Below are the application links to generate a free quote and initiate an international health insurance application with our leading global insurer partners.
When you request a quote, our team will send you multiple plan options so you can compare pricing, benefits, and coverage levels. A licensed international insurance advisor will then review the details with you and help you choose the plan that best suits your needs. This guidance is provided at no additional cost, giving you expert support throughout the entire process.
The application timeline varies. Some approvals are completed in one to two days, while others may take up to a month, depending on underwriting requirements. For the best experience, apply four to six weeks before your desired start date. Please note that applications cannot be accepted more than forty-five days before your effective date.
Request Free Quotes and Submit a Global Health Insurance Application
BCBS Global Solutions, formerly known as GeoBlue, offers international health insurance to U.S. citizens living abroad and global citizens residing in the U.S.
William Russell was founded in 1992 by Inez and James Cooper, who set out to provide health, life, and income protection insurance for expats. William Russell covers members in more than 160 countries.
Bupa Global provides customers with premium international coverage with a range of exceptional products and services, giving them direct access to world-leading specialists and medical providers, at home or abroad.
You will undergo an underwriting process, during which you will be asked a series of medical questions. Depending on how you answer these questions, you may be asked to provide additional details and/or medical records. Once the underwriters have reviewed your file, they will decide on your case. They typically will approve your application within 3-5 days; often, it is immediate. If you are asked additional questions, approval may take 2-3 weeks, depending on how quickly you respond to requests for further information.
If you do have pre-existing conditions, the underwriters will review your medical history and decide to either approve your application as is, add a premium for the condition, approve your application with an exclusion for the condition, or deny your request. Unfortunately, you must apply to determine which of the above options applies to your case.
Once you are approved, you will receive a comprehensive packet of information, including your insurance card, certificate of cover, emergency medical assistance contact numbers, and other relevant documentation.
Insurance Application Assistance Services
Applying for international health insurance often involves answering detailed medical questions and considering several plan options. If you want help sorting through the choices, fill out the quote request form. One of our agents will prepare sample quotes, explain the differences between plans, assist with your application, and remain available to support you throughout your policy.
Application Preparation and Tips
Below are some tips to consider before applying for international health insurance and moving abroad.
Update Immunizations and Prescriptions
Schedule an appointment with your global health care provider to ensure all your routine vaccinations are up to date and obtain a detailed health assessment. Special vaccination and preventive medication may be required in your host country.
Don’t wait too long to make an appointment, as immunization may require multiple shots over 1 to 6 months. It is also essential to share your planned activities with your doctor to benefit from relevant health recommendations and advice.
It is also recommended to have a vision and dental check-up before leaving, as basic health plans typically do not cover these services, and there is likely a waiting period before coverage becomes effective. For example, dental coverage can have a waiting period of 3 to 24 months, depending on the insurance plan.
If you have a pre-existing condition that requires prescription medicine, be sure to carry double the amount of your medication, in case you are unable to refill your prescription at the local pharmacy. It is essential to bring at least 2 copies of your prescription, including both the generic and brand names of the medication.
Remember, being informed is the key to being well-prepared; visit the World Health Organization (WHO) website to learn about health conditions and international medical care standards in your host country, and pay special attention to health warnings.
Secure Important Documents
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date.
It is also a good idea to leave copies of important medical and travel documents with a family member or friend at home, and to save electronic copies that will be accessible if your documents are lost or stolen. Always carry copies of your health insurance documents, along with an emergency contact card listing the coordinates of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
If you will be driving abroad, it is essential to update your driver’s license and obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in advance. An IDP is a valid form of identification in many countries, typically featuring a photo, name, and driver’s license information. A valid driver’s license and two passport photos are required for the application, along with a $20 permit fee.
Open an International Bank Account
The first step to efficient banking outside your home country is to notify your home banking institution of your travel plans and duration. This will prevent your cards from being placed on hold due to potential fraud, ensuring your health insurance premiums are paid on time and providing continued coverage without interruption. You should also consider using online banking and signing up for electronic bill payments, allowing you to access your payment and banking information from anywhere in the world.
You should also consider opening a foreign bank account. It is a good idea to keep your home banking account and to make online transfers to your foreign account. A transaction fee is usually applied to each transaction, so making larger transfers less often will help you keep these fees to a minimum. Additionally, in the unfortunate event of fraud, your home account assets will be safe. You can then choose which bank your health insurance premiums are deducted from, possibly lowering your overall costs by eliminating bank charges and exchange rate fluctuations.
In addition to the above-mentioned planning steps, the following few banking tips will make exchange rate fees manageable while outside of the country:
Select a credit card that charges no foreign transaction fees.
Only use an ATM at major banks, such as Bank of America.
Avoid exchanging money at the airport.
Always pick the local currency for credit card purchases.
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.
Get free international health insurance quotes and discover which insurer provides the best benefits for your situation and budget. Listed below are our top recommended global medical plans.
Cigna Global offers flexible, comprehensive coverage for expats and global citizens, including international medical care, mental health, and preventive services tailored to your lifestyle abroad.
The BCBS Global Solutions Health Plan provides comprehensive worldwide coverage for expats and travelers, including medical care, preventive services, and access to an elite global network of doctors.
The IMG Global Medical Plan offers customizable international health coverage for expats and families, including hospitalization, preventive care, emergency evacuation, and flexible deductibles.
William Russell Health Insurance provides high-quality international coverage for expats, including hospital care, mental health, maternity, and optional dental and outpatient benefits worldwide.
IMG Global Prima Medical Insurance offers comprehensive coverage for expats and families, with five plan levels, varied coverage, telemedicine support, and optional pregnancy and dental benefits…
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