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Best international medical insurance: Everything you need to know
Looking for international health insurance? These are the minimum coverages you should require. We also tell you which ones are the best!
Do you need an international health insurance that takes care of your health no matter where you are? With the right cover, you can travel or live abroad without worry, enjoying the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have medical back-up for any unforeseen event.
If you’re looking for comprehensive coverage that fits your circumstances, it’s key to understand the difference between international health insurance and other options, such as travel insurance. In this article, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know to make the perfect choice.
Travel insurance vs. international health insurance, what’s the difference?
Although travel insurance and international health insurance may seem similar, they offer very different coverage and benefits. While travel insurance is intended for emergencies and temporary situations, international health insurance is designed to provide continuous care and comprehensive health services for those spending long periods abroad.
International health insurance coverage.
International health insurance gives you similar coverage to domestic health insurance, adapted for life in another country. This means that, in addition to emergencies, you can access preventive medical services and long-term treatment, with access to a network of quality medical professionals and centres. Among the usual coverages that these insurances usually include are:
- Primary care and routine consultations: Access to regular consultations with general practitioners for health checks and care of minor symptoms.
- Specialty coverage: Consultations and treatments with specialists in areas such as cardiology, dermatology or gynaecology, ideal for monitoring specific conditions.
- Emergencies and hospitalisation: Includes both emergency hospitalisation and scheduled hospitalisation, with full coverage of the costs of admission and hospital stay.
- Chronic diseases treatment: Coverage for pre-existing diseases and chronic conditions, providing continuity of care and access to necessary treatments.
- Prescribed medicines: Covers the cost of medicines prescribed in the country of stay, ensuring that you can follow treatments prescribed by professionals.
- Dental and vision: In many plans, you can include dental and vision services, which are essential for your complete health care.
- Mental health: Many international insurers have included coverage for mental health consultations, offering psychological or psychiatric support and follow-up.
- Maternity and pre- and post-natal care: Some insurances include care for pregnant women and care needed before and after childbirth.
- Evacuation and medical repatriation: In extreme cases, they offer the possibility of being transferred to your country of origin or to a specialised centre where you can receive treatment.
With this type of insurance, you’re absolutely guaranteed to be well covered for any medical problems that may arise. Remember to sign up for your Holafly eSIM so you can contact your insurer immediately in case of any unexpected situation.
International travel insurance coverage
International travel insurance is more oriented to cover medical emergencies and unforeseen situations that may arise during short stays. The coverage of this type of insurance is more limited and doesn’t usually include care for pre-existing health conditions or long-term treatment. If you take out insurance of this type, you’ll have the following cover included:
- Emergency assistance: Provides medical care in the event of an accident or serious illness during the trip.
- Emergency hospitalisation: Covers the costs of hospitalisation in the event of an emergency, but does not cover ongoing treatment or planned admissions.
- Repatriation and medical transfer: In serious cases, it offers repatriation or transfer to a medical facility in the country of origin.
- Compensation for cancellation: Some insurances include the possibility of claiming for cancellation of trips, hotels or contracted services.
- Luggage loss: Financial compensation for lost or delayed baggage.
This type of insurance is suitable for occasional travellers or holidaymakers who are looking for backup for unforeseen situations, but it doesn’t provide the continuous health coverage and regular care that international health insurance offers.
Differences between international health insurance and international travel insurance
A comparison table can help you better understand when each type of insurance is best suited to your needs. Here is a brief guide to clarify which is best in each case.
| Feature | International health insurance | Inernational travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Type of users | Expats, students, long-stay travellers | Tourists, short-stay travellers |
| Duration of coverage | Long-term, renewable | Short term, limited to the duration of the trip |
| Medical coverage | Comprehensive care, regular consultations, specialists | Emergencies and timely care |
| Coverage of pre-existing conditions | Included in many plans | Generally not included |
| Frequency of payment | Monthly, quarterly or annually | One-off payment for the duration of the trip |
| Accepted for visa processing | Yes, in some countries that require it | Sometimes, it doesn’t meet visa requirements. |
| Dental and ophthalmological coverage | Available in some plans | Generally no, except in emergencies |
| Evacuation and repatriation | Limited option, except for major emergencies | Yes, covers emergency repatriation |
| Mental health care | Yes, in some plans | No |
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For whom is it recommended to take out international health insurance?
Taking out international health insurance is ideal for various types of travellers who require comprehensive medical care and are looking for continuous support during extended stays abroad. This type of insurance offers access to a comprehensive health care system, similar to what they would find in their home country, and is therefore useful for people in the following situations:
- Remote workers or digital nomads: People who work from anywhere in the world and move from country to country regularly need insurance that allows them to access quality medical services at each destination.
- International students: Those who spend long periods in another country studying require insurance to cover chronic illnesses, regular consultations and emergency care.
- Expatriates and temporary residents: Those who move to another country for work or family reasons and require medical care similar to that in their home country.
- People with pre-existing medical conditions: They need insurance with coverage for chronic disease treatment and ongoing medical follow-up.
- Frequent long-stay travellers: People who spend extended periods of time in other countries and need regular medical care, including specialised consultations and treatment.
Top 5 international health insurance
When choosing international health insurance in 2025, it’s key to look at much more than just coverage; the reputation of the company, the flexibility of the plans and the level of customer service can make a big difference to your experience as a policyholder. Whether you’re a frequent traveller, expatriate or student abroad, there are options that not only guarantee quality medical care anywhere in the world, but also offer additional benefits designed for your well-being and peace of mind.
We’re going to break down the top five international health insurances for you. We’ve chosen these five options from among the many that exist for their outstanding coverage or service and also for the ability to customise each plan to your needs. From preventive consultations to emergency and hospitalisation cover, each of these options offers comprehensive support, wherever you are.
Cigna Global
Cigna Global, based in the United States, is one of the most recognized health insurance providers internationally. With over 200 years of experience, it stands out for offering flexible and customisable plans, tailored to the specific needs of each expat. Its presence in more than 30 countries and an extensive network of medical providers ensure that policyholders can access quality care anywhere in the world.
It offers a wide range of services including primary medical care, hospitalisation, specialised treatment, prescription drugs, preventive care and medical evacuation. Users can customise their plans by adding optional benefits such as dental and mental health coverage.
Recommended for: Expats, frequent travellers and those looking for customisable plans.
Plans and prices: Cigna provides flexible options for international coverage, with plans ranging from $100 per month for the basic level (including hospitalisation) to premium plans of $400 per month with more extensive coverages, such as outpatient and dental care. Fees depend on the coverage selected and the country of residence.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Extensive global network of medical providers. | Prices can be high. |
| Customisation options in the plans. | Requires a higher down payment on some plans. |
| Emergency medical care 24/ 7. | Not all plans cover pre-existing conditions. |
Allianz Care
Allianz Care is part of the Allianz Group, one of the world’s largest insurance providers, based in Germany. Recognised for its strong focus on comprehensive care, it offers health insurance tailored to the needs of expatriates and long-term travellers. With a presence in more than 70 countries, its extensive network of hospitals and clinics enables policyholders to receive quality care without complications.
It provides cover for hospitalisation, medical consultations, treatment of serious illnesses and emergency care. They also offer telemedicine services and 24/7 assistance, allowing policyholders to access medical care from anywhere.
Recommended for: Expats and long-stay travellers seeking comprehensive care.
Plans and Pricing: Different coverage plans are available, ranging from basic outpatient care to full hospital treatment, with additional options to cover evacuation and repatriation. It allows you to customize the premium, and you can pay annually or in installments with surcharges ranging from 3% to 5%, depending on the payment frequency (monthly, quarterly, or half-annually). Specific rates vary according to the region and the profile of the insured.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Extensive network of hospitals and clinics. | Some pre-existing conditions may not be immediately covered. |
| Telemedicine service available. | There may be limits on reimbursement for certain treatments. |
| 24/7 assistance in emergency situations. | Care in countries with less developed health systems may be limited. |
BUPA Global
BUPA Global is a UK-based insurance provider, internationally recognised for its comprehensive health cover. With more than 70 years of experience, it specialises in providing health insurance to individuals and companies. Its extensive network of hospitals and clinics around the world ensures that policyholders receive quality care at all times.
It offers comprehensive medical care including general care, hospitalisation, specialised treatments, medical consultations and the option to add coverage for pre-existing conditions in certain plans.
Recommended for: Travellers requiring medical care in countries with high healthcare costs, such as the USA and Europe.
Plans and pricing: BUPA Global plans start at approximately $150 per month, depending on the age of the insured and the amount of coverage desired.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Experience in high-rate markets. | Premiums can be high. |
| Flexibility to customise coverage. | Requires a co-payment for some care. |
| Access to high quality treatments. | Some exclusions in coverage for pre-existing conditions. |
IMG Global Medical Insurance
US-based IMG has earned a solid reputation among travellers and expatriates requiring international medical coverage. Their focus on offering flexible plans allows them to adapt to the specific needs of each policyholder, from basic insurance to more comprehensive options. With a global network of medical providers, IMG guarantees quality care anywhere in the world.
It offers a wide range of services, including inpatient care, outpatient care or medical evacuation. Also the option to add coverage for pre-existing conditions and other optional services. Its plans include preventive care and telemedicine services.
Recommended for: Long-term travellers and expats looking for flexible and customised options.
Plans & Pricing: This insurance includes four levels of cover (Essential, Select, Elite and Global Medical), ranging from basic hospital cover to more comprehensive options including evacuation and dental care. Prices start at around $100 per month, although the most comprehensive can exceed $400 per month. It depends on the age and health history of the insured.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Diversity of plans to suit different budgets. | Some plans may have limitations on coverage. |
| Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies. | Hospital care may vary from region to region. |
| Coverage options for pre-existing conditions. | Refunds may take time to process. |
AXA Global Healthcare
AXA Global Healthcare, part of the AXA Group based in France, is a health insurance provider that stands out for its extensive healthcare network and its focus on providing efficient service. With years of experience in the sector, AXA has positioned itself as a preferred choice for expats and travellers requiring quick access to quality medical care.
AXA’s plans include hospitalisation, medical consultations, specialised treatment, repatriation and evacuation services. Also welfare and prevention programmes.
Recommended for: People looking for reliable and fast health care coverage.
Plans and prices: AXA offers plans starting at around $120 per month, with coverage options that can be tailored to different needs.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Extensive network of medical providers worldwide. | Coverage for pre-existing conditions may be subject to restrictions. |
| Rapid access to medical care and repatriation services. | Some welfare services may not be included. |
| Additional benefits for disease prevention. | Premiums may be higher in some plans. |
Frequently asked questions about international health insurance
Yes, although it depends on the insurance and the plan you choose. Some insurers offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, but may require an additional premium or waiting period before coverage is activated. It’s important to review the terms of each plan.
Generally, requirements include providing basic health information, age and country of residence or destination. Some insurers may also request a medical history or health declaration, especially for advanced plans or pre-existing condition coverage.
It depends on the plan. Some international insurances cover treatment in the home country under certain conditions or limitations, while others only offer coverage when the insured is outside his or her country of habitual residence.
Some plans offer maternity coverage, but not all. This type of coverage is usually available in mid- to high-level plans and can include both pregnancy monitoring and delivery, with waiting times varying among insurers.
Yes, most international health insurances include telemedicine services, allowing policyholders to access remote medical consultations, a very useful benefit for those living in areas without immediate access to hospitals.
Yes, many insurers allow family members to be added to the same policy and offer discounts per group or per additional member. This usually includes coverage for spouses and dependents, with options to pay jointly or separately.
