Health insurance in Italy is primarily organized on a regional level through the nationally established Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), which provides universal coverage, including the full funding of public doctors and prescription drugs. Formed in 1978, the SSN has increased the accessibility of medical insurance in Italy.
While the public services in Italy are reliable, as a foreigner you also have the option of acquiring private health insurance in Italy, which the majority of foreigners tend to do. It is important to understand which type of health insurance in Italy you are eligible for long before stepping on an airplane. Medical insurance in Italy is a requisite if you plan to stay for longer than 90 days.
Eligibility for International Students
If you are an international student, health insurance in Italy is required before you arrive. It is imperative to visit your healthcare provider at home, obtain the necessary documents to demonstrate proof of coverage, and show these documents both at the Italian Consulate nearest to you, as well as at the Questura, or police station, within eight days of entrance into the country. This information is crucial, as, in order to extend the length of your time in Italy for greater than 90 days, you must obtain a permit to stay. Without proof of coverage from your home provider, this is impossible to do.
