Moving abroad is an exciting life decision, but it comes with its share of challenges—healthcare being one of the most crucial. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or long-term travel, having international health insurance as an expat is no longer optional. Without proper coverage, a single medical emergency overseas could wipe out years of savings.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand:
- What international health insurance is
- Why expats need it
- What to look for in a plan
- Best providers in 2025
- Cost estimates, and more
🌍 What is International Health Insurance?
International health insurance provides global medical coverage for individuals living or working abroad. Unlike travel insurance (which is short-term and emergency-only), expat health insurance offers:
- Long-term coverage
- Day-to-day healthcare
- Emergency and elective treatments
- Access to private hospitals worldwide
Key Features:
| Feature | International Health Insurance |
|---|---|
| Duration | Long-term (1 year or more) |
| Coverage | Routine + emergency care |
| Network | Global hospital access |
| Ideal for | Expats, digital nomads, global workers |
🤔 Why Do Expats Need International Health Insurance?
- Local health systems may not cover expats
- Many public healthcare systems (e.g., UK NHS, Canada) don’t automatically cover non-citizens.
- Language & accessibility barriers
- Finding quality, English-speaking doctors abroad can be hard without a vetted global network.
- No home-country coverage abroad
- Domestic plans (like India’s Mediclaim or U.S. employer health insurance) typically don’t extend overseas.
- Peace of mind
- Whether it’s a broken bone or cancer treatment, your policy handles it—so you can focus on your new life.
🏥 What Does International Health Insurance Cover?
| Coverage Area | Typical Inclusions |
|---|---|
| Inpatient Care | Hospitalization, surgery, ICU charges |
| Outpatient Care | GP visits, diagnostics, vaccinations |
| Maternity | Prenatal, delivery (after waiting period) |
| Emergency Evacuation | Medical airlift to nearest quality care center |
| Dental & Vision (Optional) | Routine checkups, glasses, dental procedures |
| Chronic Illness | Diabetes, hypertension, asthma, etc. |
| Mental Health | Therapy, counseling, psychiatric care |
📌 Note: Each provider offers different levels — basic, standard, and comprehensive plans.
🧮 Cost of International Health Insurance for Expats
Pricing depends on:
- Age
- Coverage level
- Region (U.S. and Hong Kong are expensive)
- Add-ons (maternity, dental, etc.)
| Age | Region | Estimated Annual Premium (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 25 | SE Asia / Eastern Europe | $600 – $1,200 |
| 35 | Western Europe / UAE | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| 50 | Global (incl. U.S.) | $3,000 – $6,500 |
💡 Tip: Exclude U.S. coverage to lower your premium significantly.
🏆 Best International Health Insurance Providers for Expats (2025)
1. Cigna Global
A trusted brand offering flexible plans across 200+ countries.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage Area | Worldwide (with/without U.S. option) |
| Key Strengths | Fully customizable, great hospital network |
| Digital Tools | Online claims, 24/7 helpline |
✅ Best for: Expats needing tailored coverage & strong support.
2. Allianz Care
Ideal for corporates and long-term expats in Europe & Asia.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Highlights | Strong global provider list |
| Unique Benefit | Second medical opinion service |
| Maternity Add-on | Available with waiting periods |
✅ Best for: Families and working professionals abroad.
3. GeoBlue (U.S. Citizens Only)
Underwritten by Blue Cross Blue Shield, perfect for Americans abroad.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Availability | U.S. citizens or residents only |
| U.S. Coverage Option | Yes |
| Standout Feature | U.S.-style care standards internationally |
✅ Best for: U.S. expats and digital nomads.
4. IMG Global Medical Insurance
Budget-friendly plans for expats, students, and travelers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Plans | Bronze to Platinum tiers |
| Optional Add-ons | Maternity, evacuation, dental |
| Flexibility | Choose deductible and benefit limits |
✅ Best for: Affordable and flexible coverage seekers.
5. SafetyWing (Remote Health)
New-age provider built for digital nomads and remote workers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 180+ countries |
| Price | Starting at $45/month |
| Remote Teams Option | Yes (for companies hiring abroad) |
✅ Best for: Freelancers, nomads, startup teams.
📍 How to Choose the Right International Health Plan
| Criteria | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Geographic Coverage | Does it cover your new country & travel destinations? |
| Portability | Can you carry it if you change countries? |
| Direct Billing | Works with hospitals directly? |
| Waiting Periods | Especially for maternity and pre-existing conditions |
| Deductibles/Co-Pay | Balance premium cost vs. out-of-pocket expenses |
| Local Support | 24×7 helpline, multilingual assistance |
💡 Pro Tip: Always read the fine print on claim procedures, exclusions, and renewal terms.
🔒 Travel Insurance vs International Health Insurance
| Feature | Travel Insurance | International Health Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Short trips | Living/working abroad |
| Duration | Days to months | 1 year or more |
| Coverage Scope | Emergencies only | Routine + emergency + chronic care |
| Price | Low | Medium to high |
📘 FAQs: International Health Insurance for Expats
❓ Is it mandatory to buy international health insurance as an expat?
Some countries (e.g., Germany, UAE, Thailand) require expats to have proof of health coverage to issue visas or residence permits.
❓ Will Indian health insurance cover me abroad?
Usually not. Indian policies only offer limited overseas emergency coverage. For long stays abroad, a global policy is essential.
❓ Can I get maternity benefits as an expat?
Yes, but there is usually a 10–24 month waiting period. Plan ahead if family expansion is in your future.
❓ What if I move to a different country during the policy term?
Most international policies are portable across countries. Notify your insurer to update details.
❓ Is international insurance expensive?
Not always. Plans start as low as $40–$100/month depending on your age, coverage, and location.
✈️ Best Countries for Expats with Affordable Health Insurance
| Country | Health Insurance Friendliness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Portugal | ✅ Excellent care, low cost | Public system with private options |
| Thailand | ✅ Affordable, expat-focused | Mandatory for long-stay visa |
| UAE | ✅ Mandatory for all residents | Strong private sector, high standards |
| Germany | ✅ Public + private combo | Insurance compulsory for all expats |
| Costa Rica | ✅ Affordable expat policies | Public system covers residents |
📝 Conclusion
Whether you’re relocating for work, retiring abroad, or embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, international health insurance is your safety net. With so many options in 2025—from Cigna and Allianz to modern players like SafetyWing—there’s a plan to fit every expat lifestyle and budget.
Invest in peace of mind. Because when you’re living overseas, your health shouldn’t be uncertain—only your next destination should be.