Insurance · Updated June 2026
Korea Health Insurance for Foreigners: Everything You Need to Know
Korea's national health insurance (NHIS) is mandatory for most foreigners staying 6+ months. It's actually great — comprehensive coverage at reasonable cost. Here's how it works.
Who Must Enroll?
As of 2024, all foreigners with an ARC staying 6+ months must enroll in NHIS (국민건강보험). This includes:
- Workers (enrolled through employer)
- Students (enrolled individually)
- Marriage visa holders (through spouse)
- Self-employed/freelancers (enrolled individually)
How Much Does It Cost?
| Type | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Employed | ~3.5% of salary | Split 50/50 with employer |
| Self-employed/Student | ₩70,000~150,000 | Based on income & property |
| Minimum | ~₩70,000 | 2026 minimum for individuals |
What's Covered?
NHIS covers about 60~70% of medical costs:
- ✅ Doctor visits (general & specialist)
- ✅ Prescription medicine
- ✅ Hospital stays
- ✅ Surgery
- ✅ MRI, CT scans, blood tests
- ✅ Dental (basic — cleaning, fillings, extractions)
- ✅ Mental health (psychiatry)
- ❌ Cosmetic procedures
- ❌ Dental implants/orthodontics (partial coverage only)
- ❌ Glasses/contacts
How to Use It at a Hospital
- Go to any hospital or clinic (no appointment needed for most clinics)
- Show your ARC at reception — the insurance is linked to your ARC number
- See the doctor
- Pay only the co-pay (typically ₩5,000~20,000 for a clinic visit)
- Pick up prescription at any pharmacy nearby
Typical Costs WITH Insurance
- Clinic visit (cold/flu): ₩5,000~10,000
- Specialist visit: ₩10,000~30,000
- MRI scan: ₩100,000~200,000
- 1-day hospital stay: ₩50,000~100,000
- Dental cleaning: ₩15,000~30,000
NHIS vs Private Insurance
Many foreigners get both. NHIS covers the basics at low cost. Private insurance (실비보험) covers the remaining 30~40% co-pay and adds extras like dental implants, private rooms, etc.
Popular private options: Samsung Fire & Marine, DB Insurance, or international plans like Cigna.
What Happens If You Don't Pay?
- You can't leave Korea with unpaid NHIS premiums (immigration check)
- Penalties and interest accumulate
- After 6 months unpaid, benefits are suspended