Health insurance is one of the most decisive things you can get for yourself and your loved ones. In the event of an emergency, it takes care of your medical bills and other related costs, while allowing you to concentrate on the treatment and recuperation.
However, what if you’re relocating abroad? Will the travel health insurance plan you bought in India also provide financial protection for you abroad? Let’s investigate.
Geographical limitations of health insurance plans
The majority of plans available in India only provide domestic coverage. Therefore, if you get sick or have an unfortunate accident while travelling, you may have to pay for the hospital bills, ambulance fees, and other related costs out of your own pocket.
Numerous medical insurance providers in India are now providing clients with global coverage* with this concern in mind. But it all depends on the health plan you choose. Although some insurance have built-in global coverage, others might not.
In these circumstances, you could be required to purchase global coverage as an add-on cover at an additional cost.
Can you move your health insurance coverage abroad?
You may bring your foreign health insurance policy with you. The insurance will continue to be effective abroad and cover your medical costs. However, confirm this with your insurer and review the terms of your insurance as well.
Additionally, a lot of international travel insurance personal accident plans in India offer global coverage. If you have an accident while travelling abroad, the insurance company could pay for your medical expenses. Insurance companies also provide coverage for accidental death and disability abroad.
Similar to how most critical illness health plans continue to be valid abroad, ask your insurer if you can continue to use the plan’s benefits after relocating overseas.
Should you cancel your current health insurance in India if you relocate abroad?
If you have a conventional or basic health plan, it will often just cover medical expenses in India. If so, you must change your mind before travelling abroad and get travel health insurance.
You might enrol in a new health insurance plan there after migrating to the new nation to protect yourself from unexpected medical costs. Additionally, some nations have mandated that all citizens purchase health insurance. So, it is preferable to take one after travelling there.
Can you purchase international medical insurance in India?
Yes, you can purchase international medical insurance and continue to be covered while travelling. The cost of this health plan may be on the higher side, though. Therefore, it only makes sense to purchase global health insurance in India if you frequently relocate.
On the other hand, if you intend to stay in the new country for an extended period of time, you could enrol in a new health plan there. This allows you to enjoy uninterrupted medical coverage during your the period of your relocation and stay.
In conclusion, geographic restrictions are a feature of practically all health insurance plans. Therefore, if you have minimal health coverage in India, it won’t be recognised abroad.
The best course of action is to purchase a new medical insurance policy in the country of travel. If you frequently migrate, you can purchase international travel insurance from India to protect yourself from unexpected medical costs.
*Standard T&C Apply.
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.
