Ciao, future Erasmus student! If you're reading this, your suitcase is probably half-packed and you're already dreaming of pizza, gelato and parties in historic squares. But before you dive into the dolce vita, there's one piece of admin you can't ignore: your healthcare in Italy.
No one plans on getting ill during their Erasmus, but knowing how the Italian health system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) works will save you headaches (literally) and money. Here's everything you need to know about the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), the GP and what to do in an emergency.
Key Fact for 2026
Healthcare in Italy is run regionally. Rules can vary slightly if you're in Lombardy, Lazio or Sicily, but the core principles we explain here apply across the country. The same procedures remain in place for the 2026-2027 academic year.
credit_card 1. What is the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is your passport to peace of mind. It's free and gives you the right to receive medically necessary care during your temporary stay in Italy, on the same terms and at the same cost as people insured in the country.
Important: The EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. It does not cover private healthcare or costs such as a flight back home or lost belongings.
Pre-departure checklist (2026-2027):
- check_circle Apply for your EHIC at least 3 weeks before flying.
- check_circle Check the expiry date (it usually lasts 2 years).
- check_circle Always carry the physical card, not just a photo on your phone.
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Browse Roomsstethoscope 2. The "Medico di Base" (GP)
In Italy, the GP is called Medico di Base or Medico di Famiglia. As an Erasmus student, you have two options:
- Use your EHIC for occasional visits: You can see a GP, show your card and, in most cases, the visit will be free or carry a very small co-payment.
- Register with the SSN (recommended for long stays): If you'll be staying more than 3 months, you can temporarily register with the Italian health system. This assigns you a permanent GP.
To register, you'll need to visit your nearest ASL (Azienda Sanitaria Locale) with your ID/passport, your EHIC and your Italian university enrolment certificate.
ambulance 3. Emergencies: The "Pronto Soccorso"
If you have a real emergency, you should head to the Pronto Soccorso (A&E). Be aware that the system runs on a colour triage code, and this determines whether you pay the famous "Ticket" (healthcare co-payment).
Immediate life-threatening emergency. Care is free.
Serious urgency, risk of worsening. Care is free.
Minor urgency. You pay the "Ticket" (around €25).
Not urgent. You pay the full fee.
*Note: Colour codes may have switched to numeric codes in some regions, but the priority and payment logic stays the same for 2026-2027.
verified_user 4. Private Insurance or EHIC?
Many students take out additional private insurance (such as OnCampus or student-specific travel policies). Is it worth it?
The EHIC covers the basics within the public system, which in Italy can be slow and bureaucratic. Private insurance lets you access private clinics where you're seen faster and often in English or Spanish. If your budget allows it, it's a strongly recommended extra layer of protection, especially for dental care or repatriation.
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In short
Always carry your EHIC and your ID. Find your nearest hospital as soon as you arrive at your flat. And above all, enjoy your Erasmus worry-free! Italy is a wonderful country and its healthcare, while a bit chaotic, is high quality.