What does international coverage mean?

Asked by: Prof. Heber Hackett I  |  Last update: December 19, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (52 votes)

International health insurance is medical coverage that covers expatriates living abroad for a long period of time. It's for those that have packed up and taken residence overseas. With this insurance, you can protect yourself in case of any health issues while living there.

What is international coverage?

International travel medical insurance is secondary emergency coverage for people who are leaving their home country and provides coverage while they are outside of their country, whether that's for a trip, work outside the country, a volunteer trip or any other travel circumstance.

How do I know if I have international health coverage?

So, the best way to find out whether your health insurance covers international travel is to contact your insurance provider.

What does international flight insurance cover?

Travel insurance FAQs

Policies vary, but most comprehensive plans cover travel cancellation and interruption, baggage delay and loss, medical care and emergency transportation.

What is the meaning of international insurance?

International Health Insurance – Long-term Health insurance for immigrants, expatriates, and global nomads living abroad for a year or more. Travel Medical Insurance – Covers medical expenses as well as other risks when traveling overseas for less than a year.

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Can I use my health insurance in another country?

Generally, most domestic health insurance policies are not accepted abroad, so there is a benefit to purchasing travel medical insurance as a supplement to your health insurance coverage. The travel medical coverage is only valid while you're traveling.

Why do I need international insurance?

International health insurance is designed to provide a comprehensive level of health care to those relocating from their home country for a sustained period of time, whereas travel insurance provides cover for emergency treatment while you are in another country for a shorter space of time.

Do I need travel insurance if I have health insurance?

Even if your health plan does cover you internationally, you may want to consider buying a special medical travel policy. Much of the additional coverage available is supplemental (or "secondary"), so it covers whatever expenses your health plan doesn't, such as deductibles.

What is international insurance fee?

The average annual cost of an international medical insurance plan is $5,500 per year. * However, plans range from as low as $500 with limited benefits to as much as $8,000 - $10,000, or more, for a comprehensive policy that includes coverage in the USA.

What is international travel insurance plan?

International Comprehensive Plan

Travel cover for overseas medical and dental emergencies, plus inclusions for unforeseen cancellations and lost/stolen valuables. 24-hour emergency assistance. 21 day cooling off period1. Overseas medical/dental expenses. COVID-19 benefits.

What happens if I get sick in another country?

Special care if you become ill or injured while traveling

Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a list of local healthcare providers and medical facilities. If your illness is serious, consular officers can help you find medical assistance. If you want, they can inform your family and friends.

What is an example of international health?

Examples of health issues that transcend borders include infectious diseases that travel between countries, as well as noncommunicable diseases and conditions that affect many populations around the world. Climate change and pollution are health determinants that affect everyone, especially the poor and vulnerable.

What is an international health insurance plan?

International health insurance is medical coverage that covers expatriates living abroad for a long period of time. It's for those that have packed up and taken residence overseas. With this insurance, you can protect yourself in case of any health issues while living there.

How do I know if my health insurance covers international?

U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. Private U.S. insurance policies also might not cover any or all expenses. Check with your insurance before traveling to see if it provides coverage overseas. More information is also available on the CDC insurance page.

What is an international plan?

International travel plans allow you to utilize your phone's apps, texting, maps, and other features while abroad. An international plan is a service that lets you use your phone in other countries. For instance, while most Verizon phones are global devices, some are not.

What is international health policy?

USP advances the quality, safety and benefit of medicines and foods across the globe through international policy and regulatory analysis, advocacy, and collaboration with governments, multilateral institutions, regional cooperation initiatives and other stakeholder organizations.

Is international health insurance worth it?

If you intend on traveling outside of the U.S. it's a good idea to purchase some form of travel medical insurance, even if you're in good health. This way, you're not stuck paying medical costs up-front in the case of an accident or emergency, since most U.S. health insurance policies don't provide coverage abroad.

What is a standard international fee?

Foreign transaction fees are typically around 2-3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars. 1 This fee might consist of a 1% fee charged by the payment processor, such as MasterCard or Visa, plus another 2% fee charged by the card issuer, such as Bank of America or Wells Fargo.

Do I need health insurance when traveling to Europe?

For those planning European travel, we recommend policies that offer at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage. The Medical Evacuation benefit provides reimbursement for emergency evacuation services to transport you to the nearest adequate medical facility or back home to receive the required medical care.

How much medical coverage do I need for international travel?

Every plan is different, but the coverage amounts and benefits may vary. Determine how much you really need. For example, SquareMouth recommends international travelers get around $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and $100,000 for cruises or travel to remote areas.

What is not covered in travel insurance?

According to Allianz Global Assistance, a travel insurance provider, "Trip cancellations and trip interruptions due to known, foreseeable, or expected events, epidemics, or fear of travel are generally not covered."

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover internationally?

As a Blue Cross and Blue Shield member, you take your healthcare benefits with you when you are abroad. Through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core program, you have access to doctors and hospitals around the world.

How much does international insurance cost?

The cost of international health insurance can vary widely, ranging from as low as $500 per year for limited coverage to as much as $8,000 per year for comprehensive global medical insurance, including coverage in the USA.

What is international travel insurance?

Travel insurance can help protect you from medical expenses abroad that your normal health insurance doesn't cover. Most health insurance plans don't provide full coverage in foreign countries and some health plans provide no coverage at all, including Medicare.

Do I need to tell insurance about going abroad?

Your motor insurance certificate. Your insurer may ask to be told when you're going abroad and only provide third party cover when you do. An International Driving Permit when necessary.