Bulgaria Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Bulgaria

Expats in Bulgaria have a variety of international health insurance plans to choose from when moving or visiting Bulgaria. While expats are required to contribute to the country's mandatory health insurance model, many choose to secure private health insurance for more comprehensive coverage.

The short guide below provides useful information about the healthcare system, travel and safety tips, as well as some of the best health insurance options for expats in Bulgaria. Read on to learn more, or click the button below to obtain a no-obligation, free quote.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Bulgaria

Healthcare System in Bulgaria

Bulgaria's healthcare system is mainly controlled by the Ministry of Health, which oversees the National Health Service and policy. On the other hand, the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) oversees and manages the compulsory medical insurance system.

NHIF carries out its administrative duties through 28 territorial divisions, known as regional Health Insurance Funds. As in many other countries, bigger cities and towns usually offer more access to clinics, doctors, medical supplies, and hospitals when compared to restricted rural areas.

Although Bulgaria is renowned for its well-trained medical professionals, the overall medical standard of the country suffers from a lack of infrastructure and funding.

Public Hospitals in Bulgaria

Bulgaria's public sector does have over 1,600 medical facilities, 322 of which are hospitals, with many practitioners drawn to the more lucrative opportunities in the private sector. Most hospitals suffer from poor facilities, understaffing, and a simple lack of funding.

• University Hospital Queen Joanna: The University Hospital Queens Joanna is a public hospital located in Sofia known for specialized medical care.
• St. Marina University Hospital: One of the leading public hospitals in Varna, the St. Marina University Hospital offers a diverse variety of medical services.
• University Hospital St. George, Plovdiv: A reputable public hospital located in Plovdiv, the University Hospital of St. George provides a range of medical treatments.

Private Hospitals in Bulgaria

Bulgaria has over 60 private facilities, mainly situated within bigger cities and towns, such as Sofia. Private hospitals contain better facilities, equipment, and more access to medical supplies.

• Tokuda Hospital Sofia: As one of the largest private hospitals in the country, Tokuda Hospital Sofia offers state-of-the-art facilities to international patients in Bulgaria.
• Sofia Medical Center: The Sofia Medical Center is known for its specialized medical care and advanced medical technology.
• City Clinic Group: City Clinic is a reputable private hospital chain in Bulgaria with hospitals in Sofia, Varna, Plovdic, and other cities. They offer a wide range of medical services and are known for being well-equipped.

Health Insurance Options in Bulgaria for Expats

Expats in Bulgaria are required to make contributions to the mandatory health insurance which gives them access to public healthcare facilities and benefits citizens have access to. However, expats are recommended to secure their own private health insurance plan for more comprehensive coverage.

Public Insurance in Bulgaria

Public Insurance is mandatory to all residents in Bulgaria, this includes expats living in the country. The compulsory health insurance contribution rate for 2024 is 8% of income. This is shared between the employer and the employee at a ratio of 60:40.

Self-employed persons will have to cover the full 8% individually.

Private Insurance in Bulgaria

There are ample private insurance options for expats in Bulgaria. Expats can choose between renowned international health insurance providers or local insurance providers to secure more comprehensive coverage and access to private healthcare facilities.

Best International Health Insurance Providers for Expats in Bulgaria

Some of the best international health insurance providers for expats in Bulgaria include Allianz, AXA, Bupa, Cigna, and VUMI. These insurers offer expats the most coverage and the most extensive network of providers.

Allianz

Allianz Care is a world-leading health insurance provider for expats across the globe. Their international health insurance plans for expats cover inpatient and outpatient treatments, dental care, and medical evacuations.

AXA

AXA's international health insurance plan for expats in Bulgaria is available in multiple tiers including Foundation, Standard, Comprehensive, Prestige, and Prestige Plus. Each tier offers different coverage limits and benefits for expats to find a plan that is right for them.

Cigna

For expats in Bulgaria, Cigna offers customizable international health insurance plans in three different tiers, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. In addition to extensive health benefits, these plans also include medical evacuation, routine check-ups, and dental, and vision care.

VUMI

VIP Universal Medical Insurance Group, or VUMI, offers expats in Bulgaria a range of international health insurance plans designed to provide expats with comprehensive coverage wherever their journey takes them.

Facts to Consider When Picking Health Insurance in Bulgaria

In order to pick the right health insurance plan for your stay in Bulgaria, the first thing you need to do is consider your needs and requirements. Once you have determined what you need to be covered, you will be able to look for a plan that suits your needs and requirements the most.

Important factors to consider when picking health insurance in Bulgaria:

Premiums and Payment Options

Premiums are an important factor you need to consider when finding the right plan for your stay in Bulgaria. Choosing a plan with flexible payment options such as deductibles and copayments will allow you to adjust your plan to have the most coverage whilst still staying within budget.

Plan Customizations

Customizability is a key factor to consider when looking for a plan that is right for you. The ability to add or drop benefits from a plan will allow you to customize your benefits and create a plan that covers you the way you need it to.

Exclusions

The benefits and coverage of a plan is important, however, it is also equally important that you look at a plan's exclusions when picking an insurance plan that's right for you. This is particularly important for individuals with chronic conditions and pre-existing conditions.

Safety Tips Before Traveling to Bulgaria

Before traveling or moving to Bulgaria, there are a few safety tips you should keep in mind to avoid unnecessary risks, from securing your personal belongings to deter pickpockets to sticking to reliable transportation and general emergency preparedness.

Here are a few tips to help you stay safe in Bulgaria:

• Research Your Destination: Before traveling to your destination, conduct your own research on your destination to familiarize yourself with local laws, customs, and the culture of Bulgaria to avoid potential conflict and issues.
• Secure Your Belongings: While Bulgaria is generally safe for travelers, it is recommended to keep your personal belongings and valuables secure to deter pickpockets when in crowded areas.
• Staying Connected: Keeping your mobile devices charged and having a portable charger available can help you in many situations during your stay in Bulgaria and ensure that you can always call for help if needed.
• Emergency Preparedness: Keep the Bulgarian emergency numbers saved or memorized to ensure that you can reach out to emergency services if needed. It is also recommended to familiarize yourself with ways to contact your embassy or consulate.
• Travel Insurance: Travelers are highly recommended to secure travel insurance to protect them from financial loss in the event of accidents during their travel to Bulgaria.

Important Emergency Service Numbers in Bulgaria expats should keep in mind:
Emergency Number: 112
Police Service: 166
Ambulance Service: 150
Fire/Rescue Service: 160

Using Emergency Services in Bulgaria as an Expat

Most State-run hospitals normally have dedicated emergency wards, while in the capital city of Sofia, the University Hospital Tsaritsa Yoanna and University Hospital St Anna both operate dedicated emergency wardings.

Nevertheless, the emergency response times in Bulgaria are still improving, and expats with potential language barriers and difficulty with the Cyrillic alphabet might find it hard to communicate during emergencies.

Using Your EHIC in Bulgaria

Although the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does grant the holder emergency medical treatment that is necessary on the same terms as Bulgarian nationals, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment, and non-urgent medical care are not covered.

There are also private hospitals that do not accept the EHIC. In other words, the EHIC does not act as a sufficient substitute for proper international medical and travel insurance coverage.

Hence, travel insurance that covers medical costs is essential for expatriates and tourists staying in Bulgaria for a short period of time. It is also one of the entry requirements imposed by the government.

Compare Plans and Quotes Now

Pacific Prime Insurances is an international health insurance brokerage that offers professional advice and free plan comparisons to our clients. No matter what your budget is or what your requirements are, our professional consultants can match you with a policy that best fits you or your group.

Our policies can cover a wide range of services including dental, maternity, specialist consultation, transportation, inpatient services, and many more aspects. Please contact us today for a free medical insurance consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the healthcare system work in Bulgaria?

Bulgaria has a mix of public and private healthcare providers. The public system is mainly controlled by the Ministry of Health, which oversees the National Health Service and policy. Private healthcare offers faster service for those who can afford it.

Is health insurance mandatory for expats in Bulgaria?

Health insurance is mandatory for all residents in Bulgaria, including expats. Expats need to contribute to the social health insurance system or obtain comprehensive private health insurance.

Does Bulgaria have a high cost of living?

Bulgaria generally has a lower cost of living compared to many Western European countries. The cost of living for a single adult in Bulgaria is about BGN 1,188 (USD $640) excluding rent. For a family of four, the estimated cost of living excluding red is about BGN 4,211 (USD $2,268).