Countries with the Best Healthcare for Expats 

when living abroad as an expat Moving abroad comes with many exciting changes, but one of the most important things to consider is your health. Good healthcare isn't just about having a doctor you can visit when you're sick; it's about having reliable, high-quality care that you can count on when you need it most.

According to a survey by Cigna Global, 22% of current expats say that an enhanced healthcare plan offering more than just basic medical coverage is essential, reflecting a growing trend of people seeking better healthcare and the security it brings. 

So, why should healthcare be one of the first things on your relocation checklist? Let's break it down:

• Quality of care: Access to reliable, professional medical attention is essential, especially in emergencies or when managing chronic conditions. Not all healthcare systems are created equal, so it’s important to research your destination.
• Access to specialists: Some countries offer quicker and easier access to specialists, while others may have long wait times or limited availability. Fast access to expert care can make a big difference.
• Cost and financial protection: Healthcare costs vary widely around the world. Without proper insurance, even routine procedures can lead to high out-of-pocket expenses. A solid health plan helps protect you financially.
• Legal and visa requirements: In many countries that have universal healthcare, proof of valid health insurance is often a visa or residency requirement. Having coverage ensures you meet legal requirements and keeps your relocation plans on track.

France consistently ranks among the countries with the best healthcare for expats, thanks to its universal healthcare system that ensures broad access to quality medical services. Expats can access the public system after registering with French social security (PUMA). Many also opt for supplementary private insurance (Mutuelle) to help cover costs like dental, vision, and specialist care.

• System: Universal healthcare, with an option for private supplemental insurance. 
• Strengths: Affordable prescriptions, excellent public hospitals, comprehensive care for chronic illnesses.
• Why expats love it: France’s well-established public system offers reliable, cost-effective healthcare, making it a preferred choice for expats seeking top quality medical services.

Japan is widely recognized as one of the top countries for healthcare and is known for not only offering universal coverage but also for having some of the best doctors globally. While some may initially perceive Japan’s healthcare as costly, many expats are pleasantly surprised by its value. The system blends public insurance with private providers, ensuring comprehensive care at competitive prices.

• System: Universal healthcare, with strong public-private integration.
• Strengths: High life expectancy, cutting-edge medical technology, and a highly efficient appointment system that minimizes wait times.
• Why expats love it: Many expats appreciate the balance of accessibility and quality, along with the reliability of services for prompt treatment. This system also supports those trying to stick to a healthy daily routine as an expat, thanks to Japan’s efficiency and strong preventive healthcare culture.

Spain offers one of the best healthcare systems in Europe, particularly appealing to retirees and digital nomads. The system places a strong emphasis on preventive care and boasts a well-established primary care network. While EU citizens benefit from automatic access, non-EU expatriates can tap into public healthcare by contributing to the social security system or opting for private insurance. 

• System: Universal healthcare for residents, with private insurance options for additional coverage.
• Strengths: Low-cost medical care, great doctor-patient communication, excellent preventive care.
• Why expats love it: Spain’s healthcare system stands out for its accessibility, affordability, and strong focus on preventive care, making it a top choice for expats seeking affordable, reliable medical support.

South Korea’s healthcare system is renowned for its efficiency, modernity, and affordability, making it an excellent option for expats, especially digital nomads, and professionals. The country operates under a universal healthcare model (National Health Insurance, or NHI), and expatriates can typically join the system after becoming residents.

• System: Universal healthcare (NHI) with access to both public and private facilities.
• Strengths: Short wait times, tech-forward hospitals, low out-of-pocket costs.
• Why expats love it: South Korea combines cutting-edge medical tech with fast, affordable care. English-speaking services are increasingly available in major cities like Seoul and Busan, making the system more accessible to expats living in Asia.

Australia's Medicare system provides public healthcare to citizens and permanent residents, and expats on long-term visas may also be eligible for coverage; many choose to supplement this with private insurance to reduce wait times and gain access to additional services.

• System: Medicare (public healthcare system) for citizens and residents, with private insurance options available.
• Strengths: High standard of care, access to both public and private healthcare, quick treatment for emergencies.
• Why expats love it: Australia’s healthcare system is well-regulated, offering a balance between high-quality public healthcare and private options, providing expats with flexibility and comprehensive coverage.

While many countries offer excellent healthcare systems, there are also places where healthcare can be a challenge for expats. If you’re planning to move, don’t be that person who overlooks these important factors before making a huge life decision. It’s essential to consider how a country’s healthcare system will affect your health and well-being when deciding where to relocate.

Bulgaria's healthcare system is publicly funded but faces significant challenges, including underfunding and inefficiencies. A 2009 Euro Health Consumer Index report highlighted Bulgaria's healthcare system as the worst in Europe, citing issues such as limited access to medicines and suboptimal health outcomes. 

Why Bulgaria ranks low:

• High out-of-pocket costs due to underfunding. 
• Limited access to medicines and medical supplies. 
• Outdated hospital infrastructure and facilities. 

Romania’s healthcare system is publicly funded but faces significant challenges, including underfunding, shortages of medical personnel, and outdated infrastructure. The public system, which provides national health insurance to most citizens, struggles to meet the needs of its population, including expatriates.

Why Romania ranks low:

• Underfunded, leading to long wait times and poorly resourced facilities.
• Shortages of medical staff, especially in rural areas, are due to low wages.
• Outdated infrastructure and equipment in hospitals.
• High out-of-pocket costs and informal payments for quick access to services.

The Philippines' healthcare system includes both public and private options, but it faces ongoing challenges with accessibility and quality, especially outside major cities. While areas like Manila and Cebu have modern private hospitals, public healthcare is often underfunded, overcrowded, and less reliable. 

Why the Philippines ranks low:

• Inconsistent quality of care between urban and rural areas.
• Underfunded and overcrowded public hospitals.
• Limited access to specialized medical services in rural regions.

Mexico’s healthcare system offers a mix of public and private options, but the public system faces ongoing challenges, particularly due to underfunding, staff shortages, and regional disparities. While major cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara offer high-quality care, public hospitals often experience overcrowding, and rural facilities tend to be under-resourced. As a result, many expats choose private healthcare or international insurance to ensure better care and shorter wait times.

In terms of lifestyle, Mexico City is a popular digital nomad city thanks to its vibrant atmosphere and strong connectivity, though healthcare should still be a key consideration for expats living there.

Why Mexico ranks low:

• Overcrowded public facilities cause long wait times and limited availability.
• Inconsistent care in rural areas with outdated equipment and fewer professionals.
• Limited access to specialized services outside urban centers.
• Language barriers in public facilities for non-Spanish-speaking expats. 

Turkey’s healthcare system is a mix of public and private providers. While cities like Istanbul and Ankara boast modern medical facilities and private hospitals, public hospitals often suffer from overcrowding, under-resourcing, and language barriers. These issues are more pronounced in rural areas, where access to quality care is significantly more limited.

Why Turkey ranks low:

• Disparities in healthcare quality between urban centers and rural regions.
• Overcrowded public hospitals with long wait times and limited capacity.
• Underfunded and understaffed public system, leading to service inefficiencies.

Universal healthcare models in countries like France, Spain, Portugal, and Japan provide essential services through taxation or insurance contributions, offering quality care with lower costs, though they may involve longer wait times or limited provider options. 

On the other hand, private healthcare, seen in places like the United States, is funded through insurance or out-of-pocket payments, offering faster access and personalized care but at a higher cost and with more complex insurance options.

An Aetna International survey as reported by Employee Benefits, revealed that 87% of expatriates consider family healthcare-related employment benefits important when evaluating job opportunities abroad, underscoring the significance of robust healthcare systems in expatriate decisions.

So, if you're wondering which countries have free healthcare, the answer isn't always straightforward. In places like the UK or Spain, healthcare is largely free for residents, but certain services may include small fees or co-pays. It's important to look beyond the term “free” and understand exactly what’s covered and what’s not.

Universal healthcare aims to provide all residents with access to essential medical services, typically funded through taxation or mandatory insurance contributions. Countries like France, Germany, and Japan have implemented universal healthcare models, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to the majority of their populations.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage for essential medical services.
• Cost efficiency through pooled resources and price negotiations.
• Greater access to healthcare, especially for preventive care.

Cons:

• Potential wait times for non-urgent procedures.
• Limited provider choices in rural or remote areas.
• Eligibility requirements based on residency or contributions.

Private healthcare operates through individual insurance policies or out-of-pocket payments, with services provided by privately owned facilities. In countries like the United States, private healthcare predominates, while in others, it complements the public system.

Pros:

• Shorter wait times and quicker access to specialists.
• Enhanced comfort and personalized care options.
• Flexibility to choose a tailored healthcare plan.

Cons:

• Excessive costs, especially without adequate insurance.
• Complex insurance options with varying coverage.
• Limited access to public healthcare benefits.

Even in countries with universal healthcare, having private health insurance can be a smart move. Expat health insurance helps cover private medical care, provides access to international clinics, and fills gaps in coverage not included by the public healthcare system.

Look for plans that offer:

• Emergency care and hospitalization.
• Chronic condition management.
• Routine checkups and preventative services.
• Specialist treatments and expedited care.
• Medical evacuation coverage.

For many expats, private health insurance is essential to cover specialist treatments, reduce waiting times, and gain access to private healthcare facilities not always available through public systems. Allianz Expat Health Insurance offers tailored plans with comprehensive coverage, including global access to top-tier healthcare services, ensuring peace of mind no matter where you are.

Choosing a country with great healthcare is essential to a smooth expat experience. Whether you opt for universal coverage or prefer the flexibility of private insurance, understanding your options is key to staying healthy while living abroad.

Take the time to research the healthcare systems in your potential destinations, understand what’s covered, and consider private insurance to fill any gaps. No matter where you go, make sure you’re fully prepared for your healthcare needs.

Discover Allianz's expat health insurance plans, offering comprehensive coverage to protect you against unexpected challenges. With tailored options for your needs, you can confidently embrace your expat journey.