Starting September 1, 2025, all foreign students living in the dormitories of Študentské domovy a jedálne TUKE (Technical University of Košice) must have valid health insurance for their entire stay. Link to the official document.
This decision was made after several critical health situations involving foreign students occurred last year. Because they lacked insurance, they only sought medical help at the last moment.
For now, this requirement only applies to TUKE dormitories. However, given the seriousness of the situation, it is very likely that a similar rule will be introduced at other universities in Slovakia.
Why is insurance needed?
1. It is now a mandatory condition for living in a dormitory.2. It protects you from high costs in emergencies (ambulance, hospitalization, surgery). If you don't have insurance, it can cost thousands or tens of thousands of euros.3. Having insurance is a mandatory condition when applying for permanent residence and citizenship in Slovakia. (When applying for permanent residence or citizenship, insurance coverage during your entire stay in Slovakia is checked, and its absence can cause problems when reviewing your application.)4. It is your personal safety and assurance that in a critical situation, you or your children will not be left alone.Insurance options for students in Slovakia
Before looking at the options, it's important to understand the main difference: commercial health insurance works on a "you pay first, then get reimbursed with receipts" basis. It's cheaper but more complicated to manage. Risk insurance offers a quick payout and doesn't require receipts. It's more convenient and versatile, especially while studying.Commercial health insurance (Union, AXA):
- Minimum term is 1 month (often for six months or a year, paid upfront).
- Plan for urgent cases only: about €25–€32 per month.
- Plan with full coverage (excluding dental): from €55 per month.
- You pay for treatment yourself first, then the insurance company reimburses you based on receipts.
Life risk insurance (Metlife, Allianz, NN, Generali):
- Available for those with a residence permit or asylum.
- Monthly payments: about €25–€35 per month.
- Covers injuries, burns, critical illnesses, surgeries, and hospitalization.
- Payouts are made without receipts – money goes directly to your account.
- Valid worldwide.
- Suitable for dormitory registration.
Why Ukrainian travel insurance is not suitable?
Ukrainian insurance policies usually cover only a tourist period of up to 90 days, which meets Schengen requirements but is not suitable for living or studying in Slovakia. If you are staying in the country legally for more than three months, the law requires you to have insurance valid in Slovakia.We are preparing a detailed article about insurance in Slovakia soon. It will explain the different types of insurance policies, how to get them, and which ones are best for students.
How is it better to get insurance: by yourself or through an agent?
- By yourself: You can choose an insurance company on its website and get a policy online by filling out an application and paying with a card. With this option, you need to compare companies yourself, fill out applications, and pay attention to details. This can take more time and effort, and usually more money.
- Through an insurance agent: It's more convenient, faster, and cheaper:- An agent usually works with different insurance companies and will recommend the best option for cost and conditions based on your situation;- They will provide a free consultation;- They will process the contract online;- They will explain the contract details in a clear language and support you throughout the policy period. This is especially important in critical moments when quick help and support are needed.
Recommendation from KOMPAS | Slovakia
If you don't know which insurance to choose, we can recommend a trusted insurance agent licensed by the NBS (National Bank of Slovakia), who works with all insurance companies in Slovakia.They will help you choose the best option for you, process the contract online or offline, and provide support throughout the insurance period.
All consultations and agent assistance are completely free.
➡️ If you are interested in this offer, write to us on Telegram — t.me/kompas_support
Health is important, don't save on it.
