How to apply for an international health insurance policy

Guide to applying for international health insurance

Applying for international insurance can be a complicated process due to a process called underwriting. Many of our clients from countries like the USA or Canada are not used having to do medical exams or provide in-depth medical history when applying for health insurance.

Before applying

What is typically needed to apply:

• Application - Submit an online, or paper application to us. Get started online here.

• Identification - Scan of a government-issued ID for all applicants

• Proof of Residency - Most commonly asked is either a resident visa, or proof of address (rental lease, utility bill, bank statement, etc.) Some insurers have begun moving away from proof of residency requirements, though some still require it.

• Medical Records - Not needed at time of applying, but insurers will generally ask for medical records after you submit an application if you have a major preexisting condition. Most commonly asked-for items are a written diagnosis from your previous physician, and/or recent lab work showing the extent of the condition.

Get a Quote

Use our live quoting tool to view different policies. If you are overwhelmed, make an appointment with one of our brokers to help guide you through the process.

Quote Tool

Broker Consultation Request

Application

Submit a generic application to our brokers to start the request. We will work with you to ensure an accurate application to prevent any delays with the insurance provider.

Start an application

Underwriting

The insurance company will then review your application with their medical committee and either make an offer on the policy, or make a request for more information. It is at this point that your medical records will prove most helpful, as the insurer may request them to have more information regarding your conditions. The more records you can show, the better your chances are for getting coverage. If you can't show records, insurers will generally assume the worst.

Payment / Issuance

Once you have accepted the policy, you will pay for the policy and it will be issued within a few business days. Your broker or the insurance company will send you a welcome email with your insurance cards and certificate of coverage, and instructions for loging on to their online portal, if applicable.

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Last reviewed May 2026. For help with your own policy, contact Expat Insurance through the help center so our team can review your situation.