Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, where he focuses on helping people compare health plans for life abroad. He emphasizes clear information, neutral analysis, and practical decision support.
Our Top Picks
Colombian expats are found in significant numbers in the US, Spain, Chile, and other countries. USD-denominated coverage provides stability against peso volatility. Here's what we recommend:
- Cigna Global: Best overall for Colombian expats. Full Spanish support, strong US networks, comprehensive coverage.
- Bupa Global: Premium option with excellent networks worldwide. Spanish support available.
- April International: French insurer with excellent Spanish support. Good for Spain and Latin America.
- Allianz Care: Good global coverage at competitive prices. Strong European networks.
- Seguros Bolivar: Colombian insurer with some international options. Familiar brand, includes Colombia.
US Healthcare Reality
The US has a large Colombian community, especially in Florida, New York, and New Jersey. US healthcare is extremely expensive—a hospital stay can cost $50,000-$200,000+. Comprehensive coverage is essential.
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Leaving Colombian Healthcare
Colombia has a mandatory health insurance system. Here's what happens when you leave:
EPS (Entidades Promotoras de Salud)
Colombia's mandatory health insurance through EPS provides coverage for employed and contributing members. EPS coverage only works in Colombia—there's no international coverage. Moving abroad ends practical access.
Contributory vs Subsidized
If you're in the contributory regime (paying through employment), your contributions stop when you leave Colombia. You lose EPS coverage. The subsidized regime only applies to Colombia residents.
Prepaid Medicine (Medicina Prepagada)
If you have Colombian prepaid medicine (Colsanitas, Coomeva Prepagada, Colmedica), check international coverage terms. Most provide limited international emergency coverage—typically 30-90 days. Long-term stays abroad need dedicated international insurance.
Maintaining Colombian Coverage
You can sometimes maintain EPS or prepaid coverage while abroad for short periods. This is useful for visits home but doesn't solve international coverage needs.
Currency Considerations
Currency stability matters for Colombian expats:
Peso Volatility
The Colombian peso has experienced significant fluctuations. Peso-denominated coverage can change value unpredictably. USD-denominated international insurance provides stability.
USD-Denominated Benefits
- Coverage limits maintain their purchasing power
- Premiums are predictable in hard currency
- Claims paid at actual international costs
- Protection against currency movements
Payment Options
International insurers accept various payment methods:
- International credit cards
- Wire transfers
- Payment from US or destination country income
Spanish Language Support
Look for insurers with full Spanish-language support—Cigna and April International offer excellent Spanish service. This matters during medical emergencies when communication is critical.
Quick Comparison
| Provider | Spanish Support | US Network | Colombia Coverage | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Full | Strong | Add-on | $175/mo |
| Bupa Global | Yes | Excellent | Add-on | $195/mo |
| Allianz Care | Yes | Good | Add-on | $170/mo |
| April International | Full | Good | Add-on | $160/mo |
| Seguros Bolivar | Full | Limited | Included | $120/mo |
Detailed Reviews
Cigna Global
Cigna Global offers comprehensive USD-denominated coverage with full Spanish-language support. Strong US networks (critical for Florida-based Colombians) and global coverage. Plans come in three tiers with coverage up to unlimited.
24/7 Spanish service for support and claims. Colombia coverage can be added for visits home.
Best for: Colombian expats who want reliable global coverage with native Spanish support.
Bupa Global
Bupa Global offers premium international coverage with excellent US networks. Spanish support is available. Service quality is outstanding with comprehensive benefits including mental health and maternity.
Higher pricing reflects premium positioning. Best for professionals who can afford the best.
Best for: Colombian professionals who want top-tier coverage, especially in the US.
April International
April International is a French insurer with excellent Spanish-language support. Strong presence in Spanish-speaking markets. Good EU networks and competitive pricing.
Popular among Latin American expats in Europe and the Americas.
Best for: Colombian expats in Spain or Europe who want full Spanish support.
Allianz Care
Allianz Care offers good global coverage at competitive prices. Spanish support available. Strong European networks make this suitable for Colombian expats in Spain.
Best for: Colombian expats seeking good value, especially in Europe.
Seguros Bolivar
Seguros Bolivar is a major Colombian insurer offering some international products. Full Spanish service, familiar brand, Colombia coverage included. International networks are more limited than global insurers.
Best for: Colombian expats who prefer familiar Colombian service and primarily need Colombia coverage.
Compare Your Options
Get USD-denominated quotes from multiple providers to find the best balance of coverage, Spanish support, and price.
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Popular Destinations
Insurance needs vary by destination. Here's what Colombian expats should consider:
United States
Largest Colombian diaspora, especially in Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale), New York, and New Jersey. US healthcare is extremely expensive—comprehensive coverage is essential. Many Colombian doctors practice in these areas.
Spain
Historical and linguistic ties make Spain popular. Spanish healthcare covers legal residents. Many Colombians supplement with private insurance for faster access. Madrid and Barcelona have Colombian communities.
Chile
Growing Colombian community. Chilean healthcare requires private insurance (ISAPRE) or public coverage (FONASA). International insurance covers the initial period.
Ecuador
Close proximity and cultural similarities. Ecuadorian healthcare is accessible but limited. International insurance provides better coverage than local options.
Common Questions
Does my EPS cover me abroad?
No. EPS only covers care in Colombia. You need dedicated international health insurance for coverage while living abroad.
Can I keep my prepaid medicine abroad?
Colombian prepaid plans provide limited international coverage (typically emergency only for 30-90 days). Long-term stays need proper international insurance.
Should I get USD or peso coverage?
USD is recommended. Peso volatility can erode coverage value. USD policies maintain purchasing power regardless of exchange rate movements.
What about coverage during Colombia visits?
Most international insurers offer Colombia as a coverage region. Seguros Bolivar includes it automatically. Confirm details with your chosen provider.
Is Spanish support important?
In medical emergencies, native language support reduces stress and misunderstandings. Cigna and April offer full Spanish service.
Are there Colombian doctors in the US?
Yes, especially in Miami, New York, and other cities with large Colombian communities. Your insurer covers any qualified doctor.
Final Verdict
Colombian expats need comprehensive USD-denominated international insurance—Colombian coverage doesn't work abroad. Cigna Global is our top recommendation for full Spanish support and strong US networks.
Bupa Global offers premium coverage for those who can afford the best. April International is excellent for Spain-bound expats. Allianz Care provides good value for European destinations.
Choose USD-denominated coverage to protect against peso volatility. Prioritize Spanish-language support for easier communication during medical situations.
