Your Guide to 2025's Top Providers for Global Medical Insurers
Finding the best international health insurance is essential when moving abroad. But 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 International Citizens Insurance, 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 highlights which plans best suit specific needs, helping you secure the right 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 International Citizens Insurance, 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 highlights which plans best suit specific needs, helping you secure the right 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 plans for expatriates, immigrants, and international citizens.
These providers offer 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 | 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 | Now Health International | Tech-savvy expats and global citizens seeking quick, convenient service. | Get Quote |
| #7 | Trawick International | Budget-conscious travelers seeking affordable, customizable coverage. | Get Quote |
| #8 | Allianz International | People who want the backing of one of the largest companies in the world. | Get Quote |
| #9 | Patriot Travel Medical | Short-term health plan for nomads looking for affordable, flexible cover. | Get Quote |
| #10 | Bupa Global | Citizens of select countries that want the reassurance of the Bupa Global. | Get Quote |
What Is the Best Global Health Insurance?
Cigna Global ranks as the best global health insurance on our list. However, the best international health plan for you depends on your specific needs.
Cigna Global, GeoBlue, William Russell, and International Medical Group are all excellent choices for expatriates living and working abroad. Each is best suited for a specific type of global citizen.
Read about each plan below. When you find insurers that interest you, request a free quote.
Cigna Global: The Best Overall International Medical Insurance, Premium
Cigna Global was one of the first international health insurance companies to offer coverage for expatriates and other global citizens.
Founded in 1982, the company remains one of the world's leading providers. It's an excellent option for many living abroad, as it offers comprehensive coverage in nearly every country.
The Cigna Global plan offers flexible levels of international health benefits, with modular options that let you add only the coverage you need – without paying for extras you won’t use.
This is just one of the factors that earned them the top spot on our list. They also offer multiple deductibles and cost-sharing options, allowing you to customize the cost of your premium.
Cigna provides excellent access to international doctors and hospitals, making it a favorite among immigrants and expats. It has also earned an A rating from A.M. Best, reflecting strong financial stability.
Cigna Global was one of the first international health insurance companies to offer coverage for expatriates and other global citizens.
Founded in 1982, the company remains one of the world's leading providers. It's an excellent option for many living abroad, as it offers comprehensive coverage in nearly every country.
The Cigna Global plan offers flexible levels of international health benefits, with modular options that let you add only the coverage you need – without paying for extras you won’t use.
This is just one of the factors that earned them the top spot on our list. They also offer multiple deductibles and cost-sharing options, allowing you to customize the cost of your premium.
Cigna provides excellent access to international doctors and hospitals, making it a favorite among immigrants and expats. It has also earned an A rating from A.M. Best, reflecting strong financial stability.
Cigna Plan Highlights
Key Insights: 68% of our clients opt for Worldwide Coverage excluding the U.S, 46% choose to include the Outpatient module, 30% select Health and Wellbeing, 20% opt for the Medical Evacuation module, and 12% add the Vision and Dental Benefit.
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 residing in the U.S.
GeoBlue is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and offers long-term and short-term travel medical plans worldwide.
It is a premium option available to U.S. citizens living overseas and expats residing in the U.S. Despite these geographic limitations, GeoBlue ranks number two on our list due to its extensive network, easy claims process, and excellent telehealth services.
Members agree that GeoBlue’s premium plans are worth the extra cost when you get sick or injured, thanks to their comprehensive coverage and helpful staff. GeoBlue holds an A- rating from A.M. Best.
When you thoroughly compare benefits, GeoBlue’s premium plans offer competitive prices that outperform similar policies from other providers.
The GeoBlue Xplorer plan is ideal for U.S. citizens living overseas and foreigners residing in the U.S.
GeoBlue is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and offers long-term and short-term travel medical plans worldwide.
It is a premium option available to U.S. citizens living overseas and expats residing in the U.S. Despite these geographic limitations, GeoBlue ranks number two on our list due to its extensive network, easy claims process, and excellent telehealth services.
Members agree that GeoBlue’s premium plans are worth the extra cost when you get sick or injured, thanks to their comprehensive coverage and helpful staff. GeoBlue holds an A- rating from A.M. Best.
When you thoroughly compare benefits, GeoBlue’s premium plans offer competitive prices that outperform similar policies from other providers.
GeoBlue Xplorer Plan Highlights
Key Insights: The GeoBlue Xplorer plan offers the most comprehensive coverage with unlimited medical benefits worldwide. For U.S. citizens abroad, it includes up to 9 months of coverage in the USA each year.
Pro Tip: Consider Essential U.S. coverage if you only make a few short trips to the U.S. each year to save on premiums.
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 insurers, from trip cancellation to their long-term international medical plan, IMG Global Medical.
For over 20 years, IMG has provided international medical, travel health, and affordable coverage to clients worldwide. They currently insure people in more than 170 countries.
IMG earned the third spot on our list thanks to its wide array of plans, excellent preventative care coverage, and flexible pricing options that allow you to fine-tune your premium.
They also offer add-on coverage for global term life, terrorism, sports, and more. IMG holds an A- rating from A.M. Best.
International Medical Group (IMG) offers the broadest range of products among international health insurers, from trip cancellation to their long-term international medical plan, IMG Global Medical.
For over 20 years, IMG has provided international medical, travel health, and affordable coverage to clients worldwide. They currently insure people in more than 170 countries.
IMG earned the third spot on our list thanks to its wide array of plans, excellent preventative care coverage, and flexible pricing options that allow you to fine-tune your premium.
They also offer add-on coverage for global term life, terrorism, sports, and more. IMG holds 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: If you’ll be living in Europe and traveling abroad only occasionally, consider purchasing IMG Global Prima with Europe-only coverage to save on premiums.
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 over 30 years, specializing in providing private medical benefits to members in 160 countries.
Whether you are an individual, a family, or planning to start a family, you can find the right policy with William Russell medical insurance.
The company offers four plan tiers, each designed around your specific needs. They provide excellent benefits, including top-notch coverage for cancer care and extensive preventive care.
Their rates can be customized based on your chosen deductible and coverage area. (Plans do not include U.S. coverage, but you can add limited coverage for trips of up to 45 days in the U.S.)
William Russell’s highly personalized, 24/7 customer service earned them the fourth spot on our list. The company, part of the Allianz group, holds an A+ rating from A.M. Best.
William Russell has been in the healthcare business for over 30 years, specializing in providing private medical benefits to members in 160 countries.
Whether you are an individual, a family, or planning to start a family, you can find the right policy with William Russell medical insurance.
The company offers four plan tiers, each designed around your specific needs. They provide excellent benefits, including top-notch coverage for cancer care and extensive preventive care.
Their rates can be customized based on your chosen deductible and coverage area. (Plans do not include U.S. coverage, but you can add limited coverage for trips of up to 45 days in the U.S.)
William Russell’s highly personalized, 24/7 customer service earned them the fourth spot on our list. The company, part of the Allianz group, holds 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 behind its policies is part of the Allianz group. This means 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 maternity coverage, or coverage in 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
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 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 the SimpleCare plan, which is ideal for expatriates seeking extensive medical coverage on a budget. Now Health is rated A+ overall by A.M. Best.
Trawick International
Trawick International offers affordable, short-term 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 protected no matter where your journey takes you.
Their flexible plans can be customized to fit your specific travel needs, making them an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking dependable coverage.
Allianz International Medical Insurance
One of the biggest providers in the world, Allianz is a German company managed by Allianz Worldwide Partners and part of the Allianz Group.
The company is known for its global network and for providing businesses with international medical coverage for employees. Allianz Group has an A+ rating from A.M. Best.
Patriot Travel Medical Plan
IMG offers reliable and affordable emergency medical and travel insurance benefits through its Patriot Travel Insurance and Student Exchange plans, designed to meet the needs of global nomads and students.
With comprehensive coverage for emergency medical care, trip interruption, and medical evacuation, WorldTrips ensures you’re protected while exploring the globe.
Bupa Global
Bupa Global has been in business for over 65 years, specializing in providing the best global health policies.
Its international team of advisers and health experts speaks multiple languages, enabling them to deliver service that exceeds expectations.
Bupa Global offers coverage in the U.K. and select European countries. It holds a B++ 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 help you choose the best insurer. When evaluating options, consider these six key factors:
- Insurer ratings
- Cost
- Eligibility
- Coverage regions
- Medical benefits
- Healthcare networks
While most companies offer standard benefits, some providers deliver enhanced options or additional features at competitive prices.
To assist your research, we’ve created a comprehensive comparison table featuring four leading 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 policies do not cover you outside of your home country. Typically, a domestic 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 coverage they may offer you 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 main difference between international health and travel medical plans lies in the length of coverage and the level of benefits included in the policy.
Even if you have a private medical plan from your home country, it will most likely not be accepted abroad if you are hospitalized due to an accident or illness. And even if it is, it will probably be insufficient to cover all the medical costs for your recovery.
A good travel plan is necessary if you are traveling abroad for a shorter trip. Please read our guide to the best travel insurance companies to find 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 are an employer with international employees, part of an organized group, involved in a non-profit agency, or interested in group insurance options, we can help.
To support you, we’ve compiled a list of international group medical insurance plans, featuring a variety of global medical programs tailored for organizations like yours.
Get the Best Plan With the Help of ICI
Our mission is to educate you about the value of global medical, life, and travel plans for individuals and groups.
Using our reliable and well-researched resources, you can easily select, compare, and study plans offered by trusted 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 plan, request a quote, and we will help you find the option that suits your needs.
As one of the largest global brokers in the USA, International Citizens Insurance works with more than 50,000 expats, international citizens, and global nomads every year, advising them on a wide range of plan options and benefits. Our team of licensed advisors includes expatriates, world travelers, and experts on global health coverage. 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.