Overview
Bupa Global has provided premium international health insurance to over 38 million members across 190 countries since 1947. As part of the Bupa Group with over 70 years of healthcare expertise, Bupa Global specializes in comprehensive expatriate coverage with no shareholders – reinvesting profits directly into healthcare services and customer benefits. Their plans feature direct billing agreements with over 2.1 million healthcare providers worldwide, including access to the Blue Cross Blue Shield network in the U.S., enabling cashless treatment at premier hospitals internationally.
Bupa Global offers flexible coverage designed for diverse expatriate needs – from individuals and families to corporate teams, NGO workers, and global nomads. Coverage areas range from worldwide (including U.S.) to region-specific options, with annual limits from £1 million to £3 million and comprehensive deductible options to suit different budgets.
Your guide to Bupa Global
Brochures
Key benefits & coverage
Core medical coverage
Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient benefits including hospitalization (private room, ICU, surgery at 100% after deductible), emergency services, prescription drugs, and mental health support with no distinction in limits between physical and mental health treatment. Pre-existing conditions covered after waiting periods, with many conditions covered immediately with proof of prior continuous insurance.
Additional protection
Medical evacuation and repatriation services, unlimited virtual consultations via Global Virtual Care (24/7 in multiple languages), Second Medical Opinion service from independent specialists, and annual wellness screenings. Optional coverage available for maternity (after 18 months), assisted fertility, dental, vision, and complementary therapies. Compare plan options →
Digital services
The MembersWorld portal and mobile app provide instant provider search across 2.1 million providers, online claim submission with tracking, pre-authorization in minutes (with instant approval for select treatments), digital ID cards, and 24/7 multilingual support. Bupa digital health platform offers smart, seamless healthcare services at no additional cost. Download/Signup for MembersWorld →
Plans & pricing
Global Medical Plans – Comprehensive annual coverage for long-term expatriates and families with preventive care, wellness benefits, and direct specialist access without GP referrals.
Major Medical – Cost-effective coverage for serious illnesses and conditions including cancer treatment, with worldwide or worldwide excluding U.S. options.
Elite & Ultimate Plans – Premium coverage including assisted fertility, maternity care, complementary therapies, and the highest annual limits up to £3 million.
Bupa Global offers age-based pricing with family discounts, options to exclude U.S. or Europe for reduced premiums, and corporate group discounts. Direct billing eliminates upfront payments at network providers. Get a quote →
Important information
Waiting Periods: Maternity and assisted fertility (18 months), pre-existing conditions (12 months unless proof of prior coverage), routine dental (6 months), general treatments (2 months). Full policy terms →
Service Standards: Pre-authorization responses within 48 hours (instant for select treatments), claims typically processed within 7-10 days, 24/7 multilingual customer service, direct billing at network providers worldwide.
Regulatory: Bupa Insurance Limited is authorized by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and PRA. Operations span the UK, Australia, Spain, Chile, Poland, Hong Kong, and other markets.
Additional Resources
Reviews
Customer reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5 based on 350+ reviews (Trustpilot)