TL;DR
As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies issued, WeCovr specialises in helping people find the right private medical insurance in the UK and abroad. Moving overseas is an exciting adventure, but navigating healthcare in a new country can be a significant source of stress without the right protection. Policy features, international cover, and best providers for UK nationals abroad For the millions of UK nationals living overseas, securing reliable healthcare is a top priority.
Key takeaways
- Limited Scope: The GHIC/EHIC scheme provides access to state-provided healthcare in EU countries (and a few others) at the same cost as a local resident. It is not private healthcare.
- Not for Permanent Moves: These cards are designed for temporary stays, like holidays or business trips. If you become a resident in another country, you are generally no longer entitled to use a UK-issued GHIC. You must register with the local healthcare system.
- Variable Quality: State healthcare quality varies dramatically across the globe. What is considered standard in one country may be severely lacking in another. Relying on the local state system could mean long waiting lists, language barriers, and a lower standard of care than you're used to.
- No Repatriation: A GHIC will never cover the cost of medical repatriation—flying you back to the UK for treatment if you are seriously ill or injured. This can run into tens of thousands of pounds.
- UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI): This is designed for UK residents to get private treatment within the UK. Most policies offer very limited or no cover for treatment abroad, and they require you to be a UK resident.
As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies issued, WeCovr specialises in helping people find the right private medical insurance in the UK and abroad. Moving overseas is an exciting adventure, but navigating healthcare in a new country can be a significant source of stress without the right protection.
Policy features, international cover, and best providers for UK nationals abroad
For the millions of UK nationals living overseas, securing reliable healthcare is a top priority. While the NHS provides a safety net at home, once you move abroad, that comprehensive cover largely disappears. This is where specialist private medical insurance for expats—often called International Private Medical Insurance (iPMI)—becomes not just a luxury, but an essential part of your new life.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the crucial differences between UK and international policies to choosing the best provider for your needs.
Why Do UK Expats Need Specialist Health Insurance?
Many British citizens assume their UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or the old European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will cover them. However, these cards have significant limitations.
- Limited Scope: The GHIC/EHIC scheme provides access to state-provided healthcare in EU countries (and a few others) at the same cost as a local resident. It is not private healthcare.
- Not for Permanent Moves: These cards are designed for temporary stays, like holidays or business trips. If you become a resident in another country, you are generally no longer entitled to use a UK-issued GHIC. You must register with the local healthcare system.
- Variable Quality: State healthcare quality varies dramatically across the globe. What is considered standard in one country may be severely lacking in another. Relying on the local state system could mean long waiting lists, language barriers, and a lower standard of care than you're used to.
- No Repatriation: A GHIC will never cover the cost of medical repatriation—flying you back to the UK for treatment if you are seriously ill or injured. This can run into tens of thousands of pounds.
Real-life Example: Imagine you're a UK expat living in a rural part of Spain. You suffer a serious fall and require complex orthopaedic surgery. The local state hospital has a six-month waiting list. With a quality international health insurance policy, you could be seen by a specialist in a private hospital within days, ensuring a faster recovery and better outcome.
UK PMI vs. International PMI: The Crucial Difference
It is vital to understand that a standard UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI) policy is not suitable for an expatriate.
- UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI): This is designed for UK residents to get private treatment within the UK. Most policies offer very limited or no cover for treatment abroad, and they require you to be a UK resident.
- International Private Medical Insurance (iPMI): This is the correct type of policy for someone living or working overseas for an extended period (typically more than six months). It is specifically designed to provide comprehensive medical cover in your new country of residence and often worldwide.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the key differences:
| Feature | Standard UK PMI | International PMI (iPMI) |
|---|---|---|
| Geographical Cover | Primarily United Kingdom | Your chosen region (e.g., Europe, Worldwide) |
| Target Audience | UK residents | Expatriates, global nomads, long-term travellers |
| Medical Evacuation | Not typically included | Often a core feature or essential add-on |
| Multi-currency Options | Sterling (£) only | Usually available in £, $, € |
| Global Support | UK-based support | 24/7 multilingual global assistance lines |
| Portability | Policy often ends if you move abroad | Can move with you to different countries |
The Golden Rule: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions
This is the single most important concept to understand about private health insurance, whether in the UK or internationally.
Private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.
- Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a broken bone, appendicitis, cataracts, joint replacement).
- Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires palliative care (e.g., diabetes, asthma, hypertension, multiple sclerosis).
- Pre-existing Condition: Any medical condition for which you have experienced symptoms, or for which you have sought advice or treatment, before the start date of your policy.
Standard iPMI policies will not cover the routine management of chronic conditions or treatment for pre-existing conditions. This is because insurance is designed to protect against unforeseen future events, not to pay for known, ongoing medical needs.
Core Features of a Good International Health Insurance Policy
When comparing iPMI plans, you'll see a range of features and options. Here are the most important ones to look for.
1. Area of Cover
This is the geographical region where you are covered for treatment. Insurers typically offer tiered options:
- Europe: Covers you for treatment within European countries.
- Worldwide excluding USA: A very popular option, providing global cover except for in the United States, where medical costs are exceptionally high.
- Worldwide including USA: The most comprehensive and expensive option, essential if you live in the USA or spend significant time there.
Choosing the right area is crucial. If you live in France but travel frequently to Asia for work, you'll need a plan that covers both regions.
2. In-patient and Day-patient Cover
This is the foundation of every health insurance policy.
- In-patient: Treatment that requires you to be admitted to a hospital bed overnight or longer. This includes surgery, accommodation, and nursing care.
- Day-patient: Treatment where you are admitted to a hospital or clinic for a procedure but do not stay overnight (e.g., a minor surgical procedure).
Almost all iPMI policies cover in-patient and day-patient treatment in full, up to an annual limit.
3. Out-patient Cover
This covers medical treatment that does not require a hospital admission. It's often offered as an optional add-on or in higher-tier plans. It includes:
- Consultations with GPs and specialists.
- Diagnostic tests like blood tests, X-rays, MRI, and CT scans.
- Physiotherapy and other therapies.
A plan with strong out-patient cover provides a more comprehensive, 'day-to-day' healthcare solution.
4. Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
This is a non-negotiable feature for most expats.
- Medical Evacuation: If you are somewhere with inadequate medical facilities, this covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest centre of medical excellence.
- Medical Repatriation: This covers the cost of returning you to your home country (e.g., the UK) for treatment if medically necessary.
Without this cover, an emergency evacuation can easily cost over £100,000, making it a vital part of any expat policy. (illustrative estimate)
5. Cancer Care
Leading insurers provide extensive cancer cover, which can include diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and even experimental treatments. Check the details carefully, as limits and the types of treatment covered can vary.
6. Mental Health Support
Awareness of mental health has grown significantly. Many iPMI providers now include cover for psychiatric treatment, therapy sessions, and access to mental wellbeing support lines. This can be invaluable when dealing with the stresses of adapting to a new country.
7. Optional Extras: Dental and Vision
Routine dental check-ups, fillings, and eye tests are not usually covered by standard plans. You can often add a dental and vision module to your policy for an extra premium, which covers routine care as well as major procedures like crowns or orthodontics.
Choosing Your Level of Cover: Finding the Right Balance
Insurers typically offer several tiers of cover, from basic "catastrophe" plans to fully comprehensive ones.
| Tier | Typical Inclusions | Best For... |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze / Basic | - In-patient and day-patient care - Emergency evacuation - Limited cancer cover | Expats in countries with good public healthcare who want a safety net for major emergencies and surgery. |
| Silver / Standard | - All Bronze features - Comprehensive out-patient cover - More extensive cancer care | Expats who want comprehensive cover for both emergencies and day-to-day diagnostics and consultations. |
| Gold / Premium | - All Silver features - Maternity cover - Routine dental and vision care - Higher annual limits | Expats who want complete peace of mind, families planning to have children, or those who want all their health needs in one plan. |
When choosing, consider:
- Your Location: The cost and quality of local healthcare. If it's expensive or poor, you need more comprehensive cover.
- Your Health & Lifestyle: Are you active and healthy, or do you have a family history of certain conditions?
- Your Budget: An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you find a plan that fits your budget without compromising on essential protection.
Underwriting: Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting
When you apply for a policy, the insurer needs to assess your health history. This is called underwriting. You'll typically have two choices.
1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting
This is the "wait and see" approach. You don't need to declare your full medical history on the application. Instead, the insurer will automatically exclude any condition you've had symptoms of, or sought treatment for, in the last 5 years.
This exclusion can be lifted for a specific condition if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) after your policy starts without having any symptoms, treatment, or advice for it.
- Pros: Quick and simple application process.
- Cons: Lack of certainty. A claim could be rejected if the insurer decides it relates to a pre-existing condition, leading to delays and stress.
2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
With FMU, you provide your complete medical history on the application form. The insurer's medical team assesses it and tells you upfront exactly what is and isn't covered. They may apply specific exclusions to your policy (e.g., "no cover for treatment related to the left knee").
- Pros: Complete clarity and peace of mind from day one. You know exactly where you stand.
- Cons: The application process is longer and more detailed.
For expats, Full Medical Underwriting is almost always the recommended option. The certainty it provides is invaluable when you are in a foreign country and need to know your cover is secure.
Top International Health Insurance Providers for UK Expats
The iPMI market is dominated by a few global giants known for their extensive networks and excellent service. While the "best" provider depends on your individual circumstances, these are consistently top performers.
| Provider | Key Features | Best For... |
|---|---|---|
| Bupa Global | - Premium brand with a vast direct settlement network - High annual limits and comprehensive benefits - Excellent mental health and wellness support | Those seeking premium, comprehensive cover with a strong global reputation and minimal out-of-pocket expenses. |
| Axa Global | - Flexible and modular plans to suit different budgets - Strong digital tools and virtual doctor service - Excellent customer service and global presence | Individuals and families looking for a flexible balance of cover and cost from a trusted global brand. |
| Cigna Global | - Highly customisable plans - Strong focus on preventative care and wellness - Large global network and 24/7 support | Expats who want to build a bespoke plan tailored to their exact needs, with options for US cover. |
| Allianz Care | - Wide range of plans from basic to premium - Excellent support services for expats (e.g., finding doctors) - Strong digital health apps and services | Individuals and corporate clients looking for reliable, well-regarded cover with strong digital integration. |
This is just a snapshot. The market is complex, and policies change. This is where using a specialist broker becomes essential.
The Value of an Expert Broker like WeCovr
Trying to compare these global policies on your own can be overwhelming. An independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr acts as your expert guide.
- Market-Wide Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare plans from across the market to find the best fit for you.
- No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a penny extra.
- Policy Expertise: We understand the fine print, the jargon, and the nuances between policies. We can explain the difference between a co-payment and an excess, or why one cancer care benefit is better than another.
- Application & Claims Support: We help you with the paperwork and can provide assistance if you ever need to make a claim.
- Added Value: When you arrange a policy through us, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your wellness goals. Plus, clients who purchase private health or life insurance often receive discounts on other types of cover.
Healthy Living Abroad: Proactive Wellness for Expats
Your health insurance is a safety net, but the best strategy is to stay healthy in the first place. Moving abroad can disrupt your routines, so it's important to be proactive.
- Diet: Explore the local cuisine but be mindful. Prioritise fresh fruit, vegetables, and lean proteins. Use an app like CalorieHero to stay on top of your nutrition as you adapt to new foods.
- Activity: A new location is a great opportunity to find new ways to be active. Explore local parks, hiking trails, or join a sports club to meet people and stay fit.
- Sleep: Jet lag and a new environment can disrupt sleep. Establish a regular sleep schedule, make your bedroom a dark and quiet sanctuary, and avoid screens before bed.
- Stress Management: Moving is one of life's most stressful events. Practice mindfulness, stay connected with friends and family back home, and don't be afraid to use the mental health support services included in your iPMI policy.
- Regular Check-ups: Use your out-patient cover for annual health screenings to catch any potential issues early.
By pairing a healthy lifestyle with a robust international private medical insurance policy, you can enjoy your expat adventure with complete peace of mind.
Will my international health insurance cover me when I visit the UK?
What is the difference between an excess and a co-payment?
Do I have to cancel my policy if I move to another country?
Ready to secure your health and peace of mind abroad? The world of international health insurance is complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors will compare the top providers to find the perfect private medical insurance policy for your new life as a UK expat.
Sources
- Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
- Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
- HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
