Health Insurance Guide for Foreign Employees in Korea: How Much Is Deducted from My Salary? (2026 Latest)
The ultimate guide to National Health Insurance for foreign employees hired by Korean companies. Get answers to 10 essential questions, including calculation methods, the 50:50 payment rule, registering dependents, and whether you can get a refund.
Health Insurance Guide for Foreigners Working in Korea
When you start your career in Korea, one of the first things you encounter on your payslip—and often a significant deduction—is the 'National Health Insurance'. For those asking, "How much is health insurance for foreign employees?", we have detailed the 10 most frequently asked questions below.
💡 Health Insurance FAQ at a Glance
Category | Question | Key Answer |
|---|---|---|
Cost | What % is deducted from my salary? | 3.545% (employee portion) + Long-term care insurance |
Family | Can my family get benefits? | Yes, no extra cost if registered as dependents |
Admin | How to check or get a refund? | Check via the NHIS app; refunds are not available |
🔍 10 Detailed Questions & Answers for Foreign Employees
What is the exact insurance rate deducted from my salary?
As of 2024-2026, the health insurance rate is 7.09% of your monthly remuneration (pre-tax salary). For example, if your salary is 3 million KRW, the total insurance premium is 212,700 KRW. However, do not worry; you do not pay the full amount.
Is it true that the company and I split the insurance premium 50:50?
Yes, that is correct. In Korea's workplace health insurance system, the employee and the company split the premium exactly in half. Therefore, of the 212,700 KRW calculated above, the actual amount deducted from your salary is 3.545%, which is 106,350 KRW. The company covers the other half.
Why do I have to pay for long-term care insurance, and how is it calculated?
This is a separate item on your payslip alongside health insurance. It is a social security system designed to assist those who have difficulty with daily life due to old age or geriatric diseases. The calculation is 'Health Insurance Premium × 12.95%'. If your insurance premium is 100,000 KRW, you will pay an additional 12,950 KRW.
Do I pay more if I have dependents (spouse, children, etc.)?
No. Thanks to the 'dependent system', one of the biggest advantages of the Korean health insurance system, you can register family members who meet income and property requirements under your coverage. Your premium remains the same regardless of the number of dependents. Your family members will enjoy the same medical benefits as you.
Does my visa type (E-7, E-9, F-2, etc.) affect the premium?
As a workplace subscriber, the premium is determined proportionally to your income, regardless of your visa. While some visas (like E-9) may have differences depending on whether housing costs are included in your remuneration, the base rate applies equally to everyone.
How are premiums handled for the first month of employment and the month of resignation?
Joining: If you start on the 1st of the month, you pay for that month. However, if you join on the 2nd or later, the first month is typically exempt, and payments begin from the following month.
Resigning: You must pay the full premium for the month of resignation, regardless of when you leave. Your status will switch to a local subscriber or your qualification will be terminated the day after you resign.
Is there an additional premium if I have income other than my salary?
Yes. If your income other than your salary (interest, dividends, rental income, etc.) exceeds 20 million KRW per year, an additional 'income-based premium' may be charged. In this case, the company does not cover half; the subscriber must pay the full amount.
Where can I check my insurance payment history?
You can check it on the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) website or through the smartphone app 'The Health Insurance'. After logging in via simple authentication or a financial certificate, you can check your payment history and qualification status, even in English.
Are there any exemptions or discounts?
Dispatch workers from countries that have a Social Security Agreement with Korea (such as the US, Japan, Germany, etc.) can be exempt from joining the Korean health insurance if they provide proof of maintaining coverage in their home country. Additionally, there may be some discount benefits for those working in islands or remote areas.
Can I get a refund for the premiums paid when I leave Korea?
No. Health insurance premiums are not refundable. While the National Pension might offer a lump-sum refund for certain visas upon departure, health insurance is a 'cost' paid for medical services and is a non-refundable, expired insurance.
🚀 Calculate Your Actual Premium
Curious about the actual numbers rather than the theory? Using the HaniSeoul calculator, you can check your actual deduction, including long-term care insurance, in just one second by entering your pre-tax salary.
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Go to HaniSeoul Health Insurance Calculator
This guide is based on 2026 standards, and rates may change according to legal revisions. For individual qualification inquiries, please contact the NHIS Foreigner Call Center at 1577-1000.