korea health insurance

Do Foreigners Need Health Insurance in Korea? Here’s What You Must Know

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Healthcare services in Korea for foreigners, tips for hospital visits

Healthcare in Korea is known for its quality and speed, but without insurance, it can also be costly—especially for foreigners. Whether you’re a long-term resident or a short-term visitor, understanding Korea’s health insurance system is essential. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Can Foreigners Get National Health Insurance in Korea?

Yes. Foreigners who are:

  • Registered with the immigration office (with an ARC)
  • Staying in Korea for more than 6 months
    → Are eligible (and usually required) to enroll in Korea’s National Health Insurance (NHI).

Enrollment is typically automatic for those with work visas or student visas, but individual sign-up is also possible at the NHIS (National Health Insurance Service) office.

Tip: ARC and a Korean address are required to register.

2. What Does Korean Health Insurance Cover?

National Health Insurance covers:

  • 70% of outpatient and inpatient medical costs
  • Most diagnostic tests, surgeries, and prescriptions
  • Some dental and physical therapy services

You’ll only need to pay about 30% of the total bill. Without insurance, you pay 100%—which adds up quickly.

3. What If I Don’t Have Insurance?

If you’re uninsured:

  • A routine checkup that costs 10,000 KRW with insurance may cost 30,000–40,000 KRW without it
  • Advanced tests (e.g., MRI) can exceed 1 million KRW out of pocket

For short-term travelers, private travel insurance or international health coverage is recommended.

4. Are There Alternatives for Short-Term Visitors?

Yes. If you’re staying less than 6 months:

  • Use travel insurance from your home country
  • Consider credit card travel insurance (some premium cards offer automatic health coverage abroad)
  • Private Korean plans for foreigners exist but are limited

Tip: Always carry a printed or digital copy of your insurance policy.

5. How to Enroll in NHI as a Foreigner

  • Visit your local NHIS office (with ARC, passport, rental contract)
  • Fill out the application
  • Pay the monthly premium (~100,000–130,000 KRW depending on age & status)
  • Coverage begins immediately or within a few days

Some employers handle this for you. If not, you are expected to register yourself.

Final Thoughts

Health insurance in Korea is not just recommended—it’s often required.
Whether you’re here to work, study, or explore, understanding and enrolling in the proper plan will save you money, reduce stress, and ensure access to top-quality medical care.

Things Foreigners Must Prepare Before Visiting a Hospital in Korea

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Healthcare services in Korea for foreigners, tips for hospital visits

Korean hospitals are known for their speed and efficiency. But for foreigners, especially first-time visitors, a smooth experience depends on being prepared. Here’s what you absolutely need to bring—and why each one matters.

1. Valid ID – Passport or Alien Registration Card (ARC)

Hospitals require proof of identity for registration.

  • Short-term visitors must show their passport.
  • Long-term residents (90+ days) are expected to present their ARC.
    Without these, registration may be denied or delayed.

Why it matters: Your ID links your medical history, insurance, and billing. Without it, staff won’t be able to process your visit properly.

2. Korean Contact Info – Phone Number and Address

Even for walk-in patients, hospitals usually request:

  • A Korean mobile number (for follow-ups, test results, and prescription notifications)
  • A local address (for documentation or delivery of medication)

If you don’t have a personal number, prepare the contact of a local guardian, company, or accommodation.

Tip: Prepaid SIM cards with Korean numbers are cheap and can be purchased at airports or convenience stores.

3. Health Insurance – National or Private

If you’re enrolled in Korea’s National Health Insurance, bring proof of enrollment or your ARC (which links to your insurance).
If you’re covered under a private international policy, carry a digital or physical copy of your plan.

Without insurance, you’ll pay the full cost upfront. Some treatments can cost 2-3x more for uninsured patients.

Bonus: Helpful Add-ons

  • Medical records: Especially for chronic illness or ongoing treatment
  • Current medications list: Korean doctors need to know what you’re already taking
  • Translation app or paper with key terms in Korean: Can bridge unexpected language gaps

Preparation is key.
By bringing the right documents and knowing what to expect, you make your Korean healthcare experience faster, smoother, and less stressful.