Since March 1, 2021, all foreigners residing in South Korea are required to enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI) program. So, how much does health insurance in Korea cost? The fees depend on the chosen package and your income level. Foreign residents holding a valid alien registration card who fail to enroll will be subject to additional monthly charges. To help international students navigate this system, here are essential tips on the National Health Insurance from Ziptoss!
South Korea offers a robust, comprehensive health insurance system that provides coverage to both citizens and residents. Established in 1989, the National Health Insurance (NHI) program ensures universal healthcare access. Premiums are calculated based on an individual’s income, with government subsidies available for those who cannot afford the full cost. The NHI covers a broad array of healthcare services, including hospital visits, surgeries, prescribed medications, and preventive care.
In addition to the NHI, South Korea operates a separate long-term care insurance system, specifically designed to support the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Known for its affordability, accessibility, and high-quality care, South Korea’s health insurance system is widely recognized as a global model for universal healthcare coverage.
Insurance for International Students
Different visa types require specific enrollment timelines for National Health Insurance when applied to international students:
- Students holding D-2 (regular study), F-4 (overseas Koreans), and D-4-3 (junior and senior high school foreign students) visas must apply for insurance upon obtaining their alien registration card when entering South Korea for the first time. For re-entries with a valid alien registration card, the entry date of the current visit is used as the enrollment date.
- Students on other visa types, such as D-4 for language training, are required to enroll only after staying in South Korea for six months. Their enrollment date is the day following the 6-month stay.
Insurance Deduction Timing and Late Fees
Health insurance premiums are deducted on the 1st of each month. For example, if you enter South Korea on July 10, you are exempt from paying for July that year. However, if you are already in the country on July 1, you must pay for the full month of July. Failure to pay on time will result in late fees.
For foreigners who entered the country before March 2021, premiums for March 2021 are due and can be paid in installments over the next 10 months. If you have not paid this fee and plan to leave South Korea mid-year, contact the National Health Insurance main office beforehand to settle your balance. Foreigners entering after March 2021 only need to follow the standard payment procedures.
Late Fees
If premiums are not paid within the due date, a late fee is imposed as follows:
- Within the first 30 days: 1,500 KRW per day
- After 30 days: 6,000 KRW per day
Outstanding dues exceeding 500,000 KRW may affect visa extensions or other residency permits and can be reported to the Legal Department. It is crucial to maintain up-to-date payments to avoid legal complications.
Note: If you belong to a group insurance plan but have not received a bill for more than two months, contact customer service immediately to resolve the issue.
Payment Methods
Bank Transfer
The National Health Insurance sends monthly payment bills similar to utility bills. The payment slip contains the bank account details required for transfer via online banking or ATMs. Additionally, a KakaoPay QR code is available for quick and convenient payment using the KakaoPay app. For those without KakaoPay, you can pay at convenience stores using the payment slip and QR code.
You can also set up an automatic bank transfer by contacting the National Health Insurance customer service hotline. Just ensure your account balance is sufficient to avoid failed payments.
National Health Insurance App
Download the official National Health Insurance app to easily manage your account and pay premiums directly from your mobile device.
Welfare Benefits
Medical Treatment Reimbursement
The insured portion of medical expenses is automatically deducted upon checkout at medical facilities. Typically, you are responsible for 30%–60% of outpatient treatment costs and only 20% of hospitalization expenses.
Exclusions: Cosmetic surgery, dental cosmetic surgery, MRI scans, sleep endoscopy, weight loss medications, and certain other treatments are not covered under the NHI.
Inclusions
Free Medical Examination Once Every Two Years. Foreigners enrolled in the National Health Insurance are eligible for a free medical check-up every two years, just like Korean nationals. To schedule an exam, call customer service to make an appointment. After confirming your identity details, you will receive a text message confirming the appointment, which you take to the hospital on the appointment day for your check-up.
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Physical Examination Items
- Height measurement
- Weight measurement
- Blood testing
- Urine testing
- X-ray scanning
- Oral cavity examination
- Gynecological exam (for women)
The medical examination report is mailed to your home address within 2-3 weeks.
For further information on Places you should visit in South Korea during Autumn, please visit our Health category.
FAQs About National Health Insurance for Foreigners in Korea
- 1. Who is required to enroll in National Health Insurance in South Korea?
- All foreigners residing in South Korea for more than six months with an alien registration card are required to enroll in the National Health Insurance.
- 2. How is the health insurance premium calculated?
- Premiums are calculated based on your reported income, property, and other factors. International students typically pay a fixed monthly amount assigned according to their visa type and income status.
- 3. What happens if I don’t pay the health insurance premium on time?
- A late fee will be applied: 1,500 KRW per day for the first 30 days and 6,000 KRW per day afterward. Unpaid dues exceeding 500,000 KRW may impact visa renewals or lead to legal action.
- 4. Can I pay my insurance premiums online?
- Yes, you can pay using online banking, ATMs, the National Health Insurance app, KakaoPay QR codes, or at convenience stores using the payment slip.
- 5. Are all medical treatments covered by National Health Insurance?
- The NHI covers most medical treatments, but excludes cosmetic surgery, MRI scans, dental cosmetic procedures, and certain medications like weight loss tonics.
- 6. Are international students eligible for free medical check-ups?
- Yes, international students enrolled in NHI can receive a free medical examination once every two years.
- 7. What should I do if I plan to leave South Korea but have unpaid insurance premiums?
- Contact the National Health Insurance office before departure to settle any outstanding fees to avoid future complications.
