Your Guide To Getting International Health Insurance
Buying International Health Insurance (also known as Expat Health Insurance) is a vital step for anyone planning to live, work, or retire abroad. Every country has its own healthcare system, and without the right coverage, you could face serious challenges. The right plan gives you peace of mind and protection — even for pre-existing conditions.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to buy expat health insurance, whether directly from an insurer or through a broker. You’ll also find plenty of other useful resources on the site to help make your move abroad smoother.
Understanding Expat Health Insurance
International health insurance provides comprehensive medical coverage for people living outside their home country — commonly known as expats. Unlike short-term travel insurance, it’s designed for long-term stays and includes chronic condition management, preventive care, routine check-ups, and emergency treatment.
Choosing the right expat health insurance should be a top priority before moving abroad. For up-to-date advice checkout our pages on visa requirements, policy updates, and our Expat Healthcare Blog.
Assessing Your Healthcare Needs
Before purchasing a policy, assess your specific healthcare needs. Consider factors like:
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The length of your stay abroad.
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Pre-existing medical conditions.
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The healthcare standards in your destination country. We provide some useful country guides that will help you understand how sophisticated the country’s healthcare system is, before you arrive.
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Whether you need coverage in multiple countries or just single destination. Some providers will cover you for two countries only and this can significantly reduce the overall cost of the policy.
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The activities you’ll be undertaking – for instance, if you plan to engage in adventure sports. Some insurers won’t provide cover if you are participating in dangerous sports, so always speak to them BEFORE you participate or get extra cover with a specialist provider.
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Evaluating and Understanding Coverage Options
Regardless of whether you choose to buy directly from an insurer or through a broker like us, consider the following when evaluating expat health insurance plans:
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- Coverage Scope: Ensure the policy covers a range of medical services, including emergencies, hospitalization, outpatient services, and possibly evacuation.
- Geographical Coverage: Some policies offer global coverage, while others are region-specific. Choose according to where you’ll be spending your time.
- Exclusions and Limitations: Be aware of what the policy doesn’t cover. This can include pre-existing conditions or specific activities.
- Premiums and Deductibles: Weigh the cost of the policy against the coverage it provides. Higher deductibles can lower your premiums but mean more out-of-pocket expenses during a claim.
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Not sure what’s considered reasonable for premiums and deductibles? Our detailed guide on how much expat health insurance costs provides real pricing examples by age and country, helping you benchmark quotes and understand what to expect for your situation.
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Buying Directly from Insurers vs. Using a Broker
At ExpatInsure, we’re both a comparison site and a broker, so you get the best of both worlds. We give you access to all the major expat health insurance providers and the freedom to explore your options — plus, our friendly Expat Experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
And the best part? Our help is completely free. You’ll pay exactly the same price as if you went to an insurer directly.
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Where to Start
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- Get a quote – Compare prices and plans to get a feel for what fits your needs and budget.
- Chat with an Expat Expert – We’ll help you understand the differences between plans and find what really matters for you.
- Compare your options – Look at coverage, exclusions, deductibles, and premiums side by side.
- Apply and relax – Apply online or through the insurer, and you’re good to go!
Additional Tips for Buying International Health Insurance
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Read Our Reviews: Check what other customers say about us and the insurers we work with
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Look for Flexibility: Choose a plan that can adapt as your circumstances change.
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Know the Claims Process: Understand how to file a claim, how long it takes and what to do in an emergency
Selecting the right expat health insurance takes a bit of research, but it’s worth it. Whether you buy directly or through a broker, make sure you understand the coverage, costs, and terms. With the right plan, you can start your life abroad confidently, knowing your health is protected.