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What is important to know before purchasing International health insurance?
What is important to know before purchasing International health insurance?
Pedro avatar
Written by Pedro
Updated over 3 weeks ago

International health insurance, such as Genki Native, is designed for long-term travelers, expats, and digital nomads who need comprehensive health coverage while living abroad. Before purchasing, it's important to understand key factors that apply to most international health insurance plans. Below, we provide general insights while using Genki Native as an example.

1. Coverage Limits

βœ… International health insurance typically covers hospitalization, emergency care, doctor visits, medications, and medical evacuation

βœ… Some policies have coverage limits, while others offer unlimited medical coverage

βœ… Genki Native Premium: Covers both outpatient and inpatient medical costs, including repatriation, with no maximum coverage limit

βœ… Includes: Prescribed medication, tests, examinations, medical aids, and materials βœ… Additional Coverage (Genki Native Premium): Covers preventive care (checkups & vaccinations) and alternative treatments (chiropractic, osteopathy, homeopathy, etc.)

2. Pre-Existing Conditions

🚫 Most international health insurance plans require medical assessments for pre-existing conditions

βœ… Genki Native: Some pre-existing conditions may be covered, but the applicant must complete a medical questionnaire for insurer review

βœ… Coverage approval depends on the insurer’s assessment

No international health insurance covers emergencies that occur before purchasing the policy

3. Travel Destination

🌍 International health insurance should offer coverage in the countries where you plan to live or travel

πŸ₯ Some insurers have regional limitations or restrictions

βœ… Genki Native Premium: Provides worldwide coverage with no country exclusions

βœ… Coverage in the USA & Canada: Limited to 30 days per insurance year, with a €250,000 limit, covering accidents and emergencies only

4. Duration of Coverage

πŸ“… International health insurance is typically long-term

βœ… Genki Native: Offers insurance without a fixed term – coverage can continue indefinitely

βœ… Minimum contract duration: 12 months

βœ… After 12 months, you can cancel anytime with one month's notice

5. Emergency Assistance Services

πŸ“ž 24/7 emergency assistance helplines are common in international health insurance

πŸ₯ Some insurers provide direct billing for hospitalizations

βœ… Genki Native: Offers 24/7 emergency hotline and direct billing for inpatient care worldwide

6. Policy Exclusions

❗ International health insurance excludes certain treatments and conditions

πŸ”— Always review policy exclusions before purchasing

βœ… Genki Native: Learn more about exclusions here: [What is covered (and not covered) by Genki Native?]

7. Repatriation Coverage

✈️ Some insurers allow medical transport to another country with approval

βœ… Genki Native: Allows transport to another country if approved by the insurer (Squarelife)

βœ… Medical repatriation to your home country or country of expatriation is possible βœ… Coverage continues after repatriation, unlike some international health insurance plans

8. Adventure Activities Coverage

πŸ„ Many insurers exclude extreme sports

βœ… Genki Native: Covers all sports and activities without exception

❌ Exclusion: Professional sports (if you receive monetary compensation, it is not covered)

9. Policy Cost

πŸ’° Price varies depending on coverage, deductibles, and additional benefits

βœ… Compare plans carefully to ensure adequate coverage rather than focusing solely on cost

10. Claim Process

πŸ“ Most insurers require medical invoices, diagnosis, and cost breakdowns for claims

βœ… Genki Native: Claims are submitted via an online form in the Member Center

βœ… Documents must include diagnosis, treatment details, period of treatment, and cost

11. Provider Network

πŸ₯ Some international health insurers require network providers

βœ… Genki Native: No restricted networkβ€”you can choose any doctor, clinic, or hospital worldwide

12. Policy Renewal and Cancellation

πŸ”„ International health insurance often provides continuous coverage

βœ… Genki Native: No term limitβ€”coverage can last indefinitely

βœ… Minimum contract: 12 months

βœ… After 12 months, cancel anytime with one month's notice

13. Customer Reviews and Reputation

🌟 Before purchasing, check customer reviews and insurance provider reputation βœ… Genki Native: Verified reviews available on Trustpilot

14. Travel Alerts and Advisories

πŸš€ Some insurers restrict coverage based on government travel advisories

βœ… Genki Native: Provides worldwide coverage with no exclusions due to travel warnings

By understanding these key factors, you can choose the right international health insurance based on your long-term travel or expatriate needs. Genki Native is an example of a comprehensive, flexible solution for those living abroad.


Have any questions? Check out more articles in our help center or drop our support a message!

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