There is no single "best" international health insurance provider — the right choice depends on your age, location, health history, and what you value most in a plan. What we can do is give you an honest, neutral assessment of the major players so you can make an informed decision.
Disclosure: We may earn a referral fee if you purchase a plan through links on this page. This does not influence our editorial assessments.
The Major International Health Insurers
Cigna Global
Cigna is one of the largest international health insurers in the world, with a strong reputation for claims handling and a genuinely global hospital network. Their modular plan structure (Silver, Gold, Platinum) makes it easy to build a plan that fits your budget.
- Strengths: Excellent global network, strong claims reputation, flexible plan structure, good digital tools
- Weaknesses: Can be expensive for older applicants; US coverage comes at a significant premium
- Best for: Expats who want a well-known, reliable insurer with a strong global footprint
Allianz Care
Allianz Care (part of the Allianz Group) is a major player in the international health insurance market, particularly strong in Europe and the Middle East. They offer a wide range of plans from basic to comprehensive.
- Strengths: Strong financial backing, good European network, competitive pricing in many markets
- Weaknesses: Claims process can be slower than competitors; customer service quality varies by region
- Best for: Expats in Europe or those who want the security of a very large insurer
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Now Health International
Now Health is a specialist international health insurer that has built a strong reputation for customer service and straightforward claims handling. Their WorldCare plans are well-regarded in the expat community.
- Strengths: Excellent customer service, transparent policy terms, competitive pricing for younger expats
- Weaknesses: Smaller network than Cigna or Allianz; less well-known brand may concern some
- Best for: Expats who prioritise customer service and straightforward claims over brand recognition
AXA Global Healthcare
AXA is one of the world's largest insurance groups, and their international health division offers comprehensive plans with a strong global network. Particularly well-regarded in Asia and the Middle East.
- Strengths: Very large global network, strong brand, good digital tools and app
- Weaknesses: Can be expensive; some reports of complex claims processes for smaller claims
- Best for: Expats in Asia or the Middle East who want a large, well-established insurer
VUMI (VHI Universal Medical Insurance)
VUMI is a specialist international health insurer based in Miami, particularly popular among Latin American expats and those who need strong US coverage. Their plans are known for high benefit limits and strong customer service.
- Strengths: Excellent US coverage, high benefit limits, strong customer service
- Weaknesses: More expensive than some competitors; less well-known outside the Americas
- Best for: Expats in Latin America or those who need strong US coverage
How to Choose
Rather than picking a "winner," we recommend getting quotes from at least 3 insurers and comparing them on:
- Price for equivalent coverage — use the same deductible and modules for a fair comparison
- Hospital network — check that your preferred hospitals in your country of residence are in-network
- Claims process — read independent reviews on Trustpilot and expat forums
- Financial strength — check the insurer's credit rating (A or above is preferable)
- Policy terms — read the exclusions carefully, particularly around pre-existing conditions
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We work with leading international health insurers including Cigna Global, Allianz Care, Now Health International, AXA Global Healthcare, and VUMI.
We may earn a referral fee if you purchase through our links. This does not affect our editorial independence. See our disclosure.Continue Reading
| Provider | Get Quote |
|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Get Quote |
| Allianz Care | Get Quote |
| AXA Global Healthcare | Get Quote |
| Now Health International | Get Quote |
| Bupa Global | Get Quote |
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Ratings are based on our editorial assessment and are not paid placements.
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We work with leading international health insurers including Cigna Global, Allianz Care, AXA Global Healthcare, and Now Health International.
We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links. This does not affect our editorial independence.
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