Health Insurance Requirements

Mandatory for Non-EU/EEA Students

• Private health insurance is compulsory for all non-EU/EEA students entering Ireland for study 

• You must have coverage from the date of arrival until the end of your stay.

• Proof of health insurance is required:

  • When applying for a student visa

  • When registering with Irish immigration authorities

Coverage Requirements

Your health insurance policy must:

• Be written in English

• Provide full medical cover for accidents, illnesses, and hospital stays in Ireland

• Be valid for 12 months or the full duration of your stay

• Include medical repatriation (recommended) Some plans include medical repatriation, which means you can be safely transported back to your home country if you experience a serious medical emergency. This kind of support can be a huge relief for both you and your family

Options for Health Insurance

From Your Home Country

You may use a private health insurance policy from your home country if it is valid in Ireland and meets immigration requirements.

Irish Providers

If your course lasts more than 12 months, you must purchase insurance from an Irish provider. Recommended providers include:

• VHI Healthcare – Offers group schemes for students with immediate cover for new and pre-existing conditions 

• Irish Life Health

• Laya Healthcare

• Study and Protect – Offers tailored plans for students staying less than or more than one year, including the Medicover and Study in Ireland plans 

   

EU/EEA Students

• Should bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their home country.

• EHIC allows access to public health services but may not cover all costs.

• Private insurance is still recommended for broader coverage and choice of providers 

UK Students

• UK citizens ordinarily resident in Ireland have the same healthcare rights as Irish citizens.
• Short-term UK students may be covered by the UK government for healthcare during their stay.

Cost and Timing

• Health insurance typically costs between €300 and €1,500 per year, depending on coverage and provider
• You must purchase insurance before applying for your visa, and coverage should begin on the day you arrive in Ireland.

Tips for Finding Affordable Health Insurance in Ireland

Health insurance is essential—but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some helpful tips to find a plan that fits your budget:

Compare Providers

Don’t settle for the first option you see. Take time to compare plans from different Irish providers like:

• VHI Healthcare
• Irish Life Health
• Laya Healthcare
• Study and Protect

Look at what each plan covers, the cost, and any student discounts they offer. 

Look for Student-Specific Plans

Some providers offer special plans just for international students, which are often more affordable and tailored to your needs. These plans may include:

• Coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Emergency care
• Repatriation
• Flexible start dates

Choose Coverage That Matches Your Stay

If you're staying for less than a year, you may be eligible for short-term plans that cost less. If your course is longer than 12 months, you’ll need a full-year plan from an Irish provider.

Check If Your Home Insurance Works Abroad

Some students can use a policy from their home country—as long as it’s valid in Ireland and meets immigration requirements. This can be a cost-effective option if it provides sufficient coverage.

Understand What’s Included

Make sure you know what’s covered and what’s not. A cheaper plan might exclude things like:

• Prescription medications
• Mental health services
• Dental or vision care

Choose a plan that covers the essentials without hidden costs.

Ask Your University for Help

Most universities have an International Officer that can guide you through the process. They may even recommend trusted providers or group plans with discounted rates.