Are you waiting weeks for an appointment with a specialist, and your insurance company's mobile app was last updated when people used flip phones? Or maybe your colleague's insurance covers vitamins and part of the cost of glasses, but yours doesn't? If this sounds like you, we have news: by the end of September, you have the chance to change your health insurance company for next year.
In Slovakia, everyone with health insurance can switch to another company once a year for free. The application must be submitted by September 30, 2026, and from January 1, 2027, a new insurer will serve you. This is your only chance, and the window closes at the end of September.
If you are interested in a quality consultation from an insurance agent who can help you choose the best option for you, write to us at t.me/kompas_support. We will recommend a trusted specialist.
Key Dates: When to Apply and What Not to Miss
The process of changing insurance companies is clearly regulated, so it's important to follow the deadlines.
By September 30, 2026 — the deadline to submit your application to the new insurance company.
By October 31, 2026 — if you change your mind, you can withdraw your application by this date without giving a reason.
From January 1, 2027 — you officially become a client of the new insurance company.
By January 8, 2027 — employees must inform their employer about the change.
Failure to comply with the last point can result in a fine of up to 331 euros from the Health Care Surveillance Authority (ÚDZS).
How to Apply to Change Your Insurance Company
There are three health insurance companies operating in Slovakia: the state-owned Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa (VšZP) and the private ones Dôvera and Union. The switching process is simplified as much as possible and does not require you to inform your old company — the new one will handle everything for you.
You can submit your application in several ways:
Online: the fastest and most convenient method. You usually need to fill out a form on the chosen company's website and upload a photo of your ID card (občiansky preukaz) or residence permit.
In person at a branch: the traditional way, where an employee will help you fill out all the necessary documents.
By mail or courier: some companies also offer this option.
Important: You can only apply to one insurance company. If you submit multiple applications, they will all be considered invalid.
Obligations to Your Employer and for Sole Traders (SZČO)
After successfully changing your insurance, there are certain obligations depending on your status.
For Employed Individuals
Your main duty is to inform your employer about the change of insurance company no later than January 8, 2027. If you have multiple employers, you must inform each of them. This is necessary so that the accounting department can transfer insurance contributions to the correct account on time.
If you are interested in a quality consultation from an insurance agent who can help you choose the best option for you, write to us at t.me/kompas_support. We will recommend a trusted specialist.
For Self-Employed Individuals (SZČO) and Self-Payers
For sole traders and individuals who pay contributions themselves, there is an important detail:
You still pay the advance payment for December 2026 to the account of your old insurance company.
The payment for January 2027 (which is paid by February 8) must be sent to the account of the new company. The new insurance company will send you all the necessary payment details, usually at the beginning of January.
What to Look for When Choosing a New Insurance Company?
Although the basic package of medical services guaranteed by law is the same for all three companies, they compete by offering additional benefits, so-called "benefits." These can be the deciding factor when choosing.
Here's what to consider when comparing offers:
Contributions for dental care: reimbursement for dental treatment, professional cleaning, or braces.
Reimbursement for glasses and lenses: some companies offer contributions of 100 euros or more.
Prevention programs: additional screenings, check-ups, and vaccinations not included in the standard package.
Support for families with children: starter packages for newborns, breathing monitors, contributions for children's camps.
Discounts at pharmacies and on medical supplies.
Quality of digital services: user-friendly mobile app, online appointment booking, telemedicine.
Before making a decision, we recommend visiting the official websites of VšZP, Dôvera, and Union to compare their current benefit programs for 2027 and choose the one that best suits your needs.
