What Are the Healthcare Regulations for Digital Nomads? Do Digital Nomads Have the Right to Access Public Healthcare in Poland? What Are the Health Insurance Rules for Remote Workers or Entrepreneurs in Poland?
Healthcare for Digital Nomads in Poland
Access to healthcare in Poland for digital nomads depends on their residency status, employment type, or business activities, as well as the type of health insurance they possess. Here are the key details:
Public Healthcare System (NFZ)
Poland’s public healthcare operates under the National Health Fund (NFZ). Access to NFZ services is only available for individuals with valid health insurance.
Who Is Eligible for NFZ Services?
Digital nomads may be entitled to public healthcare in Poland in the following cases:
- Employees in Poland: If a digital nomad secures legal employment in Poland under an employment contract, the employer is required to register them with the NFZ and pay health insurance contributions.
- Entrepreneurs: Individuals running a business in Poland must register with ZUS (Social Insurance Institution) and pay health insurance contributions, granting them access to NFZ services.
- Unemployed Individuals with an NFZ Agreement: Digital nomads can voluntarily register with the NFZ and pay monthly health insurance premiums. The current premium amount is determined by NFZ.
International Agreements and the EHIC Card
If a digital nomad comes from an EU/EFTA country and holds a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), they are entitled to access basic healthcare services in Poland under the same conditions as insured Polish patients.
Private Health Insurance
Many digital nomads opt for private health insurance, which often offers:
- Faster access to specialist doctors.
- A broader range of medical services compared to NFZ.
- No need for NFZ registration or public premium payments.
Rules for Remote Workers Employed by Foreign Companies
Digital nomads employed by foreign companies are usually not automatically registered in the Polish health insurance system. In such cases:
- They must secure private health insurance or
- Register independently with NFZ under a voluntary health insurance scheme.
- Alternatively, they can remain in the health insurance system of their employer’s country (if within the EU/EFTA).
Summary
Digital nomads have various options for healthcare access in Poland. If they want to benefit from public healthcare, they must be covered by mandatory or voluntary health insurance under NFZ. For individuals outside the EU/EFTA, private health insurance is often a more practical solution. Consulting NFZ or a health insurance advisor is recommended to choose the best healthcare coverage option.
Effective as of: March 15, 2024
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