Your Guide to 2025’s Leading Providers for Global Health Insurance
When relocating overseas, finding the best international health insurance is crucial. Nevertheless, with numerous outstanding and affordable global medical choices, selecting the appropriate one can seem daunting. So, how can you determine the ideal plan for your specific requirements?
At International Citizens Insurance, we evaluate the leading 10 global insurers annually based on various critical factors:
- Network size
- Range of available benefits
- Additional features like telemedicine
- Ease of filing claims
- Flexibility to adjust premiums with copays and deductibles
- A. M. Best rating, indicating each insurer’s financial stability
Our guide ranks the finest global insurers and pinpoints which plans are customized to particular needs, ensuring you obtain the right healthcare at an acceptable price.
Prepared to get coverage? Utilize our complimentary comparison tool to obtain more detailed information about global health insurance plans and discover the one that satisfies your requirements.
After you have refined your selections, thoroughly examine the terms of each policy to choose the best provider and plan. For tailored assistance, reach out to one of our knowledgeable brokers, who can support you in navigating your options. Begin today by requesting a free quote.
The 10 Best International Medical Insurers for Global Citizens
Below is a compilation of the top 10 international insurers that provide the best global health insurance plans for expatriates, immigrants, and international citizens. These global insurers offer comprehensive annual plans for citizens from nearly any country residing abroad for a year or more.
| Our Ranking | Insurance Carrier | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Cigna Global | Expats and families looking for flexible, comprehensive coverage options. |
| #2 | GeoBlue Xplorer | U.S. citizens living overseas and foreigners moving to the U.S. |
| #3 | IMG Global Medical Insurance | Younger clients, students, and those seeking budget-friendly coverage. |
| #4 | William Russell | Families and individuals looking for tailored, personalized coverage. |
| #5 | IMG Europe | Great option for Europeans residing in Europe and abroad. |
| #6 | Bupa Global | Citizens of select countries that want the reassurance of the Bupa Global brand. |
| #7 | Now Health International | Tech-savvy expats and global citizens seeking quick, convenient service. |
| #8 | WorldTrips | Short-term health plan for nomads looking for affordable, flexible cover. |
| #9 | Trawick International | Budget-conscious travelers and families seeking affordable, customizable coverage. |
| #10 | Allianz International | People who want the backing of one of the largest companies in the world. |
What Is the Best Global Health Insurance?
Cigna Global stands out as the top global health insurance on our list. However, the best global health insurance for you is contingent on your specific needs. Cigna Global, GeoBlue, William Russell, and International Medical Group are all outstanding selections for expatriates relocating abroad for work and residence. Each one is optimized for a particular type of global citizen.
Learn about each plan detailed below. When you find insurers that catch your attention, request a free quote.
The Best Overall International Medical Insurance, Premium
Cigna Global Insurance was among the first International Health Insurance companies to provide insurance coverage to expatriates and other international citizens. Established in 1982, the company continues to be one of the foremost global insurance providers. It is an exceptional choice for many living abroad due to its comprehensive coverage in nearly any country.
The Cigna Global plan provides adaptable levels of international health insurance, with modules to append specific benefits you require without paying for extras you won’t need. This is just one of the aspects that secured them the top position on our list. Various deductible and cost-sharing options allow you to tailor the expense of your premium. Cigna’s access to international doctors and hospitals is remarkable, making it a favorite among immigrants and expats. They have received an A rating from A. M. Best.
Cigna Plan Highlights
- Three Core Plans: Silver, Gold, and Platinum
- Comprehensive, customizable plans to meet your needs
- Worldwide customer service available 24/7
- Coverage Options: Outpatient, Health and Wellbeing, Medical Evacuation, and Vision and Dental
Key Insights: 67% of clients opt to include the Outpatient module, 46% select Worldwide coverage, 37% prefer Health and Wellbeing, 26% enroll in the Medical Evacuation module, and 16% incorporate the Vision and Dental Benefit.
Pro Tip: Inquire with your agent about the advantages of the Gold Plan!
The Best Health Plan for U. S. Citizens Abroad, Premium
The GeoBlue Xplorer plan is perfect for U. S. citizens residing overseas and foreigners in the U. S. GeoBlue is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and provides short-term travel medical and long-term insurance plans worldwide.
It is a premium choice available to U. S. citizens who are living abroad and expats residing in the U. S. Despite these geographic limitations, GeoBlue secured the second spot on our list due to its extensive network, ease of claim filing, and outstanding telehealth services. Members concur that GeoBlue’s premium plans justify the additional expense when facing illness or injury because of their thorough coverage and supportive staff. GeoBlue holds an A- rating from A. M. Best.
When you meticulously compare the benefits, the premium level offerings from GeoBlue feature competitive prices that surpass the policies provided by rivals with comparably high coverage levels.
Xplorer Plan Highlights
- The most thorough benefits in the industry
- Unlimited medical maximum
- Premier plan members can access the Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO Network
- No deductible required for office visits, preventative care, and outpatient prescriptions
Key Insights: The GeoBlue Xplorer plan stands out as the most comprehensive plan offering unlimited medical benefits globally. For U. S. citizens living abroad, you are entitled to up to 9 months of coverage in the USA annually.
Pro Tip: Reflect on Essential U. S. coverage if you are only planning a few short trips to the U. S. each year to reduce premium costs.
The Best Global Medical Insurance for Expats on a Budget
International Medical Group (IMG) provides the widest range of products among international health insurance providers, extending from trip cancellation to their long-term international medical plan, IMG Global Medical. For over 20 years, IMG has been delivering international medical insurance, travel insurance, and affordable coverage to clients globally. IMG currently covers individuals in more than 170 countries around the world.
IMG achieved the third position on this list due to its extensive variety of plans, excellent preventative care coverage, and pricing alternatives that enable you to adjust your premium cost. They also feature add-on coverage for global term life insurance, terrorism, sports, and more. IMG holds an A- rating from A. M. Best.
IMG Global Medical Plan Highlights
- Four plan levels and optional add-on modules available
- Choice of coverage area tailored to your geographical needs
- All plan tiers include prescription coverage with different limits
- Freedom to select your healthcare provider wherever you may be in the world
Key Insights: The IMG Gold level plan delivers the finest mix of coverage, benefits, and cost. Premiums can be paid in USD, British Pounds, and Euros.
Pro Tip: Acquire IMG Global Prima with Europe only coverage if you will reside in Europe and travel abroad minimally each year.
The Best Policies for Expats in Africa, Asia
William Russell has been involved in the healthcare sector for over 30 years, focusing on supplying members with private insurance advantages in 160 nations. Whether you are an individual, a family, or a person intending to start a family, you can find the appropriate policy through William Russell medical insurance.
The company provides four plan tiers, each tailored to your particular needs. They offer outstanding benefits, including exceptional coverage for cancer treatment and extensive preventive care. Their rates can be adjusted based on your selected deductible and coverage region. (Plans exclude U. S. coverage, but limited coverage for trips up to 45 days to the U. S. may be included. ) Their highly personalized and around-the-clock customer support has earned them the fourth position on this list. William Russell, part of the Allianz group, has an A+ rating from A. M. Best.
William Russell Plan Highlights
- Each plan tier includes full coverage for inpatient care, and most levels have no limit on outpatient services.
- All plan levels provide Medevac Basic, with an option to add Medevac Plus coverage.
- The Gold tier includes comprehensive maternity benefits, while other tiers provide coverage for pregnancy-related complications.
- Complete cancer coverage is offered, including full coverage for cancer genome testing, as well as coverage for preventive cancer treatment on the Silver and Gold tiers.
Key Insights: William Russell is a second-generation, family-operated business, but the insurer of its policies is part of the Allianz group. You receive the client experience of a smaller entity combined with the financial strength of a multinational insurer.
Pro Tip: Inquire about the Gold plan if you seek maternity coverage or coverage for zones 4 and 5 while living in Africa.
Additional Leading Global Health Insurers
Bupa Global
Bupa Global has operated for over 65 years, concentrating its efforts on delivering the best global health policies. Its international team of consultants and health specialists communicates in multiple languages, which enhances its ability to provide service that surpasses expectations. Bupa Global extends coverage in the U. K. and selected European countries. A. M. Best has awarded Bupa Global a B++ rating.
Now Health International
Now Health International offers quality medical coverage globally that is easily accessible to foreigners living abroad. One of the company’s premier health insurance plans for international clients is the Now Health WorldCare plan, which provides extensive benefits, including coverage for expatriates in the USA. A more budget-friendly alternative is their SimpleCare plan. SimpleCare is ideal for expatriates looking for substantial medical coverage that aligns with their financial plans. Now Health has received an A+ rating overall from A. M. Best.
WorldTrips
WorldTrips provides trustworthy and affordable emergency medical insurance through its Atlas and StudentSecure Travel plans, tailored to address the requirements of short-term nomads and students. With extensive coverage for emergency medical treatment, trip interruption, and medical evacuation, WorldTrips guarantees your protection while you travel the world.
Trawick International
Trawick International delivers affordable and short-term insurance plans crafted to fulfill the demands of nomads, families, and adventurers alike. Featuring options that include coverage for trip cancellation, emergency medical treatment, and trip interruption, Trawick guarantees you are completely covered wherever your journey leads you. Their adaptable plans are customizable to suit your particular travel requirements, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious travelers seeking reliable coverage.
Allianz International Medical Insurance
Allianz is one of the largest insurance providers globally. It is a German company operated by Allianz Worldwide Partners and is a segment of the Allianz Group. The firm is recognized for its worldwide network and for offering businesses international medical insurance for their employees. Allianz Group holds an A+ rating from A. M. Best.
How to Compare the Best Global Insurance Companies
There are many credible online resources available to assist you in choosing the best international health insurance. It is vital to consider six important factors:
- Insurer ratings
- Cost
- Eligibility
- Coverage regions
- Medical benefits
- Healthcare networks
While the majority of international insurance providers offer standard benefits, some companies provide superior options or extra features at competitive rates.
To aid your investigation, we have put together a detailed comparison table showcasing four prominent international insurance providers: Cigna, GeoBlue, IMG, and William Russell.
For a more individualized comparison, you can also request a complimentary quote to discover tailored plans that satisfy your specific needs.
Short-Term Global Health Plans
The distinction between international health insurance and travel medical insurance lies in the duration of coverage offered and the degree of benefits included in the policies.
Even if you possess private medical insurance from your home country, it is likely that it will not be recognized overseas when you are hospitalized due to an accident or illness. Even if it is accepted, it will probably fall short of covering all medical expenses for your recovery.
If you are traveling outside of your country for a shorter duration, travel insurance becomes essential. Consult our guide to the finest travel insurance companies and secure the best plan for yourself.
Group Options for International Medical Coverage
If you employ international staff and are an employer, part of an organized group, associated with a non-profit organization, or otherwise interested in group options, we can assist. For this reason, we have gathered our list of international group medical insurance plans, detailing various global medical programs available for your organization.
Get the Best Plan With the Assistance of International Citizens Insurance
Our objective is to inform you about the importance of global medical, life, and travel insurance for both individuals and groups. By utilizing our trustworthy and thoroughly researched resources, you can effortlessly choose, contrast, and investigate the plans provided by reputable insurance providers. With this knowledge, you can feel confident that you’re protected and secure when you travel or move abroad.
If you require assistance in selecting the optimal international health insurance plan, request a quote, and we will assist you in finding the plan that meets your requirements.
As the largest international health insurance broker in the USA, International Citizens Insurance collaborates with over 4,000 expats, international citizens, and global nomads each month to advise them on a diverse array of plan options and benefits. Our team of licensed advisors consists of expatriates, world travelers, and specialists in global health plans. Allow us to help steer you.