Moving to another country can be the exciting adventure of a lifetime. Whether you will be pursuing your studies during a semester abroad or relocating more permanently to further your career, it is imperative that you have a health insurance policy that provides coverage in the country where you will be residing. In certain cases, you may qualify for the national health plan of your host country, but the majority of travelers will need to obtain expatriate health insurance coverage.
If this is your first time purchasing an international health insurance policy, the process can be a little confusing so we have provided these expat insurance quote options to help you on your way.
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Research the health insurance requirements of your destination country A number of countries will not let you relocate unless you have health insurance coverage in place, and some require specific coverage, such as medical evacuation coverage or repatriation of your remains if you should die. Research the requirements for your destination country well in advance of your move date so you have time to investigate various plans, obtain the necessary coverage, and submit any required documentation. Good places to start your research include your employer and your home country’s governmental department regulating international travel (U.S. citizens should consult the U.S. State Department).
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Consider your needs If your work or recreation plans include travel to other countries, your international health insurance plan will need to include coverage for those destinations as well. In most cases, the simplest option is to choose worldwide coverage, so you do not have to reapply each time you cross a border. You may want a plan that includes coverage in your home country as well; many expats prefer to return to their home country for serious operations and to give birth. If you intend to participate in sports or hazardous activities, you may need to purchase a rider on your policy to ensure any injuries are covered.
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Buy before you leave Medical underwriting for international policies is not instantaneous; it can take anywhere from several days to several weeks for approval. Make sure you begin the application process early, or you could arrive at your destination only to discover that your application for expatriate health insurance coverage has been declined.
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Read your policy carefully Reading the schedule of benefits, usually found on the first three to five pages of an expat policy, will give you a valuable overview of your coverage, deductibles, benefit limits, and any co-pays or co-insurance. It is just as important to read the limitations and exclusions, however; riders and additional coverage can be purchased for some excluded injuries, conditions, or activities, as long as you make provisions ahead of time.
Trying to find expatriate health insurance coverage on your own can be a daunting task. At MHG, many of us are expats ourselves, and we are well-acquainted with the needs of individuals living and working around the globe. Our Insurance Specialists have the experience, knowledge and access to multiple international insurance carriers to find you the most suitable plan based on your budget and future plans, whether you are looking for International Health Insurance, Expatriate Disability Income Insurance, or Life Insurance. At MHG Insurance, our commitment to your well-being does not end once you have purchased a plan; through our "Concierge Broker Service”, we will continue to assist you with questions about your policy and provide assistance throughout the claims process.
Before you relocate to another country, call MHG Insurance at +1 954-828-1819 or +44 (0) 1624 678668 or visit us online at mhginsurance.com for help finding the expatriate insurance coverage you need!