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Best expat health insurance for Uruguay
Looking for health insurance in Uruguay? Discover the best options for foreigners!
Uruguay is one of South America’s smallest countries, yet also among its wealthiest and safest nations. Low inflation and corruption rates make it an attractive destination for digital nomads, remote workers, students, expats and more. Its beautiful capital, Montevideo, has a rich colonial past and nearby beaches, ideal for short stays or longer periods. Beyond these benefits, having an expat health insurance in Uruguay is essential if you don’t want to spend money on medical care that you could use elsewhere.
So, before packing your bags and starting your adventure in this small country, you need to understand Uruguay’s healthcare system and the different insurance options available. Don’t worry, that’s where we help. We’ll explain the best health insurance for travelling to Uruguay and everything you should know about its healthcare system. Will you stay with us until the end?
Why take out health insurance in Uruguay?
Before we explain which foreign visitors need health insurance for Uruguay, let’s review why you should consider this coverage, regardless of your reason for visiting. It’s not only a preventive measure but also an investment in wellbeing and security. From saving on medical expenses to ensuring quality care in emergencies, health insurance is an indispensable ally for every foreigner visiting or living in the country.
So, the main reasons are:
- High medical costs: Although the public system has good quality, access to private clinics is expensive without insurance. For example, a private consultation may cost between $50 (€47) and $100 (€94), while one day in a private hospital may exceed $500 (€470), depending on the treatment. Health insurance protects you from these unexpected expenses and guarantees care without hurting your budget.
- Access to private healthcare: Using the Uruguayan public health system can involve long waits for certain procedures or specialists. Private health insurance gives you access to prestigious clinics and hospitals, where you’ll get faster, personalised care with state-of-the-art equipment.
- Legal requirements: Some visas or study programmes require health insurance before entering the country. This ensures you don’t rely on the public system immediately and reduces pressure on state services.
- Peace of mind: Health insurance guarantees tranquillity in unexpected situations, especially in a new and unfamiliar environment. Remember, these events can happen anytime, from a fracture or food poisoning to a road accident. With health insurance, the bad moment won’t feel as painful.
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions: If you suffer from a chronic condition such as diabetes or hypertension, having insurance that covers your needs is essential. Uruguay offers advanced medical care, but continuous treatments and medicines can be costly without coverage.
- Medical or funeral repatriation: In extreme cases, such as serious illness or a traveller’s death, international health insurance often includes repatriation services to your home country. Without a proper plan, this can mean a huge cost. This benefit brings peace of mind both to the traveller and their family.
Which foreigners need health insurance in Uruguay?
Any foreigner planning to travel or live in Uruguay, regardless of the length of stay, should consider health insurance as a fundamental part of their planning. Investing in health protects not only your physical wellbeing but also your finances. So, if you’ll travel or plan to live in the country, you’ll need health insurance.
1. Digital nomads
Uruguay is increasingly popular among digital nomads thanks to its tech infrastructure, economic stability and quality of life. For remote workers exploring the country, health insurance covering general consultations, emergencies and, if possible, telemedicine will bring real peace of mind. Although Uruguay has a strong health system, foreigners outside social security must pay high fees for consultations or treatments, making private insurance indispensable.
2. International students
Uruguay is home to renowned universities like Universidad de la República and several private institutions. That’s why students from across South America choose it for studies. For them, health insurance covering emergencies, common illnesses and vaccines required by schools is also essential. Moreover, many exchange programmes demand proof of health insurance as an admission requirement.
3. Expats
Expats moving to Uruguay for work, retirement or personal projects usually stay long term. They may access the national health system if formally employed, but this process can take time. During this transition, or to access faster and more specific services, private health insurance remains the best way to guarantee quality care.
4. Long-stay tourists
If you’ll spend one or two weeks enjoying Uruguay’s beaches, travel insurance is enough. But visitors staying longer (for example, retired travellers or long-term explorers) should have health insurance covering unforeseen health issues.
Medical emergencies, accidents or illnesses can be costly, especially if hospitalisation is required. Insurance also allows access to services like medical repatriation or specialised care.
5. Temporary workers and freelancers
Another group needing health insurance in Uruguay are temporary workers and freelancers. The country is attractive to them thanks to its stable economy and job opportunities. In these cases, workers often lack access to local social security, so they need insurance to cover any event during their stay.
International insurance designed for these workers usually includes cover for work accidents and pre-existing conditions, which is especially useful.
6. Travellers with pre-existing conditions
Foreigners with chronic or pre-existing illnesses, such as diabetes, hypertension or severe allergies, should prioritise health insurance covering their specific needs. Uruguay has good hospitals and private clinics, but regular consultations, medicines or emergencies may be expensive without adequate cover.
What type of health insurance in Uruguay works for foreigners?
If you’re travelling to Uruguay, it’s important to know the health insurance options available, as they adapt to different needs and budgets. Below, we’ll explain the main types of health insurance you can take as a foreigner, including their pros and cons:
1. International health insurance
International health insurance is ideal for frequent travellers, expats or digital nomads seeking cover in multiple countries, including Uruguay. These plans often include medical emergencies, hospitalisation, repatriation, general consultations, medicines and sometimes cover for pre-existing conditions.
- Advantages:
- You can get treatment in Uruguay and other destinations during your stay.
- 24/7 services in your language, making emergencies easier to handle.
- Flexibility to choose private clinics and hospitals.
- Disadvantages:
- Premiums can be higher compared to local insurance.
- Some plans don’t cover high-risk activities or extreme sports without extra cost.
2. Local health insurance
Local health insurance comes from Uruguayan insurers and mutualist providers. They’re designed to meet specific health needs inside the country. Therefore, they’re perfect for foreigners planning to live in Uruguay long term, such as students or expats. Coverage usually includes medical consultations, emergencies, diagnostic tests, hospitalisation and surgery. Some mutualists also offer dental and psychological services.
- Advantages:
- More affordable prices compared to international insurance.
- Strong network of hospitals and clinics within Uruguay.
- Personalised medical care and continuous follow-up.
- Disadvantages:
- No cover outside Uruguay.
- Some plans require a waiting period before using certain services, especially for pre-existing conditions.
3. Travel insurance with medical cover
Although not permanent health insurance, travel insurance includes medical cover during your stay in Uruguay. It’s ideal for short-term visitors, either tourists or those staying under 90 days. It covers medical emergencies, hospitalisation, basic medicines, repatriation and sometimes COVID-19 care.
- Advantages:
- Quick and simple to take out.
- Designed for short stays or specific trips.
- Covers other travel issues like lost luggage or cancellations.
- Disadvantages:
- Usually doesn’t cover regular consultations or pre-existing conditions.
- Valid only for the travel period.
4. Uruguayan mutualist plans
Mutualists in Uruguay are local health organisations offering comprehensive services through monthly membership. These plans suit expats, international students and temporary residents. Coverage is broad, including consultations, tests, emergencies, hospitalisation, rehabilitation and specialised services such as paediatrics and gynaecology.
- Advantages:
- Tariffs adapt to different budgets.
- Wide network of clinics and hospitals in the country.
- Some plans include extras like free vaccinations or pharmacy discounts.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited to Uruguay, no international cover.
- Requires long-term commitment to maximise benefits.
5. Health insurance for international students
Uruguay also offers health insurance tailored to foreign students arriving for exchange or higher education programmes. These cover medical consultations, emergencies, hospitalisation, diagnostic tests and psychological care.
- Advantages:
- Preferential rates adapted to student budgets.
- Access to clinics and hospitals near educational centres.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited coverage, usually basic services only.
- Doesn’t include pre-existing conditions or long-term treatments.
How much does healthcare cost in Uruguay?
Uruguay’s healthcare system works under a mixed model combining public and private providers within the National Integrated Health System (SNIS). This model ensures universal access to quality care, promoting equity and efficiency. Although it works very well, costs can also be high, as shown in the table below:
| Medical Service | Approximate cost (USD/EUR) |
|---|---|
| General medical consultation | $50–100 (€46–92) |
| Consultation with a specialist | $70–150 (€64–138) |
| One day in private hospital | $500–1,000 (€460–920) |
| Basic laboratory tests | $30–60 (€28–55) |
| X-ray | $40–80 (€37–74) |
| MRI scan | $300–600 (€276–552) |
| CT scan | $200–400 (€184–368) |
| Physiotherapy session | $30–50 (€28–46) |
| Emergency visit without admission | $100–200 (€92–184) |
| Minor outpatient surgery | $1,000–2,000 (€920–1,840) |
| Normal childbirth (private hospital) | $2,500–4,000 (€2,300–3,680) |
| Caesarean section (private hospital) | $3,000–5,000 (€2,760–4,600) |
Healthcare costs in Uruguay
For those affiliated with the SNIS, many of these services are fully or partially covered, depending on the plan and institution chosen. However, some procedures may involve co-payments or waiting times, especially in the public sector. Therefore, foreigners not affiliated with SNIS or needing private care should secure adequate health insurance.
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The five best health insurance options in Uruguay for foreigners
If you’re a foreigner and know you need health insurance in Uruguay, you may wonder which one is best. With so many options, the choice can feel confusing. That’s why we’ve selected five of the best health insurance providers for foreigners, helping you choose more easily. Here we explain their plans, cover and the main pros and cons of each.
1. Allianz Care
Allianz Care is a leading international health insurance company offering a wide range of cover for expats, digital nomads and frequent travellers. Its focus is providing global access to high-quality medical services, including cover in Uruguay.
Coverage:
- General and specialist medical consultations.
- Hospitalisation and surgery.
- Emergency treatments and medical evacuation.
- Basic and advanced dental care (depending on plan).
- Cover for pre-existing conditions (subject to evaluation).
- Complementary therapies and mental health (higher plans).
Plans and prices:
- Essential: From $150 (€141) per month, includes basic hospitalisation and emergencies.
- Classic: From $300 (€282) per month, covers consultations, hospitalisation and outpatient treatments.
- Premier: From $500 (€470) per month, includes advanced dental, medical evacuation and preventive check-ups.
| Pros | Cons |
| Large network of hospitals and clinics in Uruguay. | Prices are higher compared with local insurers. |
| Flexibility to personalise plans. | Pre-existing conditions require evaluation. |
| Multilingual support, ideal for foreigners. |
Advantages and disadvantages of Allianz Care
2. Cigna Global
Another international giant is Cigna Global. Its plans are ideal for those who need medical attention across different countries, including Uruguay.
Coverage:
- General and emergency medical care.
- Cover for chronic conditions.
- Mental health treatments and wellbeing services.
- Maternity and neonatal care (advanced plans).
- Rehabilitation and physiotherapy.
Plans and prices:
- Silver: From $180 (€169) per month, includes general consultations and basic hospitalisation.
- Gold: From $350 (€329) per month, adds outpatient care and maternity.
- Platinum: From $600 (€564) per month, covers medical evacuations and advanced treatments.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent 24/7 customer service. | Some services require prior authorisation. |
| International cover, ideal for digital nomads. | Advanced plans can be expensive. |
| Payment available in multiple currencies. |
Pros and cons of Cigna Global
3. Blue Cross & Blue Shield Uruguay
Blue Cross & Blue Shield has a strong presence in Uruguay, offering both international and local health insurance. Its plans combine global expertise with local knowledge, providing affordable options for foreigners living in Uruguay.
Coverage:
- Primary and secondary medical care.
- Surgeries and hospitalisation.
- Basic and advanced dental cover.
- Specialised and emergency medical treatments.
- Vaccinations and preventive check-ups.
Plans and prices:
- Standard: from $120 (€113) per month, includes consultations and basic hospitalisation.
- Comprehensive: from $250 (€235) per month, adds dental and specialised cover.
- Premium: from $400 (€376) per month, includes advanced treatments and medical evacuation.
| Pros | Cons |
| Competitive rates for complete cover in Uruguay. | Limited international cover compared with Allianz or Cigna. |
| Wide network of doctors and hospitals. | Less flexibility in plan personalisation. |
| Simple reimbursement processes. |
Pros and cons of Blue Cross & Blue Shield
4. SURA Uruguay
SURA is a Latin American insurer offering health plans adapted to the Uruguayan market. These provide comprehensive care at accessible prices, making it an attractive choice for foreigners in Uruguay.
Coverage:
- General and specialist consultations.
- Hospitalisation and surgeries.
- Emergency treatments and medical evacuation.
- Telemedicine services.
- Physical and occupational therapies.
Plans and prices:
- Basic: from $100 (€94) per month, includes general consultations and emergencies.
- Plus: from $200 (€188) per month, adds hospitalisation and outpatient care.
- Elite: from $350 (€329) per month, includes dental and advanced treatments.
| Pros | Cons |
| Competitive rates with good local cover. | Limited international cover. |
| Access to telemedicine services. | Some complementary therapies excluded from basic plans. |
| Wide network of clinics and hospitals in Uruguay. |
Pros and cons of SURA Uruguay
5. Asociación Española
Asociación Española is a leading private medical institution in Uruguay, known for its quality care and accessibility. Although not international insurance, it’s an excellent local option for those planning longer stays.
Coverage:
- General and specialist medical consultations
- Hospitalisation and surgeries.
- Basic dental care.
- 24/7 emergency services.
- Prevention and health programmes.
Plans and prices:
- Standard Plan: from $80 (€75) per month, includes consultations and basic emergencies.
- Complete Plan: from $150 (€141) per month, adds hospitalisation and dental care.
- Premium Plan: from $250 (€235) per month, includes specialised care and advanced prevention programmes.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable compared to international insurance. | Limited cover outside Uruguay. |
| Large national network of services. | Advanced services may have longer waits. |
| Personalised care and excellent reputation. |
Pros and cons of Asociación Española
Which is the best health insurance in Uruguay for foreigners?
The best health insurance in Uruguay will depend on your specific needs and the length of your stay. If you prioritise international cover, Allianz Care and Cigna Global are excellent choices. Meanwhile, if you prefer local alternatives with competitive rates, SURA and Asociación Española stand out for value for money.
However, if we must recommend one health insurance for foreigners in Uruguay, it would be Cigna Global. The reasons are clear:
- It offers cover in multiple countries, perfect for digital nomads, expats or frequent travellers who don’t live only in Uruguay. This guarantees continuity of care across borders, something local insurers can’t match.
- Cigna has one of the world’s largest medical networks, allowing access to specialists, hospitals and clinics in Uruguay and worldwide.
- Cigna stands out for its flexible plans. This means you can add specific modules, such as mental health, dental care, maternity cover, or medical evacuation. That makes it an adaptable option, tailored to each user’s specific needs.
- Although it costs more than local options, the added value is significant: mental health cover, 24/7 multilingual support and quick reimbursements.
- While advanced plans may be expensive, the advantages in cover and quality of service justify the investment, especially if you want peace of mind and access to top medical care.
Health insurance in Uruguay for foreigners: FAQs
Yes, many private hospitals and clinics in Uruguay accept international health insurance, especially in Montevideo. Always check if your insurer has agreements with local providers or if you’ll need to pay upfront and request reimbursement.
Some local insurers offer special rates or promotional packages for foreign residents, usually on comprehensive insurance including hospitalisation and consultations.
Usually you’ll need your passport, visa or residence permit (if applicable), and sometimes proof of address in Uruguay. Some international insurers like Cigna don’t require fixed residence.
Yes, most international and local insurers let you add dependants like spouse and children. This usually increases the premium, but family plans often come with discounts.
It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended, especially if you’ll use the private healthcare system. Insurance makes access easier and may be required for some study or work programmes.
Yes, some local and international insurers, such as Allianz and Blue Cross, offer plans for seniors, covering chronic conditions and regular check-ups. However, these plans may have higher premiums and coverage restrictions.
