If you travel frequently, live between two countries, are an expatriate, or simply want the peace of mind of having access to the best hospitals in the world, an international health plan may be the best solution.
More comprehensive than travel insurance, an international health plan offers continuous medical care, consultations, exams, hospitalizations, surgeries, and even childbirth in leading hospitals abroad and in Brazil.
In this article, you will understand:
• The difference between an international plan and travel insurance
• The difference between an international health plan and a national plan with international coverage
• Who needs (or should) purchase one
• How the coverages work
• How much it costs to protect your health globally
Navigate by Section
What is an international health plan?
It’s a health plan with medical coverage in multiple countries, including:
• Medical consultations
• Hospitalizations
• Surgeries
• Examinations
• Treatment of serious illnesses
• Childbirth and prenatal care
• Preventive medicine
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
Unlike travel insurance, which only covers emergencies for a short period, international health insurance is continuous and suitable for those who will live, study, or work abroad — or even for those who want the freedom to receive treatment wherever they wish, including in the USA and Europe.
Who is international health insurance suitable for?
In general, international health insurance is ideal for:
• Executives and business people who travel frequently or live in two countries
• Brazilians who are going to live abroad (expats, exchange students, students)
• Foreigners living in Brazil (immigrants, digital nomads)
• People who want access to cutting-edge international medicine (USA, Switzerland, Germany, France, etc.)
• Global families who reside in different countries throughout the year
• People with a family history of serious illnesses who want freedom of choice for treatment
• Companies with international operations that need to guarantee health coverage for expatriate employees, corporate travelers, and executives
International Health Insurance vs. Travel Insurance
When comparing these options, it is essential to understand that travel insurance is limited to emergencies and short-term coverage, while international health insurance is more comprehensive.
The table below shows the main differences between travel insurance and international health insurance.
Feature | Travel Insurance | International Health Plan |
Duration | Short term (specific trip) | Long term (annual or continuous) |
Coverage | Emergencies | Emergencies + consultations + surgeries |
Planned hospitalizations | No | Yes |
Preventive medicine | No | Yes (check-ups, vaccines, exams) |
Continuity of treatment | No | Yes (even after diagnosis) |
Reimbursement | Limited | Yes, with high coverage. |
Profile | Tourist | Resident, expatriate, frequent traveler |
International health plan vs. National plan with international coverage
In addition to comparing it to travel insurance, it is also essential to distinguish between an international health plan and a national plan that only offers emergency coverage abroad.
A common question among those seeking medical protection outside of Brazil is: what is the difference between an international health plan and a national plan that offers “coverage abroad”?
Although both may sound similar, they are quite different in purpose, structure, and scope.
International Health Plan
This is a structured plan to offer continuous global medical coverage, focusing on those who live abroad, work overseas, or travel frequently. It covers consultations, exams, hospitalizations, surgeries, childbirth, cancer treatments, and even therapies, both in Brazil and other countries—including or excluding the USA, depending on the plan.
Examples of providers: VUMI, Cigna Global, Allianz, IMG, GeoBlue.
National Health Plan with International Coverage
A national plan with international coverage actually offers emergency assistance during trips—generally limited to 30, 60, or even 90 days outside of Brazil. Therefore, this type of plan does not cover elective consultations, routine exams, or treatments planned abroad.
This coverage is geared towards medical emergencies, such as accidents or sudden illnesses, during business or leisure trips.
Examples: Bradesco Top Nacional, Omint Infinity, SulAmérica Prestige (with international assistance included).
Conclusion: If you are going to live, study, or work outside of Brazil, or want the freedom to receive treatment in the best hospitals in the world, the ideal is to purchase an international health insurance plan. However, if your goal is only to guarantee emergency coverage during occasional trips, a good national plan with built-in international assistance may suffice—and at a lower cost, it should be noted.
Most common coverages of an international health insurance plan:
- Hospitalization and surgeries
- Medical consultations in any country
- Outpatient and inpatient medications
- Oncological treatments and serious illnesses
- Maternity leave (with a waiting period of 10 to 12 months)
- Mental health and complementary therapies
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Dental and ophthalmological coverage (optional)
How much does an international health insurance plan cost?
Prices vary depending on profile, age group, destination, coverage options, and especially whether the plan includes the United States coverage. Additionally, plans with broader coverage and higher reimbursement amounts tend to cost more— which is natural considering the security they offer. Estimated monthly costs in US dollars follow:
Profile | Worldwide coverage (except USA) | Coverage with USA included |
Young single man (30 years old) | US$120 to US$180 | US$250 to US$400 |
Couple (35 years old) | US$220 to US$320 | US$450 to US$700 |
Family (2 adults + 2 children) | US$400 to US$600 | US$800 to US$1,200 |
International Health Insurance Providers
Among the most recognized operators in the global market, the following stand out:
- VUMI
- Allianz Worldwide Care
- Cigna Global
- GeoBlue / BlueCross
- IMG Global
- Redbridge
These companies offer plans with broad coverage, an international network, and a solid reputation among expatriates and executives.
What to consider before hiring
When hiring, it’s essential to consider:
- Does the coverage include the country where you will be living?
- Do we need to include the US?
- Is it through reimbursement or the accredited network?
- What are the annual limits and waiting periods?
Furthermore, evaluating the operator’s reputation and local support makes all the difference in real-world situations.
Speak to someone who understands global health
At Garantia Corretora de Seguros, we compare the best international health insurance plans and help you choose the ideal coverage for your needs — with or without USA coverage, individual or family, for residential or frequent travel. Fill out the form below to request a quote.
Contact Form
Related Posts
No posts found!