Health Insurance Considerations for Expats in Singapore

In 2025, medical inflation has reached 12.3%, prompting many newcomers to seek reliable, cost-effective protection. Our guide from Pacific Prime Singapore outlines key health insurance considerations to help expats in Singapore make efficient decisions and secure a suitable plan for their stay.

Choosing international health insurance in Singapore as an expat requires careful thought. This article details plan types, compares local and global options, reveals common pitfalls, and highlights essential benefits, including renewability, coverage limits, and evacuation services.

Insurance Options for Expats in Singapore

Singapore offers three main insurance paths: MediShield Life, local insurance plans, and international health insurance. Understanding the features of each helps expats choose wisely for their needs and mobility.

Expats should also consider their residency status, family size, and specific health needs when evaluating these options. For instance, families with children may prioritize plans with comprehensive pediatric care, while individuals with chronic conditions should focus on pre-existing condition coverage.

MediShield Life in Singapore

MediShield Life is a government-administered plan designed to provide basic coverage for significant medical expenses. While it offers peace of mind for Singaporeans and PRs, its limitations make it less suitable for expats who require broader coverage or international portability.

Mandatory for citizens and permanent residents, MediShield Life covers large hospital bills and costly outpatient treatments. Expats without PR status must explore private insurance options instead.

MediShield Updates

Starting April 2025, MediShield Life now offers an annual claim limit of SGD 200,000. Coverage has expanded to include newer outpatient treatments, and a deductible of SGD 500 per year will apply starting in 2026.

These updates aim to address the rising costs of healthcare and ensure that MediShield Life remains a viable option for basic medical needs. However, expats should note that the plan still lacks coverage for overseas treatment and medical evacuation—critical for those who travel frequently.

Local Health Insurance in Singapore

Local plans cover care only in Singapore, with limited overseas emergency protection. They typically offer comprehensive benefits for inpatient and outpatient treatments within the country, making them a solid option for expats planning to stay long-term and not travel frequently.

Compared to international plans, local policies are often more affordable but lack portability. Many exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, mental health, or maternity unless riders are purchased.

Expats should also consider network restrictions—some plans only cover care from panel providers, which can limit hospital choice. When selecting a local plan, key considerations include:

• Scope of Coverage: Are outpatient visits, specialist consultations, and diagnostics included?
• Family Coverage: Does the plan support dependents with pediatric and maternity care?
• Provider Networks: Is treatment restricted to certain clinics or hospitals?
• Travel Protection: Is overseas emergency care or evacuation available as an add-on?

Local plans suit expats with stable residency and limited travel needs, but may fall short for those wanting international flexibility or access to specialized treatments abroad.

International Medical Insurance in Singapore

Perhaps not surprisingly, international medical insurance is the most popular option for globally mobile expats and frequent travelers. The reason is simple: they cover policyholders worldwide and tend to come with a wide range of coveted perks that make them far superior to local plans, such as:

• Wider range of benefits in your country of residence
• Higher coverage limits
• Lifetime renewable guaranteed
• More options for pre-existing condition coverage
• No restrictions on healthcare providers
• Plan portability

What Expats Should Consider Beyond Price When Choosing Health Insurance in Singapore

Finding the right health insurance plan as an expat requires balancing affordability with comprehensive coverage. While low-cost plans may seem appealing, they often come with limitations that could impact your healthcare experience.

Potential drawbacks of cheaper plans include:

• Limited renewability
• Unpredictable premium hikes
• Restricted provider networks
• Low coverage limits
• High out-of-pocket costs
• Extensive exclusions
• No international medical evacuation
• Minimal or no coverage for pre-existing conditions

The ideal medical insurance plan for expats is one with a perfect balance between cost and benefits. While it’s understandably tempting to purchase the cheapest plan available, it’s likely not conducive to the best overall benefits.

For instance, many people opt for local health insurance because of its low price tag, but it’s important to bear in mind that these plans come with several drawbacks, some of which may not be immediately apparent.

Here are some common issues to watch out for:

• Not lifetime renewable
• Erratic premium increases
• Restrictive provider networks
• Low limits
• High co-pays
• A long list of exclusions
• No international medical evacuation
• Limited or no coverage for pre-existing/chronic conditions

Differences Between MediShield Life, Local Insurance Plans, and International Health Insurance in Singapore

Be sure to familiarize yourself with all your Singapore medical insurance options, including the costs involved and the coverage received, before you select a plan. Here, we summarize the key differences side-by-side:

It’s worth noting here that the above table is intended for generalized comparison only. For a free, tailored comparison of the ideal Singapore medical insurance plans, visit our compare health insurance page or get in touch with our team of advisors today.

Family-Focused Coverage in Singapore

Relocating to Singapore with a family introduces unique healthcare considerations. Expats with children or dependents should prioritize family health insurance plans that cater to family needs, ensuring comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.

Key Features to Look For

• Pediatric Care: Ensure the plan includes access to pediatricians, vaccinations, and specialist care for children.
• Maternity Benefits: For families planning to grow, maternity coverage is essential. Look for plans that cover prenatal care, delivery, and postnatal support.
• Dental and Vision Coverage: Children often require regular dental check-ups and vision care. Some plans offer these as add-ons or part of a comprehensive package.
• Family Discounts: Many insurers provide discounts for adding multiple dependents to a single policy, making it more cost-effective.
• Emergency Care: Access to 24/7 emergency services and hospital coverage is crucial for families.

Tips for Choosing the Right Plan for Your Family

• Assess Your Family’s Needs: Consider the age, health conditions, and specific requirements of each family member.
• Compare Plans: Use comparison tools or consult with advisors to find a plan that balances cost and coverage.
• Check Network Providers: Ensure the plan includes reputable hospitals and clinics that cater to family healthcare.
• Review Exclusions: Be aware of what’s not covered, such as certain pre-existing conditions or elective procedures.

By focusing on family-oriented features, expats can secure a health insurance plan that supports their loved ones’ well-being while living in Singapore.

Tips for Managing Healthcare Costs as an Expat in Singapore

Managing healthcare costs as an expat in Singapore requires a proactive approach. Here are some practical tips to help you save money while ensuring quality care:

1. Choose the Right Insurance Plan: Select a plan that aligns with your healthcare needs and budget. Compare options to find the best value for your situation.
2. Utilize Preventive Care: Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect health issues early, reducing the need for costly treatments later.
3. Opt for In-Network Providers: If your insurance plan has a network of preferred providers, use them to benefit from lower out-of-pocket costs.
4. Understand Your Policy: Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy’s terms, including coverage limits, exclusions, and co-payment requirements.
5. Negotiate Medical Bills: Don’t hesitate to discuss payment plans or discounts with healthcare providers, especially for non-emergency treatments.

By implementing these strategies, expats can effectively manage their healthcare expenses while enjoying access to Singapore’s world-class medical services.

Explore Expat Health Insurance Options in Singapore with Pacific Prime

Navigating the healthcare system in Singapore can be daunting, especially for expats unfamiliar with local insurance options. Securing the right health insurance plan is essential for peace of mind and financial security.

At Pacific Prime Singapore, we bring over 20 years of expertise in international health insurance, family insurance, and expat insurance, helping individuals and families worldwide find the best plans. Beyond insurance, we provide ongoing support, assisting you with renewals, claims, and more.

Reach out to us today for a free, no-obligation plan comparison and personalized advice!

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Grace Dandan

Content Creator at Pacific Prime

Grace is a content creator with over 7 years of experience in the digital marketing space. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts from De La Salle University, which provided her with foundational skills in news writing, TV and film production, photography, and media. She has worked in different industries, including journalism, editorial, social work, fintech, beauty and eCommerce, providing a variety of digital works not limited to social media content, blogs, articles and presentation decks.

At Pacific Prime, Grace focuses on simplifying complex concepts on international health insurance to make these topics easily accessible and understandable for our target audience. Being a Filipino born in Hong Kong, she understands the struggles of most immigrants and expats in finding the right insurance solutions while in another country. Her goal is to redefine most people’s perception of insurance, that it is an investment for one’s protection and future.

In her spare time, Grace is either at home or at Hong Kong Disneyland. She loves reading, watching movies and K-dramas, and attending dance classes.

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