The Albanian public health insurance scheme covers GP visits, hospital stays, some specialist care, emergency services, and essential medications. Coverage may be limited for certain procedures and medications.

Contributions to the public system are mandatory for employed or self-employed individuals and are deducted through payroll or paid directly. For the uninsured or informal workers, services may require out-of-pocket payment.

Public insurance provides access to basic healthcare services at minimal or no extra cost for residents.

Public facilities can be crowded, and wait times may be long. Some advanced treatments and medications are not fully covered.

You will generally enroll with the scheme based on your employment. There is only one state-run option for most people.

Private medical insurance typically covers private hospital and clinic visits, specialist consultations, dental care, elective surgeries, and sometimes international coverage.

Costs vary by provider, age, and coverage, ranging from €200–700 per year for individual plans. Family or international plans cost more.

Faster access to doctors, private rooms, English-speaking staff, and broader coverage for treatments not available publicly.

Higher cost, may require upfront payment or reimbursement. Some pre-existing conditions may be excluded.

Anyone, including expats and tourists, can purchase private insurance. Age or health restrictions may apply.

Compare plans by coverage, exclusions, provider networks, and premiums. Opt for insurers with a good local presence.

Expat health insurance plans offer international coverage, direct billing options, multilingual support, and evacuation services. Policies are tailored for foreigners living in Albania and nearby countries.

Expat plans provide wider international coverage and higher benefit limits than public plans, but cost more than local private insurance.

Travel insurance is intended for short stays and emergencies, while expat insurance covers ongoing needs and chronic conditions for residents.

Expat plans are often expensive and may not meet local requirements for residency. They’re best for transitions or frequent movers—not a permanent solution.

Some niche schemes exist for specific professional groups, but are rare. Most residents and expats rely on public or private coverage.

EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access emergency healthcare during short stays but should obtain local or private insurance for residence.

There are no specific freelancer or artist insurance schemes in Albania akin to Germany's KSK. Freelancers should use public or private options.

Register with the Health Insurance Institute for public coverage or compare private plans online. Ensure your status matches the required paperwork for residency or employment.

Consult the Health Insurance Institute or Ministry of Health for guidance. Many private insurers and international brokers also offer multilingual support.