International Health Insurance for UK Expats (2026)
TL;DR
Planning a new life abroad is an exhilarating prospect. Yet, amidst the excitement of visas and packing, one crucial question often arises: what about healthcare? As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that securing the right private medical insurance is fundamental for any UK citizen moving overseas.
Key takeaways
- Loss of NHS Entitlement: The NHS is a residence-based healthcare system. If you are no longer 'ordinarily resident' in the UK, you must pay for any NHS hospital treatment you receive, charged at 150% of the standard NHS tariff. There are some exceptions for state pensioners and those receiving certain benefits, but for most working-age expats, the free access is gone.
- The GHIC/EHIC Limitation: The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), provides access to state-provided emergency or necessary medical care during a temporary stay in an EU country. It is not a substitute for comprehensive health insurance and is not designed for people who are living and working in that country.
- Reciprocal Agreements: The UK holds Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements with a small number of non-EU countries (like Australia and New Zealand). However, these agreements are often limited to urgent or emergency care only. They do not cover routine treatments, pre-existing conditions, or medical evacuation, leaving significant gaps in your cover.
- Worldwide: As the name suggests, this provides cover anywhere in the world. It is the most comprehensive and most expensive option.
- Worldwide Excluding USA: This is a very popular choice. It provides global cover but excludes the United States, where healthcare costs are exceptionally high. This makes the policy significantly cheaper. If you don't plan to live in or travel frequently to the US, this is often the most sensible choice.
Planning a new life abroad is an exhilarating prospect. Yet, amidst the excitement of visas and packing, one crucial question often arises: what about healthcare? As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that securing the right private medical insurance is fundamental for any UK citizen moving overseas.
WeCovr's guide to securing cover abroad as a UK citizen
Moving abroad marks a significant change in your life, and that includes your access to healthcare. Your familiar relationship with the NHS ends the moment you cease to be a UK resident. This guide is designed to walk you through the world of international health insurance, ensuring you and your family are protected, no matter where your adventure takes you.
We'll demystify the jargon, compare your options, and provide a clear roadmap to securing comprehensive cover. From understanding policy features to navigating healthcare in your new home country, consider this your essential handbook for peace of mind.
Why Your NHS Access Stops When You Move Abroad
Many British citizens are surprised to learn that their entitlement to free NHS treatment is based on residency, not nationality or past National Insurance contributions. Once you move away from the UK on a permanent or semi-permanent basis, you are generally no longer entitled to use the NHS for free.
Here’s a breakdown of what changes:
- Loss of NHS Entitlement: The NHS is a residence-based healthcare system. If you are no longer 'ordinarily resident' in the UK, you must pay for any NHS hospital treatment you receive, charged at 150% of the standard NHS tariff. There are some exceptions for state pensioners and those receiving certain benefits, but for most working-age expats, the free access is gone.
- The GHIC/EHIC Limitation: The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), provides access to state-provided emergency or necessary medical care during a temporary stay in an EU country. It is not a substitute for comprehensive health insurance and is not designed for people who are living and working in that country.
- Reciprocal Agreements: The UK holds Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements with a small number of non-EU countries (like Australia and New Zealand). However, these agreements are often limited to urgent or emergency care only. They do not cover routine treatments, pre-existing conditions, or medical evacuation, leaving significant gaps in your cover.
The takeaway is clear: relying on your past UK residency for healthcare abroad is not a viable strategy. You need a dedicated solution.
What is International Health Insurance?
International Private Medical Insurance (iPMI) is a specific type of health insurance policy designed for individuals and families living outside of their home country for an extended period. It gives you access to private healthcare facilities and specialists, offering a level of choice, comfort, and speed that local state systems may not provide.
It's crucial to distinguish it from two other common types of insurance:
| Feature | Travel Insurance | UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI) | International Health Insurance (iPMI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Covers emergencies and unforeseen events on short trips (e.g., lost luggage, flight cancellations, emergency medical care). | Covers treatment for acute conditions within the UK's private healthcare sector. | Provides comprehensive medical cover for expats living abroad long-term. |
| Typical Duration | Days or weeks; usually up to 90 days per trip, sometimes with annual multi-trip options. | Annual policy, renewable, for UK residents. | Annual policy, renewable, for non-UK residents. |
| Medical Cover Scope | Emergency treatment to stabilise you for your return home. Does not cover routine care. | Elective and planned treatment for acute conditions in private UK hospitals. | Covers a wide range of care, from emergencies to routine appointments, depending on the plan. |
| Geographical Area | Specific country or region for the duration of a holiday. | United Kingdom only. | A defined geographical region (e.g., Europe) or worldwide (with/without USA). |
In simple terms, travel insurance is for holidays, UK PMI is for living in the UK, and international health insurance is for living abroad.
Key Features to Look For in an Expat Health Insurance Policy
Choosing an international health insurance plan can feel overwhelming due to the variety of options. Breaking it down by key features makes it much more manageable. Here’s what you need to consider.
Area of Cover (Geographical Limits)
This is one of the most important decisions as it dictates where you are covered. Insurers typically offer a few options:
- Worldwide: As the name suggests, this provides cover anywhere in the world. It is the most comprehensive and most expensive option.
- Worldwide Excluding USA: This is a very popular choice. It provides global cover but excludes the United States, where healthcare costs are exceptionally high. This makes the policy significantly cheaper. If you don't plan to live in or travel frequently to the US, this is often the most sensible choice.
- Regional Plans: Some insurers offer plans that cover specific regions, such as Europe, Southeast Asia, or the Middle East. These can be a cost-effective option if you are certain you will not be spending time outside that area.
Your policy will also cover you for trips back to the UK, though the duration and extent of this cover can vary between providers.
Level of Cover (In-patient, Out-patient, and Extras)
Policies are usually structured in tiers, allowing you to build a plan that suits your needs and budget.
-
In-patient Cover: This is the foundation of every policy. It covers costs associated with being admitted to a hospital. This includes:
- Hospital accommodation (private room)
- Surgeons', anaesthetists', and specialists' fees
- Diagnostic tests (MRIs, CT scans, X-rays)
- Cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiotherapy)
- Intensive care
-
Out-patient Cover: This is an optional add-on that covers medical care that doesn't require a hospital admission. It's highly recommended for more comprehensive cover. This can include:
- Consultations with GPs and specialists
- Prescription medications
- Physiotherapy and other therapies
- Diagnostic tests not requiring a hospital stay
-
Optional Add-ons: You can further enhance your policy with extras like:
- Dental and Vision: Covers routine check-ups, fillings, and sometimes major dental work, as well as eye tests and prescription glasses.
- Maternity Cover: Covers costs related to pregnancy and childbirth. Note: this almost always has a waiting period of 10-12 months, so you must have the cover in place before becoming pregnant.
- Wellness Benefits: Some plans offer benefits for health screenings, vaccinations, and gym memberships.
Deductibles and Excesses
An excess (or deductible) is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim before the insurer pays the rest. For example, if you have a £500 excess and receive a hospital bill for £10,000, you would pay the first £500, and your insurer would cover the remaining £9,500.
- Higher Excess = Lower Premium: Opting for a higher excess will reduce your monthly or annual premium.
- Lower Excess = Higher Premium: Choosing a lower excess (or no excess) means you'll pay more for your premium, but less out-of-pocket when you claim.
This is a personal choice based on your budget and how much financial risk you're comfortable taking on.
Medical Underwriting Options
Underwriting is the process an insurer uses to assess your health and medical history before issuing a policy. This is where the rules about pre-existing conditions come into play.
- Moratorium Underwriting: This is the simpler option. You don't have to provide your full medical history upfront. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any medical condition you have had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the 5 years before your policy starts. However, if you then go for a continuous 2-year period on the policy without needing any treatment, advice, or medication for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
- Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring your entire medical history. The insurer's medical team reviews it and then makes a decision. They may:
- Accept you on standard terms.
- Accept you but permanently exclude a specific condition (e.g., "no cover for the right knee").
- Accept you but charge a higher premium (a 'loading') to cover the increased risk.
- Decline to offer cover.
FMU provides certainty from day one about what is and isn't covered, whereas a moratorium can leave some ambiguity. A specialist broker like WeCovr can help you decide which underwriting path is best for your circumstances.
Repatriation and Evacuation Cover
This is a vital component of any good international health plan.
- Medical Evacuation: If you fall ill or are injured in a location where adequate medical care is not available, this benefit covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest centre of medical excellence.
- Medical Repatriation: This covers the cost of transporting you back to your home country (the UK) to receive treatment if it is medically appropriate.
For expats living in remote areas or countries with developing healthcare infrastructure, this cover is not a luxury—it is an absolute necessity.
How Much Does International Health Insurance Cost for UK Expats?
The cost of an international private medical insurance policy varies significantly based on several key factors:
- Age: Premiums increase with age, as the statistical likelihood of needing medical care rises.
- Destination Country: The cost of healthcare in your new country of residence is a major driver. A policy for an expat in Spain will be much cheaper than for one in the USA or Hong Kong.
- Area of Cover: A 'Worldwide excluding USA' plan is substantially more affordable than a 'Worldwide' plan.
- Level of Cover: A basic in-patient only plan will cost less than a comprehensive plan with out-patient, dental, and maternity benefits.
- Excess/Deductible: A higher excess will lower your premium.
To give you an idea, here are some illustrative examples. These are estimates only and not a formal quote.
| Expat Profile | Destination | Cover Level | Estimated Annual Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-year-old individual | Spain | Europe cover, In-patient + £2,000 Out-patient, £500 excess | £1,200 - £1,800 |
| 45-year-old couple | UAE (Dubai) | Worldwide excl. USA, Comprehensive, £250 excess | £6,500 - £9,000 |
| 55-year-old individual | Thailand | Worldwide excl. USA, In-patient only, £1,000 excess | £3,000 - £4,500 |
| 40-year-old family of 4 | USA (California) | Worldwide, Comprehensive, £1,000 excess | £18,000 - £25,000+ |
Disclaimer: These figures are for illustrative purposes only. The best way to get an accurate price is to request a personalised quote based on your specific needs.
Navigating Healthcare Systems in Popular Expat Destinations
The role and importance of private health insurance can differ depending on the local healthcare system of your new home.
Spain
Spain has a highly-rated public healthcare system (Sistema Nacional de Salud), which UK expats may be able to access by paying into the social security system as an employee or through the convenio especial (a special pay-in scheme). However, public system waiting lists for specialists and elective surgery can be long. International health insurance gives you fast-track access to an extensive network of private clinics and hospitals, allowing you to bypass queues and choose your doctor.
Australia
The UK has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Australia. This allows UK visitors and some temporary residents to access medically necessary care under the Medicare system. However, it does not cover everything. Ambulance services, dental care, and elective treatments are not included. Many expats opt for private cover to fill these gaps and gain access to private hospitals, which often have shorter waiting times and private rooms.
UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
In the major emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it is a legal requirement for all residents to have health insurance. Employers are typically required to provide a basic level of cover for their employees. However, these mandatory plans can be very limited, often restricting you to a small network of clinics and offering low benefit limits. A comprehensive international health insurance plan provides far greater choice, higher limits, and access to the best hospitals in the region.
USA
The United States has no universal public healthcare system. Healthcare is a private, market-driven industry, and the costs are the highest in the world. A simple doctor's visit can cost hundreds of dollars, and a hospital stay can quickly run into the tens or hundreds of thousands. For any UK expat moving to the USA, robust health insurance is not just recommended; it is absolutely essential. Living there without it is an extreme financial risk. This is why policies that include US cover are the most expensive.
The WeCovr Process: How to Secure Your Expat Health Insurance
Navigating the market to find the best PMI provider can be complex. At WeCovr, we simplify the entire process, providing expert, impartial advice at no cost to you. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our client-focused approach. Here’s how we help:
- Initial Consultation & Needs Analysis: Your journey begins with a conversation. You tell us about your plans—where you're going, who needs cover, your medical history, and your budget. Our friendly, expert advisors listen carefully to understand your unique requirements.
- Whole-of-Market Comparison: We do the hard work for you. Leveraging our expertise and relationships with all the leading global insurers (like Bupa Global, AXA, Cigna, and Allianz), we compare dozens of policies to find the ones that best match your needs.
- Personalised Recommendations: We present you with a clear, easy-to-understand shortlist of the most suitable options. We'll explain the pros and cons of each plan, breaking down the benefits, exclusions, and costs so you can make a fully informed decision.
- Application and Underwriting Support: Once you've chosen a plan, we guide you through the application form, ensuring every detail is accurate to prevent issues later on. We liaise with the insurer's underwriting team on your behalf, smoothing out any queries.
- Activation and Ongoing Support: Your cover is now active, but our service doesn't stop there. We remain your point of contact for the life of your policy. If you have a question about a claim, need to make a change, or want to review your cover at renewal, we're here to help.
Wellness & Health Tips for UK Expats
Moving abroad isn't just a logistical challenge; it's a physical and mental one, too. Prioritising your health will help you settle in faster and get the most out of your new life.
Adapting to a New Climate and Diet
Your body will need time to adjust. If you're moving to a hot climate, stay well-hydrated and be mindful of sun exposure. Be adventurous with local cuisine, but introduce new foods gradually to avoid an upset stomach. To help you stay on track with your nutritional goals, all WeCovr clients get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app.
Staying Active and Managing Stress
Moving is one of life's most stressful events. Combat this by finding ways to stay active. Explore your new neighbourhood on foot, join a local sports club, or find hiking trails. Physical activity is a powerful tool for mental wellbeing. Mindfulness apps and simple breathing exercises can also help manage the anxieties of adapting to a new culture.
The Importance of Sleep
Jet lag and the stress of a new routine can disrupt your sleep. Prioritise creating a restful bedroom environment and stick to a regular sleep-wake cycle as much as possible to help your body's internal clock adjust.
As a WeCovr client, you can also benefit from discounts on other insurance products, such as travel or life insurance, helping you secure all-round protection for a lower cost.
Critical Considerations: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions
This is the single most important and often misunderstood aspect of private medical insurance. It is vital to be clear on this point.
Standard private medical insurance, both in the UK and internationally, is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy has started.
- An Acute Condition is an illness or injury that is short-lived, responds quickly to treatment, and is expected to lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken leg, appendicitis, food poisoning, or a bacterial infection.
- A Chronic Condition is a long-term health issue that may have no known cure, requires ongoing management, or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure (hypertension), arthritis, Crohn's disease, and most cancers.
Insurers will almost always exclude cover for pre-existing and chronic conditions.
When you apply for a policy, the underwriting process is designed to identify these conditions.
- With Moratorium underwriting, any condition you've had in the past 5 years is automatically excluded for at least the first 2 years of the policy.
- With Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you declare your history, and the insurer will almost certainly apply a permanent exclusion for any chronic condition you list. For example, if you have a history of back pain, your policy will state that it will not cover any investigations or treatment related to your spine.
What does this mean for expats?
If you have a chronic condition, you must plan your healthcare very carefully. You cannot rely on a new international health insurance policy to cover the costs of managing it. You will need to explore other options, such as:
- Accessing the state healthcare system in your new country, if possible.
- Paying for the management of your condition out-of-pocket.
- Looking for highly specialist (and typically very expensive) insurance plans that may offer some level of cover, although this is rare.
Being transparent during your application is non-negotiable. Failing to disclose a pre-existing condition can lead to your policy being cancelled and your claims being rejected, leaving you with huge medical bills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for UK Expats
Do I need international health insurance if my new country has a public healthcare system?
Can I keep my UK private medical insurance when I move abroad?
Do I have to declare all my past medical conditions to the insurer?
What is the difference between medical evacuation and repatriation?
Ready to take the next step in securing your health and wellbeing abroad? Don't navigate the complex world of expat health insurance alone.
Contact the friendly experts at WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. We'll help you find the perfect private health cover for your new life overseas.
Related guides
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment
Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?
Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.
By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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Who Are WeCovr?
WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.
Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!