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Moving to Singapore as an expat comes with many adjustments, and one of the most critical aspects to consider is healthcare. While Singapore is known for its world-class medical facilities, medical costs can be significant, particularly for those without proper insurance coverage.
Unlike Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents, who are covered under the national MediShield Life scheme, expats must secure their own health insurance through employer-provided policies or private insurance plans.
This article explores how foreigners living and working in Singapore can purchase medical insurance, the options available, and key factors to consider when choosing a plan.
How Foreigners in Singapore Can Buy Medical Insurance
Expats in Singapore have different options for medical insurance, depending on their residency status and employment benefits:
- Employer-Provided Insurance: Many companies offer health coverage as part of corporate insurance and employment benefits, but coverage levels can vary.
- Integrated Shield Plans (IPs): Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) are available to those on Dependant’s Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP), and IPs provide additional hospitalisation coverage.
- Private health insurance: Fully private plans offer comprehensive benefits, often including international coverage.
- Personal Accident (PA) insurance: Personal Accident Plans cover medical expenses due to accidents and can be purchased under local plans.
Understanding these options is essential for selecting the right coverage that meets individual and family healthcare needs.
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Overview of Health Insurance Options for Expats
Employer-Provided Health Insurance
Many expats in Singapore rely on health insurance provided by their employers. However, these plans typically offer basic coverage, such as outpatient treatment and limited hospitalisation benefits. Some employer policies may not cover major illnesses, specialist treatments, or private hospital stays, requiring additional insurance for comprehensive protection.
Integrated Shield Plans (IPs)
Expats holding a Dependant’s Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) are eligible to purchase Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) from local insurers. IPs provide extended hospitalisation coverage at private hospitals or Class A/B1 wards in public hospitals. While these plans build on MediShield Life for locals, expats can still benefit from their private hospitalisation coverage.
Private Health Insurance for Expats
Private health insurance offers broader and often international coverage, making it ideal for expats who travel frequently. These plans come with higher claim limits and more comprehensive benefits, including:
- Coverage for hospitalisation and outpatient care
- Maternity and newborn coverage (on select plans)
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation
- Worldwide medical coverage
Personal Accident Insurance
Expats can also purchase PA insurance from local insurers. Such plans provide financial support for medical expenses related to accidents, including fractures, burns, and disabilities. It is a valuable supplement to other health insurance policies.
Comparison of Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Singapore
Plan | Estimated coverage amount per annum | Coverage features |
|---|---|---|
AIA HealthShield Gold Max A for valid visa holders | $2 million | – Private hospitalisation coverage
– Pre- and post-hospitalisation coverage of 13 months |
AXA International Exclusive Plan B | $4.5 million | – Pre- and post-hospitalisation cover up to 90 days
– Pre-existing and congenital conditions |
Bupa Worldwide Health Options | $4 million | – Includes outpatient surgical operations
– Coverage for rehabilitation, mental health treatment, childbirth, and treatment |
Cigna Healthcare (Silver) | $1 million | – International inpatient and day patient cover
– Full cancer care |
FWD International Health Insurance | $100,000 to $3 million | – Annual limit doubles if no claims made for 2 years
– $500,000 of accidental death and disability benefit |
Great Eastern Supreme | $1.5 million | – Post-hospitalisation coverage period of up to 365 days
– Psychiatric coverage of S$25,000 |
IncomeShield | $150,000 | – Coverage for radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, pregnancy and childbirth complications, and breast reconstruction post-mastectomy |
MSIG Prestige Healthcare Elite | $900,000 | – Pre- and post-hospitalisation coverage up to 120 days
– Outpatient alternative treatment, mobility aids up to certain limit |
PRUShield | $2 million | – Pre-hospitalisation coverage for up to 180 days and post-hospitalisation coverage for up to 365 days
– Preferential rates for health screening, vaccination, teleconsultation, and chronic care management |
- all $ amounts are in Singapore dollars
- information is correct at the time of publication
Factors to Consider When Choosing Expat Health Insurance
Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
Those with pre-existing medical conditions should carefully review whether their chosen insurance plan covers treatment for their condition. Some policies may exclude pre-existing conditions entirely, while others impose a waiting period before coverage begins.
Family Coverage
For expats moving with their families, select a policy that includes dependents. Some health plans offer maternity coverage, child healthcare benefits, and discounts for family members under a single policy.
Budget and Premium Costs
Insurance premiums vary significantly based on coverage levels, age, and provider. Expats should compare multiple plans to find a balance between affordability and adequate protection. Higher-tier plans may offer extensive coverage but come at a premium cost.
Local vs. International Coverage
Expats who travel frequently may benefit from an international health insurance plan that covers medical expenses outside Singapore. Conversely, those planning to reside in Singapore long-term might find an Integrated Shield Plan or local private health insurance sufficient.
Estimate Your Hospital Bill with Confidence
Planning ahead for treatment? Use the Hospital Bill Estimator to see what your expected costs could be.
