FAQ: Expatriate Health Insurance
What is expatriate health insurance, and who needs it?
Expatriate health insurance is a long-term medical insurance designed for people living abroad for extended periods, typically six months or more. It provides coverage for major medical needs and ongoing health requirements. Expats, missionaries, retirees, and global employees should consider expatriate health insurance if they plan to reside outside their home country.
How does expatriate insurance differ from travel medical insurance?
Expatriate insurance is intended for long-term stays and provides comprehensive ongoing coverage, including preventive care, wellness, and chronic condition management. Travel medical insurance, by contrast, covers short-term emergency situations—like illnesses or injuries during a trip—and does not extend to routine medical needs or long-term care.
Is expatriate health insurance the same as local health insurance in my destination?
No. Local health insurance may be adequate for basic needs in one country, but it often lacks the flexibility and global coverage of expatriate plans. Expatriate insurance offers coverage across multiple countries, includes access to quality care, and is designed specifically for foreign nationals who are not fully integrated into the host country’s national system.
Who is eligible for expatriate health insurance?
Eligibility is generally open to individuals and families residing abroad for extended periods. Plans may have specific requirements based on citizenship, residency status, or intended length of stay. Some plans can also cater to specialized groups, such as missionaries, sabbatical travelers, or British citizens living abroad.
What does expatriate health insurance typically cover?
A robust plan usually covers:
- Inpatient and outpatient care (hospital stays, surgeries, specialist visits)
- Prescription medications
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
- Preventive care, wellness checkups, and screenings
- Optional maternity, dental, vision, and mental health services
- Accidental death & dismemberment
- Coverage for travel interruptions or lost luggage (in specific plans)
Are pre-existing conditions included?
Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies. Some plans exclude them entirely, others impose waiting periods or limit benefits, and some charge higher premiums for ongoing conditions. It’s critical to review the policy terms, especially if you have chronic or ongoing health issues.
How do I purchase expatriate health insurance?
You can purchase expatriate health insurance online through a specialized broker like us. Tools such as our comparison platform allow you to input your details, compare plans, and get quotes instantly. It’s recommended to work with brokers that offer multiple plan options from various insurers for impartial advice and the best selection.
Is coverage available for families or groups?
Yes. Plans are available for individuals, families, and groups (such as corporate employees or missionary teams). Each insured person typically gets a separate policy number. Group policies may offer custom benefits and reduced premiums for larger groups.
Do expats still need ACA-compliant insurance (for US citizens)?
U.S. citizens living abroad for at least 330 days in a year are exempt from ACA (Affordable Care Act) requirements and federal penalties. However, state-specific penalties may apply. Expatriate insurance is generally not compliant with ACA standards, so returning expats should plan to enroll in domestic coverage when back in the US.