National Health Insurance (NHIS) Copayment Ceiling and Refunds for Foreigners in Korea

Foreigners holding a valid Alien Registration Card (ARC) who are subscribed to the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) in South Korea are entitled to the exact same statutory protections and refund rights as Korean citizens.

One of the most valuable yet underutilized benefits is the Individual Copayment Ceiling Refund (본인부담상한제 환급금), which returns out-of-pocket medical bills exceeding your income bracket back to your bank account in cash.

1. How the NHIS Copayment Ceiling Works for Foreign Residents

If your total annual covered hospital expenses exceed your designated income ceiling (ranging from approximately 870,000 KRW for lower income to 8,080,000 KRW for top income), the NHIS automatically refunds 100% of the excess amount.

💡 NHIS Annual Medical Out-of-Pocket Ceiling (2026 Brackets)

Ministry of Health and Welfare Guidelines

🏥 Lower 50% Income Brackets

Annual copayment cap is between 870,000 KRW and 1,620,000 KRW. Any covered medical bill spent above this threshold is refunded directly in cash.

💵 Upper 50% Income Brackets

Annual copayment cap is between 3,030,000 KRW and 8,080,000 KRW. Ideal for unexpected surgeries, hospitalization, or major medical treatments.

2. 3-Step Refund Claim Process for Expats

1 📞

Visit NHIS English Portal

Access nhis.or.kr or call the dedicated English line at 033-811-2000.

2 🔍

Inquire Unclaimed Refunds

Select [Civil Petition] -> [Refund / Subsidy Inquiry] using your digital certificate.

3 💳

Register Korean Bank Account

Input your personal Korean bank account number for direct wire transfer within 2 business days.

🔗 Related Expat Guides:

How Foreigners Can Open Bank Accounts in Korea

2026 Korea Year-End Tax Settlement Guide