We recommend the Cigna Global Health Insurance Plan, which offers the flexibility to tailor a plan to suit you and your individual needs. The plan gives access to Cigna’s worldwide network of hospitals and English-speaking doctors, and 24/7 customer service. Find out more here.
What is international health insurance?
Anyone moving or working abroad should consider investing in quality international health insurance for themselves and their family. Most international health insurance providers cover treatment for emergency healthcare as well everyday medical requirements, such as routine check-ups, dental care, maternity care, hospital visits and outpatient treatment.
International health insurance plans generally provide a better level of coverage than domestic health insurance. Most policies will also include repatriation and evacuation where medical treatment is not available locally. The best insurance companies also offer on-the-ground support teams who can help you find your way around the local healthcare system and recommend English-speaking doctors and consultants in your host country.
What to consider when buying health insurance
How large is the insurer's medical network?
You should choose an insurer that has a global network of medical providers that you can use without having to pay upfront. This insures quick access to care when using a hospital or surgery that is part of the insurer's global network of recommended providers. Well-respected insurers such as Cigna and Aetna give policyholders access to their global network of hospitals, clinics, doctors and consultants.
Does your insurer offer 24/7 emergency support?
The best global health insurers offer telephone support 24/7, in English. Not only will this offer peace of mind, but it's also essential for emergencies.
Will you need coverage in more than one country?
Many expats move from country to country, whether for work or leisure, and the best health insurance policies will cover you wherever you travel. That said, you must notify your insurer if you change countries. There are good local health insurers in many countries, but as you repatriate or move from country to country, they will no longer be able to insure you and cover an ongoing illness.
Will a pre-existing medical condition be covered?
It is imperative that you declare any pre-existing medical condition when you take out a policy, or it won't be covered, and the policy may be void. Some insurers may decline to cover you or may exclude the condition or ask for a higher premium.
Do you require emergency coverage, or a more comprehensive policy?
Some expats choose to self-insure their outpatient claims to save money on their policy, particularly in countries where these costs are minimal. This is not advised in developing countries, where your policy should cover medical evacuation. There are also some countries, such as the US, where outpatient costs can be exorbitant.
Are you moving to the US?
We strongly recommend that expats moving to the United States get medical insurance before they arrive in the US. Including medical coverage for the US will increase your premiums, but it is considered essential by most expats.
Request a free quote from Cigna Global, our recommended insurance provider, to see how much you could save
If you're moving abroad, you should take out the best health coverage possible to insure you and your family are well taken care of. Cigna is one of the most respected providers of international health insurance. Visit their website to better understand their global medical insurance plans. Cigna offers comprehensive worldwide health insurance tailored to the needs of expatriates and global nomads. They also offer round-the-clock support for you and your family, emergency assistance and the most extensive network of doctors and healthcare facilities.
- Global network of trusted hospitals, clinics and doctors
- 24/7 member care
- Plan tailored to suit individual needs
- Eligible for all nationalities and all ages
- Worldwide healthcare coverage available
- High-quality international health plans for expats
