Finding the best international health insurance is essential for expats, frequent travelers, and anyone living or working abroad. With a wide range of options available, choosing the right global health insurance provider can ensure you have access to the care you need, no matter where you are. This guide highlights the top 10 international health insurance companies based on coverage, benefits, flexibility, and customer satisfaction.
1. VIP Universal Medical Insurance (VUMI)
VUMI is a leading choice for international health insurance, offering flexible coverage to meet diverse needs. Their Global Flex VIP Plans provide five tiers of coverage: Basic, Standard, Superior, Ultra, and Total, with annual benefit limits ranging from $3 million to $5 million. VUMI stands out for its direct billing, competitive maternity benefits, and options for infertility treatment. Families particularly benefit from higher maternity limits, making VUMI a trusted partner for comprehensive global healthcare.
2. Cigna Global International Health Insurance
Cigna Global is renowned for its reliable international health insurance, offering coverage in over 200 countries. Their plans range from the budget-friendly Close Care option to the premium Platinum plan, which provides unlimited annual benefits. Cigna is ideal for expats and families, offering maternity benefits, a global network of hospitals, and 24/7 multilingual support. Additionally, their plans can be tailored to include dental, vision, and mental health services, ensuring complete coverage for diverse needs.
3. AXA Global Healthcare
AXA Global Healthcare is a popular choice for expats, offering fast claims processing—80% of claims are processed within 48 hours—and highly flexible plans. Coverage levels range from the emergency-focused Foundation plan to the extensive Prestige Plus plan, which includes an $8 million annual limit. AXA’s comprehensive coverage comes with a trade-off, as pre-existing conditions are not included. However, their global assistance and broad provider network make them an excellent choice for those seeking peace of mind while living or traveling abroad.
4. MSH International
MSH International is known for its wide range of health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses. With access to over one million medical providers worldwide, MSH offers tiered coverage through their Hospi Plans: Quartz, Pearl, Sapphire, and Diamond, with annual benefit limits of up to $3.75 million. MSH is particularly strong in preventative care, durable medical equipment, and support for long-term health management, making it a reliable option for expats with ongoing healthcare needs.
5. GeoBlue International Health Insurance
GeoBlue is designed for Americans living abroad, offering comprehensive global health and travel insurance tailored to their unique needs. Their Xplorer plans provide unlimited coverage, and the Premier plan includes U.S. coverage for up to nine months annually. GeoBlue excels in addressing pre-existing conditions, supported by a large direct billing network and the innovative Global TeleMD™ app for virtual consultations. This makes GeoBlue ideal for expats seeking seamless healthcare access and convenience.
6. Allianz Care International Health Insurance
Allianz Care is a top choice for families, thanks to its family-friendly plans and efficient claims processing. With three coverage options—Care, Care Plus, and Care Pro—Allianz offers annual benefit limits of up to $5 million. Their Expat Assistance Program (EAP) provides additional value, offering counseling, career advice, and legal or financial assistance to support expats in their new environments. Allianz Care is a trusted name for those seeking comprehensive healthcare coverage with added resources for well-being.
7. IMG Global
IMG Global stands out for its flexible plans, which allow customers to add options for vision, dental, and term life insurance. Their Platinum plan includes maternity benefits, while all coverage tiers feature prescription drug benefits. With annual limits ranging from $1 million for the Bronze plan to $8 million for the Platinum plan, IMG accommodates a wide range of healthcare needs. Their focus on customization makes IMG a strong choice for expats seeking tailored coverage.
8. April International
April International offers expat health insurance that combines convenience with flexibility. Their plans include unlimited telehealth consultations, a simple paperless claims process, and no upfront hospital costs. Customers can choose from five coverage tiers, ranging from Emergency to Premium, with annual benefit limits between €250,000 and unlimited coverage. April International is especially appealing to those who prioritize easy access to care and a stress-free insurance experience.
9. Now Health International
Now Health International is known for its customizable plans, offering SimpleCare for budget-conscious expats and WorldCare for those seeking comprehensive coverage. Their annual benefit limits range from $1 million to $4.5 million. Now Health also stands out for its efficient claims process and user-friendly online tools, which simplify managing your healthcare. Their global coverage is ideal for expats looking for reliable insurance without unnecessary complexity.
10. Bupa Global
Bupa Global is a premium international health insurance provider known for its lifetime renewal options and second medical opinions. Their coverage ranges from the Major Medical plan, focused on emergencies, to the Elite plan, which provides comprehensive wellness benefits. With annual benefit limits up to $4.76 million, Bupa caters to expats seeking high-end coverage that includes extensive wellness and preventative care services.
Key Benefits of International Health Insurance
- Comprehensive Coverage: International health insurance provides access to medical care worldwide, including hospitalization, maternity care, mental health services, and more.
- Global Network: Policyholders can connect with trusted hospitals, doctors, and medical specialists across multiple countries.
- Flexible Plans: Choose from a variety of plans that fit your needs and budget, from basic emergency coverage to premium, all-inclusive options.
- Support for Expats: Many providers offer multilingual customer service, expat assistance programs, and resources to help navigate healthcare systems abroad.
Why Work With an International Health Insurance Broker?
Navigating the complexities of international health insurance can be challenging, but a reputable broker like Pacific Prime can simplify the process. With over 20 years of experience, Pacific Prime specializes in helping expats compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best coverage at the right price. Brokers handle the legwork for you, ensuring that you get a plan tailored to your specific needs without any additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best international health insurance for expats?
The best provider depends on your unique needs, such as location, coverage preferences, and budget. Top providers like Cigna Global, Allianz Care, and GeoBlue offer plans suited for a wide range of expats and travelers.
2. How much does international health insurance cost?
Costs vary depending on the region and coverage selected. For example, an individual plan might cost $3,954 annually in Thailand versus $9,817 in the United States.
3. Does domestic health insurance cover you abroad?
Most domestic health insurance plans do not provide international coverage. Travelers should consider travel insurance, while expats are better served by comprehensive international health insurance.
Get a Free Quote Today
Whether you’re an expat, a frequent traveler, or someone planning to live abroad, having the right health insurance is crucial for peace of mind. Contact Pacific Prime today for personalized quotes and expert advice. Whether you need individual, family, or corporate coverage, we’ll help you find the perfect plan to fit your needs.
Don’t wait—start your journey to better health coverage today!