Is health insurance mandatory for foreigners in Korea?

Yes. Since July 2019, all foreigners staying 6+ months must enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI). Employees are automatically enrolled through their employer.

How much does health insurance cost for foreigners?

For employees, the rate is 3.595% of monthly salary (you pay half, employer pays half). Self-employed foreigners pay based on income, assets, and other factors with a minimum floor.

What does Korean health insurance cover?

NHI covers about 60-70% of medical costs at hospitals and clinics. You pay 30% copay for outpatient visits and 20% for inpatient stays. Dental, mental health, and prescriptions are partially covered.

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Healthcare

Health Insurance Calculator

Estimate your monthly NHI premium as a foreigner in Korea.

1Monthly Income

만원 (₩10K) /mo

Your Monthly Premium

₩122,021

Your share (employer pays the same)

2Breakdown

Health Insurance (3.595%)₩107,850

Long-term Care (13.14% of HI)₩14,171

Your Share₩122,021

Employer also pays₩122,021

3What NHI Covers

Outpatient (clinic/hospital)30% copay

You pay 30%, NHI covers 70%

Inpatient (hospitalization)20% copay

You pay 20%, NHI covers 80%

Pharmacy (prescriptions)30% copay

With doctor's prescription

Dental (basic)Partially covered

Scaling 1x/year free, fillings covered

Health checkupFree

General checkup every 1-2 years

MRI / CT scan30-60% copay

When medically necessary

📖 Health Insurance for Foreigners

Employees: Automatically enrolled through your employer. Premium is 3.595% of monthly salary, split 50/50 with your employer. Long-term care insurance (13.14% of HI premium) is added on top.

Self-employed / Visa holders: You pay the full premium yourself (both employee and employer portions). A minimum monthly premium applies regardless of income.

Tip: Keep your NHI card with you. Show it at any hospital or clinic for the insured rate. Without it, you'll pay the full uninsured price (2-3x more).

✓Updated for 2026Last reviewed October 6, 2026See what changed

Written and reviewed by Taeyang Kim · Rates and thresholds are taken directly from the official notices of Korea's National Tax Service, National Pension Service, National Health Insurance Service, Ministry of Employment and Labor, and Minimum Wage Commission. Results are non-binding estimates for reference only and may differ from the actual amount depending on your circumstances. Found a mistake? Tell us through Contact.