Standard domestic health insurance plans (UK NHS, US employer coverage) do not cover you globally. Expats and digital nomads need international health insurance designed for long-term overseas living.
- Passport
- List of countries you plan to live in
- Budget for monthly premiums
- Any pre-existing conditions information
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance (most affordable option)
SafetyWing (safetywing.com) is designed for digital nomads. Cost: $45.08–56.28/month depending on age. Coverage: emergency and unexpected medical care, evacuation, trip interruption. Not suitable for: routine check-ups, dental, pre-existing conditions, or USA-based healthcare (US coverage available as an add-on for extra).
Cigna Global Health Insurance (comprehensive)
Cigna offers comprehensive international health plans including: inpatient and outpatient care, dental and vision (optional add-ons), routine check-ups, maternity, and mental health. Best for: families or individuals wanting comprehensive coverage globally. Cost: $150–500+/month depending on age and coverage level.
Allianz Care (top tier for expats)
Allianz Care (allianzcare.com) is used by corporations and NGOs for employee expat coverage. Plans include: direct billing hospitals in 190 countries, air evacuation, maternity, and repatriation of remains. Used by UN employees and large NGO expat programs. Individual plans from €100–400/month.
AXA Global Healthcare (balance of cost and coverage)
AXA Global Healthcare offers modular plans — choose the core module (inpatient) and add outpatient, dental, vision, maternity as needed. Widely accepted at hospitals globally. Useful “Medical Second Opinion” service included. Plans start from approximately $80/month for basic inpatient coverage.
Check country-specific requirements
Some countries require specific minimum coverage for visa purposes (Schengen requires €30,000). Thailand requires minimum THB 40,000 inpatient coverage for retirement visas. UAE requires employers to provide health insurance for all residents. Verify requirements at each destination’s embassy.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Travel insurance covers short trips (typically up to 90 days) and focuses on emergency care. Expat/international health insurance is for long-term residents (1+ year abroad) and covers routine, preventive, and ongoing care. If you live abroad long-term, travel insurance alone is insufficient.
The UK NHS provides urgent necessary treatment in EU/EEA countries through the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC — the post-Brexit EHIC replacement). However, it does not cover private healthcare, repatriation, or treatment outside the EU/EEA. Private international health insurance is needed for comprehensive worldwide coverage.
SafetyWing is the most affordable option for nomads starting at $45/month. Cigna Global offers comprehensive family coverage.