Health Insurance in Slovenia

Slovenia’s public healthcare system is managed by the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (ZZZS), and is funded by taxes and workplace social health insurance contributions.

While there are a mixture of public and private healthcare services provided here, it’s important to bear in mind that proof of healthcare cover is a pre-requisite when applying for a visa.

Health insurance for expats in Slovenia

The health insurance system in Slovenia

Enrolling on the public health insurance scheme is mandatory for residents of Slovenia, and should cover any dependants. For those who will be working in the country, your employer will do this on your behalf.

In Slovenia, public healthcare is divided into three levels: primary, secondary and tertiary. The primary level is usually provided locally by healthcare professionals such as your General Practitioner (GP), while the Ministry of Health will approve secondary care like inpatient treatment in a hospital. Lastly, the tertiary level applies to medical treatment that is normally delivered at medical facilities such as clinics.

You can also visit pharmacies for some of your healthcare needs such as prescriptions and help with everyday illnesses like headaches or colds. In some areas, pharmacies can even be open for 24 hours.

Under the state system, expats can access an array of healthcare services. This includes:

• Prescription drugs

• GP appointments

• Dental services

How much does health insurance in Slovenia cost?

The public healthcare system is not completely free, though some services are covered by the ZZZS card and emergency services are free.

How to choose health insurance in Slovenia: local or international?

If you want to register as a resident, then you must first meet certain requirements, for example having proof of healthcare cover. It is also a requirement that you become a resident if living in the country for longer than three months.

Expats could opt for a local health insurance plan or an international health insurance policy to cover the costs of their medical treatment. A local plan can be less expensive, but is limited to the country you’re insured in. With an international medical insurance policy, you can get medical care in multiple country within your area of cover, as well as the flexibility to choose where you’re treated as well as by who.