In 2025, Italy continues to attract foreigners with its high-quality and affordable healthcare. Learn how the Italian health system works, who can access medical care, what services are available, how much they cost, where to get treatment as a foreigner, and how to apply for a medical visa

Italy has long been recognized for its rich cultural heritage, world-class cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. But in recent years, it’s also gained increasing attention as a destination for high-quality, affordable healthcare. In 2025, Italy’s medical system continues to attract foreigners — both residents and visitors — seeking efficient and expert care. This guide will help you understand how the Italian healthcare system works and what to expect if you're planning medical treatment in Italy.

Choose a reliable health insurance policy on the Visit World portal to protect yourself from unforeseen expenses during your move. Support from a trusted insurance agent with a guaranteed payout in just a couple of clicks!

The Italian Healthcare System

Italy’s healthcare system, known as the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), is a regionally-based public service that provides universal coverage to citizens and residents. The SSN is funded primarily through taxes and delivers services either directly or through accredited private providers. Emergency care is free for everyone, including tourists.

In 2025, the Italian system continues to evolve with increased digitalization, more emphasis on telemedicine, and reforms aimed at reducing regional disparities in care quality.

Advantages of the Italian Medical System

- Universal coverage: All residents and legal foreign workers have access to public healthcare.

- High-quality doctors: Italy is known for producing excellent medical professionals, many of whom have international training.

- Affordable private care: Compared to countries like the U.S. or Switzerland, private healthcare services are significantly cheaper.

- Integrated services: Hospitals often coordinate with general practitioners, specialists, and rehabilitation centers, ensuring continuity of care.

- Emphasis on prevention: Routine screenings and health education are part of public health programs.

Disadvantages of the Italian Medical System

- Long waiting times: In the public system, non-urgent procedures and specialist appointments can take weeks or even months.

- Regional inequality: The quality and availability of services may vary significantly between the north (generally better) and the south.

- Language barrier: While many doctors in major cities speak English, this is not guaranteed, especially in smaller towns or public hospitals.

- Bureaucracy: Paperwork and registration processes can be slow and complex for foreigners unfamiliar with the system.

How to Get Medical Care in Italy?

- For Residents

Foreigners with residency in Italy can register with the SSN by obtaining a tessera sanitaria (healthcard). This gives access to public doctors, hospitals, and discounted medication.

- For Tourists and Short-Term Visitors

Emergency care is free, but for non-emergency treatment, you must pay out of pocket or have private insurance. Some travelers buy temporary health insurance or rely on European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) if from the EU/EEA.

- Private Clinics

Many foreigners opt for private healthcare providers to avoid wait times. These services are often reasonably priced and widely available in cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence.

Medical Tourism in Italy

Italy is increasingly becoming a hub for medical tourism in 2025. Patients from the EU, Middle East, North America, and even Asia travel here for treatments in areas like:

- Cosmetic surgery

- Dental care

- Fertility and IVF treatments

- Orthopedics and rehabilitation

- Cancer treatment and diagnostics

- Cardiovascular surgery

Medical tourists are drawn by the combination of expert care, shorter wait times compared to their home countries, and the chance to recover in a beautiful setting.

Cost of Medical Services in Italy for Foreigners (2025)

Here’s a general breakdown of common private healthcare costs for non-residents:

- GP Consultation: €50–€100

- Specialist Visit: €80–€200

- Dental Cleaning: €60–€120

- MRI Scan: €250–€600

- Cosmetic Surgery (e.g., rhinoplasty): €3,000–€6,000

- In vitro fertilization (IVF): €4,500-€8,000

- Knee replacement: €10,000-€15,000

- Rhinoplasty (nose job): €4,000-€6,000

- Dental implants (per tooth): €1,000-€2,000

- Coronary artery bypass grafting: €15,000-€25,000

Note: Costs may vary by region and facility. Always confirm with the clinic in advance.

Best Medical Centers for Foreigners

Several hospitals and clinics in Italy cater specifically to international patients:

- Humanitas Research Hospital (Milan) – A top-tier private hospital with international services.

- Policlinico Gemelli (Rome) – Affiliated with the Catholic University, known for oncology and cardiology.

- San Raffaele Hospital (Milan) – Offers cutting-edge technology and English-speaking staff.

- Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (Rome) – One of Europe's best children’s hospitals.

- Villa Donatello (Florence) – Popular for diagnostics and preventive health packages for expats and tourists.

Who Goes to Italy for Treatment – and Why?

People who choose Italy for medical treatment typically fall into these groups:

- Medical tourists from Europe: Seeking affordable but high-quality care, often in fields like dentistry or orthopedics.

- Wealthy patients from the Middle East, Moldova and Russia: Looking for advanced care and post-treatment relaxation in Italian resorts.

- Expats and retirees: Especially from the U.S., Great Britain and New Zealand, who combine long-term stays with routine or specialized care.

- Second-opinion seekers: Foreigners visiting top Italian specialists before undergoing major procedures at home.

How to Get a Visa for Treatment in Italy

Foreign nationals from non-Schengen countries who plan to receive medical care in Italy may apply for a Medical Treatment Visa. Key steps include:

- Invitation letter from an Italian hospital or medical provider confirming the treatment plan.

- Proof of financial means to pay for the treatment and stay.

- Travel insurance with medical coverage for the Schengen area.

- Visa application form submitted to the nearest Italian consulate.

- Processing times vary, but it’s advisable to apply 4–6 weeks in advance. In some cases, patients may also bring a companion caregiver under a special visa provision.

How to plan a medical trip to Italy?

- Consultation: Discuss with your local physician and identify suitable Italian medical facilities.

- Documentation: Secure an invitation from the chosen Italian medical institution and gather necessary medical records.

- Visa Application: Apply for a medical visa at the Italian consulate or embassy in your country.

- Travel Arrangements: Plan your travel and accommodation, considering proximity to the medical facility.

- Post-Treatment Care: Arrange for follow-up appointments and consider recovery time in Italy before returning home.

The Italian medical system in 2025 continues to blend efficiency, expertise, and affordability — making it an appealing option for foreigners. Whether you're an expat, a tourist with an emergency, or someone planning a medical trip, understanding how to navigate the system will ensure you get the best possible care in Italy.

Order a treatment guide on the Visit World portal – a convenient assistant for anyone planning a medical trip to Italy. In it you will find: up-to-date information on visa fees and application processing times, a complete list of required documents, step-by-step instructions for obtaining a medical visa – from filling out the application form to passing the interview, as well as tips and life hacks for a comfortable stay in the country.

Plan your treatment easily – with Visit World!

 

Let's remind you! The transport system in Italy in 2025 is modern and understandable. We have already talked about the rules, types of transport, payment and useful applications.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Italy;

Legal advice on immigration to Italy;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Italy;

Medical insurance all over the world.

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We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information. Therefore, if you see any error or discrepancy, please write to our hotline.