Understanding Europe

Undocumented migrants in Greece are excluded from the national health system, except for emergency hospital visits | Photo: picture alliance

Greece: Sick without papers

Getting by as a migrant without papers is hard – but if you become sick, it can be much worse, even life-threatening. Where can you turn for medical care in Greece?

The many different rules for migrants in Germany can get confusing

Explainer: Migrants in Germany

Germany is the most popular destination for migrants in Europe. Most migrants are looking for jobs, but not all of them find one. Why? And how welcome are migrants in Germany really? A fact check.

The lack of access to healthcare in France excludes the most vulnerable people from the health system, according to a report by Doctors of the World. On the front line: migrants, with and without papers. Photo credits: DoW / Olivier Papegnies - Huma Collective

France: Sick without papers

Getting by as a migrant without papers is certainly hard, and if you become sick it can be much worse, even life threatening. So where can you turn in France when you need medical assistance?

A German policeman checking a passport | Photo: Imago/J. Gruber

Border checks in EU countries challenge Schengen Agreement

As large numbers of displaced people arrived in 2015, some Schengen countries reintroduced border checks. Six are extending controls. That's illegal, EU observers say, and it undermines the idea of freedom of movement.

Pregnant women are legally entitled to health care, even if they are in Germany 'illegally', but many put off seeking help.

Germany: Sick without papers

Getting by as a migrant without papers is certainly hard – but if you become sick, it can be much worse, even life-threatening. Where can you turn?