Health insurance for degree students

As a non-EU/EEA national, you are required to have health insurance for your stay in Finland and proof of this is needed to apply for a residence permit. Acquiring private health insurance is the first step in preparation for your arrival in Finland. 
 
Please see Migri’s webpage for detailed information on the kind of insurance you will need and suggestions on where you can purchase these. Also, remember to check the regulations on medication that you can bring along. 

Exceptions:  

• Students from Quebec are exempt from the health insurance requirement.
• Students from the UK with a valid UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) do not need health insurance.  

NB! A student with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), a UK Global Health Insurance (GHIC), or a Kela card does not need to acquire health insurance.

As a citizen of an EU/EEA country, Switzerland, or the UK, you do not need to acquire health insurance if you have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Even though private insurance is not mandated, it is recommended as an additional safety measure.  
 
Additionally, be sure to check the regulations on medication that you can bring along. 

NB! The EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance and does not cover costs such as return flights, lost/stolen property, or private healthcare. It also does not guarantee free services as healthcare systems and costs vary among countries. 

If you have social coverage in another Nordic country, you are entitled to healthcare in Finland on the same terms and costs applicable to Finnish citizens. Remember to bring official proof of identity to your healthcare appointments.

For information on healthcare services, please visit the healthcare services for degree students.  

Please be aware that health insurance and the student healthcare fee are two different things. You can find more information about the student healthcare fee on this page.