Health Care in Austria

Health insurance

Austrian medical system is excellent, it is also expensive. So if you plan to stay longer, health insurance is an absolute must.

Study abroad in Austria

If you take part in a course at a local language school, health insurance is mostly optional. Many schools offer an additional insurance package for moderate prices. Alternatively, you can take out private travel and health insurance.

Attending university in Austria

Public health insurance is mandatory for attending university in Austria. Please contact the students' Foreign Office of your university for detailed information.

Working in Austria

If you are working in Austria, mandatory public health insurance is automatically deducted from your salary. However, check back with your employer!

Medical Emergency

Visiting a doctor

Generally, you do not have to pay in advance. If you are a student or working fulltime in Austria, you have to bring some insurance certificate. It is generally possible to leave a deposit if you need urgent medical help.

If you are covered by private travel or health insurance, you pay via bank transfer. Afterwards, you will hopefully be reimbursed by your insurance company (keep the receipt!).

Not all treatments are covered by public or private insurances. Check with the doctor and/or the insurance company.

In cases of medical emergency dial 144 for help.


If you are studying or working in Austria treatment in hospitals is for free save for a small contribution called co-payment depending on your insurance. When travelling in Austria check with your insurance company prior to departure which treatments and emergencies are covered.

Hospitals and physicians generally do not accept credit cards.