Two popular digital nomad insurance options for Greece
1. Genki - Coverage for Greece's digital nomad visa holders
Genki has become particularly popular among digital nomads establishing themselves in Greece, especially those applying for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa. They offer insurance options designed for frequent and long-term travelers that can align well with visa requirements and the realities of Greek island life.
Key features for digital nomads in Greece:
EU-wide health coverage: Genki offers travel health insurance with coverage up to $1.1 million (€1,000,000) for medically necessary treatments. After a deductible of $55 per insurance case (except for inpatient hospital stays), eligible costs are covered in full. This works well in Greece's EU healthcare system while also covering trips to neighboring countries like Italy, Turkey, or Bulgaria.
Continuous coverage for island hopping: Whether you're spending summer in Mykonos, autumn in Crete, or winter in Athens, Genki provides seamless coverage across all Greek destinations without location restrictions. Coverage lasts up to 24 months with automatic monthly renewal.
Additional medical benefits: Coverage includes ambulance transport (including potential helicopter evacuation between islands), up to 6 physiotherapy sessions per case, and up to $1,100 (€1,000) for emergency dental treatment following an accident. They also cover medical repatriation if needed.
Visa-friendly documentation: Starting at around $58 per month (€52.50), Genki can provide documentation that may meet Digital Nomad Visa application requirements, though you should verify current visa insurance requirements with Greek authorities. After the minimum one-month period, you can cancel anytime.
Greece-specific benefits:
Genki's coverage integrates well with Greece's mixed public-private healthcare system. You can use private clinics in Athens or Thessaloniki for immediate care. Their 24/7 emergency assistance can arrange direct billing for inpatient stays at major hospitals. For outpatient visits or on smaller islands, you'll typically pay upfront and submit claims through their app. Coverage extends seamlessly across all EU countries for easy travel.
2. SafetyWing - Budget-friendly coverage for Greek island hoppers
SafetyWing appeals to digital nomads exploring Greece's diverse regions while maintaining budget consciousness. Their "Nomad Insurance" Essential plan provides core medical coverage that works well for those testing Greek life or using the country as a Mediterranean base.
Key features for digital nomads in Greece:
Affordable pricing: At $56.28 per 4 weeks (approximately $60 per month) for travelers aged 18-39, SafetyWing fits perfectly with Greece's low cost of living, especially on less touristy islands or mainland cities.
Island-hopping friendly: The automatic 28-day renewal means continuous coverage whether you're exploring Cyclades in summer or settling in Athens for winter. No gaps during ferry trips or island changes.
Limited home country coverage: The Essential plan includes up to 30 days of coverage for medical treatment in your home country every 90 days (for U.S. residents, this is limited to 15 days). Helpful for nomads who need to return while maintaining Greek residency or visa status.
Regional coverage included: Full coverage throughout Europe and nearby countries. Perfect for quick trips to Istanbul, Balkan explorations, or Italian getaways from Greek ports.
Greek hospital network: SafetyWing has relationships with private hospitals in major Greek cities and can arrange direct billing for inpatient care at select facilities, avoiding upfront payments.
Budget considerations:
SafetyWing's Essential plan includes a $250 deductible per claim (except in your home country, where there's no deductible). It covers emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, and evacuation, but excludes pre-existing conditions, routine care, and cancer treatment. Electronics coverage and other add-ons are available separately. Many nomads find the savings allow for better accommodation or more island exploration.
Comparing your options for Greece
Both insurers serve Greece's digital nomads well but with different priorities:
Consider Genki if: You're applying for the Digital Nomad Visa, want medical coverage with a lower deductible ($55), value 24/7 emergency assistance with direct hospital billing for inpatient care, and plan to use Greece as a long-term EU base.
Consider SafetyWing if: You're exploring Greece seasonally, prioritizing affordability, comfortable with a higher deductible ($250 per claim), and value flexibility for island hopping and regional travel.
Explore more digital nomad insurance options
While Genki and SafetyWing are popular from Athens' Kolonaki cafes to Crete's beach coworking spaces, your specific needs might require different coverage. You might need specialized coverage for water sports, higher limits for photography equipment, or specific archaeological site visit coverage.
Visit our complete directory of digital nomad insurance providers to compare additional options perfect for your Greek odyssey.
Essential insurance considerations for Greece
Navigating Greek healthcare
Greece offers both public (ESY) and private healthcare. While public care is generally good and very affordable with AMKA registration, wait times can be long, especially on islands. Private insurance gives you access to clinics like Athens Medical Center or Hygeia Hospital with English-speaking staff and shorter waits.
Island-specific challenges
Smaller islands may only have basic medical centers. Serious conditions might require helicopter evacuation to Athens or Crete. Ensure your insurance covers medical evacuation between islands and to major hospitals when necessary.
Digital nomad visa requirements
Greece's Digital Nomad Visa requires proof of health insurance covering your entire stay. While some insurers provide generic documentation, having Greece-specific formatting can smooth the application process. Both featured providers can typically meet these requirements.
Seasonal considerations
Greek summers bring extreme heat and tourist crowds, while winters can be surprisingly cold and wet. Island ferry schedules become limited in winter. Insurance should cover weather-related health issues and potential travel disruptions.
Activity coverage
From scuba diving in Zakynthos to hiking in Meteora, Greece offers incredible adventures. Verify coverage for water sports, motorbiking (common island transport), and archaeological site visits. Some activities might need additional coverage.
Practical tips for insurance in Greece
Register with IKA/EFKA if staying long-term, even with private insurance. This provides backup access to public healthcare and may be required for visa renewals. The process can be bureaucratic but worthwhile for extended stays.
Keep both digital and physical insurance documents. Greek authorities often prefer paper documentation, especially on islands or at smaller facilities. Having Greek translations of key documents can be helpful.
Understand pharmacy services. Greek pharmacists are highly trained and can provide many medications without prescriptions. However, ensure your insurance covers prescription medications you might need.
Learn basic Greek medical terms or have a translation app ready. While English is common in tourist areas, medical situations in local hospitals might require Greek communication.
Making an informed decision
Choosing insurance for your Greek adventure involves considering:
- Digital Nomad Visa application plans
- Intended islands and regions to explore
- Seasonal timing of your stay
- Water sports and adventure activities planned
- Need for medical evacuation coverage
- Budget for island living costs
- Frequency of EU travel from Greek base
Final thoughts
Greece offers digital nomads an extraordinary blend of ancient history, modern EU membership, island paradise, and affordable Mediterranean living. From productive mornings in Athens coworking spaces to sunset calls from Santorini terraces, from weekend sailing trips to winter skiing on Mount Parnassus, Greece provides endless inspiration for remote work.
Whether you choose Genki's coverage or SafetyWing's budget-friendly flexibility, proper insurance lets you fully embrace the Greek way of life. You can focus on growing your business while enjoying fresh seafood tavernas, exploring ancient ruins, and building community in this crossroads of civilization, knowing you're protected across all 6,000 Greek islands and beyond.
Καλό ταξίδι (safe travels), and may your Greek adventure be filled with productive work, unforgettable experiences, and zero insurance claims!
