Short answer
Health systems, international health insurance, emergencies and everything that keeps you and your family covered while you live abroad. The answer to “Health insurance for short stays” depends on a few factors below. Arthur can work through them for your situation and turn them into your Global Citizen Guide.
What it depends on
- Area of cover. Whether you need worldwide cover including or excluding the USA — this shapes the plan more than anything else.
- Annual limit. The maximum the insurer pays per year. PassportCard's three plans range from €1,000,000 to €5,000,000.
- Direct payment. Whether you pay up front and claim back, or the insurer pays at the point of care. PassportCard pays on the spot via its card.
- Existing conditions. How pre-existing conditions are assessed, excluded or covered after a waiting period.
- Residence requirements. Whether the policy meets the insurance proof your visa or residence permit asks for.
Warning signs
- Policies that exclude the country you actually live in
- Low annual limits for hospital stays
- Cover that ends when you change your country of residence
Your situation, answered by Arthur
Tell Arthur where you are moving from and to. He covers:
- Which plan fits your destination and age
- Whether you need cover in the USA
- What your residence permit requires
Answered in depth
International health insurance (IPMI)
Do I need international health insurance if I move abroad?
In most cases, yes.
International health insurance (IPMI)What is an Anwartschaft and when do I need one?
An Anwartschaft (Anwartschaftsversicherung) puts a German health insurance contract on hold: you pay a reduced contribution, receive no benefits, and keep the right to return to your insurer or tariff later.
International health insurance (IPMI)Do I need international health insurance in Portugal?
Not always, but often at the start.
International health insurance (IPMI)Do I need international health insurance in Spain?
It depends on how you live in Spain.
