Health insurance might be likely at or near the top of the list when it comes to providing for your family’s well-being. It provides for your medical bills and other associated expenses and helps you concentrate on treatment and recovery in an emergency.

But what if you are moving abroad? Will the medical insurance policy you purchased in India also cover you financially in a different country? Let’s find out.

Geographical limitations of health insurance plans 

Most health insurance types in India offer domestic coverage only. So, in case you fall sick or have an accident in another country, you may need to pay for associated expenses from your pocket. * 

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Keeping this issue in mind, many medical insurance companies in India now offer policyholders worldwide coverage. However, it depends on the type of health plan you opt for. While some policies come with in-built global coverage, others may not. * 

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Can you take your health insurance coverage abroad with you?

Yes, you can take it with you. The policy shall also remain valid in other countries and help you meet your medical expenses. However, check with your insurer regarding the same and go through the policy fine print as well. *

Also, in India, many personal accident insurance plans come with worldwide coverage. In case you meet with an accident in a foreign country, the insurer may cover your hospital bills. Insurance companies also protect against accidental passing away and disability in a foreign country. *

Similarly, most critical illness plans remain valid in a foreign country. If you have taken this plan for yourself and your loved ones, check with your insurer if you can avail of the plan benefits even after moving abroad. 

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Should you cancel your existing health plan if you move abroad? 

If your plan has basic or regular health insurance benefits, it shall mostly cover medical bills in India only. In this case, you must cancel the plan before moving abroad. However, if you are only going abroad for a few months, you can keep your existing health insurance.

After moving to the new country, you can take a new health insurance policy and stay covered against medical emergencies. Some countries have also made health insurance mandatory for their residents. So, taking one after going there could prove to be a better option.

Can you get international medical insurance in India? 

Yes, you can opt for international or global medical insurance in India and stay covered in a foreign country. However, the premium of this health plan shall be on the higher side. To check this, you can use a health insurance premium calculator. Hence, in India, taking global health insurance makes sense only if you relocate often.

Alternatively, if you plan to stay in the new country for long, you must take a new health plan in the destination country itself. Apart from being easier on your pocket, a local health insurance policy can ensure quick and hassle-free coverage of your medical expenses. * 

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Conclusion

To sum up, almost all health insurance policies have geographical restrictions. Hence, if you have a primary health plan in India, it might not be valid in a foreign land. The best option then remains to buy a new medical insurance policy in the destination country.

If you relocate often, you can take international travel insurance in India and stay covered against emergencies. However, the premium could be high and cashless treatment facilities may not be available.

Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.