In a context of globalization, more and more young people are deciding to go abroad for a language exchange, an internship or professional training. It’s a great way to gain initial experience and master one or more foreign languages. However, you should be aware that you shouldn’t go abroad without adequate medical cover, whatever your destination or length of stay. Explore our variousinternational health insurance options!
Insure yourself for a worry-free trip abroad
When you’re studying abroad, doing an internship or moving abroad, health cover abroad is your guarantee of good health protection in the event of an accident, fall or serious illness. In the event of a serious problem, hospitalization and repatriation costs can be very high abroad. Many countries do not have the same healthcare system as France, which covers most of the costs.
There are a number of suitable health insurance plans for foreigners , offering cover for medical expenses, third-party liability and repatriation. To choose the right health insurance abroad, you need to compare contracts carefully and take note of all the benefits. You need to ask yourself whether the insurance includes repatriation assistance, the maximum amount reimbursed by the insurer or whether you need cancellation and baggage insurance.
Compare the rates and coverages of our student abroad and expatriate insurance policies directly online.
Students abroad: why go?
During their studies at university or college, many students are required to do an internship abroad or take part in an exchange program. Training abroad not only enables you to enhance your skills in the world of work, but also to enrich yourself personally by discovering a new culture and language.
Working abroad: what’s involved?
There are several ways to work abroad for less:
- People between the ages of 18 and 30 can work as an au pair with a host family abroad for a limited period of time. They will then be provided with food and lodging. In return, they’ll have to look after the children and do household chores.
- People between the ages of 18 and 35 can participate in the Working Holiday Program (WHV). More than 40,000 French people can benefit from this program every year in the following countries: New Zealand, Argentina, Australia, Japan, Canada, Hong Kong, South Korea and Russia.
- Continuing professional training can also be another alternative for expatriation. This system enables employees to complete their professional career abroad.
- The most common solution, of course, is to obtain an employment contract before leaving or directly on the spot. Beware, competition can be fierce in some countries, and no one is waiting for you…
Of course, the best solution is to find a position abroad, ideally before you leave. If not, there’s a good chance you’ll find a job on the spot. Essential: think about your social protection and health coverage abroad!
How do you choose your international health insurance?
The purpose of your stay abroad is a 1st criterion. Your health insurance abroad – its coverage and rates – will be different. The risk is different between a student leaving for a short period, generally less than a year, and an expatriate leaving to settle abroad for several years. The type of cover required is also different: in many cases, maternity cover is not essential for students studying abroad.
Certain guarantees are essential in all cases, and it’s these aspects that you need to look at in particular and ask yourself these types of questions, which also depend on your needs:
- Does the insurance cover hospitalization at 100%?
- Is a 2-wheeler accident covered?
- Is university sports covered?
- How is the risk of epidemics taken into account?
- What is the maximum duration of coverage?
- Is there a waiting period or does the insurance cover it immediately?
- Are reimbursements made on the basis of actual costs?
- Is there an amount I must pay (“deductible”) before receiving my 1st reimbursement?
To help you choose the best contract, it’s a good idea to consult an international insurance specialist. This will provide you with information on medical costs in your destination country, so that you are covered at the right level. Contact one of Mondassur’ s experts , who will advise you free of charge on the best international health insurance for your situation.
