As of June 1, 2025, Austria has discontinued mandatory health insurance for Ukrainian refugees under temporary protection if they are not employed and do not receive basic social assistance. This was reported by APA.
The government has introduced a transitional period lasting until July 12, during which Ukrainians will still be able to access medical services free of charge — including doctor visits, medication, dental care, and hospital treatment.
After the transitional period ends, free healthcare will only be available to those who are officially employed or receiving social benefits. As of May, about 35,000 Ukrainians in Austria fell into these categories. Others will be required to obtain insurance on their own or secure employment to maintain access to the healthcare system.
The changes will most significantly affect those who are unemployed but have savings and therefore do not qualify for social support.
Other benefits, such as childcare allowances and family support payments, will remain in place until the end of October. Austrian authorities have stated that they plan to revise the eligibility criteria for such benefits to encourage more Ukrainians to enter the labor market.
