Private Health Insurance (Student Plans)
€200–€500/year (~€17–€42/month)
Best for: Non-EU students — mandatory for visa
Providers: Vhi, Laya Healthcare, Irish Life Health. Covers GP visits, hospital care, emergencies.
Learn more
Health Insurance for Students in Ireland
Non-EU students MUST have private health insurance for visa (€200–€500/year). EU students can use EHIC for HSE access.
5 requirements 3 plan options 5 setup steps
Compare Plans Insurance Requirements
- Non-EU students must have private health insurance as visa condition
- Insurance required for entire stay duration
- EU/EEA students with EHIC can access HSE (Health Service Executive) public healthcare
- Private insurance must meet Irish visa requirements (comprehensive coverage)
- Medical card available for low-income students (free healthcare if eligible)
Available Insurance Options
Private Health Insurance (Comprehensive)
€500–€1,000/year (~€42–€84/month)
Best for: Students wanting premium coverage with dental and specialists
Enhanced coverage with private hospitals, dental, optical, and faster access.
Learn moreEHIC + HSE Access
Free (for EU students)
Best for: EU/EEA students
EHIC grants access to HSE public healthcare. Supplementary travel insurance recommended.
Learn moreCost Overview
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Student Health Insurance (Annual) | €200–€500/year | Required for non-EU students. Basic coverage for visa compliance. |
| Comprehensive Insurance (Annual) | €500–€1,000/year | Premium care with private hospitals, dental, and optical |
| GP Visit (Public/HSE) | €50–€70 per visit | Out-of-pocket cost for GP visit without medical card |
| Medical Card | Free (if eligible) | Low-income students may qualify for free medical card (covers GP, prescriptions, hospital) |
Item
Student Health Insurance (Annual)
Cost
€200–€500/year
Details
Required for non-EU students. Basic coverage for visa compliance.
Item
Comprehensive Insurance (Annual)
Cost
€500–€1,000/year
Details
Premium care with private hospitals, dental, and optical
Item
GP Visit (Public/HSE)
Cost
€50–€70 per visit
Details
Out-of-pocket cost for GP visit without medical card
Item
Medical Card
Cost
Free (if eligible)
Details
Low-income students may qualify for free medical card (covers GP, prescriptions, hospital)
Visa & Insurance Requirements
- Student visa (Stamp 2) requires proof of private health insurance
- EU students can show EHIC for visa purposes
- Insurance must cover entire course duration
- Minimum coverage requirements set by Irish immigration (comprehensive medical coverage)
- Insurance certificate must be submitted with visa application and at IRP registration
How to Get Insured
Choose Private Insurance Provider
Non-EU students: Compare student plans from Vhi, Laya Healthcare, or Irish Life Health. EU students can use EHIC.
Apply for Insurance
Submit application with passport, university admission letter, and planned arrival date. Receive insurance certificate.
Apply for Student Visa (Stamp 2)
Submit visa application with insurance certificate, university acceptance, and proof of funds.
Register for IRP (Irish Residence Permit)
After arrival, register for IRP at local immigration office within 90 days. Bring insurance certificate.
Register with GP (Optional)
Find a local GP and register as a patient. Some GPs offer student rates or bulk-billing with certain insurers.
Student Health Insurance in Ireland
Ireland requires all non-EU students to have private health insurance as a condition of their student visa (Stamp 2). EU students can use their EHIC to access Ireland’s public healthcare system (HSE).
Private Insurance for Non-EU Students
Non-EU students must purchase private health insurance costing €200–€500/year for basic coverage. Popular providers include:
- Vhi — Ireland’s largest health insurer
- Laya Healthcare — Competitive student plans
- Irish Life Health — Affordable options for students
These plans typically cover:
- GP consultations
- Hospital treatment (public and private)
- Emergency care
- Specialist consultations
- Prescription medications
HSE Public Healthcare for EU Students
EU/EEA students with EHIC can access Irish public healthcare (HSE). However, note that:
- GP visits cost €50–€70 out-of-pocket (not free)
- Emergency room visits cost €100 for non-urgent cases
- Hospital care is mostly free for emergencies
Many EU students still get private insurance for convenience and to avoid out-of-pocket costs.
Medical Card for Low-Income Students
Students with low income may qualify for a medical card, which provides:
- Free GP visits
- Free prescriptions
- Free hospital care
Apply at your local HSE office with proof of income and student status.
Why Ireland?
With over 35,000 international students, Ireland offers world-class universities, a thriving tech industry, and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy vibrant student life in Dublin, Cork, and Galway with high-quality healthcare and strong post-graduation opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does health insurance cost in Ireland?
Student health insurance in Ireland costs €200–€500/year (~€17–€42/month) for basic coverage, and €500–€1,000/year for comprehensive plans with dental and private hospitals.
Can EU students use EHIC in Ireland?
Yes, EU/EEA students with EHIC can access Irish public healthcare (HSE) services, including GP visits (with fees) and hospital care.
What is a medical card?
A medical card is a free HSE card for low-income individuals. It covers GP visits, prescriptions, and hospital care at no cost. Students with low income may qualify — apply at your local health office.
Is healthcare free in Ireland?
No, Ireland has a mixed public-private system. Public healthcare (HSE) is available but not entirely free. GP visits cost €50–€70 without a medical card. Hospital emergency visits cost €100+ for non-urgent cases.
Which insurance provider is best for students?
Popular providers for students include Vhi (market leader), Laya Healthcare, and Irish Life Health. Compare student-specific plans for the best rates.
Ready to Study in Ireland?
Compare student health insurance plans and ensure you meet Irish visa requirements.
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