Any expat should choose his/her insurance carefully, especially the younger ones.
But with so many options out there, it’s difficult to know which one is the best international health insurance for young adults.
The ideal solution depends on the country of expatriation and the situation of each person. In this article, you will find some tips to help you in your quest.
Does Social Security Cover the Insurance of a Young Expatriate?
Useful, but Not the Best International Health Insurance for Young Adults
Some countries allow their citizens to keep covered by their Social Security when they move abroad.
It’s important to check before leaving, to be aware of the coverages, conditions, and limitations.
It’s also recommended to check the public medical system in the country where you are moving to.
Sometimes, affiliating to it might be mandatory, and in other cases might be optional.
In any of these cases, Social Security might not be the best option.
Depending on the country of expatriation, the cost of care can be high and the waiting times too long.
And this will force you to get complimentary insurance or a private policy if you want to have satisfactory coverage.
Outside of Europe: International Health Insurance Plans for Youth Are Better Than the Local Systems
Abroad, young expatriates can be partially covered by their parent’s Social Security. But only if they are students, or not older than a specific age.
The limit is between 20 and 26 years old, depending on the country.
Beyond that age, they have to get an international health insurance plan for youth.
Generally speaking, the Social Security and student’s insurances only cover sudden and unforeseeable illnesses.
And all expenses must be advanced on-site for later reimbursement based on receipts.
This reimbursement is based on the health care rates in their home country.
And they are often lower than the rates in a lot of hosts countries.
In case of needing medical assistance, the young expats will have to pay a considerable amount from their pockets.
In some countries, it is possible, or even mandatory, to join the local student or general Social Security system.
And some employers may cover the insurance of the young expatriate in their company.
However, it is important to be well informed, as these solutions do not always offer enough guarantees.
Choosing the Best International Health Insurance for Young Adults
For expatriate insurance, it is generally recommended to look for private options.
They will allow the expat to be better covered in any circumstances, including all health expenses.
Taking out specific insurance may even be mandatory to obtain certain visas, or to be able to get an internship or study abroad.
International Health Insurance Plans for Youth Through Social Security
Social Security insurances are available in some countries, also for young people that go abroad and are not covered by their parents anymore.
Since it’s a public service, it doesn’t refuse any membership. And it neither apply extra charges in case of chronic illness.
For this, it can be a good insurance solution for a young expatriate with pre-existing medical conditions.
However, as it’s been mentioned, its reimbursements are based on the country of origin prices. And the coverage might be insufficient in countries where health costs are high.
To be better reimbursed, you must consider taking out a complimentary insurance policy with a private organization.
This requires the payment of a second contribution, as well as more complex procedures.
Private International Health Insurance Plans for Youth
The subscription to a “first euro/dollar” contract is a very interesting option. These policies take care of the health expenses from the first euro or dollar spent.
And the reimbursements are based on the real costs of care in the country of expatriation.
Many private companies offer this type of insurance. And it’s possible to choose a formula that is more adapted to the budget and needs of each individual.
For a lot of expats, this option is the best international health insurance for young adults.
These offers are specially designed to meet the needs of expatriates. They include repatriation services, legal assistance, and coverage during stays in other countries.
These insurances are often based on good partnerships with local health care networks. They provide quick reimbursements and fast treatment.
The management of the contract is also easygoing. You will have to report to a single person, and all the communication will be done in English.
However, unlike Social Security, private companies may refuse membership or apply additional premiums for young expatriates with pre-existing conditions.
