What Expats Need to Know About Staying Covered Overseas
Expat life is very different from ordinary travel. You are not stepping away from your daily routine to try something new. This becomes your daily routine, with new relationships, new adventures, and work in a new country. Your new life requires an international health insurance plan that supports local and regional care while also providing global coverage when needed.
It is rarely practical, or even possible, to maintain ongoing care with your family doctor, specialists, dentist, or physiotherapist back home, even if you return once a year. If you prefer to continue seeing your providers in your home country, you will need a global plan that covers you worldwide.
Here are some significant reasons to have health insurance when working abroad.
Why You Should Buy Comprehensive Global Insurance
Building a relationship with healthcare providers in your new country is not about settling for the cheapest option; it’s about finding the best one. In many places, you can pay out of pocket for basic services at an affordable rate. However, basic care is not always enough to help you recover quickly and confidently. High-quality care allows you to rest, follow a clear treatment plan, and focus on healing in the most comfortable environment possible. It also helps you return to work sooner when your health and livelihood depend on it.
Health insurance while working abroad is about more than getting the correct diagnosis or prescription. A comprehensive global insurance plan supports you with access to English-speaking doctors, private hospital rooms, advanced diagnostic equipment, and a dedicated support team ready to guide you through any medical situation.
Balancing Peace of Mind with Making Peace at the Office
Peace of mind matters not only when you need to access healthcare providers but also when avoiding worry and anxiety. Navigating expatriate life and a new work environment is challenging. There is a long list of culinary precautions to observe in many countries, with foods to avoid and risks with water. Worrying about getting sick or injured while dining, hiking, or even crossing the street can be stressful. Knowing that you have access to the best doctors and the most comfortable facilities will make those worrisome moments a little less awkward.
Savvy expats know to be wary of water and ice cubes in a developing country, as well as raw fruits and veggies that cannot be washed. However, some circumstances cannot be avoided in the name of preventing awkwardness and demonstrating respect – such as when your boss’s grandmother drops by with a lunch of salads and non-refrigerated meats. Or when a new client insists on taking you to their favorite shop for a very icy iced coffee. In some instances, you have to weigh the risk of offending someone versus offending your digestive tract. No expat can follow 100% of the rules 100% of the time. It is good to have some backup.
When It Comes to Your Health, Play the Long Game
The odds are in your favor that your expat life will be just as healthy as your life back home. There is an old saying in medicine: “Common things are common.” If your throat hurts and you have a cough, you are likely experiencing a simple virus, not a serious condition. But being young, healthy, and adventurous does not make you immune to unexpected accidents, serious illnesses, or global health events. It is also easy to focus on the moment and forget how short-term decisions can affect your long-term well-being.
You moved overseas to work, not to take unnecessary risks. Prioritize your health, wherever you are.
Types of International Expatriate Insurance
Best Health Insurance Plans for Individuals Working Abroad
The Cigna Global Medical plan is an excellent option for most international employees and those working abroad. For US workers in foreign countries, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions Worldwide Premier plan, formerly known as GeoBlue Xplorer, is a premier option, providing premium coverage, benefits, and world-class service.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
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.
Other Recommended International Health Options
William Russell Health Insurance
- Worldwide coverage with access to private hospitals and trusted medical networks.
- Comprehensive benefits, covering inpatient care, outpatient treatment, mental health, and emergency evacuation.
- Flexible plan levels that let expats choose the coverage and budget that fit their lifestyle.
IMG Global Medical Plan
- Affordable global coverage with flexible options
- Coverage area options based on where you live or work
- Visit any doctor or hospital worldwide
International Life Insurance Plans for Life Abroad
There are two types of international life insurance policies: Term Life and Whole Life. Term life insurance covers you for a fixed amount of time or a “term”, usually starting at ten years. Whole life plans cover you for your entire life after you have paid your premiums over a set period of time.
There are several benefits to term insurance. It is more affordable, and you are not locked into one coverage amount for your entire life. There are often in life when you need a large amount of insurance, like when your children are young and your mortgage is large. For some individuals, permanent or whole life insurance may be a more suitable choice. Generally, the premiums are significantly higher.
Travel Insurance for Workers on Shorter International Assignments`
For individuals on an international assignment who require coverage for a shorter period, a travel medical insurance plan may be suitable. These plans will cover your emergency medical care if you should get sick or injured. Typically, you will maintain coverage in your home country and can be medically transported home if your care requires further treatment.
Coverage for Your Employees Working Abroad
If you are an employer with two or more international employees, we can help you research and secure a group plan providing your organization with global coverage for your expatriate population.
Connect with a Global Benefits Advisor
- Experts in sourcing and implementing global insurance plans
- We’ve built steadfast partnerships with carriers worldwide
- Licensed in Health, Life, Accident, and more
Your Next Step to Secure Coverage Abroad
Living and working abroad opens the door to new opportunities, but protecting your health should always remain a priority. With the right international health insurance plan, you can access quality care, manage unexpected medical situations with confidence, and focus on building a fulfilling life overseas. Whether you are relocating for work, embarking on a long-term assignment, or supporting a global team, our advisors are here to help you choose the coverage that fits your needs. Request a quote today and take the next step toward a safer, healthier life abroad.
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.
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