💡 Introduction
Europe offers one of the best healthcare systems in the world — but if you’re a foreigner, expat, or student, you’ll need private health insurance to access quality care at an affordable price. 🏥
In 2025, health insurance for foreigners in Europe has become more flexible, cheaper, and easier to manage online. Whether you’re studying in France 🇫🇷, working in Germany 🇩🇪, or traveling across Spain 🇪🇸, the right health insurance plan can save you thousands of euros while keeping you safe and covered.
This guide compares Europe’s best health insurance companies, their low-cost plans, and full coverage options for international residents, travelers, and digital nomads. 💙
🏥 Why Foreigners Need Health Insurance in Europe
If you’re not a citizen of the EU/EEA, health insurance is often a legal requirement for residency, work permits, or student visas. Without it, you might face high hospital costs or denied visa applications.
Here’s why it’s essential:
- ✅ Covers hospital, doctor, and emergency services
- 💊 Pays for medications & outpatient care
- ✈️ Includes travel, evacuation, and repatriation benefits
- 👨⚕️ Access to both public & private hospitals
- 🧾 Required for Schengen visa & residence permits
Having proper insurance isn’t just smart — it’s mandatory in many European countries.
🏆 Top European Health Insurance Companies for Foreigners (2025)
Let’s look at the best and most trusted health insurance providers for foreigners in Europe. These companies offer affordable prices, full medical coverage, and worldwide support. 🌐
1. 🌍 Cigna Global – Best for Expats and International Travelers
Cigna Global remains the top choice for foreigners in Europe seeking customizable, international health coverage.
🔑 Keywords: Cigna Global Europe, expat health insurance, international medical coverage Europe
🌟 Key Features:
- Worldwide coverage (including USA option)
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
- Digital health tools and easy claims
- Covers hospitalization, maternity, and dental
💰 Average Cost: €90 – €150/month
✅ Best for: Expats, long-term residents, and professionals.
2. 🇩🇪 Allianz Care – Trusted German Health Insurance
Allianz Care, a leading European insurer, offers high-quality medical insurance for expats, foreign workers, and families.
🔑 Keywords: Allianz Care Europe, German expat insurance, European medical coverage 2025
🌟 Key Features:
- Comprehensive inpatient & outpatient coverage
- Direct billing with hospitals worldwide
- Visa-compliant plans for foreigners
- Tailored packages for students and families
💰 Average Cost: €70 – €130/month
✅ Best for: Professionals, families, and corporate employees.
3. 🇫🇷 AXA Health Europe – Low-Cost & Reliable Coverage
AXA Health is known for providing affordable and flexible health insurance for travelers and foreign students.
🔑 Keywords: AXA Health Insurance Europe, cheap health insurance Europe, Schengen travel insurance
🌟 Key Features:
- Plans accepted for Schengen visa
- Worldwide emergency medical coverage
- Simple online application
- Ideal for short or long stays
💰 Average Cost: €50 – €100/month
✅ Best for: Students, short-term visitors, and tourists.
4. 💙 Bupa Global – Premium International Health Insurance
Bupa Global is ideal for foreigners seeking premium healthcare and full global coverage, including top hospitals in Europe.
🔑 Keywords: Bupa Global Europe, premium health insurance for foreigners, expat medical plans Europe
🌟 Key Features:
- Access to elite private hospitals
- Mental health and wellness programs
- Preventive care and routine check-ups
- Worldwide emergency assistance
💰 Average Cost: €120 – €200/month
✅ Best for: Business travelers, executives, and families.
5. 🌐 IMG Europe – Budget-Friendly Travel & Expat Plans
IMG Europe (International Medical Group) offers affordable plans for digital nomads, tourists, and students who need short-term coverage.
🔑 Keywords: IMG Europe health insurance, travel insurance for foreigners, affordable medical coverage Europe
🌟 Key Features:
- Emergency evacuation & repatriation
- Short- and long-term plan options
- Flexible payment options
- Global claim support
💰 Average Cost: €40 – €80/month
✅ Best for: Backpackers, freelancers, and short-term travelers.
💶 Health Insurance Costs in Popular European Countries
| Country | Average Monthly Cost (€) | Best Provider |
|---|---|---|
| 🇩🇪 Germany | €80 – €140 | Allianz Care |
| 🇫🇷 France | €60 – €110 | AXA Health |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | €50 – €100 | Cigna Global |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | €55 – €95 | Bupa Global |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | €100 – €160 | AON / Allianz |
💡 Tip: Combine your basic medical coverage with travel insurance for full protection while exploring multiple EU countries.
🧭 How to Choose the Right Plan
When comparing European health insurance options, foreigners should consider these factors 👇
- 💰 Budget: Choose a plan that balances affordability and full coverage.
- 🏥 Coverage Area: Make sure your plan includes both inpatient and outpatient care.
- ✈️ Travel Benefits: If you visit multiple countries, pick a plan with EU-wide or global coverage.
- 🧑⚕️ Hospital Network: Check if your insurer has partnerships with local clinics or hospitals.
- 📱 Digital Access: Look for apps that allow easy claim submission and telemedicine support.
🧾 Comparison Table: Best Health Insurance for Foreigners in Europe
| Provider | Coverage | Ideal For | Monthly Cost | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Worldwide | Expats | €90–€150 | Full coverage, 24/7 support |
| Allianz Care | EU & Global | Families | €70–€130 | Direct billing, visa support |
| AXA Health | Europe-wide | Students | €50–€100 | Cheap & visa-friendly |
| Bupa Global | Worldwide | Professionals | €120–€200 | Premium coverage |
| IMG Europe | Short/Long Term | Travelers | €40–€80 | Budget-friendly, flexible |
🛡️ EHIC vs Private Health Insurance
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives access to state healthcare for EU citizens, but foreigners from outside the EU usually can’t rely on it.
| Feature | EHIC | Private Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Available to Non-EU Citizens | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Private Hospitals | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Emergency Coverage | ✅ Basic Only | ✅ Full |
| Worldwide Access | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Visa Acceptance | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
👉 Conclusion: Private insurance is the only reliable option for foreigners in Europe.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Getting health insurance for foreigners in Europe is no longer complicated or expensive. With trusted providers like Cigna Global, Allianz Care, AXA Health, Bupa Global, and IMG Europe, you can easily find a low-cost, full-coverage plan that fits your lifestyle.
Whether you’re working remotely, studying abroad, or traveling through Europe, the right health plan ensures peace of mind and financial safety wherever you go. 💙
So don’t wait — compare the top companies, choose your plan, and enjoy a worry-free European experience in 2025! 🌍✨