International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI)
Long-term health insurance designed for expats and nomads — covers you across multiple countries, not just for trip-length travel.
Long-term health insurance designed for expats and nomads — covers you across multiple countries, not just for trip-length travel.
Also known as
IPMI, Expat Health Insurance, Global Health Insurance
Real-world example
You're based in Portugal for a year, spend two months in Thailand, then move to Mexico. A travel policy covers short trips from home; IPMI covers your ongoing healthcare — GP visits, specialists, hospital stays — wherever you currently live.
Country-specific notes
🌍 Global
Carriers with strong nomad networks.
Cigna Global, Allianz Care, IMG Global, and SafetyWing are the most common picks for nomads and long-term expats.
Check whether the US is included — it typically doubles the premium.
🇪🇺 European Union
IPMI sometimes overlaps with local systems.
Long-term expats in the EU often combine IPMI (for cross-border coverage and private access) with local public healthcare registration.
Public cover plus IPMI gatekeeps against long public wait lists.
🇹🇭 Southeast Asia
IPMI opens doors at international hospitals.
Most top-tier private hospitals in Bangkok, Bali, and Ho Chi Minh direct-bill major IPMI carriers with pre-approval.
Always call the insurer before admission to trigger guarantee-of-payment.
Frequently asked questions
How is IPMI different from travel insurance?
Travel insurance covers short trips from your home country and focuses on emergencies. IPMI is your actual primary health coverage — renewed annually, covers routine care, and follows you across countries.
How much does IPMI cost?
Widely varies by age and coverage level — roughly $1,500–$6,000 per year for an adult in their 30s, much more with US coverage included.
Add your IPMI carrier, policy number, and 24/7 assistance hotline to your Emergency Card — one tap for first responders or the hospital desk.