If you’re planning to live abroad, securing the right expat health insurance is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your well-being and peace of mind. From visa requirements to emergency care, your insurance policy will play a crucial role in how easily—and affordably—you access healthcare while living outside your home country.
At DiscoverWell, we specialize in helping global travelers and expats find the best international medical insurance plans for their unique lifestyles. Here’s what you need to consider before applying for an individual expat medical insurance policy.
1. Understand Healthcare in Your Destination Country
Every country has a different healthcare system. Some offer universal coverage to residents, while others require private health insurance—especially for foreigners. If you have a US-based health insurance policy, it may offer no coverage abroad, or limited coverage which leaves you exposed in the event of a true emergency.
Ask yourself:
- Is public healthcare available to expats and is that something I am eligible for and would consider?
- Are private healthcare facilities better suited for my needs?
- Will I need health insurance to get a visa?
If the local system is limited or costly, international private medical insurance is a must.
2. Consider the Duration and Scope of Your Stay
Your policy needs to reflect your plans:
- Staying in one country? Get location-specific coverage.
- Moving or traveling frequently? Opt for a global plan that travels with you.
- Planning a long stay? Choose a policy with guaranteed renewability.
Look for policies that offer flexibility if your circumstances change.
3. Choose the Right Coverage Amount and Benefits
Not all plans include the same protections. Look for:
- Hospitalization & surgery
- Doctor visits & diagnostics
- Emergency evacuation & repatriation
- Prescription drugs
- Mental health, maternity, and wellness benefits
We recommend a policy with at least $1 million USD in annual coverage for peace of mind.
4. Address Pre-existing Conditions Early
Most individual health insurance policies exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions. Others may:
- Include a waiting period
- Require medical underwriting
- Offer add-on riders with limitations for certain conditions
Be honest in your application and talk to a licensed advisor about your options and to find the best-fit policy.
5. Balance Premiums with Deductibles and Copays
Your monthly premium depends on:
- Age
- Location
- Health history
- Coverage options
To lower your premium, consider:
- Higher deductibles
- Selecting in-network providers
- Choosing plans with coinsurance
We’ll help you run comparisons based on your budget and care needs.
6. Evaluate Provider Networks and Support Services
When you need care overseas, a smooth claims process makes all the difference. Ask:
- Can I visit any doctor or hospital?
- Is direct billing available?
- Does the company offer 24/7 multilingual support?
The best expat insurance providers offer strong customer service and fast claims handling.
7. Meet Visa or Legal Insurance Requirements
Some countries (like Thailand, UAE, and Germany) require proof of adequate health insurance to:
- Enter the country
- Apply for residency
- Renew long-term visas
Make sure your policy includes:
- A certificate of coverage
- Confirmation that it meets local visa standards
Final Thoughts
Choosing expat health insurance isn’t just a box to check—it’s a long-term investment in your health, safety, and lifestyle abroad. With dozens of plans and providers out there, DiscoverWell is here to make it simple.
✅ Get matched with the right international medical policy
✅ Compare plans side by side
✅ Apply with confidence, guided by licensed experts
