How to Register for Korean Health Insurance as a Foreigner

Why You Need Health Insurance in Korea

If you plan to live in South Korea for more than a few months, getting health insurance is not optional—it’s a legal requirement. But for many foreigners, the process of signing up for Korea’s National Health Insurance (NHI) system can feel overwhelming. Different rules apply depending on your visa type, job status, and how long you've been in the country.

This 2025 guide walks you through how to register for health insurance in Korea as a foreigner, whether you’re a student, employee, self-employed, or here on a dependent visa. We’ll also break down what it covers, how much it costs, and what to expect after you register.

For official information, you can always refer to the NHIS website or HiKorea portal.

Why You Need Health Insurance in Korea

Under Korean law, all residents—including foreigners staying for more than 6 months—are required to register for the National Health Insurance system. Without it, you’ll pay full price at hospitals and clinics, which can get expensive very quickly.

Even with private insurance from abroad, many hospitals prefer or require NHI for standard treatment. The NHI system also connects to other public services like the national pension.

Types of Health Insurance in Korea

There are two main types of public health insurance under the NHI:

A. Employee Health Insurance (직장가입자)

• If you work for a Korean company, your employer is legally required to enroll you and pay half of the premium.

• Your contribution is automatically deducted from your monthly salary.

• Coverage begins from your first month of employment.

B. Local Resident Insurance (지역가입자)

• If you’re not employed by a company (e.g., freelancer, student, dependent, self-employed), you must register yourself.

• You’ll pay the full monthly premium, which is calculated based on your income, assets, and housing.

• Foreigners become eligible after 6 months of stay in Korea.

Who Is Required to Register?

You must register for NHI if:

• You’ve stayed in Korea 6 months or longer, regardless of visa type.

• You are working for a Korean company (registration is immediate).

• You are enrolled in a Korean university (after 6 months).

• You hold a dependent visa or F-series visa and meet the residency requirement.

Exceptions:

• Tourists and short-term visa holders (less than 90 days) are not eligible.

• Those with valid private insurance may apply for temporary exemption (case-by-case).

For visa-related rules, refer to the HiKorea official site.

Required Documents (for Local Resident Registration)

To register as a local subscriber, you’ll need to bring the following to your local NHIS office:

• Passport

• ARC (Alien Registration Card)

• Proof of residence (rental contract or utility bill)

• Bank account (for auto-pay)

• Optional: Certificate of school enrollment or business registration (if applicable)

Bring both originals and copies. Some offices may ask for Korean translations of foreign documents.

How Much Does It Cost? (2025)

As of 2025, the average monthly premium for local subscribers is approximately ₩140,000–₩160,000 KRW.

• Students and low-income residents may pay less depending on their reported income.

• Rates can go up if you have significant assets or rental income.

• Employee subscribers pay about 7% of their gross monthly salary, split 50/50 with the employer.

Payment is due monthly. You can set up automatic transfers from a Korean bank account.

How to Register (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Find Your Local NHIS Office

Search "건강보험공단 + [your city or district]" on Naver or Google Maps. Walk-ins are usually accepted, but it’s best to go early in the day.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Forms are available in English at most locations. Ask the staff for help if needed.

Step 3: Submit Documents and Get Approved

Submit all required documents. They will scan or copy them on-site. Once approved, you’ll receive your policy number.

Step 4: Set Up Payment

Register your bank account for monthly automatic payments or use payment slips.

Step 5: Receive Your Health Insurance Card

Your card will be mailed to your registered address within 1–2 weeks.

What Does Korean Health Insurance Cover?

• Outpatient treatment: doctor visits, diagnostics, prescriptions

• Inpatient care: hospital stays, surgery (partial coverage)

• Dental and vision care: limited, but basic treatment is subsidized

• Vaccinations, screenings, and mental health: partially covered

• Emergency services: including ambulance and ER visits

Coverage Rate:

• Usually 50–80% of total cost depending on treatment

• You still pay a co-pay (본인부담금) at point of service

Can You Use Private Insurance Too?

Yes. Many foreigners choose to have both NHI and private insurance, especially for:

• Dental implants and orthodontics

• Cosmetic surgery (not covered by NHI)

• International coverage when traveling abroad

Private insurance often reimburses the remaining co-pay or offers English support.

What If You Don’t Register?

If you are eligible and fail to register:

• NHIS may back-charge you for unpaid premiums from your 6-month stay point

• You may face issues with visa renewal or school enrollment

• Hospitals may charge you the full, unsubsidized rate

Bottom line: it’s better to register early and stay compliant.

Tips and Final Thoughts

• Always update your address at the NHIS office when you move.

• If your visa or status changes, notify them right away.

• Save your receipts—these may be useful for tax or reimbursement.

• Keep your insurance card in your wallet (you’ll need it at clinics).

South Korea’s national health system is one of the most affordable and efficient in the world. While the signup process might feel bureaucratic, once you’re enrolled, you’ll gain access to high-quality care at a low cost.

If you have questions or issues, visit the NHIS English website or call 1577-1000 (Korean only). For visa-related insurance exemptions, check with HiKorea or the Immigration Service.

Getting health insurance in Korea might seem like a hassle at first, but it’s one of the smartest steps you can take for peace of mind while living here.