Expat Health Insurance Cost
Real prices and cost breakdowns for international health insurance — see what expats actually pay based on age, location, and coverage level.
One of the first questions expats ask: “How much will health insurance cost?” The answer depends on several factors, but we’ll give you real numbers based on actual plans available in 2026.
Expat health insurance cost comparison and pricing.
Average Cost Ranges
Here’s what you can expect to pay for international health insurance, based on a healthy individual living in Southeast Asia:
| Coverage Level | Age 30 | Age 45 | Age 60 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Inpatient (Asia-only) | $80-120/mo | $130-200/mo | $200-350/mo |
| Comprehensive (Asia-only) | $180-300/mo | $280-450/mo | $400-700/mo |
| Comprehensive (Worldwide excl. USA) | $250-400/mo | $380-600/mo | $550-900/mo |
| Comprehensive (Worldwide incl. USA) | $400-600/mo | $600-900/mo | $800-1,400/mo |
What Affects Your Premium?
Age
Age is the single biggest factor. Premiums typically increase 3-5% per year of age. A plan costing $150/month at age 30 might cost $250/month at age 50.
Coverage Area
Including the USA can double or triple your premium. If you occasionally visit the US, consider a worldwide-excluding-USA plan and buy separate travel insurance for US trips — it’s almost always cheaper.
Deductible
Choosing a deductible (excess) reduces your premium significantly:
- $0 deductible = base price
- $250 deductible = ~10-15% savings
- $1,000 deductible = ~25-35% savings
- $5,000 deductible = ~40-50% savings
Country of Residence
Living in Southeast Asia is generally the most affordable region. Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia typically have lower premiums than Singapore or Hong Kong. The Philippines and Indonesia fall in between.
Real Examples: What Expats Actually Pay
Example 1: Tom, 32, freelance developer in Bangkok
AXA SmartCare Global (Asia) with $500 deductible — $145/month. Covers inpatient + outpatient at Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital, and Samitivej.
Example 2: Sarah & James, 45 & 47, retired in Chiang Mai
Pacific Cross Premier (Worldwide excl. USA) with $1,000 deductible — $280/month each. Comprehensive coverage including dental and maternity.
Example 3: Lisa, 28, digital nomad traveling SEA
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance — $49/month. Basic coverage with emergency evacuation — ideal as supplemental insurance for low-risk young adults.
How to Save on Expat Health Insurance
- Exclude the USA from your coverage area
- Choose a higher deductible if you have emergency savings
- Consider regional (Asia-only) coverage if you don’t travel outside Asia
- Work with a broker who compares multiple providers
- Apply while young and healthy for the best rates
Compare Global Care helps you find the best value plan from 12+ providers. Get your free, personalized quote and see how much you could save.