What is the best international health insurance for long-term expats living abroad?

For long-term expats, international health insurance needs to do more than cover emergencies. It needs to provide continuous, renewable cover that works wherever you live, adapts if you relocate, and gives you reliable access to private healthcare year after year. Expatriate Group offers four plans suited to long-term expatriates at different levels of need and budget.

Primary is the foundation plan, covering inpatient hospital treatment, surgery, specialist care and emergency medical treatment worldwide. It is suited to long-term expats who want essential protection at a lower premium, particularly those in countries where outpatient care through local health systems is accessible.

Primary PLUS adds outpatient cover to the inpatient foundation, including GP consultations, specialist referrals, diagnostic tests and prescribed medications. It is the most popular choice for long-term expats who want day-to-day healthcare access without relying on local systems.

Select builds further with higher benefit limits, an annual medical check-up and preventive screenings. It suits expats in more demanding locations, those with families, or anyone who wants a proactive approach to health management while living overseas long term.

Premier is the most comprehensive plan, with the highest benefit limits across all categories. It is suited to long-term expats with complex healthcare needs, senior professionals, or those in regions where private medical costs are high.

All four plans include:

Short-term travel insurance is not designed for extended stays and typically will not cover you once you are considered a resident of another country. Local health systems vary significantly in quality and accessibility, and private treatment abroad can be expensive without the right cover in place. International health insurance from Expatriate Group is built to remain in place year after year, giving long-term expats continuity of care regardless of where their circumstances take them.

If you are reviewing your options for 2026, the key decision is whether outpatient cover is a priority. If you want comprehensive day-to-day access to private healthcare, Primary PLUS or Select is the right starting point. If you need inpatient protection only, Primary provides solid cover at a lower cost. All plans can be tailored with optional add-ons including dental, maternity and medical evacuation cover.