Changes in free healthcare for uninsured citizens – New ministerial decision

With a new circular, the Greek Ministry of Health has redefined the conditions under which uninsured citizens can access public healthcare services. The circular, signed by Minister Adonis Georgiadis and Deputy Minister Marios Themistokleous, took effect on November 1, 2025, and now links free healthcare access to the possession of an active AMKA (Social Security Number).

Active AMKA Required for Free Medical Care

Uninsured citizens who fall under categories (a) and (b) of Article 33, paragraph 2, Law 4368/2016 — including Greek nationals, expatriates, EU citizens, and legally residing third-country nationals — are now entitled to free hospitalization and medical/pharmaceutical care only if they have an active AMKA.

Those without an active AMKA must reactivate it through Citizens’ Service Centers (KEP) or EFKA branches. Until reactivation, any healthcare services provided will be billed according to existing legislation.

Who Is Exempt from the Active AMKA Requirement

Certain vulnerable social groups retain full access to free public healthcare even without an active AMKA. These include:

Minors (under 18) in welfare institutions, foster families, or under guardianship.

Pregnant women, with a medical certificate from a public facility.

Persons with disabilities or chronic illnesses, with a KEPA certificate or public hospital report.

Residents of psychiatric units or therapeutic communities.

Prisoners, minors in institutions, and persons under administrative detention.

Asylum seekers, refugees, and stateless persons.

Victims of human trafficking or sexual exploitation, for as long as protection measures apply.

Provision for Inactive AMKA with Insurance Rights

The circular also clarifies that individuals with inactive AMKA who retain insurance rights from previous employment may maintain their insurance coverage for a specific period.

Purpose of the New Policy

According to the Ministry of Health, this new regulation — effective November 1, 2025 — aims to ensure legality, transparency, and accurate identification of those entitled to free healthcare in the public system.

Source: Ministry of Health Circular (November 2025)