Travel to Greenland to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

Image

Image
Page layout
 
INTRO ACTIVITIES STORIES ORGANIZATIONS SPOTLIGHT SEARCH TOPICS

Image  Greenland

Intro
Back to top

Backpacking or traveling in Greenland?

  • The largest island in the world, a land of extremes. Greenland is not for every backpacker or traveler and a visit requires good preparation. In winter you can experience the snow and the northern lights, in summer you can hike, climb, kayak. In addition, it is not easy to travel around, there are hardly any roads, so if you want to go from one place to another you can take a boat. Otherwise, it is recommended to stay one or two weeks in one place.
  • Activity spotting: hiking, climbing, kayaking, nature spotting, learning about the local culture, wildlife tours.
Back to top

Studying in Greenland?

  • With one university, there is not much to choose from in Greenland. The University of Greenland offers a small selection of English studies, especially related to local culture, society and nature.
Back to top

Internship in Greenland?

  • There are few internship options in Greenland. If you are looking for an internship, opportunities include research institutions or tech companies.
Back to top

Volunteering in Greenland?

  • For volunteering you can go to individuals through volunteer websites, or for example in the tourism industry and education.
Back to top

Working in Greenland?

  • There are few jobs. As a foreigner, your best chance is in the tourism industry as a guide, or as an English teacher.
Back to top

Working as a digital nomad in Greenland?

  • You can hardly find much more off-the-beaten-path. Few digital nomads travel to this part of the world, which is precisely why it is a very special experience. For example, visit Nuuk and experience how the Vikings used to live. Make sure you have money, because it is not cheap.
Back to top

Living in Greenland?

  • The standard of living is quite high in Nuuk, the capital. In other parts of the country it can vary quite a bit. The people are friendly and hospitable, but be sure to familiarize yourself with the traditions and learn some Greenlandic.
  • It is also important to consider the extreme temperatures, daylight hours (both summer and winter) and the language.

 

Back to top

CHECK COUNTRY INFORMATION  CHECK PREPARING AND INSURANCE  CHECK ACTIVITIES AND STORIES 

 

Greenland Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Greenland Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Image

Content about Greenland on WorldSupporter

Greenland: Updates & Travel

Greenland: Updates & Travel

Back to top

Travel in Greenland?

  • Rugged and imposing landscapes ranging from rocky mountain ranges and giant icebergs to deep fjords and dry tundra.
  • Other highlights in Greenland include: Kulusuk 'The world's most unusual day trippers dream', dog sledding trips, swimming in hot springs overlooking icebergs drifting by, traditional villages and Ilulissat, the world's most impressive glacier outside Antarctica.
Back to top

Updates Greenland

  • More about Greenland, updates and contributions, see the link below.
Back to top
How does healthcare work in Greenland, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Greenland, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

Back to top

How does the healthcare system work in Greenland?

Back to top

What is the quality of healthcare in Greenland?

  • Greenland, the large piece of Denmark, far from Europe. The country is under Danish rule, but has it's own parliament and also its own health care system.
  • The health care is of a reasonable standard, but comes with a huge challenge. Which is not so strange, in a country where the average temperature never exceeds 10 degrees Celsius.
  • The country has higher mortality rates, lower life expectancy and higher infant mortality rates than other Nordic countries, but that is probably mainly due to the harsh conditions in the country.
  • Only in Nuuk, the capital, is there a hospital with all the complicated modern facilities. In the rest of the country, the options are thinned out.
  • The lack of transport in the country makes it difficult to receive good, and especially urgent, care.
  • For complex medical treatments, people are often referred to Denmark and due to the extreme weather conditions and limited infrastructure, evacuations by helicopter or plane may be necessary in the event of a medical emergency.
  • Pharmacies in Greenland are often connected to hospitals or health centers. There are also a few independent pharmacies in the capital. Some medicines can be in short supply, so if you are dependent on specific medicines, it may be useful to bring your own.
  • In the event of a medical emergency, call 112. In remote areas, helicopters and vulnerable areas are used to transport patients. Make sure you are well covered for these types of evacuations to avoid high costs!
Back to top

How does the public healthcare system work in Greenland?

  • If you are registered as a resident of Greenland, you are entitled to free healthcare and medicines. Common services include GP visits, care in public hospitals, public dental care, medical specialists, mandatory medicines and home care. In some cases, your medical transport will also be reimbursed.
  • Most medical facilities are located in larger towns such as Nuuk, Sisimiut and Ilulissat.
  • In small settlements, there are health centres staffed by nurses or paramedics, with support from remote doctors via telemedicine.
Back to top

How does the private healthcare system work in Greenland?

  • Unlike many other countries, private healthcare in Greenland is very limited. There are mainly private hospitals and clinics, which is not surprising since there is of course little money to be made with such a small population.
  • Most foreigners choose to go abroad for specialized treatments.
  • Special health insurance can help cover additional costs, especially when it comes to evacuations for these types of treatments outside of Greenland.
Back to top

How is the general practitioner arranged in Greenland?

  • In Greenland, general practitioner care is an important part of the healthcare system. In the larger cities, general practitioners work from health centers or hospitals, but in the smaller steps, nurses or paramedics often take on this care.
  • Because doctors in Greenland often have to treat a range of conditions, they are often both specialists and general practitioners!
Back to top

How is the dentist arranged in Greenland?

  • Dental care in Greenland is of good quality, but it can be limited outside the larger cities.
  • Residents are entitled to free or subsidized treatments in public healthcare. In remote areas, mobile clinics are used to provide basic care.
  • There are hardly any specialist dentists. Specialist care can be outsourced to Denmark.
Back to top

How is pregnancy care arranged in Greenland?

  • Maternity care is good in Greenland, but limited. All pregnant women have access to the same tests, but the process can be different depending on where you live. You will receive a blood and urine test, a preventive test for hereditary diseases, a test for STDs and various checks by a woman. You are also entitled to ultrasound scans during pregnancy.
  • In Nuuk, you must contact the Dronning Ingrid Health Centre, after which you will be assigned a midwife. In coastal towns with a hospital, you must contact the local hospital. In villages without a hospital, care comes from the health station. From here, a nurse will contact the nearest hospital where you will receive 2-3 visits during pregnancy. Women with risk factors are referred to the hospital in Nuuk, the only place where this type of pregnancy can be properly monitored. This usually means that women travel to Nuuk a few weeks (at least 3) before the due date and stay there in the hospital of the patient hotel.
  • All deliveries in Nuuk take place in the Dronning Ingrid Hospital. A caesarean section can also occur here. Outside Nuuk, the birth takes place in the nearby hospital.
  • The transport costs for mothers who live in villages and have to travel to the city are covered by the government. As is the stay in Nuuk in case of complications. The partner must pay the costs themselves, except in the case of twins, in which case the costs are partly covered for both.
Back to top

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Greenland?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Greenland?

  • Climate and nature: Greenland has an extreme climate. The temperatures are low and the country is almost completely covered in ice. Bad and dangerous weather conditions can also often occur. Think of storms and heavy snowfall. So make sure you always have suitable clothing with you and inform others of your plans.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Greenland?

  • In Greenland, the danger lies mainly in the cold.
  • Due to the extreme cold, hypothermia and frostbite can be a major risk.
  • Reflection of the sun on snow and ice can lead to serious eye irritation and damage, such as snow blindness.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Greenland?

  • Road networks are limited to urban areas. Travel between settlements is mainly by boat, plane or snowmobile, depending on the season.
  • Which work and travel insurances are suitable for short and long stays in Greenland
Back to top

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Greenland?

  • Is the trip to Greenland and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

Back to top

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Greenland if you are going to live there for a while?

  • For a long-term stay where you register in Greenland, international insurance is not necessarily required because healthcare is free. However, it can be wise, because it offers the possibility of seeking healthcare abroad. If you do not register in Greenland, health insurance is an absolute must because of the high costs for evacuation, transport and healthcare.
  • Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Back to top
Greenland: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

Image

What insurance can you choose as backpacker, emigrant, expat, intern, nomad, student, volunteer or traveler abroad?
Back to top

What are the main international insurances through JoHo and WorldSupporter for activities, backpacking or travel to or from Greenland

Advice and decision support
Insurance
Back to top

What are the main international insurances through JoHo and WorldSupporter for emigrants, expats and nomads in Greenland

Advice and decision support
Insurance
Back to top
Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

Back to top

What is travel insurance to insure your trip or vacation?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance in the event of accidents, for example, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back to your home country urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies in your home country.
  • With continuous travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.
Back to top

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are away.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you are going to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.
Back to top

What is important to insure when you are going to travel?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possible work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.
Back to top

What insurance do you need for a trip or vacation?

 

Back to top
Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

Round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance

Back to top

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.
Back to top

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.
Back to top

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.
Back to top

What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

Back to top
Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

Back to top

What is backpacking insurance and travel insurance for backpackers?

  • Backpacking insurance for backpackers means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad and is specifically intended for those who are traveling for a long time, traveling independently, or making frequent use of local transportation.
Back to top

Why should you take out travel insurance specifically for backpacking?

  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage for damage and accidents during your adventurous or sporting activities.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family while backpacking.
Back to top

What aspects are important to insure when backpacking abroad?

  • The duration of your trip: so that you are also covered during a very long backpacking trip, or can extend your coverage if you want to stay longer
  • The activities during your trip: so that you can also participate in all kinds of sports and adventure activities that are excluded from travel insurance
  • Coverage of your medical expenses during your trip: so that you are always covered, even if you go to work or if the costs in the event of an accident are higher than the Dutch rate
  • Coverage for natural disasters and war during your trip: so that you don't have to return home immediately with your tail between your legs every time the Dutch government issues negative travel advice
  • Your insurer's specialization: so that your insurer specializes in backpacking trips or long stays abroad, and doesn't treat you like an “all-inclusive sunglasses claimant.”
Back to top

What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

Back to top
Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

Insurance for working abroad

Back to top

What is insurance for working abroad?

  • Insuring yourself for working abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your paid work abroad.
Back to top

Why take out insurance, and when is normal travel insurance no longer sufficient?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for paid work abroad.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes greater during your work, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only special insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive a salary or compensation (for example, food or housing), your local health insurance coverage will normally lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally do not provide sufficient coverage to apply for a work visa or working holiday visa.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only cover stays abroad for a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that there will be no coverage for the entire travel period.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without study, internship, or work. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities, this generally means that you will no longer be covered for the entire travel period.
Back to top

What should you pay attention to in your insurance policy if you are going to work abroad?

  • Make sure you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and working.
  • Make sure you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • that you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • that your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. In most countries, healthcare costs are higher than in the Netherlands.
  • that you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • that you are well insured against personal liability.
  • that you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • that you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  •  that you take care to choose the right coverage when working in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous machinery.
Back to top

What insurance do you need to work abroad?

Back to top
International insurance for working abroad
What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work

Volunteering abroad with the right insurance

Back to top

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad
Back to top

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
Back to top

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.
Back to top

What insurance do you need when volunteering abroad?

Back to top
Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Internship abroad with the right insurance

Back to top

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.
Back to top

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.
Back to top

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

Back to top
Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

Studying abroad with the right insurance

Back to top

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.
Back to top

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.
Back to top

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Back to top
Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
What is an expat insurance or emigration insurance, and why specifically take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad?

What is an expat insurance or emigration insurance, and why specifically take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad?

Take out insurance if you are going to do move abroad as expat or emigrant?

Back to top

What is an expat insurance?

  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.
Back to top

What is an emigration insurance, or insurance for moving and living abroad?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
Back to top

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.
Back to top

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks
Back to top

When can you also live abroad for a longer period of time with travel insurance?

  • There are also special expiring travel insurance policies that provide coverage without you having valid health insurance in your home country, however, these travel insurance policies are not intended for emigration or expats, but for stays outside your home country of up to a few years, for study, temporary work, volunteer work, and longer trips.
  • See the information at International Insurances for backpacking and travel abroad
Back to top

What insurance do you need for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

Back to top
Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad, healthcare systems and health insurance abroad
International insurance through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

International insurance through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

Image

Table of content

  • Why should you take out insurance through the JoHo Foundation when you go abroad?
  • Insuring activities abroad:
    • internships, studying, volunteer work or paid work
    • backpacking, holiday, travel or round the world
    • emigration, living abroad, working as expat
  • Insurances for abroad: per insurance 
  • Insurances for abroad: per organization
  • How healthcare works
......Read more on this page

Image

Safety and insurances for Greenland

How does healthcare work in Greenland, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Greenland, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

Back to top

How does the healthcare system work in Greenland?

Back to top

What is the quality of healthcare in Greenland?

  • Greenland, the large piece of Denmark, far from Europe. The country is under Danish rule, but has it's own parliament and also its own health care system.
  • The health care is of a reasonable standard, but comes with a huge challenge. Which is not so strange, in a country where the average temperature never exceeds 10 degrees Celsius.
  • The country has higher mortality rates, lower life expectancy and higher infant mortality rates than other Nordic countries, but that is probably mainly due to the harsh conditions in the country.
  • Only in Nuuk, the capital, is there a hospital with all the complicated modern facilities. In the rest of the country, the options are thinned out.
  • The lack of transport in the country makes it difficult to receive good, and especially urgent, care.
  • For complex medical treatments, people are often referred to Denmark and due to the extreme weather conditions and limited infrastructure, evacuations by helicopter or plane may be necessary in the event of a medical emergency.
  • Pharmacies in Greenland are often connected to hospitals or health centers. There are also a few independent pharmacies in the capital. Some medicines can be in short supply, so if you are dependent on specific medicines, it may be useful to bring your own.
  • In the event of a medical emergency, call 112. In remote areas, helicopters and vulnerable areas are used to transport patients. Make sure you are well covered for these types of evacuations to avoid high costs!
Back to top

How does the public healthcare system work in Greenland?

  • If you are registered as a resident of Greenland, you are entitled to free healthcare and medicines. Common services include GP visits, care in public hospitals, public dental care, medical specialists, mandatory medicines and home care. In some cases, your medical transport will also be reimbursed.
  • Most medical facilities are located in larger towns such as Nuuk, Sisimiut and Ilulissat.
  • In small settlements, there are health centres staffed by nurses or paramedics, with support from remote doctors via telemedicine.
Back to top

How does the private healthcare system work in Greenland?

  • Unlike many other countries, private healthcare in Greenland is very limited. There are mainly private hospitals and clinics, which is not surprising since there is of course little money to be made with such a small population.
  • Most foreigners choose to go abroad for specialized treatments.
  • Special health insurance can help cover additional costs, especially when it comes to evacuations for these types of treatments outside of Greenland.
Back to top

How is the general practitioner arranged in Greenland?

  • In Greenland, general practitioner care is an important part of the healthcare system. In the larger cities, general practitioners work from health centers or hospitals, but in the smaller steps, nurses or paramedics often take on this care.
  • Because doctors in Greenland often have to treat a range of conditions, they are often both specialists and general practitioners!
Back to top

How is the dentist arranged in Greenland?

  • Dental care in Greenland is of good quality, but it can be limited outside the larger cities.
  • Residents are entitled to free or subsidized treatments in public healthcare. In remote areas, mobile clinics are used to provide basic care.
  • There are hardly any specialist dentists. Specialist care can be outsourced to Denmark.
Back to top

How is pregnancy care arranged in Greenland?

  • Maternity care is good in Greenland, but limited. All pregnant women have access to the same tests, but the process can be different depending on where you live. You will receive a blood and urine test, a preventive test for hereditary diseases, a test for STDs and various checks by a woman. You are also entitled to ultrasound scans during pregnancy.
  • In Nuuk, you must contact the Dronning Ingrid Health Centre, after which you will be assigned a midwife. In coastal towns with a hospital, you must contact the local hospital. In villages without a hospital, care comes from the health station. From here, a nurse will contact the nearest hospital where you will receive 2-3 visits during pregnancy. Women with risk factors are referred to the hospital in Nuuk, the only place where this type of pregnancy can be properly monitored. This usually means that women travel to Nuuk a few weeks (at least 3) before the due date and stay there in the hospital of the patient hotel.
  • All deliveries in Nuuk take place in the Dronning Ingrid Hospital. A caesarean section can also occur here. Outside Nuuk, the birth takes place in the nearby hospital.
  • The transport costs for mothers who live in villages and have to travel to the city are covered by the government. As is the stay in Nuuk in case of complications. The partner must pay the costs themselves, except in the case of twins, in which case the costs are partly covered for both.
Back to top

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Greenland?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Greenland?

  • Climate and nature: Greenland has an extreme climate. The temperatures are low and the country is almost completely covered in ice. Bad and dangerous weather conditions can also often occur. Think of storms and heavy snowfall. So make sure you always have suitable clothing with you and inform others of your plans.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Greenland?

  • In Greenland, the danger lies mainly in the cold.
  • Due to the extreme cold, hypothermia and frostbite can be a major risk.
  • Reflection of the sun on snow and ice can lead to serious eye irritation and damage, such as snow blindness.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Greenland?

  • Road networks are limited to urban areas. Travel between settlements is mainly by boat, plane or snowmobile, depending on the season.
  • Which work and travel insurances are suitable for short and long stays in Greenland
Back to top

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Greenland?

  • Is the trip to Greenland and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

Back to top

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Greenland if you are going to live there for a while?

  • For a long-term stay where you register in Greenland, international insurance is not necessarily required because healthcare is free. However, it can be wise, because it offers the possibility of seeking healthcare abroad. If you do not register in Greenland, health insurance is an absolute must because of the high costs for evacuation, transport and healthcare.
  • Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Back to top
Going abroad?

Image

Related topics and terms

Related regions:
Related countries and regions:
Check more: JoHo.org
Naar Groenland reizen om te backpacken, te studeren, stage te lopen, te (vrijwilligers)werken, te leven als digital nomad of je te vestigen
Reizen in en emigreren naar Groenland

Image ACTIVITIES

Check courses, jobs, projects, recipes, suggestions and tips related to: 'Greenland'

CHECK MORE ACTIVITIES

Make a selection, to find more tips than you see below

Image Short term volunteer projects in the field of environmental protection, sustainability and climate change, art and culture
Short term volunteer projects in the field of environmental protection, sustainability and climate change, art and culture and more
Image Takanna
Takanna means “Enjoy your meal” in Greenlandic. Food from Greenland is meat from marine mammals, birds and fish. High protein food! The Greenlandic cuisine has been...
Image Duik in de onderwaterwereld van het hoge noorden of het ijskoude zuiden tijdens een kleinschalige groepsreis
Duik in de onderwaterwereld van het hoge noorden of het ijskoude zuiden tijdens een kleinschalige groepsreis. Met deze Nederlandse reisorganisatie kan je expedities...
Image Arctic study abroad: Spring semester on Greenland
People fascinated by the Arctic, ice, snow, biology and climate change can join the The Greenland Climate Research Centre for a spring semester of interesting courses...
Activities abroad: home bundle

Main content and contributions for activities abroad

,,,accommodations, adventure activities, courses, internships, jobs and volunteer projects

...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn to share and inspire with your experience

 

Activities abroad: home page

Activities abroad: home page

From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

Activities abroad

    Back to top

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.
    Back to top

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.
    Back to top

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Back to top
      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

      Bundled content for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

      Access: 
      Public
      Activities abroad: for languages courses and learning a language

      Activities abroad: for languages courses and learning a language

      Bundled for languages courses and learning a language

      Access: 
      Public
      Activities abroad: for intern, volunteer and work abroad per sector

      Activities abroad: for intern, volunteer and work abroad per sector

      Intern, volunteer or work abroad per sector

      Access: 
      Public
      Study and intern abroad - bundle

      Study and intern abroad - bundle

      Themes: home bundles per activity abroad

      Themes: home bundles per activity abroad

      Themes: main theme pages for emigration, moving and living abroad
      Worldsupporter: home pages and bundles

      Worldsupporter: home pages and bundles

      Image STORIES

      Check blogs, experiences and information related to: 'Greenland'

      CHECK MORE STORIES

      Make a selection, to find more blogs and contributions than you see below

      Image Walruses abroad and while traveling: are they dangerous, where do you encounter them, where can you see them?
      Walruses abroad and while traveling What are walruses? Where to see a walrus in the wild abroad? Is a walrus dangerous? What to do if you encounter a walrus in the wild...
      Image How does healthcare work in Greenland, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?
      How does the healthcare system work in Greenland? What is the quality of healthcare in Greenland? How does the public healthcare system work in Greenland? How does the...
      Image Greenland: Updates & Travel
      Why travel to Greenland? Rugged and imposing landscapes ranging from rocky mountain ranges and giant icebergs to deep fjords and dry tundra.
      Countries & Destinations: home bundle

      Bundled content, suggestions, stories and tips about the countries and destinations in the world

      ...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn to share and inspire with your experience

      Africa: country bundles

      Africa: country bundles

      Access: 
      Public
      Asia: country bundles

      Asia: country bundles

      Country bundles of Asian countries

      Access: 
      Public
      Central America: country bundles

      Central America: country bundles

      Europe: country bundles

      Europe: country bundles

      Country bundles of European countries

      Access: 
      Public
      Middle East: country bundles

      Middle East: country bundles

      Country bundles of the Middle East

      Abu Dhabi, Dubai & United Arab Emirates - Bahrain - Egypt - Iran - Iraq - Israel - Jordan - Kuwait - Lebanon - Qatar - Saudi Arabia - Syria - Turkey - Yemen

      Access: 
      Public
      North America: country bundles
      Oceania & The Pacific: country bundles

      Oceania & The Pacific: country bundles

      The Australia & Oceania/Pacific continent consists of many small island countries and islands territories.

      List of countries:

      • Antarctica (continent)
      • Australia
      • Fiji
      • Kiribati
      • Marshall Islands
      • Micronesia
      • Nauru
      • New Zealand
      • Palau
      • Samoa
      • Solomon Islands
      • Tonga
      • Tuvalu
      • Vanuatu
      Access: 
      Public
      South America: country bundles

      South America: country bundles

      South America: country bundles

      Access: 
      Public
      The Caribbean: country bundles

      The Caribbean: country bundles

      Country bundles of Caribbean countries

      Access: 
      Public
      Countries: habits, food customs and philosophies per continent and country in the world

      Countries: habits, food customs and philosophies per continent and country in the world

      Countries: how to see happiness from the eyes of another country and continent

      Countries: how to see happiness from the eyes of another country and continent

      Countries: emigration, moving and living abroad: per continent and country

      Countries: emigration, moving and living abroad: per continent and country

      Countries: the worst time to go abroad and the best time per country or region

      Countries: the worst time to go abroad and the best time per country or region

      Image ORGANIZATIONS

      Check sectors and organizations related to: 'Greenland'

      CHECK MORE ORGANIZATIONS

      Make a selection, to find more or other organizations than you see below

      Image SIW: Vrijwilligerswerk in 70 landen
      SIW is een Nederlandse vrijwilligersorganisatie die Nederlandse vrijwilligers naar projecten over heel de wereld zendt, en buitenlandse vrijwilligers op diverse...
      Organizations & Services: home bundle

      Bundled content, suggestions, stories and tips about organizations and their products and services

      ...to help another, travel with care, work together, learn to share and inspire with your experience

      Organizations: home page
      Organizations in the spotlight: home bundle

      Organizations in the spotlight: home bundle

      Organizations: for administrative, tax and legal work and consulting
      Organizations: for agriculture, grape picking, farming and vineyards
      Organizations: for animal protection, animal care and working with wildlife abroad
      Organizations: for au pairs, youth work and child care abroad
      Organizations: for bush camping and working at a campsite abroad
      Organizations: for catering, hospitality and entertainment abroad
      Organizations: for civil society and social work abroad
      Organizations: for corporate business services
      Organizations: for customer services abroad and help desks
      Organizations: for diving, snorkeling and water sports abroad
      Organizations: for education and schools abroad
      Organizations: for expatriate insurances, travel insurances, and emergency call centers
      Organizations: for gap year activities abroad and sabbaticals
      Organizations: for internship placement abroad
      Organizations: for insurances and finance abroad
      Organizations: for IT, engineering and construction
      Organizations: for language travel and language teaching abroad
      Organizations: for marketing, communication and PR
      Organizations: for mediation in au pairs, childcare and elderly care in the Netherlands
      Organizations: for moving, international relocation and transport abroad
      Organizations: for nature conservation, environmental protection and working in nature abroad
      Organizations: for nonprofit projects, development work and international cooperation
      Organizations: for online work as digital nomad, freelancer, or independent entrepreneur from abroad
      Organizations: for outdoor activities and sports
      Organizations: for paid employment abroad and international recruitment

      Organizations: for paid employment abroad and international recruitment

      Organizations: for providing accommodation and hospitality work in hotels, guesthouses, ecolodges and hostels abroad
      Organizations: for providing healthcare and working in medical care abroad
      Organizations: for psychological assistance and mental health care abroad
      Organizations: for real estate, brokerage abroad and property rental abroad
      Organizations: for research and scientific work abroad
      Organizations: for student support and student associations
      Organizations: for tour guidance and adventure tours abroad
      Organizations: for tourism and organized travel and leisure work abroad
      Organizations: for voluntary work mediation and project placement abroad
      Organizations: for yacht and shipping crew and working on a cruise ship abroad

      Image SUMMARIES

      Check summaries and study assistance related to: 'Greenland'

      CHECK MORE SUMMARIES

      No results found.

      Image ALL CONTENT

      Search all related content within the topic: 'Greenland'

      ALL CONTENT WITHIN TOPIC

      Select any filter and click on Apply to see results

      Image

      SPOTLIGHT & FAVORITES

      FAVORITES
      Icon Greenland: Updates & Travel
      Greenland: Updates & Travel
      • Travel in Greenland?
      • Updates Greenland

        • Travel in Greenland?

        • Rugged and imposing landscapes ranging from rocky mountain ranges and giant icebergs to deep fjords and dry tundra.
        • Other highlights in Greenland include: Kulusuk 'The world's most unusual da...

      Image

      TOPICS : check associated topics and more activities

      Check more: activities in WorldSupporter
      Check more: of the topic below
      Icon HelpX
      HelpX

      HelpX maintains a database of organic farms, family farms, farm stays, homestays, ranches, ecolodges, bed and breakfasts, backpacker hostels and even sailboats that invite volunteers to stay with them for short periods of time in exchange for room and board (food and accommodation). The available vo...

      Go abroad!

      Move or live abroad? check your options with The JoHo Insurance Foundation

      Study or travel abroad? check your insurance options with The JoHo Foundation

      Naar het buitenland (NL)?: Je vertrek voorbereiden of je verzekering afsluiten bij studie, stage of onderzoek in het buitenland

      Page topic

      Travel to Greenland to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

      Submenu & Search

      Search only via club, country, goal, study, topic or sector