
As an expat, navigating the healthcare system in a foreign country can be daunting. Many countries have different regulations and standards, making it difficult to find adequate medical care.
In some countries, such as the United States, private medical insurance is a must-have for expats due to the high cost of medical care.
Expats can choose from a range of private medical insurance plans, including international health insurance and global private medical insurance.
Types of Plans
Global private medical insurance plans can be tailored to suit individual needs and circumstances.
There are several types of plans to choose from, including International Health Insurance, which provides coverage for medical expenses while traveling abroad.
Some plans focus on specific regions, such as the Asia Pacific or Europe, offering coverage for medical costs incurred within those areas.
Others may be designed for digital nomads or expats, providing flexibility and adaptability to changing lifestyles.
These plans often include additional features, such as dental and vision coverage, to provide comprehensive protection.
Xplorer
The Xplorer Worldwide Medical Plan is a great option for those who need international health insurance. It offers premium benefits, coverage, and service, making it a solid choice for foreigners in the US or US citizens abroad.
One of the standout features of the Xplorer plan is its flexibility. You can define your deductible and prescription benefits to suit your needs. This means you can tailor the plan to fit your budget and health requirements.
The Xplorer plan is designed to provide peace of mind for individuals who travel frequently or live abroad. It's a reliable option for those who want to stay protected against medical expenses, no matter where they are in the world.
Here are some key benefits of the Xplorer Worldwide Medical Plan:
- Premium benefits, coverage, and service
- Define your deductible and prescription benefits
- For foreigners in the US or US citizens abroad
Cover Care in Other Countries
Covering care in other countries is a crucial aspect of international health insurance. International plans cover care in other countries, giving you peace of mind while traveling or living abroad.
Some international plans allow you to exclude specific regions or countries where healthcare is expensive, such as the US, to reduce costs. You should ask if your plan includes emergency medical coverage in other countries.
If you're planning to move abroad for less than a year, consider international travel medical insurance or a trip cancellation plan designed for short-term coverage. These travel insurance policies cover individuals and families outside their home country.
Here are some key things to consider when choosing an international plan that covers care in other countries:
- Look for plans that cover emergency medical care in other countries.
- Check if the plan excludes specific regions or countries where healthcare is expensive.
- Consider short-term coverage options if you're moving abroad for less than a year.
Benefits and Features
Global private medical insurance plans can include a range of benefits to suit different needs.
Hospitalization, including surgery and specialist fees, is a common benefit in many plans. Outpatient care for visits to doctors, specialists, and clinics is also standard in many policies.
Some plans may offer additional benefits such as emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, prescription drugs, and maternity care. Telemedicine is also becoming increasingly popular as a convenient option for remote consultations.
Preventative care, mental health services, and dental and vision care may be included in more comprehensive plans. Chronic condition management and rehabilitation following injury or surgery are also important benefits to consider.
Here are some key benefits to look for in a global private medical insurance plan:
It's worth noting that some plans may offer optional add-ons, such as dental, vision, and maternity coverage, which can be purchased separately for an additional premium.
Benefits
Benefits are a crucial aspect of any global health plan, and it's essential to understand what's included in your coverage. Each plan is different, so you can choose one that suits your needs and customize it accordingly.
Hospitalization, including surgery and specialist fees, is a common benefit found in many global health plans. Outpatient care for visits to doctors, specialists, and clinics is also a standard feature.
Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation are vital benefits that can provide peace of mind when traveling abroad. Prescription drugs, maternity care, and telemedicine are also included in many plans.

Preventative care for routine checkups, vaccinations, and wellness screenings is an important aspect of maintaining good health. Mental health services, dental and vision care, and chronic condition management are also available in some plans.
Inpatient and outpatient international medical care is a key benefit that allows you to seek medical attention anywhere in the world. You have the freedom to choose any hospital, clinic, or doctor, and 24-hour emergency assistance and helpline are usually available.
Some plans may include additional benefits, such as dental, vision, maternity, and prescription drugs, as standard features or optional add-ons. It's essential to review your plan carefully to understand what's included and what's not.
Here's a summary of some common benefits found in global health plans:
Remember to review your plan carefully and request a quote to get customized estimates from multiple providers.
How It Works
International health insurance works similarly to domestic insurance but on an international scale, allowing access to healthcare services worldwide.
You can start by finding a local healthcare provider accredited under your plan, which can be done by searching online or contacting your insurer directly.
In case you need other services, including emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, maternity benefits, vision, or dental care, your international healthcare insurance plan can cover them, provided they are included in your policy.
If there's no local service provider, you can file a claim with the insurer and wait for reimbursement for the covered expenses you incurred.
Choosing a Plan
Choosing a plan can feel overwhelming, but it's essential to consider several factors. Your budget for health insurance and potential out-of-pocket expenses in an emergency are crucial considerations.
To determine the right plan for you, ask yourself questions like: What services do you need coverage for? Will you be living in countries with varying healthcare standards? Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options.

Here are some key questions to consider:
- What is your budget for health insurance?
- For which services will you need coverage?
- Which countries will you be living in?
- Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions?
- Do you need coverage for routine check-ups and preventative care?
By considering these factors and asking the right questions, you can find a plan that suits your needs and budget.
Choosing the Right Internet Plan
You need to think about your budget for internet services, just like you would for health insurance. What can you afford to pay each month?
Consider how much data you'll need. Do you just want to browse the web and check email, or do you need to stream movies and play online games?
Think about the countries you'll be living in and the internet standards there. Will you have access to reliable and fast internet?
For how long will you need internet coverage? Will you be staying in one place or traveling frequently?
You may have pre-existing conditions, like a slow internet connection at home. Do you need to upgrade to a faster plan?
The claims process, or in this case, the customer support, is also important. Can you easily get help if you have an issue with your internet service?

Here are some factors to consider when choosing an internet plan:
Request a quote now and start comparing internet plans that fit your needs and budget.
Our Recommended Options
Clements has over 75 years of experience insuring clients in more than 170 countries, making them a trusted expert in the field.
With such a wealth of knowledge and experience, you can rely on them to help you find the right international health insurance policy for your needs.
Clements offers customizable international medical insurance policy options, allowing you to build a solution that's tailored to your specific requirements.
Their dedicated team will handle claims with care, typically settling within 2 or 3 weeks.
If you're looking for health insurance that follows you around the globe, you'll want to consider an international health insurance policy designed for expats, diplomats, and people working overseas.
These policies provide access to local health services, emergency coverage, medical evacuation, maternity care, and more – wherever you are in the world.
For those who need temporary coverage, Clements also offers travel medical insurance options for less than 6 months.
If you're planning to live and work abroad for extended periods, it's advisable to purchase an international health plan from a trusted insurer like Clements.
With an international plan, you'll be covered whether you're in your host country, home country, or anywhere else you may travel.
Here are some of the top international health insurance companies that we work with:
- Cigna Global
- GeoBlue
- William Russell
- International Medical Group
Each of these companies has a proven track record in delivering excellent healthcare service to their clients, families living abroad, expatriates, and global nomads.
Insurance Providers
Cigna Global is the top-ranked international insurer for expats and families looking for flexible, comprehensive coverage options. They offer a range of plans that can be tailored to suit individual needs.
GeoBlue Xplorer is a great option for U.S. citizens living overseas and foreigners moving to the U.S. It provides comprehensive coverage for both groups.

IMG Global Medical Insurance is ideal for younger clients, students, and those seeking budget-friendly coverage. Their plans are designed to be affordable and flexible.
William Russell is a popular choice for families and individuals looking for personalized coverage. They offer tailored plans that can be customized to meet specific needs.
There are many international health insurance companies to choose from, but not all are created equal. Some provide benefits and add-ons that others do not, and some have a larger coverage area and countries included in their policies.
Here are the top 10 international insurers, ranked for their global health insurance plans:
Group and Organization Options
If you're an employer with international employees, we can help you find a suitable global medical insurance plan.
For this purpose, we have compiled a list of the best group global medical insurance plans, which includes various global medical programs for your organization.
Being part of an organized group can provide access to more affordable and comprehensive global medical insurance options.
As an employer, you can explore group options that cater to your international employees' needs, ensuring they receive quality medical care wherever they are in the world.
If you're involved in a non-profit agency, you may be eligible for special group rates or tailored insurance plans that meet your organization's unique requirements.
For employers with international employees, finding the right global medical insurance plan can be a complex task, but with the right guidance, it's definitely achievable.
Cost and Eligibility
To be eligible for a global health policy, you must already have a plan to reside outside of your home country on or before the policy's effective date, with some exceptions. This is a crucial factor to consider when applying for international medical insurance.
Most global plans require you to apply 30 to 45 days before your departure date to allow for evaluation and approval. This application time is necessary to ensure a smooth transition to your new health insurance plan.

If you decide to apply earlier or move the effective date to another time, you may need to provide an updated health declaration to your insurer. This declaration must be obtained from your healthcare provider and includes any new health conditions not previously included in your application.
Some countries have local insurance regulatory rules or compliance laws that prohibit insurers from providing coverage within the territory, so check with your insurance provider to see if you're eligible.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for international health insurance, you must already have a plan to reside outside of your home country on or before the policy's effective date, with some exceptions.
Most global plans require you to apply 30 to 45 days before your departure date, so plan ahead.
You'll need to provide your medical history and additional medical information upon application, as underwriting requirements are typically a part of the process.
Some insurance providers may not be able to sell policies to individuals who are coming from or going to a few select countries due to local insurance regulatory rules or compliance laws.

You'll need to live or be living in a foreign country for at least 3 months per year to meet the eligibility criteria for most international health insurance plans.
You may need to provide an updated health declaration if you decide to apply earlier or move the effective date to another time, which your insurer will want to know about any new health conditions not included in the initial application.
Affordable
If you're looking for affordable medical insurance, consider IMG Global's bronze plan, which offers catastrophic coverage for emergency medical issues.
This plan is less comprehensive, but it's also more affordable, making it suitable for healthy individuals living in countries with low care costs.
The cost of medical care can vary greatly depending on the country you're in, and a plan like this can help you budget for emergencies.
For example, in countries with low care costs, a catastrophic coverage plan can provide peace of mind without breaking the bank.
Cost
The cost of international health insurance can vary widely depending on several factors. The average annual cost of an international medical insurance plan is $5,500 per year, but plans can range from as low as $500 with limited benefits to as much as $8,000 - $10,000 or more for a comprehensive policy that includes coverage in the USA.
Premiums are based on a policyholder's age, medical history, area of coverage, deductible, and maximum coverage selected. For example, younger clients pay less for coverage as they are usually healthier and need less care.
The cost of a policy will vary widely by demographics, location, provider, and plan type. For instance, older clients who decide to retire in Costa Rica may face higher policy costs as the average age of applicants and residence country drive up prices.
Here are the average premiums for immigrants and expats based on country of residence:
Costs of Global Medical Plans by Age:
- 18 to 24: $2,019 per year
- 25 to 34: $2,965 per year
- 35 to 44: $4,986 per year
- 45 to 64: $6,779 per year
- 65 Plus: $9,344 per year
It's worth noting that plans that include US coverage are the highest due to the exorbitant cost of care.
Application and Underwriting
Applying for global private medical insurance can be a bit different than what you're used to, especially if you're not familiar with the process.
You'll need to provide your medical history, which can be a straightforward process that most providers can complete in 3 to 5 business days.
As part of the underwriting process, your prospective insurer will review your medical history, which is not overly burdensome.
US citizens should be aware that the Affordable Care Act does not apply to international healthcare plans, which means you can be turned down or denied coverage.
If you're applying for an international family health insurance plan, all family members must provide their medical history.
How to Apply
If you don't have private insurance in your home country, you need to know what to expect when you apply for worldwide health insurance.
You'll find that the application process works a bit differently even if you do have private insurance.
You may need to expect a more complex application process if you don't have private insurance in your home country.
The application process for worldwide health insurance can take some time, so be patient and plan ahead.
You'll need to provide detailed information about your health history, including any pre-existing conditions.
This information will be used to determine your premium and coverage.
Is There an Underwriting Process?
There is an underwriting process when applying for expatriate healthcare, which involves reviewing your medical history.
Medical underwriting is required by international healthcare companies when you apply for one of their global plans.
All family members must provide their medical history if you're applying for an international family health insurance plan.
You can be turned down or denied coverage, unlike under the Affordable Care Act, which has different rules.
Most providers can complete the underwriting process in 3 to 5 business days.
Comparing and Choosing
Choosing the right global private medical insurance plan can be overwhelming, but it's essential to get it right. You should ask yourself questions like: What is your budget for health insurance, and how much could you potentially pay out-of-pocket in an emergency?
Your budget will play a significant role in determining the type of plan you need. For example, if you have a limited budget, you may need an affordable option with minimum coverage. On the other hand, if you have a larger budget, you can opt for a comprehensive plan with a wide range of benefits.
It's also crucial to consider the services you need coverage for, such as dental, vision, prescriptions, and mental health. You should think about which countries you'll be living in and what their healthcare standards are. This will help you determine if you need travel coverage and what kind of customer support you'll require.
Working with a licensed broker can be beneficial in finding the best policy for your specific needs. They can walk you through the pros and cons of various plans and help you choose the one that works for you. This service does not incur additional costs.
Here are some key factors to consider when comparing global health insurance plans:
- What is your budget for health insurance?
- For which services will you need coverage?
- Which countries will you be living in, and what are their healthcare standards?
- For how long will you need coverage?
- Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions?
- Do you need coverage for routine check-ups and preventative care?
- What is the claims process like?
- Do you need travel coverage?
By considering these factors and working with a licensed broker, you can find the best global private medical insurance plan for your needs and budget.
Special Cases and Considerations
For individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, global private medical insurance can be a lifesaver. They can often get coverage for their condition, even if it's excluded from their home country's public health insurance.
Some policies may have a waiting period before coverage for pre-existing conditions kicks in, ranging from 1-12 months. This means that even if you have a condition, you can still get insured, but you might have to wait a bit for coverage to start.
It's essential to carefully review the policy's terms and conditions to understand what's covered and what's not. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid any surprises down the line.
Pre-existing Conditions and Application Impact
Applicants with pre-existing medical conditions often face challenges when seeking global health insurance. A team of underwriters reviews applications and past healthcare records to assess the risk. They may deny the application, exclude certain conditions, or charge an additional fee to mitigate the risk.
For minor pre-existing conditions like allergies, the policy may not be affected. However, other issues in your medical history can lead to exclusions, modified coverage limits, higher premiums, or waiting periods for treatment.
Some insurance plans, like GeoBlue's Xplorer Plan, have processes to address pre-existing conditions. Prior creditable coverage can be applied to reduce or eliminate the waiting period for these conditions, depending on the length of previous coverage.
Here are some possible outcomes for applicants with pre-existing conditions:
- Higher premiums
- Modified coverage limits
- Exclusions for certain conditions
- Waiting periods for the treatment of pre-existing conditions
Are There Age Limits for Expatriates?
If you're an expatriate, you're probably aware that health insurance can be a complex issue, especially when it comes to age restrictions. Some international health plans have age limits, which can affect your coverage options.
GeoBlue, for example, won't allow anyone over 74 to apply for a new policy, but if you already have a plan in place, they'll continue coverage up to age 84.
IMG has a similar policy, allowing you to apply up to age 74, but terminating coverage at 75. However, if you've had a plan with them since before your 65th birthday and maintained coverage through age 75, they offer a Senior Plan option.
Cigna Global takes a different approach, allowing customers of any age to apply and providing coverage for life.
Here's a quick rundown of the age limits for these three providers:
Disability
Disability can be a challenging situation, especially when it affects your ability to work. Worldwide Disability Coverage can provide a financial safety net.
You can cover your wages while you recover from an accident with the right insurance. This can give you peace of mind and help you focus on getting better.
International disability insurance can be a great option to consider. It's designed to provide financial support in case you're unable to work due to illness or injury.
Why Choose a Specific Provider
Choosing a specific provider for global private medical insurance is crucial to ensure you get the right coverage for your needs.
Some providers have a network of over 17,000 hospitals and clinics worldwide, giving you more options for care.
Consider a provider that offers 24/7 emergency assistance, so you can get help whenever you need it.
Look for a provider that has a reputation for excellent customer service, with a dedicated team to support you.
A provider that offers a range of policy options can help you tailor your coverage to your specific needs and budget.
Some providers have a strong presence in multiple regions, including Asia and Europe, giving you more flexibility when traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is international health insurance worth it?
International health insurance can be a valuable investment, offering comprehensive coverage for medical costs and pre-existing conditions, even in countries where local health services may not be sufficient. Consider it if you want peace of mind and financial protection while living or traveling abroad.
Sources
- https://amainsure.com/insurance-products/international/
- https://www.imglobal.com/international-health-insurance/global-medical-insurance
- https://www.internationalinsurance.com/health/
- https://www.internationalinsurance.com/health/best-companies.php
- https://www.clements.com/personal/international-health-insurance/
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