Why buy global expatriate medical insurance over local insurance?

Expatriate health insurance plans are portable – you can bring them wherever you go and have the confidence that you are covered for medical care and emergencies worldwide. It will cover you in your country of residence as well as any country that you travel to, for business or pleasure. A global policy provides continuous coverage regardless of where you get sick and need medical attention. If you need coverage in your home country as well, make sure you find a provider that can provide worldwide coverage. Cigna Global and GeoBlue Xplorer are great examples of top insurance providers. Additional benefits include faster access to care, the option to visit any medical provider of your choice, and direct payment to providers. Additionally, you will have a health helpline that you can call for advice one where to go to find doctors and care providers who speak your language.

What is expat medical insurance?

When you leave your home country, you usually will not be eligible for coverage with your existing health plan. This means you have to find an international medical insurance plan to stay covered for emergencies. Expat health insurance policies, also called International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI), provide healthcare for this group of people. The best expatriate health insurance plan is the one that can provide cover wherever you are, including your current country of residence and your home country. If you are living in France and you want to go to Spain, you do not need to apply for new coverage since you have an international healthcare policy that you can take with you anywhere you go. A reliable global medical insurance plan will provide a cash payout should you pass away while covered. Other possible add-ons include auto and dental coverage. If you are interested in getting comprehensive expatriate medical insurance, request a free quote from us today.

Where can expats get medical help?

Expats can get medical help from several sources, depending on their location and the type of healthcare they need: Private Healthcare Providers Many expats prefer private hospitals or clinics, which often offer shorter wait times, higher-quality care, and English-speaking staff. Private healthcare facilities are typically part of international health insurance networks, making it easier for expats to access care. Local Hospitals and Clinics Expats can visit local hospitals or clinics in their host country for both emergency and routine medical care. Depending on the country, public healthcare facilities may be available to expats, though the quality and accessibility can vary widely. International Health Insurance Networks With expat health insurance, you can access medical help through your insurer’s network of approved doctors, clinics, and hospitals worldwide. These networks often include direct billing arrangements, meaning you won’t need to pay upfront for treatment. Telemedicine Services Many expat health insurance plans offer telemedicine options, allowing expats to consult with doctors remotely for advice, prescriptions, or follow-up care. This can be especially useful for minor issues or when access to a local healthcare provider is limited. Emergency Services In case of severe illness or injury, expats should call local emergency services for immediate medical help. Many countries have emergency hotlines, and expat insurance plans often provide 24/7 assistance lines for emergencies, including medical evacuations if needed. Pharmacies For minor health issues, expats can often get over-the-counter medications or prescription refills at local pharmacies. Some countries allow pharmacies to offer a wider range of services, including basic medical consultations. Having expat health insurance ensures better access to these services, particularly in private and international facilities, where care may be more suited to the needs of expatriates.

What should I look for in an expat travel health insurance plan?

Typically, short-term expat travel insurance is not valid in your home country and only provides coverage while traveling overseas. When you return home, your travel health insurance plan will terminate, and you will need to purchase a new travel policy for the next time you take a trip abroad.

What happens to my expat travel health insurance if I move back to my home country?

Typically, short-term expat travel insurance is not valid in your home country and only provides coverage while traveling overseas. When you return home, your travel health insurance plan will terminate, and you will need to purchase a new travel policy for the next time you take a trip abroad.

Can family members be included in my expat travel health insurance?

Yes, short-term travel insurance plans allow you to add family members, such as a spouse or children, to your policy at an additional cost. This is beneficial as it ensures that all family members have health coverage while traveling abroad.

How much does expat travel health insurance cost?

The cost of short-term travel health insurance varies based on several factors, including the amount of coverage, your age, additional members included on the plan, the duration of your trip, and any pre-existing conditions you want covered (if applicable).

Will my beneficiaries in another country have trouble receiving the payout?

In most cases, beneficiaries can receive the payout regardless of where they live. The insurance company will transfer the death benefit directly to the beneficiaries in their country of residence. It’s important to confirm with your insurance provider that international payouts are allowed and check any tax implications in the recipient’s country.

Are there any exclusions in international life insurance policies?

Yes, international life insurance policies typically include exclusions for certain events that could result in death. Standard exclusions include death resulting from: Participation in war or conflict zones Terrorism-related incidents Certain high-risk occupations or activities (e.g., aviation, scuba diving) Suicide (usually within the first two years of the policy) Pre-existing medical conditions, unless disclosed and accepted by the insurer

How do I choose the right international life insurance plan?

When purchasing an international life insurance plan, it’s essential to consider your family’s financial needs and goals. Typically, expats choose a coverage amount of 20x their annual income to ensure their family is protected if they pass away abroad. Researching the insurer and reinsurer’s financial strength and reputation is also important. Most insurers allow clients interested in purchasing a plan easy access to financial documents. Your broker can also assist in finding the right documents to help you with your research.

Expat Insurance: Health, Life and Travel Plans for Expatriates

Comprehensive Coverage for Life Abroad

If you’re living abroad, securing a reliable expatriate insurance plan is essential to protect yourself and your family from the high cost of healthcare. Additionally, a global life insurance policy offers further financial security.

Expatriate insurance provides comprehensive coverage, including health, medical care, life, disability, and income protection. It safeguards against unique risks expats face, such as illness, accidents, and emergencies. With options for global coverage, including medical evacuation and repatriation, expat insurance ensures access to high-quality healthcare worldwide.

In this article, we’ll explore the best insurance options and answer common questions about applying for coverage. Follow the links below to learn more and request a personalized quote.

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What is Expatriate Insurance?

An expatriate is an individual living outside their country of citizenship, typically for work, family, lifestyle, or long-term relocation. While many expats move abroad for professional assignments, the term applies to anyone establishing residence in another country.

Expatriate insurance offers essential protection for individuals and families residing abroad. These plans typically include international health insurance and may also provide benefits for life, travel, disability, or income protection. Some expats may also require additional policies such as auto or workers’ compensation, depending on their circumstances and local regulations.

Expat insurance ensures access to quality care and financial security, no matter where in the world you live.

Find Your Expat Plan

Explore tailored insurance options that protect your health, finances, and peace of mind abroad. Compare plans and get expert guidance every step of the way.

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How Does Expatriate Health Insurance Work?

Expat health insurance provides medical coverage for individuals living outside their home country, ensuring access to healthcare services abroad.

Plan Selection: Select an international health insurance plan tailored to your needs, including emergency care, routine check-ups, specialist treatment, or evacuation services. Plans range from basic to fully comprehensive, and many allow you to customize your benefits.
Medical Underwriting: Insurers review your medical history to determine eligibility and set your premium. Some pre-existing conditions may be excluded or covered at a higher cost.
Access to Care: Once enrolled, you gain access to a network of hospitals, clinics, and doctors in your host country or worldwide. Many expat plans offer direct billing, which allows providers to bill the insurer directly, thereby reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Claims Process: If you visit a provider outside the network, you can typically file a claim for reimbursement. Insurers will require receipts and documentation to process the claim.
Ongoing Coverage: Most policies renew annually, providing you with the flexibility to adjust or upgrade your coverage as your needs change. Some plans may require re-underwriting for certain conditions, mainly when claims are submitted.

Why Do I Need Expatriate Health Insurance?

Having expat health insurance ensures access to quality healthcare while living or working abroad. Here’s why it’s essential:

In many countries, your home country’s health insurance won’t cover medical expenses abroad. Local healthcare systems may also exclude non-residents or offer limited services to expatriates.

Healthcare costs in some countries can be prohibitively expensive, especially for serious medical emergencies, surgeries, or specialized treatments. This type of insurance protects you from the financial burden of these unexpected costs.

Expat health insurance can provide more extensive coverage than local plans, including access to private hospitals, specialist treatments, and international medical care, ensuring you receive high-quality healthcare wherever you are.

In the event of a severe illness or injury, you may need to be evacuated to a nearby country with better healthcare facilities. Expat health insurance often covers medical evacuation, which can be extremely costly without insurance.

Many expat plans offer global coverage, so you’re protected in your host country and during trips to other countries.

Do You Need Coverage for Your Expatriate Employees?

If your organization employs two or more international staff members, we can assist you in researching and securing a comprehensive group expat health insurance plan.

This will ensure your expatriate employees have seamless global coverage, tailored to meet the diverse healthcare needs of an internationally mobile workforce.

With our expertise, we help you navigate complex global health insurance options to find the best solution for your organization.

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Experts in sourcing and implementing global insurance plans
We’ve built steadfast partnerships with carriers worldwide
Licensed in Health, Life, Accident, and more

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International Health Insurance for Expatriates

Many international workers do not receive coverage through a corporate or group benefits plan, leaving them responsible for securing their own protection abroad. For these individuals and families, choosing a comprehensive global health insurance policy is essential. The right plan offers access to high-quality medical care, provides coverage for emergencies and ongoing treatment, and delivers peace of mind knowing you’re protected wherever your work or travels take you.

These policies can offer coverage worldwide or within designated regions and often include valuable benefits such as trip insurance, medical evacuation, and repatriation services. Leading insurers also give members access to extensive global networks of hospitals and healthcare providers, along with the convenience of direct billing, ensuring smooth, stress-free medical care wherever you are.

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What Does International Expat Health Insurance Cover?

International expat health insurance provides comprehensive coverage for individuals living and working abroad. The coverage typically includes:

Inpatient and Outpatient Care: Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, consultations, and diagnostics (including advanced imaging like MRIs and CT scans).
Prescription Medications: Coverage for prescribed drugs, often with options to enhance benefits for higher limits.
Cancer Treatment: Comprehensive cancer care, including preventative cancer screenings, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.
Mental and Behavioral Health: Coverage for mental health treatments, including therapy, counseling sessions, and wellness coaching.
Emergency Medical Evacuation: If adequate local treatment isn’t available, plans cover medical evacuation to centers of excellence.
Maternity and Newborn Care: Coverage for prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care, as well as coverage for complications.
Preventive Care: Routine check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings for diabetes and cancer.
Dental and Vision: Optional coverage for routine and major dental treatments, eye exams, and vision care.
Global Provider Network and Direct Pay: Access to extensive international networks of healthcare providers with direct billing options to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
Repatriation and Accidental Death Coverage: Includes coverage for repatriation of mortal remains and accidental death and dismemberment benefits.

What’s Not Covered?

When considering expatriate medical coverage, it’s essential to thoroughly review all aspects of the plan before purchasing.

Carefully examine the policy certificate and terms to understand potential exclusions. These documents detail what is and isn’t covered, ensuring you’re fully informed.

Common exclusions in expatriate medical coverage may include:

Pre-Existing Conditions: While some providers don’t list these outright, certain conditions may be excluded or subject to waiting periods after underwriting.
Cosmetic and Elective Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary, including elective surgeries, are typically excluded.
High-Risk Activities: Injuries from extreme sports or hazardous activities may not be covered or could require additional coverage.
Fertility Treatments: Some plans exclude fertility services, such as IVF, or limit coverage for related therapies.
Experimental Treatments: Non-standard or experimental medical therapies are often excluded from coverage.

How Much Does Expat Health Insurance Cost?

The cost of expatriate health insurance can vary widely, ranging from as low as $50 per month for a basic plan covering only inpatient hospital care to over $1,000 per month for a comprehensive policy that includes most, if not all, medical expenses.

Premiums are typically influenced by several factors, including your country of origin, age, medical history, and the country where you need coverage. Expat health insurance plans usually offer two main areas of coverage: worldwide coverage excluding the USA or worldwide coverage including the USA.

Some insurers also set different pricing based on specific regions and may exclude high-risk countries. When calculating premiums, insurance companies assess the risks associated with living in particular locations and the cost of healthcare in those areas. Countries with higher healthcare costs often result in higher premiums for coverage.

UK Expat Family Living in the Netherlands

Here is a sample cost for one of our popular international medical insurance policies, Cigna Global. Policy premiums can be adjusted by choosing your own deductible and adding or removing specific benefits.

Their Cigna Global Plan:

health_and_safety

Platinum Plan Level

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Outpatient Module

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Health and Wellbeing Module

Monthly Premium: $996.58

What to Look For in an Expat Insurance Plan

For expatriates, selecting a health insurance plan from a global provider with a vast network of international hospitals and healthcare facilities is crucial for comprehensive coverage.

A prime example is the Cigna Global Plan, which boasts a network of over one million hospitals, doctors, and healthcare facilities worldwide, ensuring access to top-tier care wherever you are.

When evaluating providers, prioritize those that offer 24/7 emergency hotlines for immediate assistance and medical advice – an essential feature included in all leading expatriate medical insurance plans.

Flexibility is also key, so choose a plan that allows you to customize your coverage by selecting the benefits that best suit your needs. If you don’t require a complete package, the option to choose a more affordable plan with essential coverage is important.

Whether you prefer premium service with extensive benefits or need to work within a budget, being able to mix and match benefits and costs is vital to ensuring the plan is the right fit for your unique situation.

An Overview of the Application and Underwriting Processes

Underwriting is the process insurers use to review your expat insurance application and determine both your eligibility and premium. During medical underwriting, you’ll answer questions about your health history and may need to provide documentation from your healthcare providers. In some cases, if you are symptom-free or have not received treatment for a certain period, the insurer may approve coverage but require re-underwriting if a related claim is filed later.

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FAQs About Expat Medical Plans

Expatriate health insurance plans are portable – you can bring them wherever you go and have the confidence that you are covered for medical care and emergencies worldwide. It will cover you in your country of residence as well as any country that you travel to, for business or pleasure. A global policy provides continuous coverage regardless of where you get sick and need medical attention.

If you need coverage in your home country as well, make sure you find a provider that can provide worldwide coverage. Cigna Global and GeoBlue Xplorer are great examples of top insurance providers.

Additional benefits include faster access to care, the option to visit any medical provider of your choice, and direct payment to providers. Additionally, you will have a health helpline that you can call for advice one where to go to find doctors and care providers who speak your language.
When you leave your home country, you usually will not be eligible for coverage with your existing health plan. This means you have to find an international medical insurance plan to stay covered for emergencies.

Expat health insurance policies, also called International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI), provide healthcare for this group of people.

The best expatriate health insurance plan is the one that can provide cover wherever you are, including your current country of residence and your home country. If you are living in France and you want to go to Spain, you do not need to apply for new coverage since you have an international healthcare policy that you can take with you anywhere you go.

A reliable global medical insurance plan will provide a cash payout should you pass away while covered. Other possible add-ons include auto and dental coverage.

If you are interested in getting comprehensive expatriate medical insurance, request a free quote from us today.
Expats can get medical help from several sources, depending on their location and the type of healthcare they need:

Private Healthcare Providers
Many expats prefer private hospitals or clinics, which often offer shorter wait times, higher-quality care, and English-speaking staff. Private healthcare facilities are typically part of international health insurance networks, making it easier for expats to access care.

Local Hospitals and Clinics
Expats can visit local hospitals or clinics in their host country for both emergency and routine medical care. Depending on the country, public healthcare facilities may be available to expats, though the quality and accessibility can vary widely.

International Health Insurance Networks
With expat health insurance, you can access medical help through your insurer’s network of approved doctors, clinics, and hospitals worldwide. These networks often include direct billing arrangements, meaning you won’t need to pay upfront for treatment.

Telemedicine Services
Many expat health insurance plans offer telemedicine options, allowing expats to consult with doctors remotely for advice, prescriptions, or follow-up care. This can be especially useful for minor issues or when access to a local healthcare provider is limited.

Emergency Services
In case of severe illness or injury, expats should call local emergency services for immediate medical help. Many countries have emergency hotlines, and expat insurance plans often provide 24/7 assistance lines for emergencies, including medical evacuations if needed.

Pharmacies
For minor health issues, expats can often get over-the-counter medications or prescription refills at local pharmacies. Some countries allow pharmacies to offer a wider range of services, including basic medical consultations.

Having expat health insurance ensures better access to these services, particularly in private and international facilities, where care may be more suited to the needs of expatriates.

Health Insurance for Short-Term Expat Assignments

Whether you’re traveling for a few days or up to a year, our short-term travel insurance plans offer comprehensive coverage tailored to your needs.

These plans provide essential medical emergency benefits, coverage for trip interruptions, medical evacuation, and repatriation. They are ideal for a range of travelers, including tourists, business professionals, digital nomads, and expats on short-term assignments.

When applying, please provide details of both your home country and your destination to ensure you receive the most suitable coverage for your trip.

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FAQs About Expat Travel Insurance

Typically, short-term expat travel insurance is not valid in your home country and only provides coverage while traveling overseas. When you return home, your travel health insurance plan will terminate, and you will need to purchase a new travel policy for the next time you take a trip abroad.
Typically, short-term expat travel insurance is not valid in your home country and only provides coverage while traveling overseas. When you return home, your travel health insurance plan will terminate, and you will need to purchase a new travel policy for the next time you take a trip abroad.
Yes, short-term travel insurance plans allow you to add family members, such as a spouse or children, to your policy at an additional cost. This is beneficial as it ensures that all family members have health coverage while traveling abroad.
The cost of short-term travel health insurance varies based on several factors, including the amount of coverage, your age, additional members included on the plan, the duration of your trip, and any pre-existing conditions you want covered (if applicable).

Life Insurance for Expats

International life insurance offers essential peace of mind by ensuring your family’s financial security if something happens to you while living abroad. Many domestic life insurance policies don’t provide coverage if you pass away in another country, so an international plan fills that gap.

To find the best policy, assess your current and future expenses to determine the amount of coverage you need, then select a plan that aligns with your financial needs and budget. Explore our options below to help make an informed decision.

Affordable international health insurance plans for expatriates and global citizens.

Life Insurance

The Importance of a Life Insurance Review for Expats

Atlas Life

The Atlas Life Insurance Plan provides comprehensive international life insurance tailored for individuals seeking reliable protection, regardless of their location.

This plan provides a lump-sum death benefit, including an automatic terminal illness benefit if the condition is diagnosed. Additional options, such as critical illness and disability coverage, are available to further safeguard your financial well-being.

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How Much Does an Expat Life Insurance Plan Cost?

The cost of an international life insurance policy can vary widely, typically ranging from about $50 to several hundred or even thousands of dollars per month, depending on factors such as:

Age: Younger individuals typically pay lower premiums than older individuals.
Health: Pre-existing conditions or a history of illness may result in higher premiums.
Coverage Amount: Higher death benefits lead to higher premium costs.
Location: Countries with higher risk factors, such as political instability or limited healthcare access, can increase premiums.
Policy Length: Longer-term policies generally cost more than short-term options.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, hazardous occupations, or high-risk hobbies can raise rates.
Riders or Add-ons: Optional benefits, such as critical illness or disability coverage, increase overall premiums.

Find the Best International Life Insurance

Comprehensive coverage across multiple countries.
Choose from flexible options.
Request a quote to receive personalized advice.

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FAQs About Expat Life Insurance

In most cases, beneficiaries can receive the payout regardless of where they live. The insurance company will transfer the death benefit directly to the beneficiaries in their country of residence.

It’s important to confirm with your insurance provider that international payouts are allowed and check any tax implications in the recipient’s country.
Yes, international life insurance policies typically include exclusions for certain events that could result in death.

Standard exclusions include death resulting from:
- Participation in war or conflict zones
- Terrorism-related incidents
- Certain high-risk occupations or activities (e.g., aviation, scuba diving)
- Suicide (usually within the first two years of the policy)
- Pre-existing medical conditions, unless disclosed and accepted by the insurer
When purchasing an international life insurance plan, it’s essential to consider your family’s financial needs and goals. Typically, expats choose a coverage amount of 20x their annual income to ensure their family is protected if they pass away abroad.

Researching the insurer and reinsurer’s financial strength and reputation is also important. Most insurers allow clients interested in purchasing a plan easy access to financial documents. Your broker can also assist in finding the right documents to help you with your research.

Expatriate Insurance

Comprehensive Coverage for Life Abroad