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A guide to choosing international expat insurance

How world travelers can protect their health and finances.

Leaving your native country to travel and explore other amazing countries can be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make. But aside from passports and plane tickets, you’ll also need to plan for your health, emergencies, and much more.

Getting international expat insurance can provide health coverage abroad, but is it the right option for you? With so many types of insurance options for travelers, it can become complex as to which option is right for you. For example, if you live in Canada and are deciding to travel, investing in the best travel insurance for Canadians might be the choice for you. However, if you’re planning on traveling to a variety of countries across this amazing world, then you might need something that’s not so specific.

Let’s explore the different options for travel insurance when moving to or from a country and how to choose the best insurance plan.

What is expat insurance?
Even if you have health insurance in your home country, you may not be covered while traveling or living abroad. Expatriate or international insurance is designed to cover healthcare expenses while the expatriate is living or working in a country other than their own. Policies can be purchased to cover the duration of your trip, usually in six-month increments.

In most cases, international expat insurance will cover you for more than just preventative care. Medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation are commonly covered through expat insurance. This provides greater peace of mind that can help ease your stress about being away from home and enjoy your time abroad.

Comparing international expat insurance vs. country-specific insurance
When comparing insurance options, travelers face two choices: country-specific or international insurance plans. Both are designed for expats to receive medical care abroad, but the similarities end there.

International expat insurance offers global coverage so that no matter where you travel, your health needs are covered. However, the lack of specialization can make it difficult to get the care you need when you travel. Coverage comprises a global network rather than being tailored to a local market, which means a provider in your network might not be in your immediate vicinity.

Country-specific travel insurance is designed for the destination country. For example, Canada requires proof of health insurance at the port of entry. Insurance must cover costs associated with hospitalization, health expenses, and repatriation in the event of an emergency. You can check requirements to choose a plan that will allow you to enter the country.

In addition, country-specific plans include a network of local options so you can get medical care when you need it. Adding the local element to your travels abroad not only gives you more options for healthcare but also ensures you won’t find yourself without the proper coverage when you need it.

How to choose the right international expat insurance plan
Travel insurance needs can be as unique as the traveler. Before you purchase your insurance coverage, you need to take into account the destination country, the length of your trip, and what’s covered under the plan.

If you’re traveling to someplace like Canada, your international expat insurance plan must meet the government requirements of Canada’s insurance. Again, plans are completely different per country. When comparing plans and providers, consider that only plans that meet these requirements can save you a lot of time and hassle. From there, you can narrow down your options to find coverage that suits your needs.

With the right insurance, you can travel freely and enjoy peace of mind in knowing your health is protected. Have fun with the latest travel trends and don’t forget, your safety comes first!

Founder and President - Best Quote Travel Insurance | + Posts

Bob Hornal is the founder and President of Best Quote Travel Insurance in Vancouver, British Colombia, Canada. With over 15 years of experience as a financial advisor, Bob has traveled to more than 30 incredible countries and has dealt with a multitude of difficult situations including flight delays, medical emergencies, and weather damage, making Bob an expert at traveling.

His dream is to inspire and inform those who wish to travel by including his personal experiences and professional knowledge in each piece he writes.

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