Health coverage is an important aspect of life, especially for those outside their home country. An expatriate or expat health insurance is important to ensure those who reside in foreign countries for a brief stint, whether for professional reasons or personal endeavors, need protection no matter where they are.
In this blog, we will understand the significance of expatriate health insurance and take a quick look at everything you need to know about Expatriate Health Insurance.
What is Expat Health Insurance?
Expat Health Insurance is a type of insurance that is specifically designed for individuals who reside outside their home country. Since their stays are usually extended, expat health insurance may be more suitable as long-term insurance. These insurance plans have a minimum coverage duration of 12 months. You can request early cancellation of your policy as per the terms and conditions of the plan.
What does Expat Health Insurance cover?
Most Expat Health Insurance plans cover —-
- 1. Medical Treatment, such as Physician visits
- 2. Hospitalization Room/Board
- 3. Prescription Drugs
- 4. Surgeon & Surgery
- 5. Laboratory
- 6. Transplants
- 7. Extended Care Facility
- 8. Emergency Medical Care and Evacuation
- 9. Dental Care
Please note that the benefits may vary according to the plan you choose. Some of the benefits may be optional. Contact your agent to learn more.
Types of Expat Health Insurance
Most expat health insurance plans that are available today are comprehensive coverage plans. At VisitorPLANS, we offer several comprehensive coverage plans specially dedicated to expatriates. These coverage plans are mostly designed for individuals and families that require regular medical attention and access to a wide variety of medical services. Another added advantage of choosing a comprehensive coverage plan is its ability to offer similar benefits to that of a popular US insurance plan offering some of the best coverage in the market.
Although comprehensive coverage plans come at a higher premium, they typically have minimum out-of-pocket expenses, which is useful, especially for expensive medical procedures. Analyze your medical needs and length of stay before deciding on the right type of insurance. It is important to note that the coverage for these plans starts once the underwriting process is complete. You can check out some of our popular expat health insurance plans here.
What’s the Difference Between Expat Insurance and Normal Travel Health Insurance?
The biggest difference is that expatriate health insurance is geared for longer stays and offers better benefits. Travel Health insurance is suitable for travelers and those visiting a foreign country for a shorter duration. Expatriate health insurance plans have a wider range of benefits vs travel health insurance plans.
Cost of Expat Health Insurance
The cost of expat health insurance largely depends on several factors, such as —
- Age
- Medical needs and health history
- Country
- Optional coverages
Contact our team for an accurate quote and consultation on various expat health insurance plans.
Things to Consider While Choosing an Expat Health Insurance Plan
Coverage
The first and foremost thing to consider is the coverage in the country you reside in or visit. Make sure you can access the medical care you need with your chosen expat health insurance plan.
Duration
Choose a policy that remains active throughout the duration of your stay, and most importantly, make sure the policy you choose can be renewed in the event you decide to extend your stay. Please note that the minimum coverage duration for these plans is 12 months. Also, underwriting approval is required at every renewal.
Repatriation and Evacuation
You want to be able to evacuate to the nearest medical facility or move remains if you need to. Make sure your policy has coverage for the necessary repatriation and evacuation services you need.
Policy Exclusions
Benefits vary from one policy to another. While the application is in the underwriting process, the underwriter can also write a special exclusion based on the health history of the applicant. Check what treatments and services are covered under your policy and which ones are excluded.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Some plans may have limited pre-existing condition options if approved by the underwriter. Not all plans cover the cost of treating pre-existing conditions. Ask your agent to learn which plan offers coverage for pre-existing medical conditions you have.
Best Health Insurance Plans for Expats
The best health insurance plan for expats depends on your individual needs, and there is no one plan that best fits all. Enlisting your medical needs and conducting the necessary research before purchasing a plan is important. Read reviews and talk to our agents to understand the right plan for you.
Advantages of Expat Health Insurance
Here are some top reasons why you need Expat Health Insurance.
- Peace of Mind
- Wider comprehensive coverage
- Caters to expats to suit longer periods of stay
- Access to the right healthcare when you need it
- Option to choose between select countries or worldwide
Please note that if the individual is a US citizen outside the US for more than six months, they are eligible to purchase these plans. If they travel back to the US for a short duration, they will be covered under one plan for medical services inside and outside the US.
Conclusion
An expatriate health insurance plan is a lifesaver for –
- individuals who reside in foreign countries for prolonged periods
- seeking a plan that has benefits equivalent to a solid US health insurance plan or
- moving outside the US for professional reasons or
- Relocating outside the US after retirement as a senior citizen
Whether you’re visiting for work or are on a sabbatical, your medical needs are met with a robust expat health insurance plan. From covering your regular checkups to maternity benefits, you can ensure you and your loved ones are protected every step of the way.
FAQ’s
1. Do I need an expat health insurance plan?
Yes. We highly recommend purchasing a suitable expat health insurance plan if you intend to stay overseas for long periods.
2. Can I get health insurance if I live abroad?
Yes. Contact us to discover the right expat health insurance plan for you.
3. How much does Expat Health Insurance cost?
The costs vary on several factors, ranging from age to where you plan to reside. It is wise to get multiple quotations from your agent to find the right plan.
4. Is Expat Health Insurance expensive?
It can be expensive, considering the plethora of benefits and coverage it has to offer.
5. What to look for in an expat insurance plan?
Deductible, Duration, coverage, pre-existing conditions, costs, and exclusions are some factors to consider when choosing an expat insurance plan.
6. How do I choose the right expat health insurance plan?
Understanding your medical needs and if they are being covered by your plan is the right way to go when choosing an expat health insurance plan.
7. Can I get coverage for pre-existing conditions with expat health insurance?
Some policies have coverage for pre-existing conditions based on underwriter approval. Check with your insurance agent and read the fine print of your policy before choosing your plan.
8. Does Expat Health Insurance cover my partner and children?
Yes. Most Expat Health Insurance plans offer coverage for dependents. Check the fine print to confirm.
9. Can I purchase Expat Health Insurance for my employees or colleagues?
Yes. Your company can offer group policies that are specially designed for expats.
10. I am moving to multiple countries, can my policy travel with me?
It is advisable to choose an international plan that will allow you access to the best medical care wherever you go.
11. What does Expat Health Insurance cover?
Your Expat Health Insurance plan covers everything from basic doctor visits to emergency medical evacuations if you need to go to a different facility for specialized care.
