- Green / ✅ — data verified on the insurer's official website (with date).
- Amber / ~ — estimate or conditional figure: depends on age, market or quote. Always confirm it.
- Red — exclusion, trap or limit that surprises. Read it before contracting.
- Blue — practical advice from expats and travelers.
Stars ★ are user reviews (anecdotal experiences): they reveal common frictions, but don't measure solvency or if YOUR claim will be paid. The policy and certificate always prevail.
0 · First: the 3 payment models
Before comparing prices, understand how each insurance pays: this is what makes the real difference in a hospital in Asia.
1 · Direct real payment
Own medical network: you show the card and the hospital bills the insurance. You hardly advance anything. It's available in international health insurances (AXA Global, Cigna, Allianz Care, William Russell with guarantee letter, Pacific Cross) and some assistance services with provider networks (Assist 365).
2 · «Payment letter» for hospitalization
Model of Spanish travel insurances (IATI, Heymondo, Chapka, Intermundial): for small expenses you advance and get reimbursed; for a hospitalization you call 24h in advance and they issue a guarantee so the hospital can bill them.
3 · Pure reimbursement
You always advance everything and claim with invoices later. Typical of cheap «nomad» insurances (SafetyWing, Genki, IMG, World Nomads). Attention: some (SafetyWing) arrange payment for serious admissions if you call in advance.
1 · Find your insurance in 1 minute (selector)
Answer and we'll tell you which insurance family suits you and which cards to read. Nothing is sent to any server: it's calculated on your mobile. It's guidance, not a quote.
6 questions · instant result · no registration
1 · Traveler's age at the start of the trip
2 · Your situation
3 · Main destination
4 · Will you ride a motorcycle or scooter?
5 · Will you do adventure sports (high-altitude trekking, diving, climbing, surfing…)?
6 · What matters most to you?
🧳 A trip-by-trip travel insurance (Spain) suits you
- IATI — the most complete for Asia: covers pre-existing emergencies and motorcycle by default, without deductible.
- Heymondo — best app and rating; check the plans with/ without deductible.
- Chapka — the cheapest option if price is a priority (fewer extras).
What it DOESN'T solve: routine or ongoing medical treatment, and cancellation only for specific causes (read the fine print).
🌏 A long-stay insurance suits you
- IATI Grandes Viajeros — fixed price 6–12 months, pre-existing emergencies and motorcycle included.
- Heymondo Larga Estancia — renewable from the app, good rating.
- SafetyWing or Genki — if you're going to keep moving and want to renew month by month.
Attention: a long-stay insurance is NOT a residence insurance: it doesn't cover planned routine treatment. If you're going to establish residence, look at the family below.
🛫 You're already traveling: you have options, with waiting periods
- SafetyWing — designed to hire while on the road, automatic renewal every 28 days.
- Genki — can be purchased from abroad, coverage up to 1 M€.
- World Nomads — also allows purchase during travel (72 h waiting period depending on market).
🏡 You're going to live abroad: you need international health insurance (IPMI), not a travel insurance
- Cigna Global, William Russell and the rest of international health — annual/renewable, hospitalization and direct payment.
- If your destination is Philippines: Pacific Cross + PhilHealth, what expats actually use → Philippines section.
Attention: plans are priced by age, coverage area and medical questionnaire; pre-existing conditions must be declared and may be excluded, accepted with surcharge or with waiting period.
👴 Traveler 65+: there are options, but limits decrease with age
- IATI — no entry age limit (adjusts coverage from 65–70).
- Heymondo — up to 74 years.
- U.S. plans for seniors: Seven Corners lowers its medical coverage to US$100,000 between 65–79 and to US$10,000 from 80; IMG GlobeHopper Senior is designed for 65+ (depending on version, up to US$1 M between 65–79 and US$100,000 from 80).
- If for living abroad: international health insurance (Cigna, William Russell accept entry up to ~75) or local insurance of the country.
All details by age groups in the Seniors section.
🇪🇺 Schengen visa: you need a conformity certificate
- Article 15 of the Visa Code requires: minimum 30,000 € medical coverage, emergencies + hospitalization + repatriation, valid throughout the Schengen area (includes transit).
- The certificate must be in your name and cover all visa dates, not just the flight dates.
- Any Spanish travel insurance can issue it: explicitly request the "visa Schengen insurance certificate" when purchasing.
More details and pitfalls in the Areas and visas section.
2 · The best, according to your profile
IATI Grandes Viajeros 🇪🇸
6–12 months for a single price, covers pre-existing emergencies and standard motorcycle, direct payment with card. ★★★★☆ 4,3 · 4.900+ reviews
Quote →Heymondo Larga Estancia 🇪🇸
The highest rating among Spanish companies, renewable from the app while abroad, 500.000 € medical. ★★★★★ ~4,5 · 3.700+ reviews
Quote →SafetyWing 🌍
Can be purchased while already traveling, renews automatically every 28 days, no deductible. Ideal for nomads <50 years. ★★★★☆ ~4,1 · 4.000+ reviews
Quote →Chapka Cap Trotamundos «Completa» 🇫🇷/🇪🇸
2.000.000 € without deductible and pre-existing emergencies up to 50.000 €. Public price table. ★★★★★ 4,5 · 980+ reviews
See prices →Cigna Global / AXA Global 🌍
Real international health insurance: they settle directly with top private hospitals in Asia. Cost 2–4× more.
Quote Cigna →Pacific Cross 🇵🇭
Local expat insurance company: direct payment in their network (includes Dumaguete hospitals). From ~₱20,000/year at age 46–50.
See →3 · Price table by duration (traveler 45–50 years, Asia)
✅ = official published rate · ~ = estimate by age bracket (confirm in the calculator). Prices in € unless otherwise indicated. All require exact quote by age, dates and destination.
| Insurance | 3 months | 6 months | 12 months | Medical ceiling | Deductible | Payment | Max age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assist 365 Backpacker 🇪🇸 | ~90–350 € | ~180–500 € | ~350–800 € | 60–150 k$ | No | Provider network | 64 (150+ d) |
| Chapka Trotamundos Basic 🇫🇷 | ✅ 229 € | ✅ 412 € | ✅ 800 € | 500 k€ | 100 € | Letter of payment | — |
| Chapka Trotamundos Completa 🇫🇷 | ✅ 300 € | ✅ 600 € | ✅ 1.200 € | 2 M€ | No | Letter of payment | — |
| Genki Traveler 🇩🇪 | ✅ ~240 € | ✅ ~479 € | ✅ ~958 € | 1 M€ | 50 € (0 in hospital) | Reimbursement | 69 |
| IMG Patriot Lite 🇺🇸 | ~255–330 $ | ~510–660 $ | ~1.020–1.320 $ | 50 k–1 M$ | Choice | Reimbursement | — |
| IATI Estándar 90 días 🇪🇸 | ~120–200 € | — | — | 300 k€ | No | Letter of payment | No limit* |
| IATI Grandes Viajeros 🇪🇸 | — | ✅ 1.075,81 € unique (6–12 m, before discounts) | 300 k€ | No | Letter of payment | No limit* | |
| SafetyWing Essential 🇳🇴 | ✅ ~308 $ | ✅ ~616 $ | ✅ ~1.336 $ | 250 k$ | No | Reimbursement + direct on admission | 69 |
| Heymondo Larga Estancia 🇪🇸 | ✅ 302 € | ✅ ~522 € | ✅ ~647 € | 500 k€ | 100 €/incident | Letter of payment | 74 |
| World Nomads 🇦🇺 | ~100–150 $/month (depending on plan and origin) | variable | No | Reimbursement | 70+ | ||
| AXA Global Health 🌍 | ~185 $/month at 50 (with deductible) ~ | 1,6 M$+ | Choice | Direct payment | — | ||
| Cigna Global Silver 🌍 | calculator only (~370 $/month at 50 ~) | 1 M$+ | Choice | Direct payment | ~75 | ||
| Pacific Cross Select 🇵🇭 | ✅ ~₱20.000–26.500/year (46–50) | according to plan | Choice | Direct payment (PH network) | — | ||
* No age limit in the long-stay plan, with reduced coverage from 65–70 years. Chapka "World" zone; USA/Canada/Japan and premium zone cost more (12 m Basic 1.159 € / Completa 1.500 €).
4 · Complete cards, one per insurance
Each card includes: plans and prices (with how to get them), link to the official policy/terms, fine print and verified reviews.
🇪🇸 IATI Seguros — Direct billing ★ 4.3 · 4,904 reviews
Plans and prices (official 09/23/2026):
| Plan | Price | Duration | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | ~120–200 € | up to 90 days | 300k€ medical, short trips |
| Grand Travelers | ✅ from 1,075.81 € | 6–12 months (single price) | 300k€, pre-existing conditions-emergencies, motorcycle included |
| Annual Multi-trip | ✅ from 217.08 €/year | 12 months, trips of X days | for those who fly often |
How to get that price: calculator on their website (binding price according to their contracting conditions). Real discounts: 15% families, 5–15% groups by requesting at info@iatiseguros.com. With discount, Grand Travelers becomes ~915–1,020 €.
Fine print: covers emergencies derived from pre-existing conditions (rare and key for those 45+), motor vehicle accidents included by default, no age limit, direct payment by calling their 24h center in hospitalizations. Weak point: 300k€ ceiling lower than Heymondo/Chapka Complete.
Real reviews: ★ 4.3 on Trustpilot (4,904 reviews, Sept. 2026). Recurring themes: fast attention via WhatsApp in claims and hospitalization payments abroad; common complaints about delays in minor reimbursements and baggage exclusions.
🇪🇸 Heymondo — Direct billing ★ ~4.5 · 3,760 reviews
Plans and prices (official 09/23/2026):
| Plan | Price | Duration | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Stay (base) | ✅ 302 € | 90 days minimum | 500k€ medical, 24h app |
| ↳ 30-day renewal | ✅ 110 € | extension | contracted from the app abroad |
| ↳ 120-day renewal | ✅ 220 € | extension | → 6 months ≈ 522 € |
| ↳ 275-day renewal | ✅ 345 € | extension | → 12 months ≈ 647 €* |
*Young profile (increases with age; verify in calculator). Backpacker/Standard/Premium for short trips, from ~50–90 €/week of travel.
How to get that price: online calculator on their website; the long-stay price starts at 90 days and is extended by renewing from the app while abroad (the only Spanish one that allows this).
Fine print: 500k€ medical, emergency dental, 24h video consultation in the app, thefts 1,500 €, maximum age 74 years, they assign you a contracted center to avoid advancing money as much as possible.
Real reviews: ★ ~4.5 on Trustpilot (≈3,760 reviews). Recurring themes: the best app in the sector and agile reimbursements; complaints about the 100 € deductible and about sports exclusions without the extra.
🇫🇷 Chapka (Spain) — Direct billing ★ 4.5 · 984 reviews
Plans and prices (official, public table "World" zone):
| Plan | 3 months | 6 months | 12 months | Ceiling / deductible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cap Trotamundos Basic | ✅ 229 € | ✅ 412 € | ✅ 800 € | 500k€ / 100 € |
| Cap Trotamundos Complete | ✅ 300 € | ✅ 600 € | ✅ 1,200 € | 2M€ / no deductible |
| Cap Multi-trip (annual) | ✅ from 325 €/year (trips ≤90 days) | no deductible | ||
How to get that price: it's the only one with a complete public price table (by months and by zone). USA/Canada/Japan zone and premium are more expensive: 12m Basic 1,159 €, Complete 1,500 €. Renewable from abroad up to 24 months.
Real reviews: ★ 4.5 on Trustpilot (984 reviews). Recurring themes: good service in claims and price clarity; complaints about food poisoning exclusion and waiting period when purchasing abroad.
🇪🇸 Assist 365 — Provider network ★ 4.1 · ~83 reviews
Plans and prices: Global / Backpacker / USA-Canada range with ceilings from 60,000 to 150,000 $ depending on version. Documented real price: 307 €/person for 365 days (Spanish couple to South America ≈ 0.84 €/day). In Asia at 45–50 years I estimate ~1–1.4 €/day: 3 months ~90–350 €, 6 months ~180–500 €, 12 months ~350–800 €.
How to get that price: instant quote on their website (the exact price only appears in the calculator; the website doesn't publish rates).
Real reviews: ★ 4.1 on Trustpilot but with only ~83 reviews (small sample — little history compared to IATI/Heymondo).
🇪🇸 Intermundial — Direct payment ★ 4.1 · ~11,200 reviews
Plans: Totaltravel (long stay), Mundialista, annual multi-trip (60/90 days per trip depending on product). Their official FAQ confirms that they pay directly to the hospital in general.
How to get that price: calculator on intermundial.es (doesn't publish rates; product URLs change often — use the "Travel Insurance" menu).
Real reviews: ★ 4.1 on Trustpilot with ~11,200 reviews (the largest volume among Spanish ones). Recurring themes: good management via travel agencies; some complaints about reimbursement times.
🇳🇴 SafetyWing Nomad Insurance — Nomad ★ ~4.1 · 4,090 reviews
Plans and prices (official, verified segments 09/23/2026):
| Plan | 40–49 years | 50–59 years | Ceiling | Deductible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essential (paid every 28 days) | ✅ $102.76 / 4 wks | ✅ $161.28 / 4 wks | 250k$ | $0 |
| Essential (year paid in advance) | ✅ 10% discount (~$1,202/year at 40–49) | 250k$ | $0 | |
| Complete (international health, annual) | ✅ $253.50/month | ✅ $380.50/month | 1.5M$ | to choose |
How to get that price: price widget on their website; you contract while already traveling, it renews itself every 28 days and you cancel whenever you want. The 10% discount applies when paying all 364 days in advance.
Extra fine print: maximum age 69 years; motorcycle covered with valid license in the country + helmet.
Real reviews: ★ ~4.1 on Trustpilot (≈4,090 reviews). Recurring themes in forums (r/digitalnomad): unbeatable price and flexibility, but reimbursements are slow (weeks) and 250k$ ceiling is short for the United States.
🇩🇪 Genki Traveler — Digital Nomad ★ ~4.2 · 978 reviews
Modalities and prices (verified segments 09/23/2026): Traveler (medical-travel, 1 M€): 45 years → 79.80 €/month, 30 years → 63.90 €/month, 55 years → 109.80 €/month, 65 years → 168.30 €/month. That is: 3 months ≈ 239 €, 6 months ≈ 479 €, 12 months ≈ 958 € at 45. Genki Native (complete expatriate health type): only through calculator.
How to get that price: monthly subscription widget, cancelable, on genki.world; you can contract from any country.
Real opinions: ★ ~4.2 (≈978 reviews). Recurring themes: fast reimbursements (5–10 days) and efficient attention in German/English; complaints about the waiting period and USA rules.
🇺🇸 IMG Patriot International — Digital Nomad ★ ~4.1 · 24,900 reviews
Modalities and prices (~45–50 years): Patriot Lite (50 k$–1 M$ to choose): ~85–110 $/month → 3 m ~255–330 $, 6 m ~510–660 $, 12 m ~1,020–1,320 $. Patriot Platinum (1–8 M$): ~197–243 $/month. From 5 days to 12 months, renewable.
How to get that price: calculator on imglobal.com (choose coverage, deductible and zone: "worldwide excluding US/Canada" lowers the price a lot).
Real opinions: ★ ~4.1 on Trustpilot with ≈24,900 reviews (the highest volume in the entire sector). Recurring themes: fair price and well-valued coverage of aggravations; customer service in complex claims could be improved.
🇦🇺 World Nomads — Digital Nomad ★ ~4.1 · 6,580 reviews
Modalities and prices: Standard and Explorer plans (vary by country of residence): ~100–150 $/month at 45–50. Its strength: +200 adventure sports (diving, motorcycle, trekking, surfing) and contracting while already traveling.
How to get that price: calculator by nationality/destination on worldnomads.com.
Real opinions: ★ ~4.1 (≈6,580 reviews). Recurring themes: satisfies athletes; classic complaints of slow reimbursements and fine print about alcohol.
🇬🇧 battleface — Digital Nomad/adventure ★ ~4.1 · 2,370 reviews
Modalities and prices: coverage by modules (medical, evacuation, belongings, interruption) with personalized quote; specialist in remote and high-risk destinations. No public table: quote on their website.
Real opinions: ★ ~4.1 (≈2,370 reviews). Recurring themes: fast response in real emergencies; prices perceived as high for "normal" trips.
🇬🇧 True Traveller — UK/Europe mixed reviews on Trustpilot
For whom: backpackers and travelers residents in the United Kingdom or Europe (also readers of this page in EN/FR/DE). Very popular for long routes with adventure.
| What they publish | Data |
|---|---|
| Medical/repatriation | ✅ up to £10 M in the cited UK 2025 rates |
| Buy while traveling | Yes ("Already Travelling") with 48 h wait |
| Residence required | Strict definition: citizenship or legal residence + domicile + healthcare access + right of return |
| Sports | Purchased as packs (luggage, cancellation and sports separately) |
| Maximums by age/destination | Depend on profile — confirm in quote |
Verdict: reference for the UK/EU market if you meet their definition of resident; not valid for those who no longer have residence or healthcare access in UK/Europe. Should not be transferred to residents of other countries. Source: terms published on their website, verified 10/09/2026.
🔗 Official website: truetraveller.com
🇺🇸 Seven Corners Travel Medical — Travel Medical mixed reviews on Trustpilot
For whom: travelers (especially from the US market) looking for flexible period travel medical coverage, and the senior option.
| Age at purchase | Medical coverage (variant consulted) |
|---|---|
| Under 65 | ✅ up to US$1,000,000 |
| 65–79 years | ⚠️ up to US$100,000 |
| 80 years or more | ⚠️ up to US$10,000 |
Verdict: scales well below 65; from that age coverage drops sharply — it's the market's usual pattern, and that's why seniors look at specialized products like GlobeHopper or international health. Limits "according to the variant consulted": confirm yours in your quote. Source: official website, verified 10/09/2026.
🔗 Official website: sevencorners.com
🌍 Cigna Global — Real direct payment ★ ~4.4
Modalities: Cigna Global Health Options in Silver / Gold / Platinum + optional modules (ambulatory, evacuation, life/disability) and deductibles to choose that lower the premium. No public rates: everything through calculator (~370 $/month at 50 with deductible, according to market data).
Real opinions: ★ ~4.4. Recurring themes: excellent network and direct payment management; high premium and annual increases.
🇬🇧 William Russell — International Health ★ ~4.3
Modalities: Bronze / Silver Lite / Silver / Gold (+Elevate), with coverage zone to choose (worldwide or region → cheaper). No public rates: calculator on apps.william-russell.com (Bronze ~from 76 $/month young; ~255 $/month at 50 according to market data).
Real opinions: ★ ~4.3. Recurring themes: close service and "prompt" reimbursements (official text from their testimonials: "Reimbursements/Letters of Guarantee were always prompt"); 95% renewal rate.
🌍 Rest of the international health block (compared coldly)
| Insurer | Plans | Guideline price (50 years, Asia) | Direct payment | Key note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AXA Global Healthcare | Foundation / Standard / Comprehensive / Prime | ~185 $/month (with deductible) ~ | Yes, own network | the most affordable in the premium league |
| Allianz Care | Care / Plus / Pro | Plus ~298 $/month (4 M$ coverage) ~ | Yes | very strong brand, high premium |
| April International | MyHealth (Access/Essential/Comfort/Embody) | from ~500 $/year basic ~ | Yes (strong Asia network) | very popular among expats in Asia |
| Foyer Global Health | Special / Exclusive | quote only | Yes | Luxembourgish, high-end range |
| PassportCard NOMADS | by quote | quote only | Their own card instantly | zero outlay: you pay with their card at the hospital |
All: own calculator on their website, medical subscription, cover chronic conditions with waiting period/surcharge (not just emergencies), and cost 2–4× a travel insurance. They make sense if you travel a lot, have medical conditions, or want zero friction.
🇵🇭 Pacific Cross — Local Filipinas Direct payment in PH network
Plans and prices (official, age bracket 46–50): Select plan ~₱20.000–26.500/year (~330–430 €); young bracket 26–30: from ~₱12.000–16.500/year. Higher plans (Asian/Major/Delta) with higher coverage limits.
Reviews: few global reviews; in expat communities in PH, it's the standard recommendation for local direct payment.
🇵🇭 PhilHealth (voluntary) — Local supplement
Public Filipino insurance accessible as a voluntary member: ~₱300–500/month depending on income bracket. Does not replace any insurance, but for 5–8 €/month it covers a portion of hospitalizations in accredited hospitals. In-person/online processing with ACR (residency). The classic expat combination in Dumaguete: PhilHealth + Pacific Cross + emergency fund.
5 · Do they cover motorcycle or scooter accidents?
In Asia, motorcycles are the star mode of transport, and many insurance policies fail here:
- IATI: included by default — "bodily injury in motor vehicle accidents", as driver or passenger.
- SafetyWing: covered if you have a valid license for that vehicle in that country and you wear a helmet.
- Heymondo: covered with the corresponding license for the vehicle.
- IMG: yes as driver, requiring license + helmet.
- Genki: covers the accident with valid license; verifies engine displacement.
- World Nomads: yes in most plans (motorcycle included in their list of +200 activities, depending on plan and country).
- Assist 365: the general conditions don't exclude motorcycles, but alcohol voids everything.
- Chapka: covers the accident but not civil liability for the vehicle.
Golden rules for getting paid: valid license for that engine displacement (the Spanish B license only authorizes up to 125cc with 3 years of experience), helmet ALWAYS, ZERO alcohol, and keep the rental contract.
6 · Can it be contracted while already outside Spain?
- Yes, all of them, but with a waiting period («carence») for illnesses: IATI, Chapka and Assist 365 → 72 hours; Chapka → 10 days if it's your first contracting from abroad; SafetyWing and Genki → 14 days (Genki only covers emergencies during the carence and waives it if you had previous insurance); international health ones take days due to the medical questionnaire.
- Accidents are covered from minute one in almost all.
- ⚠️ Any symptom that appears during the carence period will be considered a «pre-existing condition» of the new insurance: if you're still in Spain, contract it before flying.
- Heymondo renews/extends from its app while abroad; SafetyWing renews automatically every 28 days with no limit; Chapka renews from abroad for up to 24 months.
7 · The reality of hospitals in Asia (why this matters)
- Outside the capitals, they require a cash deposit upon admission, regardless of your insurance (documented case in Dumaguete: ₱20.000 deposit and ₱85.516 ≈ 1.400 € for 51 hours hospitalized with surgery).
- Top private hospitals (St. Luke's Manila/Cebu, Bumrungrad Bangkok, Vinmec Vietnam) work with direct billing from international health insurers (Cigna, AXA Global, Allianz Care, April, Pacific Cross in PH).
- A heart bypass at Makati Medical Center can exceed 50.000 €: that's why the medical ceiling matters (minimum recommended 250 k$/300 k€).
- Always carry: your insurance card with the 24h assistance phone number, an emergency fund of 1,500–2,500 €, and the insurance policy purchased before the first departure date.
8 · Does your premium card insurance work? (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
Golden rule: premium card insurance is a conditional benefit, not a universal policy. Visa, Mastercard and Amex always refer to the issuer of YOUR card and its "Guide to Benefits": what's valid in one country may not exist in another.
| Criterion | Premium card | Dedicated policy |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Usually requires paying for the trip (total or partial) WITH the card and sometimes issuing a certificate beforehand | Purchase and declare destination, dates, age and residence |
| Duration | Limited by trip: 60 days (Visa Latam, Mastercard Brazil), 120 days (Mastercard Black Argentina) | You choose duration; there are maximums and extensions |
| Medical | Often only accident or SUDDEN illness, and as secondary (pays after other coverages) | Can be primary; you choose ceiling and evacuation |
| Cancellation and baggage | Not always included and for specific causes | Optional modules with clear limits |
| Pre-existing conditions | Excluded or conditional waiver | Declaration, supplement or waiting period according to policy |
| Claim | Handled by the card administrator; strict documentation | Insurer/assistance from the policy, 24h center |
Real examples by country (don't mix them!):
| Program | What they publish |
|---|---|
| Visa/AXA Argentina (Latam except Brazil) | Eligible trips up to 60 days; medical/dental assistance up to US$150,000 — this is the REGIONAL guide, not a worldwide Visa Infinite |
| Mastercard Black Argentina | Up to 120 days, with different limits by age |
| Mastercard Black Brazil | Up to 60 days and US$175,000 in the consulted product |
| Mastercard Caribbean | Black up to 60 days; Platinum up to 31 days — another different table |
| Amex Platinum UK | Up to £2 M medical/repatriation — NOT extrapolable to Platinum from the US or Mexico |
🔵 Tip: before relying on the card, search for the "Guide to Benefits" of your EXACT card, confirm that your trip meets the activation conditions, and save the certificate. And even if the card covers something, for long Asia trips or the US, a dedicated policy is still clearer with higher ceilings. Data from official Visa, Mastercard and Amex guides, verified on 10/09/2026.
9 · Zones and visas: where insurance is mandatory (or almost)
| Zone | What the official source requires or recommends | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen WITH visa | Art. 15 of the Visa Code: minimum 30,000 €, emergencies + hospitalization + repatriation, valid throughout the territory and transit | Nominated certificate in compliance, covering ALL visa dates |
| Schengen without visa | No legal obligation under art. 15... but traveling without insurance is a gamble | Medical + standard evacuation/repatriation |
| USA | Extremely expensive hospitalization; there the visitor pays everything | High ceiling + evacuation. Trap: verify that your "worldwide" includes USA. — many policies exclude it or price it separately |
| Canada | The Canadian government recommends prior insurance: the visitor pays for their care | High medical + evacuation; watch out for remote areas |
| Cuba | Medical insurance not American required upon entry | Confirm that your policy is valid (most Spanish ones are) |
| Galapagos (Ecuador) | Mandatory travel medical insurance for foreign tourists | Certificate naming Ecuador/Galapagos and itinerary |
| Tanzania / Zanzibar | Designated inbound insurance, with different rules for mainland and Zanzibar (changes from 10/01/2026 — revalidate before flying) | Buy the required product according to your point of entry and add coverage if missing |
| Conflict zone or "do not travel" warning | War, terrorism and sanctions are usually excluded (OFAC, FCDO...) | High-risk specialist and WRITTEN confirmation before going |
| Mountain, diving, skiing, motorcycle | License, helmet, altitude/depth limits, sometimes mandatory guide | Add-on or specialist; read the motorcycle section and each fact sheet |
| Permanent residence | Travel insurance does NOT replace the local system | IPMI or local insurance (see Philippines) |
🟠 Entry requirements change with little notice. Cut-off date for this table: 09/10/2026. Always revalidate with the official source (consulate, migration or airline) before buying flights.
10 · Retirees: moving abroad after 60
Every year more people 60+ consider living abroad: pension that doubles in Southeast Asia, climate, affordable private healthcare. But at this age the question isn't "how much does the insurance cost" but "will they insure me, and on what terms?". Three things change everything:
- Entry age limits: SafetyWing and Genki up to 69; Heymondo up to 74; Assist 365 maximum 64 for long stays; IATI no limit (reduced coverage from 65–70); in international health, Cigna and William Russell accept entry up to ~75.
- Pre-existing conditions become THE issue: hypertension, diabetes or cholesterol suddenly eliminate half the options. IATI covers emergencies derived from them; Chapka Complete up to 50,000 €; IMG sudden aggravation up to 70; international health ones evaluate them with medical subscription (exclusion, surcharge or coverage).
- Travel insurance ≠ residence insurance: if you're going to live abroad, long-term travel ones are a patch. The correct approach is international health insurance or a local insurance in the destination country + a travel insurance for trips.
💰 What insurance costs from age 50 (verified data on each profile)
| Age | Price references |
|---|---|
| 50–59 | SafetyWing $161.28/4 sem · Genki (55) 109.80 €/month · AXA Global ~185 $/month · William Russell ~255 $/month · Allianz Care Plus ~298 $/month · Cigna ~370 $/month · Pacific Cross (PH) ₱20,000–26,500/year |
| 60–69 | Genki (65) 168.30 €/month · IMG covers aggravations up to 70 · SafetyWing/Genki limit 69 · IATI no limit with reduced coverage |
| 70+ | Options remain: IATI (no limit*), Heymondo (up to 74), international health with entry up to ~75 (Cigna, William Russell, Allianz Care) |
* With reduced coverage from 65–70 years. Confirm all prices in the calculator: age and destination change the premium.
🧳 Profile A · Traveling retiree (mobile, several countries a year)
Best combo: IATI Annual Multitrip (from 217 €/year, trips up to 90 days) or Heymondo up to 74. If there are pre-existing conditions: IATI (emergencies) or IMG (aggravations up to 70). Pure nomads (SafetyWing/Genki) stop at 69.
🏠 Profile B · Resident retiree (fixed base abroad)
Best combo: international health insurance with direct billing (Cigna/AXA Global/Allianz Care/April/William Russell) or local insurance if the country allows it — in Philippines: Pacific Cross + PhilHealth (~₱300–500/month) + emergency fund. And an annual travel insurance for returning or going out.
✅ Checklist for the retiree moving abroad
- Declare ALL medical history in the questionnaire: hiding something is the #1 cause of policies being canceled right when you need them most.
- Contract before the departure date and check waiting periods (72h–14 days in travel; weeks in international health).
- Verify what they cover in your country of origin: SafetyWing only 30 days per 90 abroad; Genki 6 weeks per stay. If you return often, you need a supplement.
- Confirm the RENEWAL age limit, not just entry: some allow entry up to 75 and then don't renew.
- Dental, vision and hearing aids are usually extras: get them separately or budget for them in the destination country (they usually cost 3–5× less than in Europe).
- Medical evacuation: at this age it matters more than at 30 — check the ceiling (SafetyWing 100 k$ vs 1 M$+ in international health).
- Bring translated medical reports in English and digitalized: it speeds up any hospital authorization.
- Emergency fund of 2,000–3,000 € besides insurance: small hospitals always ask for a cash deposit, with or without insurance.
11 · Living in the Philippines: the LOCAL healthcare that expats use
All of the above is for traveling. But if you move to live there (the "Profile B" in the retirees section), expats living in the Philippines don't use travel insurance: they contract local HMOs and health insurance, which cost a fraction and work with the country's hospitals. This section comes from real questions from the "Expats Iloilo City" Facebook group (October 2026): literally what people wonder before contracting.
The options that actually come up in expat groups
Maxicare (the most cited)
Local HMO with its own clinics. Its entry plan Consult 999 costs ₱999 per year (≈ 15 €) and includes unlimited check-ups for a year, laboratory tests and ₱20,000 in coverage. Approval is 100% online and in one day; you can use it the next day. There are variants with more coverage. Residents in Iloilo praise their Festive Walk clinic.
Source: comments from residents, Expats Iloilo City group, 25-26/09/2026. Price published by users, not by the insurer: confirm it on maxicare.com.ph
Pacific Cross (the veterans' choice)
This is the one most recommended by residents with years in the country for serious hospitalization coverage, with direct payment to private hospitals. It's contracted through local English-speaking agents; the repeated advice in the thread is to choose an agent who "advocates for the client" and ask for references from real people who already use it.
Source: recommendations in the same thread, 26/09/2026. Official website: pacificcross.com.ph
Kaiser International (long-term "3 in 1")
HMO that presents itself as "the only one in the Philippines with long-term healthcare coverage". Its Health Builder plan combines healthcare + life insurance + investment: from ₱2,647 per month (≈ 39 €) payable for 7 years, entry ages 10-60. Advertised network: 2,000 hospitals and clinics, 12,000 doctors (St. Luke's, Makati Medical, The Medical City).
Source: brochure from an agent posted in the group, 26/09/2026. ⚠️ Note: the "3 in 1" mixes insurance and financial product; clearly separate what is coverage and what is investment before signing. Website: kaiserhealthgroup.com
AXA Philippines and iCare
AXA Philippines (local subsidiary of the AXA group) is mentioned among the options people are considering, although in that thread no one shared their concrete experience. iCare was also mentioned, but we couldn't verify their official website (26/09/2026): if an "agent" from iCare asks you for money, demand references and documentation before paying anything.
AXA website: axa.com.ph
⚠️ Watch out for agents. In expat groups, there are many messages from agents recommending themselves ("I'll refer you to my agent," "I'm an agent for this brand"). It doesn't mean they're bad, but filter: cross any recommendation with experiences from people with no vested interest, and compare at least two options before signing.
The 5 questions to ask BEFORE contracting (these are from the thread, word for word)
- How easy is it to get hospital admissions, procedures and consultations approved?
- What exclusions are hidden in the fine print?
- How does customer service respond when there's a real problem?
- Which hospitals in your city does the plan work with? (if you're going to Iloilo: ask for the specific list and check that it includes the private hospitals you would use)
- Is it contracted 100% online or do you have to sign in person with an agent?
And the note that repeats among residents: the public PhilHealth insurance is cheap and complements private insurance (foreign residents can affiliate as volunteers). It's in the directory with its official website. This data is user experiences dated 25-26/09/2026, not official verification: any price must be confirmed with the insurer before deciding.
12 · Checklist before buying (mark all)
Sixteen questions that separate a good insurance from a problem. They're saved on your mobile: close the page and come back whenever you want.
0/16 marked
13 · Directory: the 27 insurance plans analyzed and their official websites
All analyzed in this guide, with direct link to their official page (and to the policy when available). The discarded ones maintain their active website: you can quote them and compare yourself — here the reason for discarding.
🇪🇸 Spanish Travel Insurance Companies
The Spanish reference for long stays: Grandes Viajeros 6–12 months and Annual Multiviaje from 217 €/year.
The highest rated among Spanish companies; renewals from the app while abroad.
The only one with complete public rates by zone and duration; renewable from abroad up to 24 months.
Unbeatable price and certificates for visas; fine print is harsh from age 45.
The highest volume of reviews among Spanish companies; strong through travel agencies.
🌏 Nomad and Adventure Insurance (International)
The nomad standard: you can buy it while already traveling and it renews automatically. Public downloadable policy.
The cheapest bridge if you have pre-existing conditions; Patriot Lite from ~85 $/month.
For diving, surfing, trekking and motorcycles covered by default depending on plan.
🏥 International Health (Expats, Direct Payment)
The reference: they settle with St. Luke's, Bumrungrad and top hospitals in Asia.
Best price/service balance; public policy documents.
~185 $/month at 50 with deductible; extensive own network.
Zero out-of-pocket: you pay with their card and they bill later.
🇵🇭 Local in Philippines
The insurer of expats in the Philippines; Select from ~₱20,000/year at 46–50.
Doesn't replace insurance, but covers part of hospitalizations for cents.
🚫 Discarded in the analysis (active websites: compare them yourself)
Aggressive price and any nationality, but difficult verification in the analysis.
Covers acute conditions, but oriented to USA and worse rated than IMG.
For Asia, their network and prices don't compete with IMG/SafetyWing.
Modern app, but little claims history and depends on country of residence.
14 · The 27 analyzed: chosen and discarded
Rejection criteria for this guide (long stay in Asia, traveler 45–50, Spanish/international): price transparency, pre-existing conditions coverage, hospital payment method, real support, and volume of reviews.
| Insurance | Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| IATI, Heymondo, Chapka, Assist 365, Intermundial | Chosen (profiles) | the 5 Spanish references with actual long stay |
| SafetyWing, Genki, IMG, World Nomads, battleface | Chosen (profiles) | the 5 most used and valued international nomads |
| Cigna, William Russell, AXA Global, Allianz Care, April, Foyer, PassportCard | Chosen (profiles/table) | the 7 international health insurances with direct payment |
| Pacific Cross, PhilHealth | Chosen (profiles) | the local pair in Philippines |
| Auras Long Stay | Discarded (today) | aggressive price and any nationality, but unstable website/difficult verification at the time of analysis and little history; if you quote it, do it direct and always compare with IATI/SafetyWing |
| WorldTrips (Atlas Travel) | Discarded | covers exacerbations (interesting) but oriented to the US market, management in dollars and Trustpilot clearly inferior to IMG, which covers the same better valued |
| Seven Corners | Discarded | designed for visitors GOING TO THE USA; for Asia its network and prices don't compete with IMG/SafetyWing |
| Faye | Discarded | modern app and good idea, but limited availability by country of residence and very young (little claims history) |
| Insured Nomads | Discarded | niche, low ceilings in the basic plan and less price transparency than average |
| Europ Assistance España | Discarded | strong in short trips and bank products; without a competitive public long stay product |
| Plus Ultra (travel) | Discarded | short/bank packages; without a real long stay range |
15 · Frequently asked questions
Which insurance takes me back to Spain if I get seriously ill?
All the ones analyzed include medical repatriation: regular flight with medical or nursing accompaniment if applicable, when your medical team authorizes it for medical necessity. SafetyWing limits evacuation to $100,000 and usually takes you to the nearest appropriate hospital (Bangkok, Singapore), not always to Spain.
Which is the cheapest for 3 months?
Assist 365 Backpacker (~90–350 €), with the fine print of pre-existing conditions. With better coverage: Chapka Trotamundos Basic (229 € with published price) or Genki (~239 € at age 45 with 1 M€ ceiling).
Which one would pay directly at the hospital without me advancing money?
International health insurance (Cigna, AXA Global, Allianz Care, April, PassportCard with its card, Pacific Cross in the Philippines) have direct payment networks. Spanish travel insurance (IATI, Heymondo, Chapka, Intermundial) issue "payment letter" for hospitalizations if you call their 24h center first. Small hospitals in Asia, however, usually still ask for a cash deposit from anyone.
What happens if I have a pre-existing condition?
It's THE deciding factor from age 45. IATI covers emergencies derived from pre-existing conditions; Chapka Complete up to €50,000; IMG covers their sudden aggravation up to age 70; Assist 365 excludes them completely even if they manifest for the first time during the trip; international health insurance covers them with waiting period or surcharge. Always declare everything.
How much does hospitalization cost in Asia?
Real references: 51-hour admission with surgery in Dumaguete (Philippines) ≈ €1,400; a heart bypass at Makati Medical Center can exceed €50,000. That's why the medical ceiling matters: minimum recommended $250,000/€300,000.
Can I purchase if I'm NOT Spanish?
Yes: SafetyWing, Genki, IMG, World Nomads, battleface and international health insurance accept any nationality (with country of residence). Spanish ones (IATI, Heymondo, Chapka, Assist 365, Intermundial) are designed for residents in Spain.
Which insurance suits me if I retire and move to live abroad?
Depends on the profile. If you maintain a base in the Philippines or Southeast Asia: international health insurance with direct payment (Cigna, AXA Global, Allianz Care, April, William Russell up to age 75) or local insurance + supplement (Pacific Cross + PhilHealth in PH). If you continue traveling: IATI (no age limit) or Heymondo (up to age 74). Long-term travel insurance is a patch, not a resident solution: see section 7.
What is a deductible and why does it lower the price?
It's the portion you pay for each claim (e.g. €50 in Genki, €100 per incident in Heymondo). The higher you set it, the cheaper the premium — but in a small claim, you'll pay almost everything yourself.
Can I renew if I'm already traveling?
Heymondo: yes, from the app (30/120/180/275 day renewals). SafetyWing: renews automatically every 28 days. Chapka: renewable from abroad up to 24 months. IATI: new policy (watch out for the 72-hour waiting period for illnesses). International health insurance: annual renewal with premium review.
Do these prices include discounts?
Those marked with ✅ are official published rates. IATI applies 15% for families and 5–15% for groups; SafetyWing 10% for paying the year in advance; Chapka publishes its final table. Always compare the final price from the calculator with the same age, dates and destination.
I live or retire in the Philippines: what LOCAL medical insurance do expats use?
Residents don't use travel insurance: they contract local HMOs. Maxicare (Consult 999 plan: ₱999/year with unlimited check-ups and online registration in 24 h), Pacific Cross (veterans' favorite for hospitalizations with direct payment) or Kaiser (long-term HMO, from ₱2,647/month). Before signing, ask which hospitals in your city it works with and what exclusions it has. Details and sources in the "Living in the Philippines" section.
16 · How we compared (methodology)
Evidence hierarchy we applied: 1) policy, certificate and active benefits table · 2) official insurer website · 3) authorities (visas, health, foreign affairs) · 4) affiliate program portal · 5) comparison sites and media, only to discover options · 6) reviews (Trustpilot, forums): anecdotal signal of friction, never claims statistics. If a figure is not verifiable, we write "not published" instead of filling it in.
Version history: v1 22–23/09/2026 (first comparison, Spain→Asia market) · v2 26/09/2026 (retirees section, directory of 26, Philippines) · v3 09/10/2026 (this): interactive selector, premium cards section, zones and visas, purchase checklist, True Traveller and Seven Corners fact sheets, color code and evidence hierarchy.
Data collected on 22–23 October 2026 from official price pages (Heymondo, IATI, Chapka, SafetyWing, Genki, Cigna, William Russell, Pacific Cross), published rate tables, actual general conditions (including Assist 365 and IATI) and Trustpilot ratings (number of reviews and approximate score, rounded — will vary daily). Prices marked with "~" are estimates by age range and must be confirmed in each company's official quote. We don't accept money from any insurer to change a verdict; "Quote" links may be affiliate links at no cost to you. Digitally generated illustrative photographs. This page is informational and does not replace contractual conditions or professional advice.