How does healthcare work in Hungary, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Hungary?

• In addition to thermal baths for your health, Hungary also has an accessible and affordable healthcare system. 
• The quality of care is good, both at public and private institutions. 
• Costs are also a lot lower than in the West, for example. This also makes Hungary a popular destination for medical tourism, including dental care, plastic surgery, eye surgery and fertility treatments. 
• If you are part of the public healthcare system (see below), you get a national health card (TAJ kártya).  
• There are some differences between public and private care, but more on that below. 
• In case of a medical emergency, call 112; English-language help is available 24/7 through this number. You do have to pay for the help you get. So make sure you are properly insured. 

How does the public healthcare system work in Hungary?

• Hungary has a public health care system, the Nemzeti Egészségbiztosítási Alapkezelő (NEAK). This system covers medical costs for residents and foreigners who pay social contributions (through work or self-employment). Still, many emigrants choose international insurance because it covers other costs and treatments, both in and outside Hungary. 
• Care is of reasonable quality, but public hospitals can be dated, and wait times are sometimes long. Specialists often work in both the public and private sectors, so expertise is similar.
• Costs are low. Visiting a general practitioner or specialist in the public system is often free, provided you are registered with the NEAK.
• In recent years, many young doctors have left for foreign countries, so the average age of doctors and health care workers is high.  

How does the private healthcare system work in Hungary?

• Private clinics offer faster access, more modern facilities and English-speaking staff. Especially in cities like Budapest, private healthcare options are popular among expats.
• A consultation at a private clinic costs about €50-80. With good international insurance, these costs are covered.

How is the GP arranged in Hungary?

• If you are registered with the NEAK and have a TAJ kártya, you will be assigned a family doctor (háziorvos). Your family doctor is your first point of contact and refers you to specialists if necessary.
• Therefore, without a family doctor's referral, you cannot see a specialist either. 
• English-speaking family doctors are especially available in Budapest, but in smaller cities this is less obvious.

How is the dentist arranged in Hungary?

• Basic dental care is free through the public system, but quality varies greatly. For more complex treatments, most people choose private practices.
• Hungary is known for medical tourism, including dentistry.
• Private practices offer modern techniques and are often cheaper than in Western Europe.

How is prenatal and pregnancy care arranged Hungary?

• Almost all births take place in the hospital. Home births with the help of a midwife are also possible, but there are midwives who offer this. 
• Prenatal care, deliveries and postnatal care are covered by the NEAK. The care is good, but you often have to bring your own medical supplies to the hospital, such as diapers and sheets.
• For more comfort, many expats choose a private clinic or hospital. Here you get more personal attention and more modern facilities.
• The right to abortion changes regularly in Hungary. Since 2020, abortions can only be performed up to 8 weeks of pregnancy and by a special doctor in the hospital. Doctors may also refuse to perform an abortion. 

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Hungary?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Hungary?

• Hungary is a relatively safe country. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, occurs in tourist areas, but serious crime is rare.
• Watch your belongings in crowded areas and be alert at ATMs. Avoid politically sensitive discussions in public places.
• There are no specific no-go zones, but be careful in poorly lit areas in remote villages.
• As a new resident, it is also important to be aware of scams such as cab drivers who overcharge and different prices in restaurants and bars. 

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Hungary?

• Tap water is safe to drink! 
• Be well informed about the latest on health measures and vaccinations.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Hungary?

• The road network in Hungary is well maintained, especially the highways (autópályák). In rural areas, roads may not be as good, with potholes and narrow paths.
• Traffic can be chaotic, especially in cities like Budapest, but generally driving is safe. 
• Toll vignettes are required on highways, so be sure to buy them in advance!

What are the best insurance options for backpacking, traveling, doing an internship, studying, volunteering, or working in Hungary?

• Is the trip to Hungary and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? 
• Insurance for backpacking and traveling in Hungary
• Insurance for studying in Hungary
• Insurance for internships in Hungary
• Insurance for volunteering in Hungary
• Insurance for digital nomads or paid work in Hungary

What types of insurance should you get if you're planning to emigrate, work as an expat, or live in Hungary?

• To move to Hungary, you need health insurance that provides at least €30,000 coverage.
• International health insurance for Hungary
• International travel insurance for Hungary
• International life insurance for Hungary
• International income protection insurance for Hungary