My son, early 20s, has flown the coop and gone to do a Masters in Sweden (highly recommended by the way - no fees). He will be gone for 2 years. I presume there is no point in keeping his VHI going, as he will only be coming home on holidays and the Swedish healthcare system is excellent. Am I missing something though? It feels very un-maternal to write him off the family policy but it does seem to make sense financially!
The benefits of VHI apply to students and young adults on a sliding scale up to age 25 if working. They cannot be out of the country for longer than 180 days.
Information on the Free Fees Iniative. Explains who doesn't have to pay third-level fees.
www.citizensinformation.ie
Most undergraduate students attending publicly funded third-level courses do not have to pay tuition fees. Under the terms of the Free Fees Initiative, the Department of Further and Higher Education pays the fees to the colleges instead.