Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Croatia?

When planning a move to Croatia as an expat or digital nomad, one of the essential considerations is health insurance. Croatia requires all individuals applying for residency to have health insurance coverage. This requirement is in place to ensure that newcomers are covered for any medical expenses during their stay, especially before they gain access to the public healthcare system or obtain residency. The health insurance must meet specific criteria, including minimum coverage amounts and the length of coverage required. It's important to note that even if Croatia has a public healthcare system, new arrivals must have their own insurance in place to cover the interim period.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Expat health insurance policies can meet the requirements for residency in Croatia, provided they fulfill the criteria set by the Croatian government. The insurance must cover emergency medical services, hospitalization, and basic healthcare needs. It is crucial to ensure that the policy is valid for the duration of your stay or until you are eligible to join the Croatian health system. Before purchasing a policy, expats should verify that the insurance company is recognized by Croatian authorities and that the coverage amounts are sufficient to meet the minimum requirements. It's advisable to have a policy that offers coverage well above the minimum to avoid any potential financial risks associated with health emergencies.

Which local health insurers offer this type of insurance?

In Croatia, there are several local health insurance providers that offer policies suitable for expats and digital nomads. These insurers provide various plans that cater to the needs of foreigners staying in Croatia for an extended period. Some of the well-known insurance companies include Croatia Osiguranje, Allianz Zagreb, and Uniqa. These insurers have a range of products that are designed to comply with the legal requirements for residency applications. They offer the convenience of customer service in English and other languages, which can be particularly helpful for expats navigating the insurance landscape in a new country.

Advice from Expats in Croatia about Health Insurance

Experienced expats in Croatia often emphasize the importance of thoroughly researching and understanding the terms and conditions of any health insurance policy. It's essential to ensure that the policy covers repatriation and medical evacuation, as these can be costly and are sometimes overlooked. Expats recommend choosing a plan that offers direct billing with hospitals and clinics to avoid out-of-pocket payments during medical emergencies. Additionally, it's wise to select a policy with a straightforward claims process and to keep all medical receipts and documentation in case they are needed for claims or residency applications. Lastly, expats advise reviewing the policy annually to ensure that it continues to meet the legal requirements and your personal needs as healthcare regulations and individual circumstances can change over time.