Policy Overview
International health plans designed for expats who split time between the US and home country — providing true global coverage without the gaps of standard US plans.
Plan Details & Expat Advice
Expat global health plans (Cigna Global, Aetna International, Allianz Care, Bupa Global, GeoBlue Xplorer) are designed for individuals who are not permanently residing in their home country and need coverage that follows them worldwide. Unlike domestic US health plans (HMO/PPO) that provide minimal or no out-of-network international coverage, expat plans cover medical care wherever you are — including hospitalization in India, specialist visits in Singapore, and emergency care in Europe. For H-1B holders who travel to India 2–3 months per year for extended visits, a global plan ensures uninterrupted coverage. Plans that exclude the US are dramatically cheaper (40–60% less) and may be supplemented with a domestic US plan during US periods.
Coverage Limits & Conditions:
Coverage area: worldwide including the US (or worldwide excluding US for lower premiums). Annual limits: $1 million–$5 million typical. Includes: emergency evacuation, repatriation, prescription drugs, mental health, maternity (after waiting period).
Average Costs & Premium Structure:
Individual 25–40 years: $150–$350/month. Individual 40–55 years: $300–$600/month. Family with children: $400–$1,200/month. US coverage area significantly increases premiums.
🏥 Navigating the U.S. Healthcare System
For newly arrived expats and international visitors, the United States medical system operates via private insurers, employer-sponsored plans, and independent network provider groups. Understanding terms like deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums under ACA rules (45 CFR 156.130) is essential.
❓ Frequently Asked Healthcare Questions
A copay is a fixed dollar fee for a service (e.g. $30 per doctor visit). Coinsurance is a percentage of the total medical bill paid after meeting your deductible (e.g. 20% of a surgery cost).
Yes. Urgent Care clinics treat non-life-threatening conditions much faster and cheaper than hospital Emergency Rooms.
• Healthcare.gov Official Marketplace: healthcare.gov
• Medicare.gov Official Portal: medicare.gov
SafetyWing Expat & Nomad Insurance
Comprehensive global health & travel medical coverage across 180+ countries from $45/4 weeks.
Get SafetyWing QuoteExpat Checklist
- 📋 In-Network: Confirm your doctor is inside the PPO Network before booking appointments.
- 🔍 Brochure: Always read the detailed certificate of insurance.
- 🚨 Emergencies: Understand differences between urgent care and emergency room costs.