Insurance · 2026-03-05

Health Insurance for Expats: Country-by-Country Guide

Moving abroad requires careful consideration of healthcare coverage. Each country has different rules about whether expats can access public healthcare, and private insurance costs vary dramatically by location.

Countries with Easy Public Healthcare Access

The UK, Spain, and Portugal allow legal residents to access their public healthcare systems, often with minimal or no premiums. In Germany and France, enrolling in the public insurance system is mandatory for most workers.

Countries Requiring Private Insurance

The UAE, Singapore, and Switzerland require residents to hold private health insurance. In the US, expats must navigate the complex private insurance market or qualify for employer-sponsored coverage.

International Health Insurance Plans

Companies like Cigna Global, Allianz Care, and Bupa International offer worldwide coverage starting from $150-500 per month depending on your age, location, and coverage level. These plans typically include emergency evacuation and repatriation benefits.