Health Insurance for International Students in Cyprus
Medical insurance is a mandatory requirement for all international students pursuing higher education in the Republic of Cyprus. Whether a student originates from an EU member state or a third country, proof of health coverage is essential for both the university registration process and the issuance of a temporary residence permit (Pink Slip).
The healthcare system in Cyprus is divided into two main sectors: the public sector, managed through the General Healthcare System (GeSY), and the private sector. The specific requirements for coverage depend largely on the student's nationality and the duration of their stay.
EU, EEA, and Swiss Students
Students who are citizens of European Union (EU) member states, the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland are entitled to use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card allows holders to access necessary public healthcare services during their temporary stay under the same conditions and at the same cost as insured residents of Cyprus.
- Coverage: EHIC covers urgent and necessary medical treatments but does not cover private healthcare or repatriation costs.
- Registration: Students should obtain the EHIC in their home country before arrival.
- GeSY Access: EU students who are officially residing in Cyprus may also register with the General Healthcare System (GeSY) if they meet specific residency criteria.
For more information on EHIC usage in Cyprus, students can visit the Ministry of Health official portal.
Non-EU (Third-Country) Nationals
Students from non-EU countries are legally required to purchase a private medical insurance policy. This is a prerequisite for the issuance of a student visa and a residence permit. The insurance policy must meet the minimum coverage requirements set by the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Standard private student insurance policies in Cyprus typically cover:
- Inpatient care (hospitalization and surgery).
- Outpatient care (doctor visits and diagnostic tests).
- Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains.
- Basic dental and maternity care (often subject to waiting periods).
The average cost for a basic private health insurance policy for students ranges from 120 EUR ($126 USD, Jan 2026) to 180 EUR ($189 USD, Jan 2026) per year.
The General Healthcare System (GeSY)
The General Healthcare System (GeSY) is the national health scheme providing universal coverage to the population. While international students primarily rely on private insurance or EHIC, some may become eligible for GeSY under specific circumstances.
Eligibility for Students
A student may register for GeSY if they fall into one of the following categories:
- They are EU nationals who have exercised their right to reside in Cyprus.
- They are non-EU nationals who have legal permanent residence or have worked and contributed to the Social Insurance Services for a specific period.
- They are family members of an insured person under GeSY.
For non-EU students who are not working, the private insurance policy remains the primary and mandatory form of coverage. Information on registration and provider lists can be found on the official GeSY website.
Practical Steps for Insurance Registration
To ensure full compliance with Cypriot laws, students should follow these steps:
- Pre-Arrival: EU students must ensure their EHIC is valid for the duration of their studies. Non-EU students should check if their university offers a group insurance scheme.
- Upon Arrival: Non-EU students must finalize their insurance contract. Most universities in Cyprus have partnerships with local insurance companies to provide streamlined registration during orientation.
- Documentation: Keep the original insurance certificate and a receipt of payment. These documents must be presented during the appointment at the Migration Department.
- Renewal: Student health insurance must be renewed annually. Failure to maintain valid insurance can lead to the revocation of the residence permit.
If a student's medical needs exceed the limits of their policy, they are responsible for the remaining costs. It is recommended to review the "Table of Benefits" in the insurance contract to understand the maximum coverage limits per year and per incident.
