Expats in Ireland Rely on the Luck of the Insured
Ireland is a favorite among foreigners due to its green countryside, dramatic coastal cliffs, rich Celtic heritage, and high quality of life. The high safety rating and readily available pints of Guinness only add to its allure. If you are considering moving to the Emerald Isle, you should make sure you have the right medical insurance for your needs before you arrive.
The Irish healthcare system is regularly ranked highly for its quality, affordability, and treatment availability. The system is semi-private, with both public and private options available. Public insurance is provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and subsidized through taxes.
You can expect high-quality care in both public and private facilities across the country. However, for shorter wait times and the ability to select your own doctors and specialists, it’s a good idea for immigrants to purchase private health insurance in Ireland.
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Health Insurance Options for Expats in Ireland
Ireland has had a two-tiered healthcare system since 1957. Residents can choose whether to use the HSE-run public system or the private system. This is also true for most expats.
If you’ve obtained the right to live or work in Ireland, you are generally eligible for public healthcare. Unfortunately, non-European students and retirees are the exception to this.
If you’re moving to Ireland from outside the EU for studies or to enjoy your retirement, you’ll need to provide proof of private insurance as part of your visa application.
The public healthcare system in Ireland has two different levels. You may be eligible for either a Medical Card or a GP Visit Card.
The Medical Card fully covers inpatient and outpatient services, including eye, ear, and dental visits. The GP Visit card allows you to visit a GP free of charge, but you’ll still need to pay for other medical services.
While fees are not that high in the public system, 47% of Irish residents still opt to purchase private insurance – the highest rate in all of Europe. The public system is routinely criticized for being short-staffed and having long wait times.
There are four private insurance providers in Ireland: Irish Life Health, Laya Healthcare, VHI Healthcare, and HSF Health Plan.
Most companies pay the hospital directly for inpatient services, but require you to pay out of pocket for outpatient services and then request reimbursement.
Many immigrants living in Ireland choose to purchase international health insurance plans. Global plans give you peace of mind that you’ll be covered from the moment you arrive in Ireland.
With a private international plan, you’ll have access to a 24/7 helpline, shorter wait times, and the ability to choose your own doctor and hospital.
Can Americans Access the Public Healthcare System in Ireland?
Americans or any foreigners living in Ireland are eligible to use public healthcare. There is no minimum wait time before you can use the public system.
To access public healthcare, you need to provide proof that you intend to reside in Ireland for at least one year. Many visas are considered sufficient proof of this.
Notably, this is not exactly true for student or retiree visas. Students from outside the EU must provide proof of private insurance as part of their student visa application. The same is true for those applying to retire in Ireland.
Retirees must demonstrate that they can fully financially support themselves and provide proof of a private insurance plan that offers full coverage for private hospitals.
Once your visa has been granted, you can register with the HSE upon arrival and begin to use the public healthcare system.
Best Private Health Insurance for Foreigners in Ireland
Whether due to visa requirements or simply for comfort and convenience, most expats choose to purchase private insurance plans when moving to Ireland.
For foreigners living in Ireland, we recommend the following plans:
The Cigna Global health plan provides flexible coverage for all nationalities living in Ireland. With offices in the UK, Asia, and the USA, you will be able to easily connect with their team while giving in Ireland.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
Best Private Health Insurance Plan for US Citizens
The BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier plan is a comprehensive plan designed for U.S. citizens living abroad, including those in Ireland. Affiliated with Blue Cross Blue Shield and BUPA, it allows you to access the best providers worldwide.
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
Private Health Plans for Students at Colleges and Universities in Ireland
Proof of private insurance is a requirement for student visa applications in Ireland. For students intending to study in Ireland, you can purchase plans specifically designed for international students.
Worldwide Specialty
- Worldwide medical coverage built for students and faculty in the U.S. and abroad.
- Select from a range of deductibles and rates.
- Choose providers either in or out of our elite network.
Student Health Advantage
- Standard and Platinum level benefits available.
- Coverage for individuals and groups and their dependents.
- Freedom to seek treatment with hospital or doctor of your choice.
StudentSecure Insurance
- Provides Medical, Dental, and Evacuation Benefits
- Keep your coverage when your studies last multiple years
- Medical providers are available in over 130 countries worldwide
Travel Insurance for Short-Term Visitors to Ireland
If you want to make a brief trip to Ireland, you may find that travel insurance better suits your needs.
Global health insurance is an annual plan for foreigners living abroad. Travel insurance covers people who are outside their home countries for as short a period as 5 days.
There are different types of travel insurance, each with its own benefits. The majority of travel insurance plans cover medical care as well as repatriation or evacuation needs.
Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance
- Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
- IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
- Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest
Group Medical Insurance in Ireland for International Employees
Private long-term and short-term group insurance is also available for organizations with employees or members residing in Ireland or traveling there multiple times a year.
Request a free group quote to ensure your employees or members are covered in the event of a medical emergency.
Connect with a Global Benefits Advisor
- Experts in sourcing and implementing global insurance plans
- We’ve built steadfast partnerships with carriers worldwide
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Public and Private Medical Care in Ireland
Ireland’s healthcare system includes public and private options. Expats can choose which system they prefer.
While the public healthcare system in Ireland offers top-notch care, many citizens and foreigners opt to use the private system. Private healthcare guarantees shorter wait times, especially for non-urgent care. It can also offer a bit more comfort in newer facilities.
However, the private system comes at a cost. International health insurance will ensure you can utilize the private system and select your own doctors with minimal out-of-pocket expenses.
Certain plans offer coverage for where you are living, and anywhere you choose to travel. If you plan to reside in Ireland but make frequent visits abroad, you’ll want a plan that offers this expanded coverage.
How to Find a Family Physician or GP in Ireland
General Practitioners (GPs) in Ireland provide primary care. Finding a GP or family doctor should be your first priority when organizing your healthcare. The HSE has an online service to help you find a GP in your area.
Before visiting your new doctor, make sure they accept your insurance. Some GPs work exclusively within the public system, while others treat patients with private insurance.
If you do not hold a Medical Card, you will be expected to pay for your visit. On average, a consultation costs $48-$80 (€45-$75).
It’s important to register with a GP because many specialists require a referral from a GP for you to see them, no matter the type of insurance you have.
With the public system, you will be referred to the first available doctor who can meet your needs. If you hold private insurance, you’ll be able to select which exact specialist you’d like to see.
How to Receive Hospital Care in Ireland
If you find yourself in an emergency situation, dial 999 or 112 for ambulance services. Both public and private hospitals offer emergency departments that are available 24 hours a day.
These are sometimes referred to as Accident and Emergency (A&E). If you receive treatment at a hospital, you can expect to pay about $107 (€100).
There is no fee if you’ve been referred to the hospital by your GP. Private insurance may cover hospital fees depending on your plan.
The Cost of Health Insurance in Ireland for Foreigners
Public healthcare in Ireland is funded through taxes. Those eligible for Medical Cards won’t pay out of pocket for healthcare services.
Medical Card eligibility is determined by financial need. You can apply for one by giving the HSE information about your income, expenses, and family. Everyone else using the public system can expect to pay subsidized fees.
Inpatient care is free at public hospitals for Irish residents. However, additional charges may apply for certain services or treatments, including private or semi-private rooms, medications, and specific procedures.
Fees for emergency room visits (also known as Accident & Emergency or A&E) at hospitals in Ireland could vary depending on the specific circumstances, such as whether you have a referral from a general practitioner (GP) or if you’re admitted as an inpatient following the emergency visit. The standard fee is capped at €100, equivalent to approximately $107 for Irish residents.
For those without medical cards or private health insurance, the cost of a General Practitioner visit typically ranges from around €50 to €70. However, these prices may vary by location and GP practice.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, most foreigners opt for private international insurance plans. These plans range from $500 annually for the bare minimum to $8,000 for robust coverage and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Our Plan Recommendation for US Citizens Living in Ireland
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
Our Plan Recommendation for All Foreigners Living in Ireland
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
Elizabeth Baugh is a versatile freelance writer specializing in education, travel, health, and wellness. She has international experience living in multiple countries, is fluent in Spanish, and holds a license as a TEFL teacher, sharing insights on travel and relocation.
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