What is health insurance

• Health Insurance is an Insurance policy you buy which means that if you become ill during your time in Ireland you won’t have to pay for medical costs.

Do I need health insurance? I already have health insurance

• Many travel insurance policies will cover medical expenses, but only for the first 15 to 30 days from your arrival in the country. Once you are a student in Ireland, you will be officially resident here, so you need health Insurance as well as travel insurance.

Do I need health insurance? I’m European

• If you come from one of the EU member states, you are entitled to pay the same fees as an Irish person for visits to hospital or the doctor. Make sure you request an E111 card before you arrive. Be aware though, that going to the doctor in Ireland costs around €50-60, which you may have to pay even with an E111 card. Buying health insurance (or travel insurance for a short course) may bring you peace of mind.

Do I need health insurance? I’m from outside Europe

• If you are from a country which is not in the EU and you will be studying or staying in Ireland for more than 90 days, you will need to get a student visa. To get a student visa, you need to have government approved health insurance.