Crucial First Step: Before reading further, commit to obtaining personalized quotes. Insurance premiums in Greece vary significantly based on age, medical history, and coverage level. Spending time comparing real prices from the providers below could save you thousands of euros and prevent visa rejection. This is your most important planning task.

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Introduction: Why Greece Demands Proper Planning

From the whitewashed buildings of Santorini and the historic streets of Athens to the turquoise waters of Crete and the olive groves of the Peloponnese, Greece captivates expats worldwide. The combination of Mediterranean lifestyle, affordable living, and rich cultural heritage makes it an irresistible destination .

However, navigating Greece’s immigration and healthcare systems as a newcomer requires meticulous preparation. Greek law explicitly requires visa applicants to prove they have valid health insurance. Without it:

• ❌ Your visa application will be rejected
• ❌ Your residence permit cannot be issued
• ❌ You may face significant out-of-pocket medical costs

This guide provides:

1. A complete overview of Greek visa categories and requirements
2. Detailed breakdowns of the 7 best international health insurance providers for Greece
3. A comprehensive comparison table
4. Essential tips for transitioning to the Greek public system

Part 1: Understanding Greek Visas and Healthcare Requirements

The Greek Immigration Framework

Greece is a member of the Schengen Area. For expats planning to live in Greece long-term, understanding the distinction between short-stay and long-stay visas is essential .

Key Visa Categories for Expats

Visa Type	Duration	Purpose	Insurance Requirement
Short-Stay Schengen (Type C)	Up to 90 days in 180-day period	Tourism, business, short visits	€30,000 minimum coverage across Schengen area
National Visa (Type D)	1 year, renewable	Long-term residence, work, study	Comprehensive private health insurance for full duration
Golden Visa (Residence Permit)	5 years, renewable	Real estate investment (€250k-€800k+)	Private insurance with €30,000+ coverage per family member
Talent Visa (Z.15)	1-2 years	Highly skilled professionals, researchers	Travel medical insurance with €30,000 minimum coverage
Tech Visa (Z.13A)	1-2 years	Tech professionals with Elevate Greece employer	Travel medical insurance with €30,000 minimum coverage
Digital Nomad Visa	1-2 years	Remote workers with non-Greek income	Comprehensive health insurance valid in Greece
Family Reunification	1-2 years	Joining family members in Greece	Private insurance until AMKA enrollment

Insurance Requirements by Visa Type

For Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C – under 90 days):

• Minimum €30,000 medical coverage
• Must cover all Schengen countries
• Includes emergency medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation 

For National Visa (Type D – Long Stay):

• Comprehensive private health insurance required for full visa duration
• Must be valid in Greece specifically
• Covers: routine care, emergencies, hospitalization, chronic conditions 

For Golden Visa (Residence Permit):

• Insurance required for each family member
• Minimum €30,000 coverage per person
• Must be valid for at least one year 

For Talent Visa (Z.15):

• Travel medical insurance with €30,000 minimum coverage
• Valid for the entire Schengen area 

For Tech Visa (Z.13A):

• Travel medical insurance with €30,000 minimum coverage
• Must be presented with employment contract 

The Path to Greek Public Healthcare (EOPYY/AMKA)

After obtaining a residence permit, long-term residents may register for the Greek public healthcare system (EOPYY – Εθνικός Οργανισμός Παροχής Υπηρεσιών Υγείας).

Key Points :

• Requires an AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης) – Social Security Number
• AMKA obtained through EFKA (Unified Social Security Agency) or employer
• Public insurance covers: GP visits, hospitalization, emergencies, surgeries
• Public system has longer wait times (1 week to 2 months for specialists)
• Private insurance recommended for faster access and private hospital coverage

Wait Times Comparison :

• Public hospitals: Specialist appointment wait of 1 week to 2 months
• Private hospitals: Appointment wait of 1 to 7 days

Do not cancel your private insurance until you have your AMKA and are registered with EOPYY.

Part 2: The 7 Best International Health Insurance Providers for Greece

How These Providers Were Selected

The insurers below are recognized globally for their expat-focused health plans, direct billing networks in Europe, and compliance with Greek visa requirements.

IMPORTANT: I always suggest you to quote with all the companies below. It’s free and it might take you 15 minutes. But it might save you a lot of money at the end of the day!

1. Cigna Global – The Gold Standard for Comprehensive Coverage

Cigna is one of the largest international health insurers globally, serving expats in over 200 countries. With a strong reputation for claims handling and a genuinely global hospital network, Cigna is a top choice for expats in Greece .

Detailed Coverage & Features for Greece:

• Hospital Network: Access to major private hospitals in Athens (Hygeia, Metropolitan, Athens Medical Center), Thessaloniki, and throughout Greece
• Plan Structure: Close Care (regional), Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers
• Inpatient Coverage: Full coverage for private hospital stays, surgeries, and cancer treatment
• Outpatient Coverage: Available as add-on modules
• Visa Compliance: Meets and exceeds Greek visa insurance requirements
• Additional Benefits: Dental, vision, mental health, and wellness modules available
• No Upper Age Limit: Coverage available for older expats 

Pros :
✅ 200+ countries, 1.5-2.4 million providers in network
✅ Modular customization – build exactly what you need
✅ Direct billing “just works” at most international hospital admission desks
✅ No upper age limit for enrollment
✅ Worldwide ex-USA option keeps premiums sensible for Europe
✅ 24/7 multilingual customer support

Cons :
❌ Premium pricing; among the more expensive options
❌ Recent reports of 8-12% annual renewal increases
❌ Close Care tier has sub-limits (e.g., $2,500 advanced imaging cap)
❌ App and portal need improvement

Pricing for Greece (Monthly Estimates):

Plan Level	Age 35-40	Age 45-50	Age 55-60
Close Care (Greece/Europe)	€150-€250	€200-€350	€280-€450
Silver	€200-€350	€280-€450	€380-€600
Gold	€280-€450	€380-€600	€550-€850
Platinum	€400-€650	€550-€900	€800-€1,200

Ideal For: Corporate expats, families, retirees, and anyone prioritizing comprehensive coverage with a globally trusted brand .

2. IMG Global – The Customizable & Cost-Effective Choice

International Medical Group (IMG) offers exceptional flexibility through their Global Medical plan, making it a favorite among value-conscious expats who want control over their coverage .

Detailed Coverage & Features for Greece:

• Plan Structure: Four tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum)
• Inpatient & Outpatient: Both included across all tiers
• Short-Term Options: Policies starting at just 5 days
• Emergency Services: Medical evacuation and telemedicine included 
• Maternity: Available on Platinum tier only (with waiting periods)
• Dental & Vision: Available on higher tiers or as add-ons

Pros :
✅ Exceptional flexibility with four clear coverage tiers
✅ Short-term coverage available (from 5 days)
✅ Emergency evacuation included
✅ Competitive pricing
✅ Good for students and short-term stays

Cons:
❌ Less well-known in Europe than Cigna or Allianz
❌ Customer service quality can vary by region
❌ Maternity limited to highest tier only

Pricing for Greece (Monthly Estimates):

Plan Level	Age 35-40	Age 45-50	Age 55-60
Bronze	€100-€160	€150-€240	€210-€350
Silver	€160-€250	€240-€370	€350-€530
Gold	€200-€310	€290-€460	€440-€660
Platinum	€270-€410	€410-€600	€590-€870

Ideal For: Budget-conscious expats, students, and short-term residents who want comprehensive coverage without paying for brand name alone .

3. SafetyWing – The Digital Nomad & Budget Pioneer

SafetyWing has revolutionized the market with its subscription-style, affordable insurance designed for remote workers, freelancers, and long-term travelers. Greece, with its growing digital nomad community, is a prime market for this provider .

Detailed Coverage & Features for Greece:

• Subscription Model: Pay monthly, cancel anytime – perfect for uncertain timelines
• Global Nomad Focus: Coverage in over 180 countries, including Greece
• Travel Benefits: Includes lost luggage, trip interruption, and political evacuation
• Included Coverage: Emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, repatriation
• Telemedicine: 24/7 access to doctors via app

Pros :
✅ Extremely affordable starting around $45/month
✅ Easy online sign-up with no medical screening
✅ No fixed term – matches remote work lifestyles
✅ Enroll from anywhere, even after leaving home country
✅ Includes travel-related benefits

Cons :
❌ May not meet Greek Type D visa requirements for long-term residence
❌ Lower coverage limits (€250,000 lifetime maximum)
❌ Fixed deductible (typically €250)
❌ No coverage for chronic conditions, routine care, or pre-existing conditions
❌ Not designed for comprehensive local care – emergency-focused only

Pricing for Greece (Monthly Estimates):

Age	Standard Plan
Under 30	€50-€85
30-40	€85-€140
40-50	€130-€200

⚠️ Important Visa Warning: SafetyWing is primarily a travel/emergency insurance policy, not comprehensive health insurance for long-term residents. For Schengen short-stay visas (Type C), SafetyWing may be acceptable. However, for Type D national visas (long-stay) and residence permits, you will likely need a more comprehensive policy .

Ideal For: Digital nomads on short-term stays (under 90 days), those who move frequently, or those with EU citizenship who don’t require visa compliance. Not recommended for long-term residence permit applicants.

4. Now Health International – The Value Leader with Simplicity

Now Health International is a specialist expat health insurer with a strong reputation for customer service and straightforward claims handling. Their plans are well-regarded among expats who value simplicity and transparency .

Detailed Coverage & Features for Greece:

• Plan Structure: SimpleCare and WorldCare plans with clear tiers
• Inpatient Care: Broad protection including surgery, cancer care, organ transplant
• Outpatient Options: GP visits, specialist consultations available on higher tiers
• Maternity: Available on WorldCare Advance and above
• Digital Experience: Virtual membership cards for convenient direct billing

Pros:
✅ Flexible and customizable coverage options 
✅ Simple, transparent policy terms
✅ Good customer service reputation
✅ Fully digital claims management

Cons:
❌ Smaller network than Cigna or Allianz
❌ Less well-known brand
❌ Maternity coverage requires higher-tier plans

Pricing for Greece (Monthly Estimates):

Plan Level	Age 35-40	Age 45-50	Age 55-60
SimpleCare Core	€130-€200	€180-€290	€260-€410
WorldCare Essential	€200-€310	€290-€460	€440-€660
WorldCare Advance	€250-€410	€380-€590	€560-€860

Ideal For: Value-conscious expats who prioritize customer service and straightforward claims over brand recognition .

5. Allianz Care – The European Expert with Digital Excellence

Allianz is one of the world’s largest insurance groups, with particularly strong networks in Europe. Their international health plans are designed with digital convenience and comprehensive coverage in mind .

Detailed Coverage & Features for Greece:

• Plan Structure: Care Base, Care Enhanced, and Care Signature tiers
• MyHealth App: Top-rated for finding doctors, managing digital claims, and telemedicine
• European Strength: Excellent network across Greece and the EU
• Underwriting Flexibility: Choice between moratorium and full medical underwriting 
• Maternity: Available on Care Enhanced and Care Signature (12-month waiting period)
• Chronic Conditions: Covered on higher tiers
• Fast Claims: 74% of claims processed within 24 hours 

Pros :
✅ Choice of moratorium OR full medical underwriting – uniquely flexible
✅ 74% of claims processed within 24 hours, payment within 48 hours
✅ 1.9-2 million providers in 200+ territories
✅ AM Best A+ Superior rated
✅ Excellent digital experience with MyHealth app
✅ 24/7 global support with multilingual assistance

Cons :
❌ Care Base is entry-level; Enhanced is the realistic floor for serious cover
❌ Higher-tier plans (Care Signature) are costly
❌ Outpatient is a paid module on every tier

Pricing for Greece (Monthly Estimates):

Plan Level	Age 35-40	Age 45-50	Age 55-60
Care Base	€150-€240	€210-€340	€310-€480
Care Enhanced	€200-€320	€290-€460	€440-€670
Care Signature	€280-€440	€400-€620	€600-€920

Ideal For: Tech-savvy expats, professionals, and families who value digital convenience and a trusted European brand .

6. Foyer Global Health – The Premium European Concierge Provider

Foyer Global Health, based in Luxembourg, represents the pinnacle of high-quality European health insurance. Favored by executives, diplomats, and those for whom service is paramount, Foyer offers comprehensive coverage with exceptional service levels .

Detailed Coverage & Features for Greece:

• All-Inclusive Approach: Dental, optical, and wellness often included as standard
• Very High Limits: Policies designed with unlimited or very high annual maximums
• Direct Billing: Extensive European network for seamless cashless treatment
• Preventive Focus: Strong emphasis on routine check-ups and screenings
• Concierge Service: Multilingual support and efficient claims handling
• No Deductible Options: Available on select plans

Pros :
✅ Extremely comprehensive standard coverage
✅ Exceptional, personal customer service
✅ “Low or no deductible” options available
✅ Trusted by demanding, high-net-worth clientele
✅ Strong European focus with excellent network

Cons:
❌ The most expensive provider on this list
❌ Requires thorough medical underwriting
❌ May be overkill for healthy, younger expats

Pricing for Greece (Monthly Estimates):

Age	Comprehensive Plan
30-40	€320-€500
41-50	€460-€730
51-60	€640-€1,000

Ideal For: Expats with corporate executive packages, affluent retirees, and individuals for whom comprehensive, hassle-free coverage with the highest service level is the priority .

7. AXA Health – The French Market Leader

AXA is one of the world’s largest insurance groups, with a strong European heritage and deep understanding of the Greek healthcare landscape. Their international health plans are well-regarded among British and European expats .

Detailed Coverage & Features for Greece:

• Plan Structure: Foundation, Standard, Comprehensive, Prestige, and Prestige Plus tiers
• FCA Regulation: UK-regulated entity with access to Financial Ombudsman Service 
• Network: AXA Select network of 2.1 million facilities in 192+ countries
• Mental Health: Mind Health service with 6 free psychologist sessions per concern 
• Cancer Cover: Included as standard on every tier
• Fast Claims: 83% of online claims paid within 48 hours 

Pros :
✅ FCA-authorised with access to UK Financial Ombudsman
✅ 2.1 million facilities in 192-195 countries with direct billing
✅ Mind Health service included (6 free psychologist sessions)
✅ Cancer cover standard on every tier
✅ Strong European presence

Cons :
❌ Five tiers can be confusing – Foundation tier is thin
❌ Standard tier rarely the right answer; Comprehensive is usually the way
❌ Pre-existing conditions: 5-year look-back / 2-year exclusion under moratorium
❌ No “no upper age limit” promise
❌ Premium pricing closer to Bupa than Cigna

Pricing for Greece (Monthly Estimates):

Plan Level	Age 35-40	Age 45-50	Age 55-60
Foundation	€120-€180	€170-€260	€250-€390
Standard	€160-€250	€240-€370	€350-€540
Comprehensive	€210-€330	€310-€480	€460-€700
Prestige	€270-€430	€400-€620	€600-€920
Prestige Plus	€360-€570	€530-€810	€790-€1,210

Ideal For: British and European expats who value FCA regulation and UK-based consumer protection. Excellent for those seeking a globally recognized brand with strong European healthcare expertise .

Part 3: Mega Comparison Table

Complete Comparison: 7 Best Health Insurances for Expats in Greece

Criteria	Cigna Global	IMG Global	SafetyWing	Now Health	Allianz Care	Foyer Global Health	AXA Health
Best For	Comprehensive Coverage	Customization & Value	Digital Nomads/Short Stay	Simplicity & Service	Digital Tools & EU Focus	Premium/Concierge	UK-Regulated, European Expertise
Avg. Cost (Age 40)	€200-€450	€110-€300	€85-€140	€130-€310	€150-€350	€320-€500	€160-€400
Type D Visa Compliance	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Schengen Visa (Type C)	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Greek Hospital Network	Excellent	Good	Very Limited	Good	Excellent	Excellent	Very Good
Direct Billing in Greece	Extensive	Good	Minimal	Good	Extensive	Extensive	Good
Covers Routine/Outpatient	✅ (add-on)	✅ Yes (most plans)	❌ Emergency only	✅ (higher plans)	✅ (add-on module)	✅ Yes	✅ (higher plans)
Chronic Conditions	✅ After waiting	✅ After waiting	❌ No	✅ After waiting	✅ After waiting	✅ Yes	✅ On higher tiers
Maternity Coverage	✅ Gold/Platinum	✅ Platinum only	❌ No	✅ WorldCare only	✅ Enhanced/Signature	✅ Yes	✅ On higher tiers
Dental & Vision	✅ Add-on	✅ Higher plans/add-on	❌ No	✅ Add-on	✅ Add-on	✅ Often included	✅ Add-on
Pre-Existing Conditions	Medical Assessment	Medical Assessment	Acute onset only	Medical Assessment	Moratorium OR Full Underwriting	Strict Underwriting	5-year look-back / 2-year exclusion
Annual Limit	€500k-Unlimited	€1M-€8M	€250k	€1M-€4.5M	€830k-€3.1M	Unlimited	€400k-€8M
Deductible Options	Yes (€0-€500)	Highly Flexible	Fixed €250	Yes	Yes	Low/None Options	Yes
Telemedicine	✅ Via app	✅ Limited	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Excellent app	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Claims Processing	7-10 days	14-21 days	14 days	5-7 days	24-48 hours	24-48 hours	48 hours (83% online)
Customer Service Rating	9/10	7.5/10	7/10	8.5/10	9/10	9.5/10	8.5/10
Ideal Expat Profile	Corporate, Family, Retiree	Budget Tuner, Student	Nomad, Under 90 days	Value-Seeker, Remote Worker	Professional, Tech-Savvy	Executive, High-Net-Worth	British, European Professionals

Part 4: Step-by-Step Guide to Your Greek Move

Phase 1: Pre-Arrival (6-3 months before)

1. Determine Your Visa Path:
   • Golden Visa for real estate investors 
   • Talent Visa (Z.15) for highly qualified professionals 
   • Tech Visa (Z.13A) for tech professionals 
   • Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers
   • Family reunification
2. Secure Your Insurance:
   • Purchase a comprehensive policy from one of the providers above
   • Ensure coverage matches or exceeds your visa duration
   • Minimum €30,000 coverage for all visa types 
3. Financial Documentation:
   • Golden Visa: €250k-€800k+ property investment
   • Talent Visa: €3,500 minimum bank balance 
   • Tech Visa: Income 1.6x above Greek average salary 
   • Prepare bank statements and tax documents

Phase 2: Visa Application

1. Complete application at Greek consulate in your home country
2. Schedule appointment (plan ahead – waits can be significant)
3. Submit your insurance certificate – ensure it clearly shows:
   • Minimum €30,000 coverage 
   • Valid for Greece (or all Schengen for Type C) 
   • Covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, repatriation

⚠️ Common Reasons for Visa Rejection Related to Insurance:

• Insurance coverage below €30,000
• Policy not valid for the entire requested stay duration
• Missing coverage for repatriation
• Travel insurance used instead of comprehensive health insurance for Type D visas

Phase 3: Arrival & First Steps in Greece

1. Register Your Residence:
   • For Type D visa holders: Register with local Department for Foreigners within required timeframe 
   • Obtain your Residence Permit card
2. Obtain Tax Number (AFM) and Social Security Number (AMKA):
   • AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου) – required for legal work and many transactions
   • AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης) – required for public healthcare access 
3. Register with EOPYY (Public Healthcare):
   • After obtaining AMKA, register with EOPYY
   • Public system covers: GP visits, hospitalization, emergencies, surgeries 
   • Be aware of wait times: 1 week to 2 months for specialist appointments 
4. Keep Your Private Insurance Active:
   • Do not cancel until you have AMKA and are registered with EOPYY
   • Consider keeping private insurance for:
     • Faster access to specialists (1-7 days vs weeks in public system) 
     • Private hospital coverage
     • Dental, optical, and additional services

Part 5: The Greek Healthcare Landscape Explained

Public Healthcare (EOPYY)

Eligibility: Legal residents with AMKA number 

Coverage:

• GP visits
• Hospitalization
• Emergency care
• Surgeries
• Some specialist care

Costs:

• Funded through taxes and social security contributions
• Low co-pays for most services (e.g., cardiologist visit ~€16 in public clinic) 

Cons :

• Long wait times (1 week to 2 months for specialists)
• Older equipment in some facilities
• Greek language proficiency often helpful

Private Healthcare

Eligibility: Anyone with private insurance or ability to pay

Coverage :

• Primary and specialized care
• Hospitalization
• Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, advanced labs)
• Cosmetic surgery
• Dental services
• Prescription medications

Costs:

• Private insurance: €30-€200 per month per person 
• Out-of-pocket: Specialist visit €60+, private hospital stay significantly more

Benefits :

• Faster appointments (1-7 days for specialists)
• Modern equipment
• English-speaking staff common

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

For EU citizens moving to Greece from other EU countries, the EHIC provides access to state-provided healthcare during temporary stays. However, for long-term residence, registering with EOPYY and obtaining AMKA is required .

Part 6: Special Visa Requirements

Golden Visa Insurance Requirements

For Greece’s popular Golden Visa program (residence permit through real estate investment):

• Insurance required for each family member included in the application 
• Minimum coverage: €30,000 per person
• Must cover medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation
• Children’s policies must additionally cover pediatric care and vaccinations 
• Policy must be valid for at least one year 

Talent Visa (Z.15) Insurance Requirements

For highly qualified professionals (Master’s, PhD, or post-doctoral qualifications from universities in at least two international rankings) :

• Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
• Valid for entire Schengen area
• Must be presented with degree credentials and bank statement (€3,500 minimum balance) 

Tech Visa (Z.13A) Insurance Requirements

For tech professionals with employment contracts from Elevate Greece-registered companies :

• Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
• Valid for entire Schengen area
• Must accompany employment contract and company’s hiring approval (Metaklisi) 

Part 7: Real Cost Comparison—Greece Edition

Estimated Annual Healthcare Costs for Expats in Greece

Scenario	Insurance Premium	Out-of-Pocket (est.)	Total Annual
Healthy single, 35, Cigna Silver	€3,000-€4,200	Minimal	€3,000-€4,200
Healthy single, 35, SafetyWing	€600-€1,000	Higher deductibles, limits	€600-€1,000 (limited coverage)
Family of 4, 40s, Allianz Enhanced	€7,000-€10,000	Minimal	€7,000-€10,000
Retired couple, 60s, AXA Comprehensive	€6,000-€9,000	After EOPYY: co-pays	€6,000-€9,000
Golden Visa family (2+2), local provider	€1,500-€3,000	Minimal	€1,500-€3,000

Part 8: Essential Tips and Warnings

What Type of Insurance Does Greece Require?

For Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) :

• Minimum €30,000 coverage
• Valid for entire Schengen area
• Covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, repatriation
• Valid for the entire duration of stay

For National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) and Residence Permits :

• Comprehensive health insurance (not just travel/emergency)
• Valid in Greece specifically
• Minimum coverage often €30,000+
• Covers routine care, chronic conditions, emergencies, hospitalization

Travel Insurance vs. Expat Health Insurance

Feature	Travel Insurance	Expat Health Insurance
Duration	Short trips (up to 90-180 days)	Long-term (1+ years)
Coverage Type	Emergency only	Comprehensive (routine + emergency)
Chronic Conditions	Not covered	Covered
Preventive Care	Not covered	Often covered
Visa Acceptance	Schengen Type C only	Type D and Residence Permits
Renewability	Limited	Annual renewable

Bottom Line: For Schengen short-stay visas (Type C), travel insurance meeting the €30,000 requirement is acceptable. For long-stay Type D visas and residence permits (including Golden Visa), you need comprehensive expat health insurance .

Direct Billing vs. Reimbursement

• Direct Billing: Insurance pays the hospital directly. You pay nothing upfront. Cigna, Allianz, AXA, and Foyer excel here.
• Reimbursement: You pay, then submit claims for repayment. This requires having available funds and patience.

For Greece, direct billing capability at major private hospitals (Hygeia, Metropolitan, Athens Medical Center) is a significant advantage.

The AMKA Challenge

Obtaining an AMKA (Social Security Number) is essential for public healthcare access, but requires:

• Valid residence permit
• Greek tax number (AFM)
• Proof of address in Greece
• Can take several weeks to process

Do not rely on public healthcare until you have your AMKA and are registered with EOPYY.

Conclusion: Your Greek Dream Requires the Right Foundation

Moving to Greece offers an extraordinary quality of life—from the Mediterranean climate and stunning landscapes to the warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage. However, success requires:

1. Choosing the correct visa path for your situation
2. Securing compliant health insurance that meets Greek consulate requirements
3. Understanding the public vs. private healthcare landscape
4. Completing the registration process for AMKA and EOPYY

Final Checklist Before Your Move

• Passport valid for entire stay (3 months beyond for Schengen) 
• Visa type identified and understood
• Comprehensive health insurance purchased (for Type D/residence permits)
• Insurance certificate (€30,000+ coverage) ready for consulate 
• Financial documentation prepared (bank statements, proof of income/investment)
• Accommodation secured (rental contract or property deed)
• Understanding of AMKA and EOPYY enrollment process

Provider Recommendations by Profile

If you are…	Recommended Provider
A family moving long-term	Cigna Global or Allianz Care
A retiree	Cigna Global (no upper age limit) or AXA Health
A Golden Visa investor	Any provider meeting €30k requirement – consider local or Cigna
A digital nomad (under 90 days)	SafetyWing or IMG Global
A digital nomad (long-stay visa)	Now Health or Allianz Care
Budget-conscious	IMG Global or Now Health
A British expat	AXA Health (FCA protection) or Allianz Care
A tech professional (Talent/Tech Visa)	Any provider meeting €30k requirement initially

Final Words

Greece offers an incredible opportunity for expats seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle with European standards of living. The healthcare system, while excellent, requires proper navigation. By investing in the right health insurance from the start, you protect not only your health and finances but also your legal right to reside in this beautiful country.

Καλή τύχη και καλώς ήρθατε στην Ελλάδα! (Good luck and welcome to Greece!)

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*Insurance policies and immigration requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Greek consular authorities and obtain updated quotes from providers before making decisions.