How to Get International Group Health Insurance

Expanding communication and travel options have enabled many businesses to go global. As more people are living outside the United States while working for an American-based business, the need for international group health insurance is paramount. The challenge for insurance providers is to offer coverage for U.S. citizens in a country that may not provide traditional health care such as what's available in the United States.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Prepare for Health Emergencies Abroad

1. Expect to get a health insurance policy that is tailored to the local region. International employers must meet the needs of United States citizens working abroad, as well as provide a policy that addresses the health care of the local nationals.

2. Get a policy that equals the requirements of government-sponsored plans in the country where you plan to live. Some countries will not allow U.S. citizens to participate in a local insurance plan even though they live and work in that country.

3. Read and understand the requirements of the carrier of international policies. In order to qualify as a U.S. citizen living in another country, qualifying restrictions may include the necessity of living at least 6 months per year in the designated country.

4. Apply for an international group policy for your business that provides coverage with minimal medical information requirements. Some local employees in Third World countries may have little or no recorded medical history to report for insurance qualification.

5. Use the services of a qualified and experienced international insurance agent or consultant to get the best option for servicing your employees abroad. It's wise to use companies with at least 10 years of satisfactory service to clients.

6. Get a group policy for travel abroad. Some insurance agencies offer group policies when as few as 5 or more United States citizens or non-citizens travel outside their home country. Minimum requirements for travel vary with different providers.

7. Compare quotes for international health insurance coverage for your employees or group. Fill out an online quote request form to get the best prices from several companies that offer international policies.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the policy includes emergency medical evacuation coverage for transportation back to the United States in the event of illness or injury that cannot be properly treated in the country abroad.
• Include coverage for acts of terrorism in the policy.
• It is necessary to stay with a group policy to guarantee coverage when returning to the United States. Individual policyholders may be denied coverage for preexisting conditions.