If you’re planning to relocate or live overseas, then expat/international health insurance is essential! However, with a wide range of insurance options available, it can be difficult to make the right choice. Take a look at this article to explore the top choices, including their benefits and drawbacks, along with tables comparing the key features of each insurance plan.
So you’re about to embark on a journey abroad… Congratulations! I’m excited for you! 
Living, working, or studying in a foreign country can be a thrilling adventure. You’ll be joining countless individuals who, like you, have the chance to discover the world beyond their native lands. However, as you make preparations for visa arrangements and schedule vaccinations, there’s one vital aspect you shouldn’t overlook: expat/international health insurance.
The British Health System, known as the NHS (National Health Service), is a public and universal health service available to all residents of the United Kingdom, regardless of their income or immigration status.
The NHS was created in 1948 and is mainly funded by taxation. It offers a wide range of healthcare services, including doctor consultations, inpatient treatments, prescription drugs, emergency care, maternity services and long-term care.
The NHS is based on three main principles: free access for all, based on clinical need rather than ability to pay; public funding to ensure that services are accessible to all; and services that are delivered comprehensively, from prevention to treatment.
The system is managed by the central government but also involves local health authorities and health professionals such as doctors, nurses and other clinical staff. NHS hospitals and clinics are publicly owned, although some services are provided by independent organizations but funded by the NHS.
Patients are usually required to register with a local GP, known as a General Practitioner (GP), who is the first point of contact for non-emergency healthcare. GPs refer patients to hospital specialists and services when necessary.
While the NHS is widely praised for its accessibility and comprehensive coverage, it also faces challenges such as long queues for certain treatments, lack of resources in some areas and financial pressures. However, the system remains a fundamental part of the British healthcare system and is valued for its principles of universal access and free care.
Moreover, if you make the decision to reside overseas, neither of these two plans will offer any form of health coverage under any circumstances.
Since January 1, 2021, British individuals no longer have access to the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) due to the UK’s departure from the European Union. Consequently, British citizens now need to stay informed about changes in health coverage when traveling to European countries and should thoroughly review specific guidelines and requirements before their trip.
Your health insurance from your home country will not provide coverage while you live in another country for an extended period. Additionally, if you are not a citizen of the country you plan to relocate to, you will not be covered by its public healthcare system.
Table of Contents
- 1 What is expat/international health insurance?
- 2 Why do I need international medical insurance for expats/immigrants and students?
- 3 Why can’t I just make sure I’m healthy before I leave?
- 4 Can I just use travel insurance for healthcare while living abroad?
- 5 Difference between travel insurance & expat/international health insurance
- 6 Expat/international health insurance for immigration and applying for residence permits/visa
- 7 What should I look for in an overseas healthcare plan for expatriates?
- 8 Who do these international health insurances work for?
- 9 A complete table comparing these 7 health insurances for expats…
What is expat/international health insurance?
International health insurance for expatriates and immigrants offers protection for your medical costs during an extended stay in another country. It typically includes a wide range of healthcare services, encompassing both emergency medical needs and preventive care.
It’s crucial to understand that international health insurance differs from travel insurance, and it is strongly recommended not to neglect it.
Why do I need international medical insurance for expats/immigrants and students?
Similar to the need for health insurance in your home country, obtaining health insurance is essential if you plan to reside in another country for more than six months. Additionally, many countries require proof of medical insurance before granting visas or work permits (more details can be found in the “expat/international health insurance for immigration” section below).
Living abroad as an expatriate, immigrant, or student presents unique healthcare challenges. While you are away from your home country, it is crucial to ensure access to quality healthcare services and financial protection in the event of unforeseen medical situations.
As an expat or immigrant, it is important to prioritize regular check-ups, timely treatment of health issues, and preparedness for potential emergencies. Having international medical insurance that covers you overseas provides peace of mind and the assurance that you can receive the necessary healthcare when needed.
For students studying abroad, international medical insurance is especially vital. Being in a new environment, you may encounter different healthcare systems, potential health risks, and a need for ongoing medical support. Comprehensive coverage ensures access to necessary healthcare services, including routine check-ups, illness treatment, and emergency medical care.
While some employers may offer healthcare coverage for employees working in another country, it is not always the case. It is important to check with your employer to determine if they provide an international health plan for you and your family. If not, obtaining your own immigrant/expat insurance plan that mirrors the coverage you had at home is highly recommended.
The good news is that there are customizable international health insurance options available to suit your specific needs, whether you are a solo traveler or require coverage for your family.
Investing in international medical insurance as an expat, immigrant, or student demonstrates responsible decision-making that prioritizes your health and well-being while living abroad. It ensures preparedness for any healthcare needs that may arise and provides the necessary support to navigate the healthcare systems of your host country.
Why can’t I just make sure I’m healthy before I leave?
Prioritizing your well-being while abroad is of utmost importance, and this begins with seeing your doctor before leaving your home country. However, it is equally crucial to be mindful of your health while you are in another country. It is important to note that if you have pre-existing conditions or require ongoing medications, they may not be covered in the new country.
Additionally, accidents are an unfortunate reality that can occur even while traveling. I once experienced a broken toe in South Korea, and I have encountered fellow travelers who have faced mishaps like falling off their skateboards or suffering from food poisoning. Therefore, ensuring that you have appropriate coverage becomes essential to address unforeseen circumstances.
Can I just use travel insurance for healthcare while living abroad?
In general, travel insurance is not sufficient for long-term stays in a single country. Its primary purpose is to provide coverage for trips lasting less than 6 months, although there are options available for multiple countries if you are a tourist.
To fully grasp the difference between travel insurance and expat/international health insurance, let’s explore the details further below.
Difference between travel insurance & expat/international health insurance
Travel insurance:
- It is designed for individuals who are visiting as tourists or traveling temporarily, rather than those who are living in a new country.
- Usually offers coverage for medical emergencies that occur overseas, but often excludes routine preventative care.
- It may also provide coverage for events like lost luggage and trip cancellations, depending on the specific policy.
- In certain regions, such as the European Schengen Area, travel insurance may be a mandatory requirement for entry.
- For more information on travel insurance, we suggest reading our article that highlights the top three cost-effective travel insurance companies.
Expat/international/immigrant/overseas health insurance:
- It is tailored for individuals who are relocating or residing for an extended period in another country.
- Operates in a similar manner to your standard insurance coverage in your home country.
- Offers coverage beyond emergency medical care, including preventative care, dental, and vision services.
- Encompasses a variety of services such as pregnancy, cancer treatment, or mental health care, based on the available plans.
- Often a requirement for visa applications or obtaining resident permits.
- Renewable continuously as long as you remain overseas.
- Having international health insurance that provides continuous coverage is essential for individuals seeking permanent relocation abroad.
Expat/international health insurance for immigration and applying for residence permits/visa
In most countries, it is mandatory to show proof of coverage under an international health insurance plan when applying for a temporary or permanent resident visa. It’s essential to understand that travel insurance alone is generally not accepted for this purpose.
Due to the intricacies involved in immigration procedures, it is vital to ensure that the expat/international health insurance policy you are acquiring fulfills the specific requirements set by the immigration office of the country you plan to relocate to. You may find this information online, but if it is not readily available, it is advisable to directly contact the immigration office for clarification.
Personal experience using expat/international health insurance for immigration in Sweden (hint: it’s not always easy): When Nikki relocated from the United States to Sweden, she sought to obtain her temporary residence permit, she encountered the requirement of presenting evidence of international health insurance to the immigration authorities. She purchased a policy from one of the companies mentioned below, and it was accepted by immigration.
However, while applying for her tax identification number at the Swedish tax office, she faced a situation where the same insurance policy was deemed unacceptable, prompting her to obtain a new policy from a different company.
If you anticipate facing a similar situation, it is crucial to thoroughly examine the cancellation policies of each insurance company. By doing so, even if your current plan is rejected by immigration, you can minimize financial loss by canceling your existing policy and obtaining a new one.
What should I look for in an overseas healthcare plan for expatriates?
While the plan you choose will depend on the kind of coverage you need while you live as an immigrant/expat, here are some of the basic things they should include:
- Adequate yearly benefit maximums
- Flexibility in plans and prices
- Wellness care and emergency care
- Inpatient and outpatient hospital visits
- A large network of doctors and medical facilities to choose from
- Multilingual and 24/7 customer service
Here is a convenient comparison of our top three recommended insurance options for expats/immigrants. These options provide essential coverage for inpatient care, routine doctor’s visits, emergency evacuations, and 24/7 customer support.
Please be aware that additional coverage for dental and vision services may involve additional costs. If you are pregnant or planning to start a family while residing in another country, you may need to consider the more expensive plans to ensure comprehensive coverage.
It is crucial to remember that lower-cost insurance plans generally offer less coverage. Therefore, conducting comprehensive research is essential to find the ideal plan that meets your specific needs.
Who do these international health insurances work for?
For these citizens living abroad as expats or immigrants:
- Americans
- Australians
- Chinese
- Germans
- French
- Argentinians
- Swedes
- New Zealanders
And for citizens from almost every other country living abroad
For expats/immigrants living in:
- The United States
- Canada
- China
- Germany
- Sweden
- Spain
- Portugal
- France (European Union/Schengen Area as a whole)
- China (and Hong Kong)
- Australia
- Switzerland
And for expats living in almost any other country in the world
In other words, no matter your citizenship or which country you are moving to, most of these international health plans will work for you since they are truly global insurances.
Some questions to ask yourself before you buy expat/international medical insurance:
- Do you need a private room if you’re admitted to a hospital?
- Are you planning on starting a family or expanding your family?
- Do you have any pre-existing conditions or are you on any medications you need to continue while living in another country?
- Are you willing to pay a higher deductible for lower premiums?
Note: If you aren’t really an expat/immigrant but an international student at a school or college/university overseas, then I suggest you take a look at my article with the 3 Best and Cheapest Health Insurance for International Students and Exchanges/Study Abroad.
1. Cigna Global 
What I like:
- You can select from three options: Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
- The Silver plan offers essential coverage, including an annual allowance of $100 for eye care and specific cancer screenings.
- If necessary, you have the flexibility to customize your plan with outpatient coverage and emergency medical evacuation for treatment outside the country.
- You have the choice of flexible deductibles, giving you control over upfront payments.
- Customer service is available 24/7 in multiple languages. Payment options include monthly, quarterly, or yearly.
- Cigna ensures direct provider billing, so they will directly handle the payment for your appointments.
- The coverage also includes medical services in the Middle East. The plans include services for organ transplants and kidney dialysis treatments.
- This international health insurance has received positive feedback from users.
- Their website offers information on the financial system, culture, and educational institutions of your host country.
What I didn’t like:
- Prior to receiving a quote, you will need to furnish significant personal details.
- Please be aware that the standard plan does not encompass maternity care.
- Thus, if you plan to have a child while living overseas, you will need to acquire a more comprehensive and costly policy.
2. IMGlobal
IMG provides a variety of insurance options, such as travel insurance, student health insurance, crew member insurance, and, naturally, insurance tailored for expatriates. When browsing their website, make sure to explore their “Expat / Global Citizen” health insurance category.
What I like:
- They offer a range of 5 plans for your consideration.
- If you choose to utilize their facilities outside of the United States, they provide a cash incentive and can waive up to 50% of your deductible.
- With over 29 years of experience in delivering health insurance coverage for immigrants and expatriates, they possess extensive expertise in this field.
- Their website provides an online portal, granting you round-the-clock access to emergency medical services.
- Their network comprises 17,000 physicians and facilities globally. Direct billing services are readily available.
- They provide both annual international health insurance plans and short-term plans. Coverage is extended to individuals and families of all nationalities.
- For their Bronze package, you can obtain 12-month worldwide coverage with a $250 deductible for less than $1000 annually.
What I didn’t like:
- Coverage terminates at the age of 75 (although, if you enroll in a plan before reaching 65 and keep it active, you may qualify for their lifetime enrollment program).
- The standard plan does not include coverage for maternity care, and even their highest-tier plan only provides coverage for deliveries and newborn care after a minimum waiting period of 10 months.
- The company handles COVID-19 just like any other illness or injury, following the terms and conditions specified in the policy.
True to its name, Now Health International aims to offer a seamless, affordable, and easily accessible service, and there is no better time than the present to benefit from it.
As a result, customer satisfaction takes center stage for this company. Plan information is conveyed clearly and effectively, and any inquiries or issues are promptly handled by their dedicated customer support team.
Now Health plans are carefully designed to tackle the challenges encountered by individuals living abroad, providing guidance and ensuring exceptional healthcare on a global scale.
What I like:
- Tailored plans to suit your specific requirements
- Transparent details and an exceptional customer service team.
- Coverage available in 194 countries and territories
- Comprehensive plans including extensive maternity coverage.
What I don’t like:
- A waiting period of 12 months is required before maternity coverage can be utilized.
- For certain procedures, the reimbursement system of the company must be used, which entails initially paying for your own care expenses.
Allianz, a renowned German insurance company, is indisputably one of the key players in the worldwide insurance industry. Hence, it would be incomplete not to mention them in our conversation about international health insurance providers.
Here are a few of the things that I appreciate and didn’t like about Allianz.
What I liked:
- Allianz delivers 24/7 global customer support to ensure assistance is available whenever you require it.
- In many instances, you won’t have to handle direct payments with healthcare providers as Allianz takes care of the billing on your behalf.
- This eliminates the need for reimbursement requests.
- Allianz provides comprehensive coverage across all continents and the majority of countries worldwide, guaranteeing protection wherever you may be.
- As part of their services, you gain access to a medical app that assists in the prevention and treatment of health issues.
- After 6 months of your policy, you can utilize the app, and expenses of up to €50 are covered.
- Moreover, Allianz goes beyond healthcare by offering a specialized program specifically tailored for expats and immigrants.
- This program offers assistance in various aspects beyond medical care, including guidance on independent living, managing family needs, and navigating the unique challenges of residing in a new country.
What I didn’t like:
- Allianz don’t have many options for plans.
5. Safety Wing
Safety Wing is a renowned provider of international health insurance, serving a wide range of individuals including students, digital nomads, and expats. Their website features a user-friendly interface that enables you to effortlessly obtain a quote for their plans. You can input information such as your age, duration of stay, and the countries you require coverage in to receive a tailored quote.
What I like:
- As mentioned earlier, their website Safety Wing offers a highly user-friendly platform that allows for quick and easy generation of insurance quotes.
- Their comprehensive coverage for expats includes protection against COVID-19, and they prioritize transparency by clearly outlining the details of each plan’s coverage.
- Moreover, Safety Wing provides the option to enhance your plan with additional services such as dental care, maternity care, deductible expenses, physical therapy, and access to a family doctor. They also go above and beyond by offering coverage of up to $10,000 USD for repatriation following a political evacuation.
- In situations where you receive treatment in a public hospital without fees or if the treatment is covered by another insurance, Safety Wing offers payment assistance of US $125 per night for a maximum of 30 nights. They also provide comprehensive coverage and reimbursement for cancer treatments and reconstructive surgeries.
- For families with children under the age of 10, inclusive insurance coverage is available at no extra cost. Furthermore, Safety Wing ensures round-the-clock customer support that is accessible worldwide.
- Additionally, Safety Wing allows visits to your home country for up to 30 days within every 90-day period, further enhancing their already extensive coverage
What I didn’t like:
- The coverage for United States, Hong Kong, and Singapore has quite high fees
- You need to create a login and fill out a lot of information before getting a quote
- Quotes don’t show all fees
Safety Wing’s expat insurance plans include coverage for COVID-19, and starting from August 1st, 2020, this coverage is also available for their nomad plans.
It’s important to note that COVID-19 tests are only covered when deemed medically necessary by a doctor. However, antibody tests are not covered as they are not considered medically necessary.
Global Health, a subsidiary of the Foyer Group, is a prominent European enterprise that provides a diverse range of insurance options. They specialize in various types of coverage, including travel insurance, expat insurance, and student insurance. With their established reputation and extensive experience, Global Health is a trusted and reliable company in the insurance industry. Their strength lies in their wide selection of personalized plans, ensuring individuals can find coverage that precisely matches their specific needs.
What I like:
- You have the flexibility to personalize your insurance coverage based on factors such as your age, country of origin, dental care, vision care, maternity and child care, and more. Global Health allows you to choose the desired level of coverage for each of these areas, ranging from minimal to maximum coverage.
- Whether you are an individual, a family without children, or a family with children, Global Health offers insurance options tailored to your specific needs.
- Even if you do not have health insurance in the United States, you will still receive coverage for emergencies while on American soil.
- In addition to the mentioned customization, Global Health provides three distinct plan options: ESSENTIAL, SPECIAL, and EXCLUSIVE, each offering varying levels of coverage.
- Obtaining a quote is a quick and simple process, requiring only minimal personal information.
- There are deductible options available, allowing you to select a plan that aligns with your financial preferences.
- If you are planning a short-term stay in another country, Global Health offers short-term plans to accommodate your needs.
- To assist you in making an informed decision, Global Health facilitates plan comparisons, enabling you to evaluate and choose the option that best suits your requirements.
- With coverage options available for expats throughout Europe, Global Health ensures comprehensive health insurance access for expatriates across the continent.
What I didn’t like:
- The basic plans available through Global Health have limited coverage and may exclude essential services such as maternity care and newborn care.
- While the customer service provided by Global Health is functional, it may not be as user-friendly or straightforward compared to other companies mentioned in this list.
- The clarity of coverage details and limits on the Global Health website could be improved, making it more challenging to understand the extent of coverage.
- Although the Global Health website provides information about coronavirus, it is unclear whether their plans specifically cover COVID-19 tests or complications.
- It is important to be aware that Global Health charges a 5 euro fee for emergency support, which is an additional cost that should be considered.
Global Underwriters is a trusted insurance provider that offers outstanding choices for expatriates and immigrants. With a wealth of experience in the field, they excel in offering personalized plans for global travelers.
When it comes to expatriates, Global Underwriters presents two exceptional options: Diplomat Long Term and Diplomat International. These comprehensive plans are meticulously crafted to cater to the requirements of individuals living in foreign countries, ensuring extensive coverage and providing a sense of security.
What I like: 
- Global Underwriters’ insurance plans encompass crucial elements like medical evacuations, repatriation of remains, and emergency dental coverage. With comprehensive benefits, you can receive substantial coverage of up to $1,000,000 for medical expenses, as well as protection for accidental death or dismemberment.
- Furthermore, Global Underwriters extends support in case of trip interruptions caused by health-related concerns and provides assistance for lost luggage, guaranteeing a smooth and stress-free travel journey.
What I didn’t like:
- The Diplomat Long Term plan is not available for residents of New York, Maryland, South Dakota, as well as citizens of Australia and Iran.
- Travel to Cuba, Iran, and Afghanistan is not covered under the Diplomat Long Term plan.
- The Diplomat International plan does not provide coverage for Covid-19 care.
3 Bonus options for Expat International Insurance plans:
– GeoBlue
GeoBlue is a top-notch insurance choice for expatriates, making it an excellent option for both residents and travelers in the United States. With its exceptional quality standards and prominent standing in the industry, GeoBlue is considered one of the leading providers in its field.
What I like:
- GeoBlue excels in providing a service that surpasses the highest quality standards.
- Their flexible Xplorer plan is meticulously designed for expatriates and foreign nationals residing in the US, as well as US citizens living abroad, catering to their unique needs with exceptional flexibility.
- With the Xplorer plan, you can enjoy comprehensive coverage without having to pay any deductible for standard services, and there is no limit on medical expenses.
- The Xplorer plan goes the extra mile by extending coverage to include extreme sports activities, and there are no cancellation fees associated with it.
- To enhance your plan, GeoBlue offers optional dental and vision coverage options for added convenience.
- With a range of plans to choose from, you have the freedom to select the one that best aligns with your requirements.
- GeoBlue’s customer service is available round the clock, providing assistance 24/7.
- Their plans offer comprehensive coverage, including essential services such as evacuation, health consultations, and maternity care.
What I didn’t like:
- GeoBlue’s insurance plans are not available to residents of New York and Washington states.
- To obtain pricing information, it is necessary to contact a broker.
GeoBlue offers a valuable feature of unlimited telemedicine consultations at no charge for plan members who have Covid-19 related inquiries. Moreover, if clinically necessary as recommended by a physician, the company covers the expenses for Covid-19 testing and treatment.
– Seven Corners Liaison Majestic
As with IMG, Seven Corners also has medical insurance for travelers, students, faculty, and others.
What I like:
- With a solid two-decade history in the industry, Global Underwriters is a trusted provider of international health insurance solutions.
- Their inclusive plans encompass coverage for pre-existing conditions, ensuring peace of mind for individuals with ongoing health needs.
- Additionally, Global Underwriters goes above and beyond by offering assistance in locating embassies and providing travel advisories, prioritizing your safety and well-being while overseas.
- Their round-the-clock multilingual travel assistance guarantees prompt support whenever you require it.
- Global Underwriters’ plans provide extensive coverage, including inpatient and outpatient care, dental services, emergency evacuation, and emergency reunion, allowing a loved one to accompany you during hospitalization.
- For thrill-seekers, they even offer a hazardous sports rider that covers activities such as hang gliding, zip-lining, water skiing, and bungee jumping. If you’re looking for cost-effective coverage, Global Underwriters’ basic plans are attractively priced. For example, a single male relocating to Fiji can obtain a basic plan with a $250 deductible for approximately $1 per day.
What I don’t like:
- You are ineligible for a plan if your U.S. address falls within the states of Maryland, Washington, New York, South Dakota, or Colorado.
- Coverage is not available for individuals aged 60 years or older. GeoBlue does not provide coverage for travel to Iran, Syria, U.S. Virgin Islands, Gambia, Ghana, Nigeria, or Sierra Leone.
- Certain services, such as inpatient stays, rehabilitation, outpatient surgeries, and home healthcare, require precertification prior to receiving coverage.
– Aetna (acquired by Allianz)
Aetna is committed to prioritizing the needs of their customers, delivering services tailored to meet individual requirements. With a strong emphasis on catering to expatriates and residents in various countries, Aetna offers a wide selection of personalized plans.
Through a deep understanding of their customers’ distinct situations, Aetna guarantees that their plans are meticulously crafted to deliver extensive coverage and address the specific healthcare needs of individuals residing overseas.
What I like:
- Aetna is a reputable company with a rich history spanning over 50 years. They specialize in providing tailored insurance plans for expatriates and digital nomads, ensuring that their unique needs are met.
- With their unwavering dedication to customer service, Aetna offers 24/7 support, guaranteeing assistance at any time. Their comprehensive plans encompass a broad range of coverage, including hospitalization, emergency evacuation, repatriation, and cancer treatment, providing individuals with a sense of security.
- Aetna’s commitment to excellence has been acknowledged through prestigious awards such as “Best International Private Health Insurance Provider” and “Health Insurer of the Year.” Additionally, they have developed a user-friendly mobile application that empowers individuals to track their health and earn rewards points by adopting healthy habits. These points can be redeemed for gift cards at popular retailers.
- Expanding their coverage to over 15 countries and territories worldwide, Aetna ensures that expatriates and foreign residents have access to reliable international health insurance, demonstrating their commitment to widespread accessibility.
What I didn’t like:
- Aetna does not provide travel insurance plans specifically tailored for individual travelers or families.
- The website could benefit from improved clarity and user-friendliness in presenting the available plans.
- Aetna International offers comprehensive coverage for the cost of Covid-19 treatment and testing to members of select plans, including Medicare. To determine which plans are covered, it is necessary to reach out to the company directly.
Do you consider yourself a “global citizen,” or are you a digital nomad and need medical insurance that will follow you worldwide?
If that applies to your situation, the mentioned insurance options are also well-suited for your needs. The seven international health insurance plans listed are specifically tailored for digital nomads or individuals who do not have a permanent place of residence and reside in multiple countries. These plans cater to the requirements of “global citizens” who seek comprehensive health coverage worldwide. 
To provide a brief overview and facilitate comparison, here are the essential features of the seven international health insurance plans:
| CIGNA | IMGLOBAL | AETNA | GEOBLUE | SAFETY WING | GLOBAL HEALTH FOYER | GLOBAL UNDERWRITERS |
| Silver – $1 million | BRONZE – $1 million | The values of the limits increase depending on the length of the insurance contract | The coverage amounts may change according to your choices | Annual benefit maximum of US $1,000,000 | Personalized plans for you or your family | Maximum annual benefit of $1,000,000.00 |
| Gold – $2 million | SILVER – $5 million | Aetna’s plans may cover cancer treatments when the patient is part of a clinical trial. | Full reimbursement for hospital & cancers treatments, ambulance, and reconstructive surgeries | Value of total coverage is something you can customize per item | Up to $1,000,000 coverage in cases of accidental death or dismemberment | |
| Platinum – Unlimited | GOLD – FOR COVERAGE UP TO 36 MONTHS – $5 million | Value of total coverage is something you can customize per item | ||||
| GOLD – FOR COVERAGE AFTER 36 MONTHS – $5 million | ||||||
| GOLD PLUS – $5 million | ||||||
| PLATINUM – $8 million |
A complete table comparing these 7 health insurances for expats…
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| BENEFIT | LIMIT | LIMIT | LIMIT | LIMIT | LIMIT | LIMIT | LIMIT |
| Benefit Information | |||||||
| Medical Maximum | Unlimited (for the Platinum plan) | $8,000,000 | The site doesn’t specify | Unlimited | US$1,000,000 per year | The site doesn’t specify | $1,000,000 |
| U.S. In-Network Coinsurance | You choose. From 70%(100% thereafter) to 100% | 100% | No | 60% for maximum coinsurance and then 100% | Yes, for higher fees | Only in emergencies | Yes |
| U.S. Out-of-Network Coinsurance | You choose. From 70%(100% thereafter) to 100% | 90% to $5,000 (100% thereafter) | Yes, for higher fees | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Mental Health Availability | No waiting period | 12-month waiting period | Co-payment of $25 per visit, waived deductible | 75% up to 40 visits / 60% after that | No | Waiting period of 10 months | Depends on the plan |
| Mental Health Benefit | Inpatient and Outpatient: $5,000 lifetime maximum to paid in full depending on the plan | Inpatient and Outpatient: $50,000 lifetime maximum | Co-payment of $250 after deductible | 100% up to 60 days | International and ambulance: limit not specified | ||
| Inpatient Prescription Drugs | $500 to paid in full depending on the plan | Up to $8,000,000 | Yes | Complete reimbursement | Yes | Yes | |
| Outpatient Prescription Drugs | None, unless you buy the International Outpatient Option | Up to $8,000,000 | Complete reimbursement | Yes | Yes | ||
| Evacuation and Repatriation of Remains | Paid in full | Up to $8,000,000 | Yes | Up to $25,000 | No | Up to 10,000 euros | Yes |
| Accidental Death & Dismemberment | Depends on the plan | Rider available, limit depends on age. | $50,000 | Depends on the plan | |||
| Emergency Dental | Paid in full | Up to $8,000,000 | Optional | 1,000 per year, $ 200 per tooth | Yes, however you need to pay an extra fee on top of your plan | Depending on the plan, it’s unlimited | It has coverage in the Diplomat Long Term and Diplomat International plans |
| Treatment Necessary as Result of Terrorism | Up to the amount of the coverage | Rider available up to $50,000-lifetime maximum | Clause available up to maximum of $50,000 in lifetime payments | ||||
| Amateur Sports | Unlimited | Rider available up to $10,000 | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Newborn Care | |||||||
| Routine Nursery Care of a Newborn Child of a Covered Pregnancy | $25,000 to $156,000 depending on the plan | $1,000 additional deductible, $50,000 lifetime maximum, $200 wellness benefit for first 12 months | Yes | Depends on the plan | Can be unlimited depending on the plan | Can be unlimited depending on the plan | |
| Children born as a result of fertility treatment (such as IVF or surrogacy) | Only after the baby is 90 days old | Excluded | Depends on the plan | Excluded | No | ||
| Neonatal Intensive Care Unit | Check website for updated information | $250,000 maximum for first 31 days | No | Up to $250,000 for the first 31 days | No | ||
| Pre-existing Conditions | |||||||
| Pre-existing condition exclusion period | Conditions that are fully disclosed on the application and have not been excluded or restricted by a rider will be covered as any illness | Conditions that are fully disclosed on the application and have not been excluded or restricted by a rider will be covered as any illness | Conditions that are fully disclosed on the application and have not been excluded or restricted by a rider will be covered as any illness | Conditions that are fully disclosed on the application and have not been excluded or restricted by a rider will be covered as any illness | Conditions that are fully disclosed on the application and have not been excluded or restricted by a rider will be covered as any illness | Conditions that are fully disclosed on the application and have not been excluded or restricted by a rider will be covered as any illness | Conditions that are fully disclosed on the application and have not been excluded or restricted by a rider will be covered as any illness |
| Pre-existing condition look back period | Any time prior to effective date | Any time prior to effective date | Any time prior to effective date | Any time prior to effective date | Any time prior to the effective date | Any time prior to the effective date | Any time prior to the effective date |
| Pre-existing annual maximum once covered | Unlimited depending on the plan | Up to $8,000,000 | Unlimited depending on the plan | Unlimited depending on the plan | Full reimbursement | Unlimited depending on the plan | Unlimited depending on the plan |
| Pre-existing lifetime maximum once covered | Unlimited depending on the plan | Up to $8,000,000 | Unlimited depending on the plan | Unlimited depending on the plan | Full reimbursement | Unlimited depending on the plan | Unlimited depending on the plan |
Worldwide Medical Insurance / Comparison Chart*
Part of the table courtesy of Tokio Marine HCC
*Note: this table is just for informational purposes and subject to change. It was accurate as of the time we wrote it here, but please check each company’s individual website for updated info.
To sum up…
These are the 7 best international health insurance for expats and immigrants:
- Cigna
- IMG
- Now Health
- Allianz
- Safety Wing
- Foyer Global Health
- Global Underwriters
In conclusion…
Essentially, obtaining an immigrant/expat health insurance plan is crucial when you are preparing to live in another country, regardless of the duration or permanence of your stay.
We acknowledge that choosing the right plan can be overwhelming. Having gone through this process ourselves, we understand any worries or questions you may have. If you need any assistance or believe there are any aspects we might have missed, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. We are here to offer our support!
Do you live abroad and need to receive or send money back home cheaply?
I have a specific article to help you make international transfers as cheaply as possible: The 5 Best Websites for International Money Transfers (send and receive money from abroad).