US Citizens Living Overseas: Insurance For US Expats

Thousands of Americans realize their lifelong dream every year and move abroad to another country. For executives relocating to launch a new business, retirees eager to learn a new language, or spirited students on a gap year looking to gain work experience, becoming an American expatriate knows no limits regarding age and interests. 

But living overseas comes with challenges. Experiencing a different culture and adapting to things you are not used to can be stressful sometimes. 

Hopefully, as you embrace the obstacles of your new home, your health doesn't have to be on your mind. Here’s what Americans living overseas need to know about health insurance for US citizens abroad.

We provide US citizens moving abroad with robust health plan quotes free of charge. If you’re thinking of moving abroad, let us help! Our free quotes will give you the information to select the best policy. 

Best Coverage for Americans Living Overseas

We would suggest the following three plans for U.S. citizens living abroad.

Cigna Global - The most popular plan is the Cigna Global Medical plan, as it offers a wide range of plans and a modular plan design, allowing U.S. expats to design a policy that meets their needs and budget.

The Benefits of Health Plans for US Citizens Living Abroad

If you are moving abroad, you must consider the risks of going without medical coverage. As an American living overseas, you could experience massive hospital bills or limited access to medical care in your new country. Health insurance for Americans abroad will cover your medical costs in any country you’re in, which is an immeasurable benefit. 

Life comes with surprises no matter what country you are living in. Whether you get a cold or a serious injury, it’s important to be prepared while living abroad as an American. Ensure you have a quality global medical plan covering your expenses so you can get care wherever you live.

For US citizens living abroad, getting coverage can mean finding immediate medical attention during emergencies. All plans come with emergency medical assistance hotlines you can call at any time to get medical advice and assistance. On top of healthcare support, policies for US expats also help satisfy newer requirements on select visa types issued by the destination country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does US health insurance cover you living abroad?

Generally, U.S. health insurance benefits will not cover you while outside of the U.S. Your domestic U.S. health insurance plans will cover you in a specific region within the USA. Sometimes they will offer limited coverage outside of the USA, but that is rarely the case. Request a quote to find an international health care plan that suits your needs. 

The US government strongly recommends that all Americans carry private health care insurance when traveling or living overseas. They also warn that their national coverage will not protect them in other countries.

According to the US Department of State: “You should purchase insurance before you travel (or move abroad)...In general, Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas." Therefore, American expats are responsible for researching, comparing, and choosing a quality international medical insurance plan.

Do US citizens need health insurance abroad?

Does US Medicare cover me overseas?

Does Obamacare cover you abroad?

Can I get healthcare in Canada as a US Citizen?

Where can I get "free" healthcare?

What Should Americans Look for in an International Plan for US Expats?

Doctor taking a patient's blood pressure

Cheap Health Insurance Is Not Always the Best Option

Moving to a new country can sound very exciting. You will be tempted to start packing your bags after listening to an expatriate's stories of an international lifestyle. The cost of living is so low they can afford to eat out daily; they can hire cleaning staff or a private gardener. And, best of all, a trip to the local doctor is very affordable.

The lower cost of living is a significant factor in the decision for U.S. citizens to become expats. Additionally, minor maladies are often treated for just a modest cost, unlike in the U.S. or other countries with expensive healthcare services.

But don’t be fooled into thinking you will receive the same level of care, access, and expense for more severe medical problems. The cost of specialist treatments, comprehensive diagnostics like an MRI, support systems from translators, and home care nurses can add up to an astronomical cost - and at an astronomical speed. And that doesn’t take into account transportation to and from hospitals or appointments.

The quiet lifestyle in a remote area that attracts you to live overseas, whether on a beloved island, secluded reef or mountain village, can work against you when you need to hire an air ambulance for a medical evacuation.

When Choice Equals Comfort

Being sick must not prevent you from exercising your right to choose the quality of healthcare service you receive. Feeling that you have lost control over the situation can affect your well-being and worsen your condition. Finding yourself in a situation where medical service is absent when you need it the most can be infuriating and frustrating.

Health plans for U.S. citizens living overseas ensure these annoying circumstances do not happen to you. The right international insurance plan gives you the power to choose a hospital or doctor to receive better healthcare service.

Insurance for U.S. expats gives you the control to make the following decisions:

Would you prefer to be under the care of a male or a female specialist?

From which hospital in your new town or city do you want to receive healthcare services?

Do you prefer a private or semi-private room when you get admitted?

The freedom to choose between these options means that you are looking at the right insurance package to apply for. Having the power to make these decisions will also help you regain some control over the process, which can benefit your health.

Don't Skip Preventative Care When You Move Abroad

Even if you’re in good health, your body needs protection throughout your life, especially while adapting to a new environment. Without preventative care, an accident or illness can quickly turn into a crisis. Insurance covers you when life’s unexpected issues arise.

Getting health benefits for U.S. expats is a must to maintain your health. These policies can cover regular check-ups with the dentist or optometrist, scheduled annual physical health care examinations, and preventive care. Wellness visits are the best way to ensure you continue living a healthy life. A healthy lifestyle can reduce the chance of medical problems getting out of hand.

When securing health coverage for living abroad, ensure that it also covers preventive and wellness care for your peace of mind.

Avoid a Gap in Coverage

It is common for many internationals and executives to stay abroad for an extra month or even an additional year. Volunteering in an organization, honing photography skills, or perfecting a new language — the purpose for extending their stay varies.

After being covered by your employer or a school policy, you will often feel healthy and confident to the point that you do not extend your coverage. However, there are no guarantees when it comes to health.

Do not gamble with a coverage gap, thinking that you don’t need protection just because you have never encountered a medical problem before. Make sure the policy you have remains in effect during your extended stay overseas.

The best thing about expatriate life for Americans abroad is living life to the fullest without worrying much about money. But to do this, you must take care of your health no matter where you are in the world.

Expatriate Health Insurance for Americans Living Abroad

We would suggest the following three plans for U.S. citizens living abroad. The most popular plan is the Cigna Global Medical plan, as it offers a wide range of plans and a modular plan design allowing U.S. expats to design a policy that meets their needs and budget. Probably our most comprehensive plan for Americans abroad is the GeoBlue Xplorer plan. The benefits are comprehensive, it offers the most coverage in the USA through the Blue Cross Blue Shield network, and the service is excellent. A more affordable option is the IMG Global Medical Insurance plan. The plan has affordable options for younger, more budget-conscious U.S. expats living abroad.