📚 Table of Contents
| Introduction: The Golden Opportunity of Erasmus and the Importance of Insurance | ||
| Part 1 | The Greek Healthcare System – What You Should Know | |
| • Public Hospitals (ESY – National Health System) | ||
| • Private Hospitals and Clinics | ||
| Part 2 | The EHIC Confusion – Are Pakistani Students Eligible? | |
| Part 3 | Insurance Requirements for a Schengen Visa | |
| Part 4 | Identifying a Good Insurance Plan – Things No One Tells You | |
| • Coverage Limit and Quality | ||
| • Repatriation | ||
| • Pre-existing Conditions | ||
| • Sports and Adventure | ||
| • Dental Coverage | ||
| • Maternity | ||
| • Mental Health | ||
| Part 5 | Practical Tips for Students from Pakistan Going to Greece | |
| • When to Buy Insurance? | ||
| • Which Company to Buy It From? | ||
| • Read the Policy Document | ||
| • Save the Helpline Number | ||
| • Carry a Copy of the Policy | ||
| Part 6 | What to Do in Case of a Medical Emergency in Greece? | |
| • Step 1: Dial the Emergency Number | ||
| • Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company | ||
| • Step 3: Go to the Hospital | ||
| • Step 4: Direct Billing | ||
| • Step 5: Save Receipts | ||
| Part 7 | Residence Permit and Insurance in Greece | |
| Part 8 | Insurance Claims Procedure | |
| • Direct Billing System | ||
| • Reimbursement System | ||
| Part 9 | dotzee.eu Experience and Advice | |
| Part 10 | Ways to Stay Healthy While Living in Greece | |
| • Drink Water | ||
| • Use Sunscreen | ||
| • Eat Local Food | ||
| • Exercise | ||
| • Take Care of Your Mental Health | ||
| Part 11 | Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | |
| • 10 Important Questions with Answers | ||
| Part 12 | Conclusion and Final Words |
Introduction: The Golden Opportunity of Erasmus and the Importance of Insurance ✨
The name Greece brings a strange feeling of joy to the heart. Those blue and white buildings perched on the hills, olive trees, stories of ancient Greek gods, and crystal clear water. But for a Pakistani student, studying in Greece under the Erasmus Mundus program is not just an educational opportunity, but a life-changing experience. 🌊
I have been working in the insurance sector for a long time and help people choose the right insurance plan on dotzee.eu. During this time, I have come across hundreds of Pakistani students who were eager to go to Europe, and the biggest problem that bothered them was health insurance. People think that insurance is just a paperwork, but when they find out that the bill for a minor surgery in Greece can be more than 10,000 euros, their eyes are opened. 💰
In this article I will tell you everything I have learned over the years of experience and my studies in Europe. This is not just information, it is the path I have walked myself, and now I want you to follow this path without any problems. 🚀
Part 1: The Greek Healthcare System – What You Should Know 🏥
The Greek healthcare system is divided into two parts: public and private. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and as a student, you need to understand both.
Public Hospitals (ESY – National Health System) 🏨
The Greek public healthcare system provides free or very low-cost services to all citizens and residents who contribute to the social security fund. But for a foreign student, the situation is a little different.
It is possible to get treatment in public hospitals, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Long waiting times: You may have to wait for hours for minor problems. ⏰
- Language problem: Most doctors and nurses speak Greek, English is not common. 🗣️
- Lack of modern facilities: Public hospitals outside the big cities may lack modern equipment. 🔧
Private Hospitals and Clinics 🏩
The situation is completely different in the private sector. Here:
- Immediate treatment, no waiting. ⚡
- English-speaking doctors are easily found. 👨⚕️
- State-of-the-art technology and facilities are available. 💻
- Expensive: A visit to a general doctor can cost 50-100 euros, and major surgeries are not even predictable. 💶
This is where private health insurance can save you money. 💪
Part 2: The EHIC Confusion – Are Pakistani Students Eligible? 🤔
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a card issued to citizens of the European Union. With this card, they can get the same facilities in public hospitals in any EU country as local citizens.
But an important point for Pakistani students:
Pakistan is not a member of the EU, so you are not directly eligible for an EHIC. However, if you are studying in another European country (e.g. Germany, France) and have obtained a residence permit from there and also an EHIC, this card will work in Greece. 🌍
The official website of the University of Crete states that Erasmus students are advised to obtain an EHIC from their home university. This is for European students. Pakistani students cannot get this card. ❌
Another important point: even if you somehow get this card, it only works in public hospitals. It is useless in private hospitals. And to be honest, the facilities in private hospitals are much better than in public hospitals. 👍
Part 3: Insurance Requirements for a Schengen Visa 🛂
Greece is part of the Schengen area. Health insurance is mandatory for a Schengen visa. According to the European Commission website, when applying for a Schengen visa, you must provide proof that you have medical insurance that is valid throughout the Schengen area, and that its coverage should be at least 30,000 euros. 📄✅
But that’s just the beginning.
For a student, coverage of 30,000 euros may be enough, but I would advise you to take out a plan with coverage of 50,000 euros or more. Why? Because treatment in private hospitals in Greece is extremely expensive. The cost of a single day in the hospital alone can go up to 1000-2000 euros. 💊💶
Part 4: Identifying a Good Insurance Plan – Things No One Tells You 🔍
There are many insurance plans on the market. Some are cheap, some are expensive. But expensive is not always better, and cheap is not always worse. The hallmark of a good plan is that it meets your needs. 🎯
1. Coverage Limit and Quality 📊
The coverage limit is just a number. The real thing is what this coverage covers. Some insurance companies offer coverage of 100,000 euros but do not include private hospitals. Some offer coverage of 50,000 euros but include the best private hospitals.
2. Repatriation 🔄
This feature can prove to be life-threatening. Suppose you get a serious illness and the doctors say that it would be better to get treatment in Pakistan. Or in the worst case scenario, you die. Repatriation means that the insurance company will bear all the expenses of transporting you or your body to Pakistan. This expense can run into lakhs of rupees. Do not take any plan without this feature. 🚑
3. Pre-existing Conditions 🫀
If you have a pre-existing condition such as asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid, regular insurance plans may not cover it. Some plans cover pre-existing conditions after a certain waiting period. Some do not. Make this clear when you take out your insurance. 📋
4. Sports and Adventure ⚽🏊♂️
Erasmus is not just about the classroom. You will be playing soccer with friends, swimming, hiking, maybe even skiing. Regular insurance plans do not cover sports injuries, especially adventure sports such as paragliding, skiing, or diving. If you plan to do these things, make sure your plan covers them. 🏔️
5. Dental Coverage 🦷
Dental treatment is extremely expensive. In Greece, a simple tooth extraction can cost 50-100 euros, and a root canal can cost 300-500 euros. Most student insurance policies have very limited dental coverage, only covering emergencies (e.g., a broken tooth in an accident). If you have dental problems, get them treated in Pakistan, it will be very expensive once you get here. 😬
6. Maternity 🤰
If you are married or planning to have a baby in the near future, consider this. Most student insurance policies do not include maternity coverage, or if they do, there is a 9-12 month waiting period.
7. Mental Health 🧠
This is a topic that most people overlook. The stress of studying in Europe, loneliness, distance from family, change in weather, and changes in eating habits can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Modern insurance plans now include mental health counseling and therapy. Don’t forget to check it out. 💚
Part 5: Practical Tips for Students from Pakistan Going to Greece ✈️
Now let’s talk about practical tips. I have walked this path myself, and I have seen what problems Pakistani students face.
1. When to Buy Insurance? 📅
Buy insurance before your visa application. You will need to provide proof of insurance at the time of your visa application. Make sure that the insurance starts from the date of your travel, and is at least 15 days longer than the visa period.
2. Which Company to Buy It From? 🏢
International insurance companies such as Allianz, AXA, or Europ Assistance are the best. These companies operate across Europe and their claims are processed quickly. Some local Pakistani companies also offer international plans, but there may be problems at the time of claim.
3. Read the Policy Document 📖
This is the most important tip. The policy document contains all the details that the agent does not tell you. What is covered, what is not covered, how much is the deductible, what is the claim procedure. Read it all. If you do not understand something, ask. ❓
4. Save the Helpline Number 📞
After buying insurance, save the company’s 24/7 helpline number in your phone. This number also works in Greece. In an emergency, this number can save your life. 🆘
5. Carry a Copy of the Policy 📄
Carry a printed copy of your insurance policy and a PDF copy on your mobile. You may have to show this copy when you go to the hospital.
Part 6: What to Do in Case of a Medical Emergency in Greece? 🚑
Suppose you are walking on the streets of Athens and suddenly you have a high fever, or you have an accident. What will you do?
Step 1: Dial the Emergency Number 📞
The only emergency number in all of Europe is 112. It is toll-free and works 24/7. You can speak English.
Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company 🏢
If the situation is not critical, first call your insurance company’s helpline number. Tell them what the problem is and where you are. They will give you the address of the nearest doctor or hospital that is affiliated with the insurance company.
Step 3: Go to the Hospital 🚶♂️
Take your insurance policy and identification (passport) with you when you go to the hospital. Tell the hospital administration that you have insurance and the name of the insurance company.
Step 4: Direct Billing 💳
If the hospital is affiliated with your insurance company, they will bill you directly from the insurance company, you do not have to pay anything. If not, you will have to pay the bill yourself, and then file a claim with the insurance company.
Step 5: Save Receipts 🧾
If you paid for it yourself, save all receipts, doctor’s certificates, and medical reports. These are necessary to file a claim.
Part 7: Residence Permit and Insurance in Greece 🪪
If your studies last longer than 90 days (which is usually the case), you will need to apply for a Residence Permit upon arrival in Greece. You will need to provide the following documents:
- Passport 🛂
- Admission letter from the university 📜
- Health insurance certificate ✅
- Passport-sized photos 📸
- Visa fee 💶
In addition, you will need to obtain a medical certificate from a Greek government hospital stating that you are free from TB, Hepatitis B, and other infectious diseases. You can get these tests done when you arrive in Greece. Without insurance, you will have to pay for these tests yourself. 💉
Here at dotzee.eu, we have seen many students skip the medical tests required for a residence permit and end up in trouble later. These tests are mandatory, so get them done on time. ⏰
Part 8: Insurance Claims Procedure 📝
This is the most important part. Insurance comes in handy when you need it, and it is very important to know the claim procedure.
Direct Billing System 💳
This is the best method. In this, the hospital receives money directly from the insurance company. You just have to show your insurance card and sign. No money is required. ✅
Reimbursement System 💰
In this, you first have to pay the money yourself, then get it back from the insurance company. For this:
- Save all receipts and bills 🧾
- Get a doctor’s certificate detailing the illness and treatment 📋
- Fill the insurance company’s claim form 📝
- Send all the documents to the company 📤
- The company will process the claim and transfer the money to your bank account 🏦
Remember: There is a fixed period for claiming (usually 30 days to 3 months). Claim within this period. ⏳
Part 9: dotzee.eu Experience and Advice 💡
I have advised thousands of Pakistani students while working on dotzee.eu. Many of them followed my advice and are now living comfortably in Europe. Many ignored the advice and later regretted it. 😔
I remember one incident. A student took a cheap insurance plan because he wanted to save money. He went to Greece and had his appendix ruptured. He was taken to a private hospital. He underwent surgery. The bill came to 8,000 euros. His insurance plan only covered 3,000 euros. He had to pay the remaining 5,000 euros himself. He asked his parents for money, took loans, and his studies also suffered.
That is why I always say: don’t think of insurance as an expense, think of it as an investment. It is the price of your peace of mind. 🛡️
Part 10: Ways to Stay Healthy While Living in Greece 🌿
Insurance is for emergencies, but it is better not to get sick. Some tips for staying healthy in Greece:
1. Drink Water 💧
Greece is very hot, especially from May to September. Drinking less water can lead to dehydration, which can cause headaches and fatigue.
2. Use Sunscreen ☀️
The Greek sun is very strong. Apply sunscreen before going out in the sun, otherwise you may get sunstroke. 🧴
3. Eat Local Food 🥗
Greek food is called the Mediterranean diet, which is considered one of the healthiest diets in the world. Olive oil, fish, fresh vegetables, yogurt. All of these will keep you healthy. 🫒🐟
4. Exercise 🏃♂️
Greek cities are located on hills. Walking is exercise in itself. Take advantage of it.
5. Take Care of Your Mental Health 💚
If you feel lonely, contact the university’s counseling service. Meet other Pakistani students. Chat. 🗣️
Part 11: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
Can I take a general insurance from Pakistan? 🇵🇰
No. General Pakistani health insurance will not work in Europe. You will need to take out a specific insurance for international students that provides cover throughout the Schengen area.
How much does it cost to see a doctor in Greece? 👨⚕️
A private doctor’s fee can range from 50 to 100 euros. Public hospitals cost less, but there are fewer English-speaking doctors.
Does insurance cover medication? 💊
Generally yes, but only for medications prescribed by a doctor and included in the insurance policy. Some plans have limited coverage for medications.
Does insurance cover me if I get sick and miss school? 📚
Some modern insurance plans include reimbursement for academic leave, but this is not common. You will have to pay an additional premium to take such a plan.
Are there any Pakistani doctors in Greece? 👨⚕️🇵🇰
Pakistani doctors can be found in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, but their number is very small. You can find out by contacting the Pakistani embassy.
Do I need to get vaccinated in Greece? 💉
COVID-19 vaccine is mandatory before coming to Greece. In addition, hepatitis A and B, tetanus, and measles vaccines are recommended.
Can the insurance plan be upgraded later? 🔼
Yes, but usually on an annual basis. You can upgrade the plan by contacting your insurance company.
Can my parents come to Greece and visit me? What will be the insurance arrangement for them? 👨👩👧
Parents will have to take out separate insurance for the Schengen visa. They will not be covered by your insurance.
Does the Greek university provide its own insurance? 🏛️
Some universities provide insurance for Erasmus students, but this is not common. Ask your university’s international office.
Can I get my insurance premium refunded if I can’t go to Greece? 💶
Most companies will refund the premium if your visa is rejected or there are other circumstances that force you to do so, but they will have to give you advance notice and may charge you some fees.
Conclusion and Final Words 🎯
An Erasmus trip to Greece is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It not only gives you the opportunity to pursue higher education, but also exposes you to a new culture, new people, and new experiences. 🌍✨
But preparation is essential to make this trip a success. And the most important part of this preparation is health insurance. It is the shield that protects you in the event of unforeseen circumstances. 🛡️
Remember: 📌
- The EHIC is only for European citizens, Pakistani students should take out private insurance. ✅
- Choose a plan with coverage of at least 50,000 euros. 💶
- Be sure to check the coverage for repatriation and chronic illnesses. 🔄
- Read the policy document carefully. 📖
- Call the insurance company before going to the hospital. 📞
- Save all receipts. 🧾
- Get the medical tests required for the residence permit done on time. ⏰
While working at dotzee.eu, I have always tried to give people the right advice so that they can fulfill their dreams without any problems. If you have any questions, any confusion, feel free to contact me. 💬
You can find more information about the insurance requirements required for a Schengen visa on the European Commission website. 💻
Greece is waiting for you. Prepare well, do not neglect insurance, and see your dreams come true in this beautiful country.