International Health Insurance for Expats in the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is one of the most popular destinations for expats. It has easy flight connections, a wide array of business opportunities, and the attraction of not having to learn a new language. It’s easy to see why it’s so beloved by American expats and those worldwide. And part of the UK’s appeal is its superb reputation for health care.
However, for foreigners or expats in the UK for the first time, there are numerous logistics to sort out. UK Health Insurance should be at the top of your priority list.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes from top insurers
- Get expert advice at no additional cost
- Find the right plan for your needs and budget
Best Medical Plans for Foreigners in the UK
Expatriates in the UK have many options for their global medical coverage. Two leading providers are listed below.
Cigna Global Medical is a great option for most, and you benefit as its global headquarters are located in Glasgow.
The BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier plan is an excellent option for U.S. citizens living in the United Kingdom, as it provides up to 9 months of coverage in the USA and worldwide.
The recommended plans are available in England, Britain, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
A Leading Private Health Plan for Immigrants in the UK
The Cigna Global plan is an excellent option for foreigners residing in the UK for extended periods as expatriates or immigrants.
The plan offers a range of coverage options, each with different costs. Cigna also has offices in London and Glasgow, making customer service more accessible.
Cigna’s network of doctors and private hospitals in the UK and worldwide is excellent, ensuring that access to quality care is not a concern.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
The Best Medical Plan for US Citizens in the UK
The BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier plan is a popular option for U.S. citizens living in the UK. One primary benefit is that the plan offers up to 9 months of coverage in the USA, should you want to receive care back home.
Their global network of hospitals is excellent, including the Blue Cross Blue Shield network in the USA. Customer service is strong, so you can expect to be well taken care of.
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
A Third Option: Global Prima
In Europe, the Global Prima plan provides comprehensive benefits to international citizens residing in the United Kingdom, offering multiple plan designs, affordable benefit packages, and top-notch customer service.
For EU residents in the UK, consider Europe-only coverage to help keep your costs down.
IMG Global Prima Medical Insurance
- Five flexible plan levels with optional add-ons
- Choose your coverage area based on where you live or travel
- Freedom to select your healthcare provider anywhere in the world
Cost of Private Health Insurance in the UK
A private medical plan in the UK will cost you as little as $100 per month for basic health coverage. For more comprehensive benefits, the monthly cost will increase to $300-$500.
The average annual cost of private medical insurance in the UK is £4,470 ($5,651), based on our historical data of quotes provided to more than 4,000 clients.
Clients who are older or opt into the best coverage will pay $10,000 per month or more. An individual who is 60 years old will pay about twice as much as a 40-year-old applicant.
At the same time, younger clients (18- 24 years of age) pay significantly less, approximately $2,000-$3,000 annually, for their coverage.
UK Healthcare Access for Foreign Nationals
Information about accessing public healthcare in the UK is often oversimplified. A brief definition is as follows: An expatriate is a foreign citizen residing in the UK legally for work. And if you’re working in the UK, the cost of healthcare is deducted from your paycheck. Therefore, you’re in!
In reality, the situation is more nuanced. Healthcare in the UK is publicly funded (yes, primarily through payroll tax). It’s known as the NHS or National Health Service.
It’s available for everyone permanently residing in the UK (in other words, the people who are funding it). But where is the line between the long-term visitor, businessperson, expat, and permanent resident?
Can International Citizens in the UK Use the NHS System?
Access to NHS services isn’t based automatically on citizenship but rather on residency. To fully enjoy the NHS services – including both primary care and secondary care (hospital treatment) – you must be considered an “ordinary resident.”
But who decides what is “ordinary”? In legal terms, it means your immigration status is “indefinite leave to remain.” Sometimes, this is referred to as being “settled” in the UK.
This page of the UK government’s website walks you through the process of determining if your immigration status is “indefinite leave to remain.” If your status is anything but “indefinite leave to remain,” you should carry private health coverage.
Does UK Healthcare Fall Short for Foreigners?
All the paperwork and organization are well worth it. Once you have an NHS card, a job, and a UK address, you can register with a local GP for ongoing medical care.
That GP can also refer you to specialists for health services and order tests.
Read More: Five Tips for Becoming an Expat
However, expats should note that a common criticism of the UK Healthcare System, or National Health Service, is that waiting lists to see general practice specialists are growing.
Another issue is that there are insufficient resources to cover the costs of providing timely access to residents.
This is one of the primary motivations for UK residents and expats alike to carry supplemental health care insurance.
Such coverage offers more comfortable care, including private rooms should you be hospitalized, and access to non-public physicians and general practice specialists.
Appreciating the Role of the NHS in British Society
The NHS has experienced its share of ups and downs throughout its 70-year history. It was a saving grace to many impoverished families and communities who were still struggling to rebuild post-war Britain.
In the early 1980s, it faced a major scandal over contaminated blood products, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 people.
During the Thatcher government, restructuring arguably led to a decline in the quality of care.
During the campaign for the “Brexit” referendum, the NHS’s strained resources were once again in the news.
Pro-Brexit campaigners argued that funds earmarked for the European Union’s budget should be redirected to the UK’s healthcare system.
However, throughout the highs and lows, the UK’s overall standard of health care remains excellent. The National Health Service is a cherished national institution.
Expats from America who complain about the National Health Service’s waiting times may find themselves rebuked about their own healthcare system. You’ve been warned!
Private Health Insurance in the UK: Is It Worth It?
A Partial Solution Means Partial Healthcare. However, an alternative approach works well for foreigners and expats.
If you’re coming to the UK on a temporary stay visa that’s valid for more than six months, there’s good news.
You’ll have to pay an immigration health surcharge during the application process. That surcharge is a hefty £150 for students and £200 for everyone else. But it really is good news! It’s your gateway to access NHS primary care.
However, it’s only a partial solution. There are some health care services under the NHS for which you have to pay a contribution, like dental care, eye care, and prescriptions.
You are also only covered for primary care. Secondary care (hospital-based care) is not included, as your status is not “indefinite leave to remain.”
For most foreigners living in the UK, a private global medical insurance plan will provide comprehensive coverage and access to the best hospitals and doctors worldwide, including back in your home country.
Why Expats in the UK Should Never Gamble on Their Health
Expats in the UK who are tempted to forgo coverage in favor of taking their chances may find they’re in for a rude surprise should they need emergency care.
While costs are more modest than in the United States, even a short hospital visit in the UK can quickly add up to thousands of dollars.
This story from a British expat living in America, who needed to access emergency care while on a return visit to England, provides valuable insight into the costs and structure of British healthcare from the perspective of a citizen who’s also an expat.
As always, when it comes to your health, it’s better safe than sorry. Expats should consider an international medical insurance plan to ensure they are covered in other countries they may visit, as well as in their home country.
Request a Quote for Global Medical Cover in the United Kingdom
Leading International Health Plan for All Foreigners in the UK
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
The Best Global Medical Policy for US Citizens in the UK
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
The Best Plan for Living in Europe: IMG Global Prima
IMG Global Prima Medical Insurance
- Five flexible plan levels with optional add-ons
- Choose your coverage area based on where you live or travel
- Freedom to select your healthcare provider anywhere in the world
Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
View
Full Bio
