What factors define the cost of Expat Health Insurance?

Apr 11, 2024

When you are considering subscribing to a health insurance policy as an expatriate, it is crucial to understand the different criteria that influence the cost of this insurance. The complexity of this issue can sometimes make selecting suitable insurance tailored to your needs a challenge. Here’s an analysis of the main factors that determine the cost of expat health insurance:

1 – Geographical area:

The first element to consider is the country where you will be settling in. In some of them, medical costs are relatively affordable, while in others they can be exorbitant. Therefore, international insurers often adjust their premiums based on the cost of living and healthcare in the destination country. The higher the healthcare costs in the expat country, the higher the health insurance costs.

For examples:

  • If you move to Switzerland, where healthcare costs are among the highest globally, you can expect to pay higher health insurance premiums due to the high medical expenses in that country.
  • On the other end, if you’re settling in Mexico, where medical expenses are generally lower, health insurance premiums might be lower reduced due to more affordable treatment costs.

2 – Age and family situation:

Insurers consider the age and family situation (single, couple, family with children) of the policyholder when determining the premium. Usually, the older you are, the higher the premium. This premium adjusts annually depending on the age of the insureds.

For examples:

  • A 50-year-old individual can expect to pay higher premiums than a 30-year-old for similar coverage due to the increased risk of health issues associated with age.
  • Likewise, a family with several children may pay higher premiums than a single individual due to the higher number of people covered by the plan.

3 – Coverage Level of the health insurance :

Insurers offer a wide range of coverage levels, for basic or essentials to more comprehensive packages. Basic plans provide minimal coverage for essential healthcare, while more comprehensive plans may include benefits such as dental coverage, maternity care, mental healthcare, etc. It goes without saying that coverage increases, lead to increased insurance premiums.

For example: The client either choose to subscribe to an “essential” plan covering basic healthcare expenses, such as hospitalizations, or to opt for a “premium” health insurance offering broader coverage, including services like dental care, optical care, as well maternity.

4 – Medical History and Risks:

Some insurers may take into account your medical history and health status to assess the risk and determine your premium. The premium adjusts based on the policyholder’s health status. Upon enrollment, the insurer assesses the insured’s state of health by asking him or her to complete a medical underwritting.

E.g. If an individual has pre-existing medical conditions or is at a high risk of developing health problems, this may result in higher premiums to compensate for the increased risk for the insurer.

5 – Additional Options:

Finally, some international insurers offer additional options such as repatriation assistance, coverage for high-risk sports, life and disability insurance, etc. Each of these options can influence the total cost of the health insurance.

In conclusion, the health insurance premium amount depends on several interdependent factors. It’s advisable to carefully compare different expat insurance offers, considering these criteria, to choose the best coverage based on your specific needs and budget.


Why Choose AMBRELIA for Your Expatriates Health Insurance?

We offer upgradeable packages to suit your needs. Our clients may choose from a range of plans tailored to their specific healthcare requirements.Whether for basic coverage or more extensive protection including specialized care such as dental, optical, or maternity , our evolving plans adapt to each stage of their life abroad.

We have a dedicated and experienced team. We understand the challenges expatriates face when it comes to managing their health in a foreign environment. Some of our staff members are former expatriatesande they specialize in international health insurance.

We provide a first-euro solution or top upCFE (Caisse des Français de l’Étranger). Whether our clients choose a first-euro solution or complement to the CFE, AMBRELIA offers comprehensive and personalized health cover, allowing them to live and work abroad with peace of mind.

Entrust us for health coverage tailored to your expatriate life.

For more informations : contact@ambrelia

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