Why do I need International Health Insurance?

If you are living abroad for more than six months a year, it is crucial to have adequate health protection in place to cover any unexpected injuries or illnesses.

Why? If you live in an EU country, you will not be eligible for NHS treatment if you spend more than six months there in any one year. If you live outside the EU, you will not qualify if you are away for more than three months in any one year.

In emergencies, you may be able to access free treatment in the country you staying in, but some countries will require foreign citizens to pay for treatment, so it's a good idea to have international health insurance in place to cover the costs. This will also allow you to choose where and how you want to be treated – the state healthcare systems in some countries may be inadequate compared to the treatment and facilities available in privately owned hospitals. Having international health insurance will cover the costs of private healthcare and this might be preferable, even if the state is willing to cover some of your treatment costs.     

Those who are interested in taking out international health insurance should contact a broker to find specialist insurers.