How to Get Polish Health Insurance (NFZ & Private)
Last updated: • ~7 min read
What is Polish Health Insurance?
Polish health insurance is delivered through the public system NFZ (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia) and a wide private market (insurers and clinics). With NFZ, you access public healthcare after paying contributions; private plans give faster access and English-speaking services but do not replace all NFZ entitlements.
Example: NFZ Coverage vs Private
Scenario: Emma (non-EU, work permit) signs an employment contract in Warsaw. Her employer pays NFZ contributions, so she can register with a family doctor (POZ) and visit public specialists with referrals.
She also buys a private plan to get faster dermatology appointments and English-speaking clinics.
Step 1: Decide your path (Employment, Voluntary NFZ, Student, or Private)
There are four common ways to get insured:
- Employment: Employer pays ZUS/NFZ contributions. You (and eligible family) get NFZ access.
- Voluntary NFZ contract: If you’re not employed and legally reside in Poland, you can sign a contract with NFZ and pay monthly.
- Student/Researcher: University may help you join NFZ (or you may need voluntary NFZ).
- Private insurance: Optional add-on for faster access and English-speaking services.
Tip: If you have a job contract (umowa o pracę), you’re usually covered via employer. For umowa zlecenie (mandate), check if health insurance contributions are included.
Step 2: Gather the required documents
Depending on your route, prepare:
- Passport or residence card
- PESEL (helpful for NFZ/ZUS records; some processes possible without, but PESEL simplifies everything)
- Proof of legal stay (visa, residence permit, EU registration)
- Employment document (if applicable) or voluntary NFZ application
- Address in Poland (rental agreement or declaration)
Step 3: If employed — confirm your ZUS/NFZ registration
Your employer registers you in ZUS (social security). Ask HR for confirmation (e.g., ZUS ZUA form or payslip showing contributions). Once active, choose a primary care doctor (POZ) at a clinic contracted with NFZ.
Step 4: If not employed — sign a voluntary NFZ contract
Visit your regional NFZ branch. Fill in the voluntary insurance application, sign the contract, and start paying monthly contributions by bank transfer. After activation, select a POZ clinic and submit the declaration choosing your family doctor.
Step 5: Consider a private plan (optional)
Private insurers and clinic networks offer packages with shorter waiting times, English-speaking doctors, and telemedicine. Review the scope (GP, specialists, diagnostics) and exclusions. Private plans do not replace emergency coverage under NFZ but can dramatically improve access speed.
💡 Practical notes
- Bring both your passport and residence card when registering — some offices ask for both.
- Keep payment confirmations for voluntary NFZ; you may need them when declaring a POZ doctor.
- In big cities, book first POZ appointment online or by phone; ask for an English-speaking doctor if needed.
FAQ
Do I need PESEL to get NFZ?
PESEL greatly simplifies NFZ/ZUS records and clinic registration. In some cases you can start with passport/residence details and update PESEL later.
How long does voluntary NFZ activation take?
Usually from immediate to a few days after signing and paying the first contribution. Timelines vary by region and processing load.
Are private plans enough without NFZ?
Private plans are a helpful add-on for speed and language, but they do not fully replace NFZ entitlements, especially for emergencies or extensive treatments.
Can my family be covered under my insurance?
Yes, in many cases. With employment/NFZ, dependents (spouse/children) can often be added. Check specific eligibility and file the declaration with ZUS or your employer.
Official Resources (EN / PL)
| Link | Description |
|---|---|
| NFZ (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia) | Public health insurance information and regional branches |
| ZUS | Social security institution (contributions, employment registration) |
| GOV Services | Official e-services portal (EN/PL) |