How to Get Health Insurance in Ukraine as a Foreigner (2026 Guide)

(Медичне страхування в Україні для іноземців: Повний посібник 2026)

Health Insurance in Ukraine for Foreigners: Moving to Ukraine or just visiting? Whether you’re an expat settling in Kyiv, a student hitting the books in Lviv, or a traveler exploring the Carpathians, one thing’s for sure: health insurance isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s often a must. As someone who’s chatted with plenty of foreigners navigating life in Ukraine, I know the system can feel a bit overwhelming at first. But don’t worry; by the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear picture of how to get the right coverage, what it costs, and why it’s worth every hryvnia.

In 2026, Ukraine’s healthcare landscape is a mix of public services (mostly free but limited) and private options that shine for quality. For foreigners, insurance bridges the gap, especially since public care isn’t always fully accessible without residency. Plus, with ongoing global uncertainties, having a solid policy gives that peace of mind. Let’s break it down step by step, from the basics to pro tips. READ MORE

Understanding Ukraine’s Healthcare System: A Quick Overview

Health Insurance in Ukraine for Foreigners: Ukraine’s healthcare is publicly funded through the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU), which covers basics like emergency care, primary visits, and some treatments under the Medical Guarantee Program. It’s free for citizens and permanent residents, but as a foreigner, you’ll likely pay out-of-pocket for anything beyond emergencies unless you’re insured or have a work contract that includes contributions.

The good news? Private clinics in cities like Kyiv, Odesa, and Lviv offer top-notch care—think English-speaking doctors, modern equipment, and shorter waits. Places like American Medical Centers or Boris Clinic cater to expats with services rivaling Western standards. But without insurance, a simple doctor’s visit can cost 500-1,000 UAH ($12-25), while hospital stays or surgeries run into thousands.

For short-term visitors, insurance is mandatory for entry visas (covering at least €30,000 or about 1.3 million UAH). Long-term expats or those with residence permits (like D visas) aren’t strictly required to have it, but skipping it is risky—especially with potential language barriers and varying hospital quality outside big cities. READ MORE

Why Do Foreigners Need Health Insurance in Ukraine?

Let’s be real: accidents happen, illnesses sneak up, and in a country like Ukraine, where winters are harsh and public transport is bustling, it’s smart to be prepared. Here’s why insurance is key:

• Visa Requirements: For non-EU foreigners entering on a tourist or short-term visa, you need proof of medical insurance valid for your stay. It must cover COVID-19 (still a thing in some policies) and general health issues up to €30,000. Without it, border guards might turn you away.
• Access to Private Care: Public hospitals are underfunded and overcrowded; private ones are better but pricey (e.g., an MRI could cost 2,000-5,000 UAH or $50-125). Insurance lets you choose without breaking the bank.
• War and Emergency Risks: In 2026, with the situation stabilized but memories fresh, many policies include “war risk” add-ons for accidents related to conflicts or unrest. Standard travel insurance often excludes this, so check carefully.
• Peace of Mind for Expats: If you’re working, studying, or retiring here, local voluntary insurance or international plans cover routine check-ups, dental, and even maternity—things public care might not fully handle for non-residents.
• Cost Savings: Uninsured emergencies can wipe out savings. A broken arm treatment? Up to 10,000 UAH ($250) without coverage.

From my talks with expats, many regret not getting insurance early—especially those who faced unexpected hospital bills during flu season or minor accidents.

Types of Health Insurance Available for Foreigners

Ukraine offers several options tailored to foreigners. Here’s a rundown:

1. Mandatory Entry Insurance (Travel/Medical): Short-term policies for visas. Covers basics like accidents, illness, and repatriation. Valid for 3-6 months, extendable. Cost: 300-1,000 UAH ($7-25) for 30 days, depending on age and coverage.
2. Voluntary Health Insurance (VHI): For longer stays. Local companies provide plans similar to U.S. HMOs—outpatient, inpatient, meds. Annual cost: 5,000-15,000 UAH ($125-375) per person. Includes dental/optical add-ons.
3. War Risk Insurance: Add-on or standalone. Covers injuries from shelling, mines, or unrest (up to 1 million UAH or $25,000). Popular for expats in eastern regions. Cost: 1,000-3,000 UAH ($25-75) extra per month.
4. International Expat Plans: From global firms like Cigna or Allianz. Worldwide coverage, including evacuation. Ideal for frequent travelers. Cost: $100-300/month, but comprehensive.
5. Employer-Sponsored: If working in Ukraine, companies often provide group insurance through local firms like INGO or UNIQA. Check your contract—many IT and business roles include it.

For students, universities like Kyiv-Mohyla Academy offer cheap group plans (around 2,000 UAH/year or $50).

Best Health Insurance Providers for Foreigners in Ukraine

Picking a provider? Look for English support, wide networks, and fast claims. Here’s my take on top ones based on expat feedback:

• UNIQA Ukraine: Reliable for expats. Plans from 4,000 UAH/year ($100). Covers private clinics, war risks optional. Great app for claims. English docs available.
• INGO: Affordable VHI (3,000-10,000 UAH/year or $75-250). Strong in Kyiv/Odesa. Includes telemedicine—handy for non-Ukrainian speakers.
• TAS: Local giant with expat-friendly plans. Entry-level: 2,500 UAH/year ($60). War coverage strong. Partners with international reinsurers.
• MetLife Ukraine: Global name with local twist. Expat plans $150-400/month. Evacuation included—peace for remote areas.
• Cigna Global: For premium coverage. Worldwide network, $200-500/month. Ideal if you travel often; seamless claims.

Expats rave about UNIQA’s quick payouts (within 7 days) and INGO’s 24/7 English hotline. Avoid tiny locals without reviews—they might skimp on claims.

Costs vary by age, health, and add-ons. A 30-year-old healthy foreigner: $10-30/month for basic; $50-100 for comprehensive with war risks. Families get discounts—add kids for $5-10 extra.

How to Get Health Insurance as a Foreigner in Ukraine

Step-by-step—easy as ordering borscht:

1. Assess Needs: Tourist? Basic entry policy. Expat? Full VHI. Use online calculators on provider sites.
2. Shop Around: Compare on sites like VisitUkraine.today or Strakhovka.ua (English versions available). Get quotes in 5 minutes.
3. Apply Online/Offline: Most providers have apps/websites. Upload passport, visa. Pay via card (Visa/Mastercard fine).
4. Get Policy: Instant email PDF. Print for borders.
5. For Residence: If applying for permit, insurance must cover full stay (min €30,000).
6. Renew/Claim: Apps track renewals. Claims: submit docs online, reimbursed in 5-10 days.

Tip: Buy before arrival—online from home. For war risks, specify in application.

Challenges and Tips for Foreigners

• Language: Many docs in Ukrainian—use Google Translate or English providers.
• War Exclusions: Standard policies skip conflict injuries—add war rider (extra 20-50%).
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Disclose honestly; some plans cover after waiting period.
• Emergencies: Call 103 (ambulance). Insurance hotlines guide you to partnered hospitals.
• Taxes: Premiums tax-deductible for residents.

Pro Tips:

• Bundle with travel insurance for luggage/theft.
• Join expat forums like Expat.com for real reviews.
• Check EU agreements if from Europe—some reciprocal care.
• For long-term, get residency for partial public access.

FAQs: Common Questions from Foreigners

Is health insurance mandatory in Ukraine? Yes for short visas; recommended for all.

What’s the cheapest option? Basic entry: $0.25/day. Full: $10/month.

Does it cover COVID? Most yes, including tests/treatment.

Best for families? UNIQA family plans—kids free under 18.

What if war happens? War risk policies cover up to $25,000 for injuries.

Wrapping Up: Secure Your Stay in Ukraine

Health insurance in Ukraine for foreigners is straightforward once you know the ropes—affordable, essential, and a smart safeguard. Whether dodging Kyiv’s winter flu or exploring Odessa beaches, the right policy lets you focus on the adventure, not “what ifs.” Shop smart, cover war risks if needed, and enjoy Ukraine’s warmth. Safe travels—and stay healthy!