Young expats: Do you really need health insurance when studying abroad ?

What is expatriate health insurance?

First, let’s demystify what expatriate health insurance entails. Expat health insurance is a specialized medical coverage tailored for individuals who are living, studying, or working outside their home country. It acts as a safeguard against unforeseen and often exorbitant healthcare expenses in your host country.

While, depending on where you are headed, health insurance for students abroad may not always be a legal requirement, it is undeniably prudent. On one hand, being covered by health insurance as a student will undoubtedly ease your parents' concerns, but more importantly, it will shield you from unexpected medical costs that may arise during your studies abroad.

What are the health risks you face as a student abroad?

Even if you’re young and in robust health, life has a way of throwing curveballs at you. Indeed, unforeseen health issues are not beyond the realm of possibility. Whether it’s a dental emergency, a fracture, or a pre-existing condition like diabetes, your health can’t be taken for granted.

In some countries, medical expenses can be very expensive, particularly if you are not adequately covered by insurance.

If, on the other hand, you are moving abroad for voluntary service, the likelihood that your host country might have a less developed healthcare infrastructure is high. Certain areas also come with their own health risks, potentially exposing you to local infections and serious illnesses.

Is health insurance mandatory for studying abroad?

It is not always mandatory to be covered by health insurance when studying abroad. However, regardless of its legal status, health insurance for young expatriates is highly advisable.

Health insurance when studying in Europe

Are you planning to study in a European Union (EU) Member State, the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, or the United Kingdom? If so, you should apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from your health insurance provider.

Be cautious, however: the EHIC offers limited coverage, akin to student mutual insurance. It is only applicable in the public sector, and medical expenses, which can be significant, are reimbursed only up to your home country’s rate. Opting for expatriate health insurance is a wise move to bridge these gaps, even if it’s not obligatory.

Health insurance when studying outside of Europe

The requirements vary when you study outside of Europe. If your host country and your home country have signed an agreement, check with the relevant institutions to better understand how this works. This might be the Ministry of Health, Social Security or Foreign Affairs. Otherwise, if possible, enroll in the student social protection scheme of your host country. However, the local social protection may fall short of your needs. It’s strongly recommended to obtain expatriate health insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Please note

Certain universities, particularly if you’re studying in United States, Canada, and Australia, mandate international student health insurance as a prerequisite for enrollment.

Health insurance for students under 20 or studying abroad for less that 6 months 

In these instances, you may be eligible to remain covered under your parents’ health insurance, if they have one.

What are the advantages of international health insurance for expats?

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage in your host country or across multiple countries.

• You’re covered for hospital stays and emergencies.

• Access to private healthcare for higher quality medical services.

• Medical repatriation coverage.

• Coverage for dental and optical care.

• Mandatory in certain countries for obtaining a student visa.

• A requirement for enrollment at certain universities.

How to choose the right health insurance for your study abroad experience?

Now that the importance of international health insurance is clear, here are some tips for choosing the best policy.

A well-rounded student health insurance policy for abroad should offer:

• Assistance in your native language.

• Medical repatriation services.

• Immediate access to necessary treatment in emergencies without the need for upfront payment.

• Coverage when traveling to other countries including visits to your home country.

• Bonus: third-party liability coverage.

With your health insurance sorted, you can head off on your study abroad adventure with total peace of mind. With the right coverage in place, you can focus on your studies and make unforgettable memories!