Your Guide to 2025's Top Providers for Global Health Insurance
Finding the best international health insurance is essential when moving abroad. However, with so many excellent and affordable global medical options, knowing how to choose the right one can feel overwhelming. So, how do you find the best plan for your unique needs?
At ICI, we rank the top 10 global insurers each year based on several key factors:
- Network size
- Range of available benefits
- Extra features like telemedicine
- Ease of filing claims
- Flexibility to adjust premiums with copays and deductibles
- A.M. Best rating, which reflects each insurer's financial stability
Our guide ranks the best global insurers and identifies which plans are tailored to specific needs, ensuring you get the proper healthcare at the right price.
Finding the best international health insurance is essential when moving abroad. However, with so many excellent and affordable global medical options, knowing how to choose the right one can feel overwhelming. So, how do you find the best plan for your unique needs?
At ICI, we rank the top 10 global insurers each year based on several key factors:
- Network size
- Range of available benefits
- Extra features like telemedicine
- Ease of filing claims
- Flexibility to adjust premiums with copays and deductibles
- A.M. Best rating, which reflects each insurer's financial stability
Our guide ranks the best global insurers and identifies which plans are tailored to specific needs, ensuring you get the proper healthcare at the right price.
Headed Abroad? We've Got You Covered
Before you go, compare expert-recommended health insurance plans for expats and find the best coverage for your life abroad.
The 10 Best International Medical Insurers for Global Citizens
Below is a list of the top 10 international insurers that offer the best global health insurance plans for expatriates, immigrants, and international citizens. These global insurers provide comprehensive annual plans for citizens of almost any country living abroad for a year or longer.
| Our Ranking | Insurance Carrier | Recommended For | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Cigna Global | Expats and families looking for flexible, comprehensive coverage options. | Get Quote |
| #2 | GeoBlue Xplorer | U.S. citizens living overseas and foreigners moving to the U.S. | Get Quote |
| #3 | IMG Global Medical Insurance | Younger clients, students, and those seeking budget-friendly coverage. | Get Quote |
| #4 | William Russell | Families and individuals looking for tailored, personalized coverage. | Get Quote |
| #5 | IMG Europe | Great option for Europeans residing in Europe and abroad. | Get Quote |
| #6 | Bupa Global | Citizens of select countries that want the reassurance of the Bupa Global brand. | Get Quote |
| #7 | Now Health International | Tech-savvy expats and global citizens seeking quick, convenient service. | Get Quote |
| #8 | WorldTrips | Short-term health plan for nomads looking for affordable, flexible cover. | Get Quote |
| #9 | Trawick International | Budget-conscious travelers and families seeking affordable, customizable coverage. | Get Quote |
| #10 | Allianz International | People who want the backing of one of the largest companies in the world. | Get Quote |
What Is the Best Global Health Insurance?
Cigna Global ranks as the best global health insurance on our list. But the best global health insurance for you depends on your specific needs. Cigna Global, GeoBlue, William Russell, and International Medical Group are all excellent choices for expatriates moving abroad to work and live. Each one is best for a specific type of global citizen.
Read about each plan below. When you identify insurers that interest you, request a free quote.
Cigna Global—The Best Overall International Medical Insurance, Premium
Cigna Global Insurance was one of the first International Health Insurance companies to offer insurance coverage to expatriates and other international citizens. Founded in 1982, the company is still one of the leading global insurance providers. It is an excellent option for many living abroad as it provides comprehensive coverage in almost any country.
The Cigna Global plan offers flexible levels of international health insurance, with modules to add specific benefits you need without paying for something you won’t use. That’s just one of the factors that earned them the top slot on our list. Multiple deductibles and cost-sharing options allow you to customize the cost of your premium. Cigna’s access to international doctors and hospitals is excellent, making it one of the favorites among immigrants and expats. They have earned an A rating from A.M. Best.
Cigna Global Insurance was one of the first International Health Insurance companies to offer insurance coverage to expatriates and other international citizens. Founded in 1982, the company is still one of the leading global insurance providers. It is an excellent option for many living abroad as it provides comprehensive coverage in almost any country.
The Cigna Global plan offers flexible levels of international health insurance, with modules to add specific benefits you need without paying for something you won’t use. That’s just one of the factors that earned them the top slot on our list. Multiple deductibles and cost-sharing options allow you to customize the cost of your premium. Cigna’s access to international doctors and hospitals is excellent, making it one of the favorites among immigrants and expats. They have earned an A rating from A.M. Best.
Cigna Plan Highlights
Key Insights: 72% of our clients opt for Worldwide Coverage (excluding the U.S), 50% choose to include the Outpatient module, 21% opt into the Medical Evacuation module, 17% add the Vision and Dental Benefit, and 5% choose Health and Wellbeing.
Pro Tip: Ask your agent about the benefits of the Gold Plan!
Cigna Global Health Coverage
Secure your health abroad with trusted Cigna plans.
GeoBlue Xplorer—The Best Health Plan for U.S. Citizens Abroad, Premium
The GeoBlue Xplorer plan is ideal for U.S. citizens living overseas and foreigners in the U.S. GeoBlue is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and offers short-term travel medical and long-term insurance plans worldwide.
It is a premium option available to U.S. citizens living overseas and expats living in the U.S. Despite these geographic limitations, GeoBlue made number two on our list for its extensive network, ease of filing a claim, and excellent telehealth services. Members agree that GeoBlue’s premium plans are worth the extra money when you get sick or injured because of their comprehensive coverage and helpful staff. GeoBlue has an A- rating from A.M. Best.
If you thoroughly compare the benefits, the premium level options from GeoBlue have competitive prices that outmatch the policies offered by the competition with similarly high levels of cover.
The GeoBlue Xplorer plan is ideal for U.S. citizens living overseas and foreigners in the U.S. GeoBlue is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and offers short-term travel medical and long-term insurance plans worldwide.
It is a premium option available to U.S. citizens living overseas and expats living in the U.S. Despite these geographic limitations, GeoBlue made number two on our list for its extensive network, ease of filing a claim, and excellent telehealth services. Members agree that GeoBlue’s premium plans are worth the extra money when you get sick or injured because of their comprehensive coverage and helpful staff. GeoBlue has an A- rating from A.M. Best.
If you thoroughly compare the benefits, the premium level options from GeoBlue have competitive prices that outmatch the policies offered by the competition with similarly high levels of cover.
Xplorer Plan Highlights
Key Insights: The GeoBlue Xplorer plan is the most comprehensive plan with unlimited medical benefits worldwide. For U.S. citizens abroad, you have access to up to 9 months of coverage in the USA each year.
Pro Tip: Consider Essential U.S. coverage if you are only making a few short trips to the U.S. each year to save on premium.
GeoBlue Global Health Coverage
Secure your health abroad with trusted GeoBlue plans.
IMG—The Best Global Medical Insurance for Expats on a Budget
International Medical Group (IMG) offers the broadest range of products among international health insurance companies, from trip cancellation to their long-term international medical plan, IMG Global Medical. For more than 20 years, IMG has provided international medical insurance, travel insurance, and affordable coverage to clients worldwide. IMG currently insures people in more than 170 countries globally.
IMG earned the third spot on this list due to its wide array of plans, excellent preventative care coverage, and pricing options that allow you to fine-tune your premium cost. They also offer add-on coverage for global term life insurance, terrorism, sports, and more. IMG has an A- rating from A.M. Best.
International Medical Group (IMG) offers the broadest range of products among international health insurance companies, from trip cancellation to their long-term international medical plan, IMG Global Medical. For more than 20 years, IMG has provided international medical insurance, travel insurance, and affordable coverage to clients worldwide. IMG currently insures people in more than 170 countries globally.
IMG earned the third spot on this list due to its wide array of plans, excellent preventative care coverage, and pricing options that allow you to fine-tune your premium cost. They also offer add-on coverage for global term life insurance, terrorism, sports, and more. IMG has an A- rating from A.M. Best.
IMG Global Medical Plan Highlights
Key Insights: The IMG Gold level plan offers the best combination of coverage, benefits, and price. Premiums are available in USD, British Pounds, and Euros.
Pro Tip: Purchase IMG Global Prima with Europe only coverage if you will be living in Europe and doing minimal travel abroad each year.
IMG Global Health Coverage
Secure your health abroad with trusted IMG plans.
William Russell—The Best Policies for Expats in Africa, Asia
William Russell has been in the healthcare business for more than 30 years, specializing in providing members with private insurance benefits in 160 countries. Whether you are an individual, a family, or an individual planning a family, you can find the right policy with William Russell medical insurance.
The company offers four plan tiers, each built around your specific needs. They have excellent benefits, including top-notch coverage for cancer care and extensive preventive care coverage. Their rates can be customized via your chosen deductible and coverage area. (Plans do not include U.S. coverage, but limited coverage for trips up to 45 days to the U.S. can be added.) Their highly personalized and 24/7 customer service earned them the fourth spot on this list. William Russell, a company in the Allianz group, has an A+ rating from A.M. Best.
William Russell has been in the healthcare business for more than 30 years, specializing in providing members with private insurance benefits in 160 countries. Whether you are an individual, a family, or an individual planning a family, you can find the right policy with William Russell medical insurance.
The company offers four plan tiers, each built around your specific needs. They have excellent benefits, including top-notch coverage for cancer care and extensive preventive care coverage. Their rates can be customized via your chosen deductible and coverage area. (Plans do not include U.S. coverage, but limited coverage for trips up to 45 days to the U.S. can be added.) Their highly personalized and 24/7 customer service earned them the fourth spot on this list. William Russell, a company in the Allianz group, has an A+ rating from A.M. Best.
William Russell Plan Highlights
Key Insights: William Russell is a second-generation, family-owned business, but the insurer of its policies is a company in the Allianz group. You get the customer experience of a smaller company with the financial security of a multinational insurer.
Pro Tip: Ask about the Gold plan if you need coverage for maternity or coverage zones 4 and 5 if you're living in Africa.
William Russell Global Health Coverage
Secure your health abroad with trusted William Russell plans.
Additional Leading Global Health Insurers
Bupa Global
Bupa Global has been in business for over 65 years, specializing in and dedicating its resources to providing the best global health policies. Its international team of advisers and health experts speaks multiple languages, which helps it provide service that exceeds expectations. Bupa Global offers coverage in the U.K. and select European countries. A.M. Best has given Bupa Global a B++ rating.
Now Health International
Now Health International provides quality medical coverage worldwide that foreigners living abroad can easily access. One of the company's best health insurance plans for international clients is the Now Health WorldCare plan, which provides comprehensive benefits, including coverage for expats in the USA. A more affordable option is their SimpleCare plan. SimpleCare is perfect for expatriates seeking extensive medical coverage that fits their budget. Now Health is rated A+ overall by A.M. Best.
WorldTrips
WorldTrips offers reliable and affordable emergency medical insurance through its Atlas and StudentSecure Travel plans, designed to meet the needs of short-term nomads and students. With comprehensive coverage for emergency medical care, trip interruption, and medical evacuation, WorldTrips ensures you’re protected while exploring the globe.
Trawick International
Trawick International offers affordable and short term insurance plans designed to meet the needs of nomads, families, and adventurers alike. With options that include coverage for trip cancellation, emergency medical care, and trip interruption, Trawick ensures you are fully covered no matter where your journey takes you. Their flexible plans are customizable to fit your specific travel needs, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for dependable coverage.
Allianz International Medical Insurance
One of the biggest insurance providers in the world is Allianz. It is a German company under the management of Allianz Worldwide Partners and is part of the Allianz Group. The company is known for its global network and for providing businesses with international medical insurance for employees. Allianz Group has an A+ rating from A.M. Best.
Headed Abroad? We've Got You Covered
Before you go, compare expert-recommended health insurance plans for expats and find the best coverage for your life abroad.
How to Compare the Best Global Insurance Companies
There are numerous reputable online resources to guide you when selecting the best international health insurance. It’s essential to evaluate six key factors:
- Insurer ratings
- Cost
- Eligibility
- Coverage regions
- Medical benefits
- Healthcare networks
While most international insurance companies offer standard benefits, some providers deliver enhanced options or additional features at competitive prices.
To assist your research, we’ve developed a comprehensive comparison table featuring four leading international insurance providers: Cigna, GeoBlue, IMG, and William Russell.
For a more personalized comparison, you can also request a free quote to explore tailored plans that meet your specific needs.
Review and Compare Your Options: Compare Health Insurance
FAQs about the Best International Health Insurance Companies
Most domestic health insurance policies do not cover you outside of your home country. Typically, a domestic insurance plan will only cover you domestically, in your home country. You may have access to limited emergency medical benefits when traveling abroad. Check with your plan to confirm what type of coverage they may offer you while abroad.
A Global Medical policy can provide you with coverage worldwide. Typically you will be able to choose a doctor or hospital in any country, including where you are living as well as in your home country.
If you plan on traveling or moving abroad, you need the best travel insurance, for trips, or global medical insurance, for those living abroad, in case you become ill or are injured.
The top five international insurance companies are:
- Cigna Global
- GeoBlue Global Medical
- International Medical Group
- William Russell
- Now Health International
Our team can help you research, compare, and get pricing for these insurers, as well as others.
The largest international health insurance company in the world offering international private medical plans is Cigna International. Cigna covers over 86 million customers in over 200 different countries. Their global healthcare network is made up of 1.65 million hospitals and healthcare professionals across the world.
Other large insurers include GeoBlue, AXA, Allianz, and BUPA.
Learn more about International Health Insurance for comprehensive annual cover.
Short-Term Global Health Plans
The difference between international health insurance and travel medical insurance is the length of coverage provided and the level of benefits included in the policies.
Even if you have private medical insurance from your home country, it most likely will not be accepted abroad when you get hospitalized due to an accident or illness. Even if it does, it will probably be insufficient to cover all the medical costs for your recovery.
If you are traveling out of the country on a shorter trip, travel insurance is a necessity. Read our guide to the best travel insurance companies and get the best plan for you.
Ready to Explore the World?
Don’t leave without coverage! Explore the best travel insurance plans and secure peace of mind for your trip.
Group Options for International Medical Coverage
If you have international employees and are an employer, part of an organized group, involved in a non-profit agency, or otherwise interested in group options, we can help. For this purpose, we have compiled our list of international group medical insurance plans, listing various global medical programs for your organization.
Get the Best Plan With the Help of ICI
Our mission is to educate you about the value of global medical, life, and travel insurance, for individuals and groups. Using our reliable and well-researched resources, you can easily select, compare, and study the plans offered by trusted insurance providers. With this information, you can be assured that you're safe and secure when you travel or relocate overseas.
If you need help choosing the best international health insurance plan, request a quote, and we will help you find the plan that suits your needs.
As the largest international health insurance broker in the USA, International Citizens Insurance works with more than 4,000 expats, international citizens, and global nomads every month to advise them on a wide range of plan options and benefits. Our team of licensed advisors is made of of expatriates, world travelers, and experts on global health plans. Let us help guide you.
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Author / Editor: Joe Cronin, Founder and President of International Citizens Insurance. Mr. Cronin, a former expat, is an authority in the areas of international travel, and global health, life, and travel insurance, with expertise in advising individuals and groups on benefits for today's global workforce. Follow him on LinkedIn or Twitter.