Austria cancels compulsory health insurance for Ukrainians: now refugees need new insurance

Compulsory health insurance for Ukrainian refugees has been in effect in Austria since 24 February 2022. Now, refugees have been granted a transitional period to apply for new insurance
Since 24 February 2022, when russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ukrainian refugees in Austria have been provided with compulsory health insurance under special conditions. However, according to the latest data, the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) has decided to cancel this system, which will mean that approximately 26,000 Ukrainian citizens, including children, will have to re-apply for insurance.
Therefore, we recommend taking out insurance now. It takes a few minutes to buy a health insurance policy on Visit Ukraine.
What has changed?
The cancellation of the compulsory health insurance status means that Ukrainians residing in Austria will no longer have automatic access to medical care under the same conditions.
According to the Health Insurance Fund, a transition period has been set until 15 April. By this date, Ukrainian refugees must take out new insurance to continue to be eligible for medical care, inpatient treatment and medicines.
How to proceed?
For those who are employed: if a Ukrainian is officially employed, new insurance is issued automatically by the employer. That is, refugees who are employed do not need to take any additional steps - everything will happen within the framework of their employment contract.
For non-workers: citizens who are not officially employed can take out voluntary health insurance. The maximum monthly premium for such a policy is €526.79.
Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!
Why is it important to take out insurance on time?
Without a valid health insurance policy, access to doctors, routine surgeries and medicines in Austria becomes difficult and expensive. In addition, not having insurance can lead to serious financial risks in the event of health problems.
Where to go for more information?
🔻 Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK): This is the organisation that coordinates issues related to the registration and payment of insurance.
🔻 Local authorities: you can get advice on how to apply for insurance at the relevant authorities.
🔻 Counselling centres for refugees and migrants: many of these organisations provide assistance in filling in the necessary forms and explain the features of the Austrian healthcare system.
You can take out insurance on the Visit Ukraine portal. This will allow Ukrainian refugees in Austria to maintain access to the necessary medical care and avoid additional difficulties. It is important to take care of concluding a contract in order to meet the transition period and protect yourself from unpleasant financial consequences.
We remind you! The newly elected three-party coalition in Austria wants to close the family reunification programme for asylum seekers.
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;
Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;
Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;
Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.
All rights reserved.
Recommended articles
3 min
Insurance
To enter the United States, foreigners are required to meet visa requirements and have appropriate insurance. Learn more about the US healthcare system, when foreigners are required to have insurance, and where to get it
02 Mar. 2025
More details2 min
Insurance
Canadian law requires foreigners entering the country to have an insurance policy. At the same time, depending on the purpose of the trip and the length of stay, different requirements are put forward for insurance. Find out when and what type of insurance is required to enter Canada
05 Mar. 2025
More details3 min
Insurance
Portugal is one of the most visited countries. Millions of tourists from all over the world come here every year. Despite the visa-free regime for Ukrainians to enter European countries, having an insurance policy remains a prerequisite. Find out what insurance you need to travel to Portugal and why policy requirements may differ for different categories of travelers
09 Mar. 2025
More details1 min
Insurance
Are foreign insurance policies accepted in Ukraine?
Many foreigners are faced with the question: is foreign insurance relevant in Ukraine? Due to the martial law in Ukraine, the vast majority of policies automatically terminate after crossing the Ukrainian border. Find out which insurance policy you need to choose to be as safe as possible in Ukraine
06 Mar. 2025
More details