Understanding the Slovenian Insurance Landscape
Relocating to Slovenia requires navigating a high-quality, residence-based healthcare system. The system is primarily public and managed by the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (ZZZS). For foreigners, insurance requirements are divided into two distinct phases: coverage needed for the visa/residence permit application and the compulsory system joined once residency is established.
As of 2026, the Slovenian health system has undergone significant structural reforms. The previous voluntary supplementary insurance has been integrated into a mandatory flat-rate contribution, ensuring that almost all healthcare services are covered under a single unified system for those registered with ZZZS.
Travel Medical Insurance for Initial Entry
Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens) must provide proof of adequate health insurance when applying for a long-stay (D) visa or a first residence permit. This insurance serves as a bridge until the individual is officially registered in the national health insurance system.
Minimum Requirements for Visa Applicants
- Coverage Amount: A minimum of 30,000 EUR ($33,000 USD, Jan 2026).
- Scope: Must cover emergency medical treatment, urgent hospital care, and repatriation for medical reasons or in the event of death.
- Validity: The policy must be valid for the entire territory of the Schengen Area and for the full duration of the initial stay or until the applicant becomes part of the ZZZS system.
- Deductibles: It is highly recommended to have a policy with zero deductible to avoid complications during the visa approval process.
For individuals not requiring a visa (visa-waived countries), travel insurance remains highly recommended for the first 90 days, as out-of-pocket medical costs for non-residents can be substantial.
The Compulsory Health Insurance System (ZZZS)
Once a foreigner is employed, self-employed, or granted a residence permit based on specific categories, they must be registered with the ZZZS. This registration is typically handled by the employer on the first day of work via the M-1 form.
The Mandatory Health Contribution (OZP)
In addition to standard payroll deductions (which are percentages of the gross salary), all adults in the Slovenian health system must pay a flat-rate monthly contribution. This fee replaced the old "voluntary supplementary insurance" in early 2024.
- Current Rate: As of March 2025, the mandatory contribution is 37.17 EUR ($40.89 USD, Jan 2026) per month.
- Payment Method: For employees, this is automatically deducted from the gross salary. The self-employed and those paying for themselves must arrange payment via a UPN order.
Long-Term Care Contribution (ZDOsk-1)
A new mandatory Long-Term Care (LTC) contribution became effective in mid-2025. This funds essential care services for the elderly and disabled. Under the current rules for 2026, both employees and employers each contribute 1% of the employee's gross salary toward this fund.
EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens
Citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland enjoy a streamlined process thanks to reciprocal agreements. For temporary stays (less than three months), the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides access to necessary state-provided healthcare under the same conditions as Slovenian citizens.
However, once an EU citizen registers their residence for a stay longer than three months, they must typically join the ZZZS system through employment or by proving they have sufficient resources and health insurance from their home country (often using the S1 form). The S1 form allows individuals residing in Slovenia but insured in another EU state (such as cross-border workers or pensioners) to register with the ZZZS.
Practical Checklist for Expats
Note: The transition from travel insurance to ZZZS coverage is not automatic. Gaps in coverage can lead to residency permit delays or unexpected medical bills.
- Before Departure: Purchase a Schengen-compliant travel insurance policy for at least the first 3-6 months.
- Upon Arrival: Obtain a Slovenian tax number, which is required for all social insurance registrations.
- Registration: Ensure your employer provides you with a copy of the M-1 form (registration certificate) within 15 days of starting work.
- Health Card: After registration, the ZZZS will mail a physical health insurance card to your registered Slovenian address. Always carry this card to medical appointments.
For detailed inquiries regarding specific insurance bases, foreigners are encouraged to contact the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (ZZZS) or visit a local administrative unit (Upravna Enota).