Introduction
Living or working abroad is exciting, but one of the biggest concerns for expats and international travelers is health coverage. Medical bills overseas can be extremely high, and not every domestic health insurance policy will cover you abroad. That’s why choosing the right international health insurance plan is essential for peace of mind, legal compliance in some countries, and financial security.
In this guide, we compare the top 10 health insurance plans for expats and international travelers in 2025. We’ll cover key benefits, drawbacks, and pricing factors. You’ll also find frequently asked questions and links to further resources.
🌍 Stay protected wherever you go! A friendly guide to the Top 10 Health Insurance Plans for Expats and International Travelers in 2025 — perfect for families, digital nomads, and professionals working abroad.
Why Expats and Travelers Need Health Insurance
- Healthcare abroad can be extremely expensive without insurance.
- Some countries require proof of insurance for visas and residency permits.
- International insurance offers flexibility—covering multiple countries, emergencies, and even repatriation.
What to Look for in an International Health Insurance Plan
- Global coverage: Must be available in multiple regions with options for expats.
- Reputation: Providers with strong financial stability and customer service reviews.
- Flexibility: Modular benefits to fit both short-term travelers and long-term expats.
- Value for money: Competitive pricing without compromising essential benefits.
Top 10 International Health Insurance Plans for Expats and Travelers
1. Cigna Global Health Insurance
Cigna is one of the best-known international insurers, offering highly customizable plans for expats worldwide.
- Coverage: Over 200 countries, with tiered hospital networks.
- Key features: Modular coverage (inpatient, outpatient, dental, vision, maternity add-ons).
- Pros: Flexible, 24/7 multilingual support, strong global reputation.
- Cons: Premiums can be expensive with full add-ons.
2. Allianz Care
Allianz Care is popular among corporate clients and individuals seeking comprehensive worldwide coverage.
- Coverage: International + USA options.
- Key features: Telehealth, wellness programs, large hospital network.
- Pros: Trusted insurer, digital claims, high-quality global support.
- Cons: Higher premiums; may require medical history declarations.
3. IMG Global Medical Insurance
IMG is well-suited for digital nomads, long-term travelers, and expats looking for flexibility.
- Coverage: Worldwide with or without USA option.
- Key features: Four plan tiers, evacuation coverage, renewable up to age 99.
- Pros: Affordable entry-level coverage, strong expat focus.
- Cons: Claims process can be slower compared to bigger insurers.
4. Bupa Global
Bupa Global is one of the most prestigious providers, ideal for expats seeking premium healthcare access.
- Coverage: Worldwide including USA.
- Key features: Elite hospital network, wellness support, mental health coverage.
- Pros: Excellent care quality, wide network.
- Cons: Premium pricing; may exceed budgets for younger expats.
5. GeoBlue Xplorer
GeoBlue (partner of Blue Cross Blue Shield) is a strong choice for U.S. citizens abroad.
- Coverage: U.S. and international.
- Key features: Direct billing with major hospitals, mobile tools, easy claims.
- Pros: Excellent for Americans, strong provider network.
- Cons: Limited availability for non-U.S. citizens.
6. Aetna International
Aetna offers flexible global health coverage with wellness and preventive care focus.
- Coverage: 190+ countries.
- Key features: Digital health tools, employee group options, modular benefits.
- Pros: Strong expat reputation, solid coverage.
- Cons: Customer service feedback varies by region.
7. Foyer Global Health
A Luxembourg-based insurer popular in Europe with competitive plans for individuals and families.
- Coverage: Worldwide (excluding USA options available).
- Key features: Three levels of plans, preventive care, evacuation.
- Pros: Good value, European reputation, multi-language support.
- Cons: Limited awareness outside Europe.
8. AXA Global Healthcare
AXA is a global insurance giant offering tailored expat coverage.
- Coverage: Worldwide, with direct billing hospitals.
- Key features: Four plan tiers, cancer care, virtual doctor access.
- Pros: Reliable brand, digital claim tracking.
- Cons: Premiums higher in certain countries.
9. Now Health International
Now Health targets globally mobile professionals with straightforward, digital-first health insurance.
- Coverage: International, customizable by region.
- Key features: Fast claims, app-based service, preventive care.
- Pros: Transparent pricing, tech-friendly.
- Cons: Fewer brick-and-mortar support offices.
10. SafetyWing Nomad Insurance
Built for digital nomads, freelancers, and frequent travelers, SafetyWing is both affordable and flexible.
- Coverage: 180+ countries (with USA add-on).
- Key features: Subscription-style plans, travel + health bundled, coverage in home country for limited time.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, easy online enrollment.
- Cons: Lower maximum coverage compared to traditional insurers.
Comparison Table
| Provider | Best For | Coverage Region | Notable Strength | Drawback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Customizable expat plans | Worldwide | Flexible modules | Expensive add-ons |
| Allianz Care | Corporate expats | Worldwide | Strong brand | High premiums |
| IMG | Budget expats | Worldwide | Affordable tiers | Claims delays |
| Bupa Global | Premium expats | Worldwide | Elite hospitals | Very costly |
| GeoBlue | U.S. citizens abroad | USA + Worldwide | Blue Cross network | Not for non-US expats |
| Aetna | Wellness-focused expats | 190+ countries | Preventive care | Service varies |
| Foyer Global | European expats | Worldwide | Good value | Limited brand awareness |
| AXA | Reliable coverage | Worldwide | Strong network | Costly in some regions |
| Now Health | Tech-savvy nomads | Worldwide | Fast claims | Less offline support |
| SafetyWing | Digital nomads | 180+ countries | Low cost | Lower coverage limits |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I really need international health insurance?
2. What’s the difference between travel insurance and expat health insurance?
3. Can I use my home country health insurance abroad?
4. How much does expat health insurance cost?
5. Which is the best plan for digital nomads?
1. Do I really need international health insurance?
Yes, in most cases. Many countries require proof of coverage for visa approval, and local healthcare costs can be unaffordable without insurance.
2. What’s the difference between travel insurance and expat health insurance?
Travel insurance is short-term and covers emergencies during trips. Expat insurance is long-term, covering routine care, chronic conditions, and sometimes maternity.
3. Can I use my home country health insurance abroad?
Most domestic policies don’t provide full overseas coverage. Check with your provider, but in most cases, you’ll need a global policy.
4. How much does expat health insurance cost?
Premiums vary widely based on age, region, and benefits. Basic plans may start at $40–$80/month, while comprehensive plans can exceed $500/month.
5. Which is the best plan for digital nomads?
SafetyWing and Now Health are excellent for budget-conscious nomads who need flexible, global coverage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right international health insurance is about balancing coverage, budget, and lifestyle. For premium expats, Bupa Global or Allianz Care are strong choices. For flexible expats and families, Cigna Global and Aetna shine. Budget nomads may prefer SafetyWing or IMG.
No matter where life takes you, investing in health insurance means you can focus on your journey without worrying about unexpected medical bills.
