Best International Health Insurance in Singapore 2024

Whether you are an expat in Singapore or a Singaporean living abroad, international health insurance can be a great way to ensure sufficient medical coverage. Our health insurance experts analysed benefit and premium data from 40 international insurance plans in Singapore to get to our top picks for ex-pats, Singaporeans living abroad and students. Find the best plan for you by reading about our top picks from the category that best matches your needs.

Compare the Best International Health Insurance

If you are an expat or are a Singaporean who lives or works abroad, an international health insurance policy can keep you and your family protected. We analysed dozens of premiums and benefits from the top health insurers in Singapore and abroad to find which plans best fit your needs.

This graph shows the cheapest international health insurance plans for expats living in Singapore and Singaporeans who need international coverage

Best Cheap International Health Insurance: FWD International 2m & 3m

Consider this if you are an international citizen who wants high quality healthcare for a great price
  • Optional Deductible
    • S$0-S$10,000
    • Hospitalisation Accommodation
      • Public Shared/Standard Single
      BenefitsBenefit LimitIndustry Avg.
      Annual LimitS$2,000,000S$2,107,962
      Hospitalisation & Surgical BenefitsPaid in FullPaid in Full
      Pre-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)9096
      Post-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)90106
      Cancer TreatmentPaid in FullPaid In Full
      Medical EvacuationS$1,000,000S$2,001,004
      Emergency DentalPaid in FullPaid in Full

      Whether you are a Singaporean who frequently travels for work abroad or you are a foreigner looking for more comprehensive health coverage in Singapore, FWD's International Health Insurance 2m and 3m plans provide comprehensive coverage for market-beating premiums. While these plans cost 75% below the industry average, FWD's annual limit of S$2,000,000-S$3,000,000 makes them some of the highest value plans available.

      To give you peace of mind, it also provides 100% coverage for some of the most life-threatening procedures including cancer treatment, organ transplants and pregnancy complications regardless of where you are located. Furthermore, if you don't make any hospitalisation claims for two years, your annual limit will double, making FWD a great high coverage option for generally healthy individuals.

      For those who want coverage beyond inpatient hospitalisation, you can also add maternity, dental and outpatient coverage. However, while the increased cost to add dental and outpatient is around the industry norm, maternity benefits cost almost S$3,500 extra and can only be added with the purchase of the outpatient package. Thus, while FWD is a great value option for the average international citizen, budget-conscious women and families may be priced out as annual premiums can reach S$10,000.

      Consider this if you are an international citizen who wants high quality healthcare for a great price
      • Optional Deductible
        • S$0-S$10,000
        • Hospitalisation Accommodation
          • Public Shared/Standard Single
          BenefitLimitIndustry Avg.
          Annual LimitS$2,000,000S$2,107,962
          Hospitalisation/SurgicalPaid in FullPaid in Full
          Pre-Hospitalisation90 Days96 Days
          Post-Hospitalisation90 Days106 Days
          CancerPaid in FullPaid In Full
          Medical EvacuationS$1,000,000S$2,001,004
          Emergency DentalPaid in FullPaid in Full

          Whether you are a Singaporean who frequently travels for work abroad or you are a foreigner looking for more comprehensive health coverage in Singapore, FWD's International Health Insurance 2m and 3m plans provide comprehensive coverage for market-beating premiums. While these plans cost 75% below the industry average, FWD's annual limit of S$2,000,000-S$3,000,000 makes them some of the highest value plans available.

          To give you peace of mind, it also provides 100% coverage for some of the most life-threatening procedures including cancer treatment, organ transplants and pregnancy complications regardless of where you are located. Furthermore, if you don't make any hospitalisation claims for two years, your annual limit will double, making FWD a great high coverage option for generally healthy individuals.

          For those who want coverage beyond inpatient hospitalisation, you can also add maternity, dental and outpatient coverage. However, while the increased cost to add dental and outpatient is around the industry norm, maternity benefits cost almost S$3,500 extra and can only be added with the purchase of the outpatient package. Thus, while FWD is a great value option for the average international citizen, budget-conscious women and families may be priced out as annual premiums can reach S$10,000.

          Best International Health Insurance for Expat Families in Singapore: MSIG Platinum

          Consider this if you are a foreigner looking for coverage for your family and for business trips outside of Singapore
          • Optional Deductible
            • S$2,500-S$30,000
            • Hospitalisation Accommodation
              • Standard 1-Bedded Private Hospital
              BenefitLimitIndustry Avg.
              Annual LimitS$3,000,000S$2,107,962
              Hospitalisation & Surgical BenefitsS$1,000,000-S$2,000,000Paid in Full
              Pre-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)18096
              Post-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)180106
              Cancer TreatmentS$1,000,000Paid In Full
              Medical EvacuationS$1,000,000S$2,001,004
              Emergency DentalS$1,000,000Paid in Full

              MSIG Platinum is one of the best international medical insurance for foreigners with families in Singapore. Its premiums are quite affordable for a top-tier plan, costing 31-58% less than the industry average, while its annual limit of S$1 million is expanded to S$2 million if you are hospitalised while overseas. You will also have S$1,000,000 of coverage for ICU, cancer treatment, day surgery, inpatient psych treatment, accidental dental cover and adult hospital accommodation (for hospitalised children). Additionally, family plans receive a 5% discount in addition to affordable maternity add-ons. In fact, including the maternity option, MSIG ends up around 30% cheaper than its closest competitor Singaporean based competitor FWD.

              For expats who just moved to Singapore and are new to navigating overseas business trips, MSIG also offers an invaluable medical assistance benefit. It includes emergency medical advice and administrative services for visa, immunisation, vaccination information, retrieval and redirection of lost luggage and replacement of lost travel documents. However, expats should note that their coverage will terminate automatically as soon as they return to their respective home country. Also, coverage outside of Singapore is short (90 days), so business travellers who take long-term international assignments should be careful. To apply for this plan or learn more, reach out to our advisors at PolicyPal by clicking "Get a Quote".

              Consider this if you are a foreigner looking for coverage for your family and for business trips outside of Singapore
              • Optional Deductible
                • S$2,500-S$30,000
                • Hospitalisation Accommodation
                  • Standard 1-Bedded Private Hospital
                  BenefitLimitIndustry Avg.
                  Annual LimitS$3,000,000S$2,107,962
                  Hospitalisation & Surgical BenefitsS$1,000,000-S$2,000,000Paid in Full
                  Pre-Hospitalisation180 Days96 Days
                  Post-Hospitalisation180 Days106 Days
                  CancerS$1,000,000Paid In Full
                  Medical EvacuationS$1,000,000S$2,001,004
                  Emergency DentalS$1,000,000Paid in Full

                  MSIG Platinum is one of the best international medical insurance for foreigners with families in Singapore. Its premiums are quite affordable for a top-tier plan, costing 31-58% less than the industry average, while its annual limit of S$1 million is expanded to S$2 million if you are hospitalised while overseas. You will also have S$1,000,000 of coverage for ICU, cancer treatment, day surgery, inpatient psych treatment, accidental dental cover and adult hospital accommodation (for hospitalised children). Additionally, family plans receive a 5% discount in addition to affordable maternity add-ons. In fact, including the maternity option, MSIG ends up around 30% cheaper than its closest competitor Singaporean based competitor FWD.

                  For expats who just moved to Singapore and are new to navigating overseas business trips, MSIG also offers an invaluable medical assistance benefit. It includes emergency medical advice and administrative services for visa, immunisation, vaccination information, retrieval and redirection of lost luggage and replacement of lost travel documents. However, expats should note that their coverage will terminate automatically as soon as they return to their respective home country. Also, coverage outside of Singapore is short (90 days), so business travellers who take long-term international assignments should be careful. To apply for this plan or learn more, reach out to our advisors at PolicyPal by clicking "Get a Quote".

                  Cheapest International Health Insurance for Students: FWD International 100k

                  Consider this if you are a healthy international student on a budget
                  • Optional Deductible
                    • S$0-S$10,000
                    • Hospitalisation Accommodation
                      • Public Shared/Standard Single
                      BenefitLimitIndustry Avg.
                      Annual LimitS$100,000S$2,107,962
                      Hospitalisation & Surgical BenefitsS$100,000Paid in Full
                      Pre-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)9096
                      Post-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)90106
                      Cancer TreatmentPaid in FullPaid In Full
                      Medical EvacuationPaid in FullS$2,001,004
                      Emergency DentalPaid in FullPaid in Full

                      If you are a Singaporean student who is planning on studying abroad, FWD International 100k will be your cheapest option. For students under the age of 18, their parents will have to pay an annual premium of around S$1,500. Students over the age of 18 will have to purchase the policy on their own for about S$500. Regardless of the scenario, FWD is one of the cheapest student international medical plans in the country. In terms of student-friendly perks, FWD offers 24/7 medical advice, doubling of your annual limit if you made no hospitalisation claims for two years and parental accommodation of up to S$250 per night. Hospital coverage includes payment in full for day-care treatment, surgeries, fees, ICU, reconstructive surgery and diagnostic tests (MRI's, CT, PET, etc.), giving you peace of mind if you end up in a serious accident while abroad.

                      While FWD's International 100k plan is well suited for students on a budget, you may not receive enough coverage if you suffer from unique medical conditions or life situations. For instance, those who want psychiatric benefits, AIDS/HIV coverage or maternity-related benefits will have to opt for a higher coverage plan, which can cost around S$200 extra.

                      Consider this if you are a healthy international student on a budget
                      • Optional Deductible
                        • S$0-S$10,000
                        • Hospitalisation Accommodation
                          • Public Shared/Standard Single
                          BenefitLimitIndustry Avg.
                          Annual LimitS$100,000S$2,107,962
                          Hospitalisation & SurgicalS$100,000Paid in Full
                          Pre-Hospitalisation90 Days96 Days
                          Post-Hospitalisation90 Days106 Days
                          CancerPaid in FullPaid In Full
                          Medical EvacuationPaid in FullS$2,001,004
                          Emergency DentalPaid in FullPaid in Full

                          If you are a Singaporean student who is planning on studying abroad, FWD International 100k will be your cheapest option. For students under the age of 18, their parents will have to pay an annual premium of around S$1,500. Students over the age of 18 will have to purchase the policy on their own for about S$500. Regardless of the scenario, FWD is one of the cheapest student international medical plans in the country. In terms of student-friendly perks, FWD offers 24/7 medical advice, doubling of your annual limit if you made no hospitalisation claims for two years and parental accommodation of up to S$250 per night. Hospital coverage includes payment in full for day-care treatment, surgeries, fees, ICU, reconstructive surgery and diagnostic tests (MRI's, CT, PET, etc.), giving you peace of mind if you end up in a serious accident while abroad.

                          While FWD's International 100k plan is well suited for students on a budget, you may not receive enough coverage if you suffer from unique medical conditions or life situations. For instance, those who want psychiatric benefits, AIDS/HIV coverage or maternity-related benefits will have to opt for a higher coverage plan, which can cost around S$200 extra.

                          Highest Coverage International Health Insurance: Cigna International Platinum

                          Consider this if you are looking for maximum protection against serious illnesses
                          • Optional Deductible
                            • S$0-S$1,500
                            • Hospitalisation Accommodation
                              • Standard Private Single
                              BenefitsLimitIndustry Avg.
                              Annual LimitUnlimitedS$2,107,962
                              Hospitalisation & Surgical BenefitsPaid in FullPaid in Full
                              Pre-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)N/A96
                              Post-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)N/A106
                              Cancer TreatmentPaid in FullPaid In Full
                              Medical EvacuationPaid in FullS$2,001,004
                              Emergency DentalPaid in FullPaid in Full

                              For seniors or those who simply want to max out their medical coverage, Cigna International Platinum can be a great choice. While the plan costs slightly above average for most ages, it is one of the cheapest top-tier coverage options for Singaporean and expat seniors. Cigna is sure to please those who are willing to pay more for more comprehensive coverage, as it offers an unlimited annual limit and a myriad of 100% coverage ranging from surgery to MRI, CT, PET scans and private hospital room coverage. Its unique benefits include coverage for home-births, treatment for disorders/addiction and congenital conditions as well as certain pre-existing medical conditions (for an additional fee).

                              In addition to the core benefits, you will also have the options to create one of the most customisable plans on the market. While Cigna offers the standard dental, outpatient and maternity option packages, it also offers a Health and Wellbeing package that offers full coverage for routine physicals, cancer screenings and life management programmes (up to 5 counseling sessions). Lastly, provided your trip to the US is under 3 weeks, you will still receive US coverage even if you didn't opt for a US-inclusive policy. This is a unique benefit as other insurers don't provide extra geographical coverage unless it is paid for. To apply for this plan or learn more, reach out to our advisors at PolicyPal by clicking "Get a Quote".

                              Consider this if you are looking for maximum protection against serious illnesses
                              • Optional Deductible
                                • S$0-S$1,500
                                • Hospitalisation Accommodation
                                  • Standard Private Single
                                  BenefitsLimitIndustry Avg.
                                  Annual LimitUnlimitedS$2,107,962
                                  Hospitalisation/SurgicalPaid in FullPaid in Full
                                  Pre-HospitalisationN/A96 Days
                                  Post-HospitalisationN/A106 Days
                                  CancerPaid in FullPaid In Full
                                  Medical EvacuationPaid in FullS$2,001,004
                                  Emergency DentalPaid in FullPaid in Full

                                  For seniors or those who simply want to max out their medical coverage, Cigna International Platinum can be a great choice. While the plan costs slightly above average for most ages, it is one of the cheapest top-tier coverage options for Singaporean and expat seniors. Cigna is sure to please those who are willing to pay more for more comprehensive coverage, as it offers an unlimited annual limit and a myriad of 100% coverage ranging from surgery to MRI, CT, PET scans and private hospital room coverage. Its unique benefits include coverage for home-births, treatment for disorders/addiction and congenital conditions as well as certain pre-existing medical conditions (for an additional fee).

                                  In addition to the core benefits, you will also have the options to create one of the most customisable plans on the market. While Cigna offers the standard dental, outpatient and maternity option packages, it also offers a Health and Wellbeing package that offers full coverage for routine physicals, cancer screenings and life management programmes (up to 5 counseling sessions). Lastly, provided your trip to the US is under 3 weeks, you will still receive US coverage even if you didn't opt for a US-inclusive policy. This is a unique benefit as other insurers don't provide extra geographical coverage unless it is paid for. To apply for this plan or learn more, reach out to our advisors at PolicyPal by clicking "Get a Quote".

                                  Best International Health Insurance for US Coverage: Now Health WorldCare Essential

                                  Consider this if you are a US citizen living and working in Singapore
                                  • Optional Deductible
                                    • S$1,334-S$20,020
                                    • Hospitalisation Accommodation
                                      • Semi-Private/Standard Single
                                      BenefitsBenefit LimitIndustry Avg.
                                      Annual LimitS$3,900,000S$2,107,962
                                      Hospitalisation & Surgical BenefitsPaid in FullPaid in Full
                                      Pre-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)N/A96
                                      Post-Hospitalisation Coverage (Days)N/A106
                                      Cancer TreatmentPaid in FullPaid In Full
                                      Medical EvacuationPaid in FullS$2,001,004
                                      Emergency DentalPaid in FullPaid in Full

                                      Now Health's WorldCare Essential plan will benefit US citizens who are currently residing in Singapore and also want coverage for emergency treatment back home. Though premiums for the Essential plan are around 4% to 17% higher than the market average, you will have 100% coverage for inpatient psych treatment, parental accommodation, ambulance transportation, cancer, reconstructive surgery, evacuation and repatriation, and pregnancy and childbirth medical conditions (inpatient only). For those looking to get US coverage without paying extra for a worldwide plan that includes the US (in exchange for much higher premiums), you will also receive emergency non-elective surgery benefits up to 30 days in the USA, as well as an option to add USD$1.5 million of elective treatment benefits for inpatient and day-patient treatment.

                                      However, WorldCare Essential is not recommended for those who need maternity or dental coverage, as these benefits are only available in Now Health's higher coverage plans, which cost about 40% more. Additionally, this plan will not benefit Singaporeans living in the United States as coverage for this demographic isn't offered at all. Thus, this plan is the best option for healthy, single US expats who are focused on supplementing their corporate plan's coverage. To apply for this plan or learn more, reach out to our advisors at PolicyPal by clicking "Get a Quote".

                                      Consider this if you are a US citizen living and working in Singapore
                                      • Optional Deductible
                                        • S$1,334-S$20,020
                                        • Hospitalisation Accommodation
                                          • Semi-Private/Standard Single
                                          BenefitsBenefit LimitIndustry Avg.
                                          Annual LimitS$3,900,000S$2,107,962
                                          Hospitalisation/SurgicalPaid in FullPaid in Full
                                          Pre-HospitalisationN/A96 Days
                                          Post-HospitalisationN/A106 Days
                                          CancerPaid in FullPaid In Full
                                          Medical EvacuationPaid in FullS$2,001,004
                                          Emergency DentalPaid in FullPaid in Full

                                          Now Health's WorldCare Essential plan will benefit US citizens who are currently residing in Singapore and also want coverage for emergency treatment back home. Though premiums for the Essential plan are around 4% to 17% higher than the market average, you will have 100% coverage for inpatient psych treatment, parental accommodation, ambulance transportation, cancer, reconstructive surgery, evacuation and repatriation, and pregnancy and childbirth medical conditions (inpatient only). For those looking to get US coverage without paying extra for a worldwide plan that includes the US (in exchange for much higher premiums), you will also receive emergency non-elective surgery benefits up to 30 days in the USA, as well as an option to add USD$1.5 million of elective treatment benefits for inpatient and day-patient treatment.

                                          However, WorldCare Essential is not recommended for those who need maternity or dental coverage, as these benefits are only available in Now Health's higher coverage plans, which cost about 40% more. Additionally, this plan will not benefit Singaporeans living in the United States as coverage for this demographic isn't offered at all. Thus, this plan is the best option for healthy, single US expats who are focused on supplementing their corporate plan's coverage. To apply for this plan or learn more, reach out to our advisors at PolicyPal by clicking "Get a Quote".

                                          What Is International Health Insurance?

                                          International health insurance is a health insurance policy that provides healthcare cover to expats worldwide. Unlike Integrated Shield Plans that are limited to coverage in Singapore, international health insurance will provide protection whether you are an expat living in Singapore or a Singaporean living somewhere else in the world. It's important to note the difference between international health insurance and travel insurance, as the latter does not provide comprehensive health coverage when you travel overseas.

                                          International Health Insurance Annual Premiums For Males, Aged 45

                                          This graph shows the cheapest international health insurance plans for expats living in Singapore and Singaporeans who need international coverage

                                          What Does International Health Insurance Cover?

                                          International health insurance covers medical costs that you may face in your new country of residence. Most international health insurance plans include core benefits that cover inpatient medical services and some emergency out-patient services. With a comprehensive in-patient plan and optional riders, you and your family would be covered for the some, if not all, of the following:

                                          • Hospitalisation
                                          • Outpatient Care
                                          • Travel Emergency
                                          • Dental
                                          • Wellness & Vision
                                          • Maternity Care & Pregnancy

                                          In addition to coverage you may expect from a health insurance plan, many international health insurance policies target unique medical needs for expats and travelling families. For instance, many plans cover medical repatriation in the case you face an emergency overseas and need to be evacuated back to your home country. Additionally, you will find that international health insurance providers have a network of global practices, so that you can feel confident knowing you have access to affordable healthcare no matter where you go.

                                          When Do You Need International Health Insurance?

                                          Expats in Singapore or Singaporeans living abroad can benefit from getting international health insurance. For instance, foreigners who have settled in Singapore and are insured under their company may not find their current benefits high enough and can thus seek an international health plan to supplement their coverage. Similarly, Singaporeans who tend to travel often and for extended periods of time may benefit from an international health insurance plan sinceMediShield Life and private health insurance plans don't offer international coverage and annual travel insurance may not provide enough medical coverage.

                                          How Do You Pick The Best International Health Insurance Plan?

                                          To choose the best international health insurance plan, you should weigh different factors like price, benefits and geographical area of coverage.

                                          First, you should keep in mind that the cheapest plan may not always be your best option. While health insurance can be expensive, you should judge the cost of the premium against the cost of healthcare in your country of residence. To get the best fit coverage, you should take into consideration your family's health history, your own potential health risks and any unexpected illnesses and accidents you may incur at your new destination. For instance, if you live in a country with exorbitant hospitalisation costs and you are at risk of serious illnesses, opting for a more expensive plan that provides high levels of coverage for that illness may be more beneficial than saving a couple hundred dollars on your premium.

                                          Second, you should take note of how you'll be covered if you travel outside of your country of residence. Some insurers may limit medical coverage outside of Singapore or your declared country of residence to a certain number of days.

                                          Lastly, you should consider where you'll need coverage for. Premiums change based on the region of travel/residency and also increase drastically for plans that include US coverage. If you don't intend to travel to the United States, you can save hundreds of dollars by excluding it from your policy.

                                          Methodology

                                          We compiled and analysed benefit and premium data from 8 international insurers and over 40 different plans. By carefully analysing each plan's benefits as well as its exclusions, we were able to discern which plans could provide the best coverage for a variety of demographics, ranging from young and healthy individuals to people who may need more comprehensive medical care. We also compiled quotes based on region of coverage to ensure these demographics get the most accurate pricing. For instance, we collected quotes for worldwide coverage plans to see what a Singaporean living abroad would pay and we collected quotes for Singapore or ASEAN coverage plans to see what an expat living in Singapore would play. This helped us segment plans in terms of value and who they may benefit most. However, please be advised that pricing and benefits may be subject to change. Before purchasing a health insurance policy, you should be sure to read the terms and conditions and ask your insurance advisor to explain any conditions you may not understand.

                                          Sample of Insurers Used
                                          AIAAXACignaFWD
                                          LibertyManuCareMSIGNow Health

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                                          Anastassia Evlanova

                                          Anastassia is a Senior Research Analyst at ValueChampion Singapore, evaluating insurance products for consumers based on quantitative and qualitative financial analysis. She holds degrees in Economics and International Business Management and her prior working experience includes work in the capital markets sector. Her analyses surrounding insurance, healthcare, international affairs and personal finance has been featured on AsiaOne, Business Insider, DW, Vice, Her World, Asia Insurance Review, the Australian Institute of International Affairs and more.

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