Leading Private Hospitals for Expats:

Cost of Private Health Insurance:

The cost varies based on age, pre-existing conditions, and the level of coverage. However, basic inpatient and outpatient plans for Golden Visa holders are very affordable, often starting from €150 to €350 per person, per year. More comprehensive international plans will cost more but offer wider coverage.

Accessing the Public System (ESY): An Option for Long-Term Residents

While your private insurance is your primary key, as a legal resident, you also have a pathway to access the public system.

• How it Works: To access the ESY, you must first become a tax resident and register for a Greek social security number, known as an AMKA. This is typically done if you start a business or become employed in Greece. Once you are contributing to the social insurance fund (EFKA), you and your family are entitled to use the public system.
• What it Covers: The public system covers a wide range of services, including doctor visits, hospitalization, and subsidized prescription medications.
• The Reality: While the care from doctors is generally good, many residents use the public system as a safety net for major issues while still using their private insurance for faster, more convenient access to specialists and diagnostic tests.

Finding Doctors and Pharmacies

• Finding a Doctor: In major cities, finding an English-speaking doctor is easy. Many have trained in the UK or US. Online platforms and community recommendations are excellent resources. Private hospitals also have extensive networks of affiliated specialists.
• Pharmacies: Pharmacies are ubiquitous in Greece and are often a first point of contact for minor ailments. Pharmacists are highly trained professionals who can provide advice and dispense many medications without a prescription.

A System Built for Peace of Mind

The Greek healthcare system offers Golden Visa holders the best of both worlds. The mandatory private insurance requirement immediately unlocks access to a high-quality, efficient, and English-speaking private sector. For those who choose to make Greece their long-term home, the option to also access the public system provides an additional layer of comprehensive security. This robust and flexible healthcare framework is one of the cornerstones that makes Greece not just a beautiful place to invest, but a safe and secure place to live.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is my foreign health insurance policy valid for the Golden Visa application?

It can be, but it must explicitly state that it covers you in Greece for the required amount and duration. It is often simpler and more reliable to purchase a compliant policy from a provider based in Greece.

2. What happens in an emergency?

Emergency services (dialing 166) and treatment in the emergency room of a public hospital are available to everyone in Greece, regardless of residency or insurance status. Your private insurance would then cover any subsequent hospitalization or specialized care.

3. Does the health insurance need to cover my entire family?

Yes. Every single person on the Golden Visa application—including the main applicant, spouse, children, and parents—must have their own valid health insurance policy.

4. Can I see a specialist directly, or do I need a referral?

In the private system, you can typically book an appointment directly with any specialist you choose without needing a referral from a general practitioner, offering you speed and freedom of choice.