Best Expat Insurance for Couples

Top Picks for Couples

These insurers offer the best options for expat couples:

Coverage Options for Couples

Couples have several options for structuring their international health insurance:

Joint Policy

• Both partners on single policy
• One premium, one renewal date
• Often eligible for couple discounts
• Can share family deductible
• Simpler administration

Separate Individual Policies

• Each partner has own policy
• Can customize each plan differently
• Independence if relationship changes
• Can use different insurers if needed
• More administrative work

Considerations for Unmarried Partners

• Most insurers accept domestic partners
• Definition varies by insurer
• May need to share address
• Some require cohabitation period
• Verify eligibility before applying

Couple Coverage Comparison

Detailed Reviews

Cigna Global — Best for Couples

Cigna Global offers excellent options for expat couples.

What works well:

• Joint policies available
• 5-10% couple/family discounts
• Modular plans for customization
• Optional maternity coverage
• Partners can have different coverage levels
• Easy to add children later
• Single renewal and administration

Considerations: Premium pricing. Best value on mid-tier plans. Good flexibility for different needs within couple.

Read our full Cigna Global review

Bupa Global — Best Premium Option

Bupa Global offers comprehensive coverage for couples.

What works well:

• Joint policies with good discounts
• Excellent coverage options
• Optional maternity benefits
• Flexible plan structures
• Strong global network
• Premium service quality
• Easy family expansion

Considerations: Most expensive option. Best for couples wanting premium coverage. Worth it for comprehensive protection.

Read our full Bupa Global review

Aetna International — Best with US Coverage

Aetna International works well for American couples abroad.

What works well:

• Joint policies available
• Strong US network
• Good international coverage
• Familiar to US expats
• Maternity options
• Good for couples returning to US

Considerations: Best for US-connected couples. Pricing competitive for US coverage. Good all-around option.

Read our full Aetna International review

Joint vs Individual Plans

When to Choose Joint Policy

• Married or long-term committed relationship
• Similar healthcare needs
• Want simplified administration
• Planning to stay together long-term
• Want potential discounts

When to Choose Separate Policies

• Very different healthcare needs
• One partner needs specific coverage other doesn't
• Relationship situation uncertain
• Different citizenship/residency affecting options
• Employer covers one partner

Shared vs Individual Deductibles

Options for deductible structure:

• Individual deductible: Each person has own deductible
• Family/shared deductible: Both contribute to one pool
• Shared can save money if one person has high costs
• Individual is fairer if needs are very different
• Not all insurers offer both options

Special Considerations for Couples

Planning for Family

If children are in your future:

• Add maternity coverage now (waiting periods apply)
• Check how adding children affects premium
• Verify pediatric coverage quality
• Understand family policy pricing
• Plan ahead—maternity waiting periods are 10-12 months

Age Differences

When partners are different ages:

• Premiums usually based on each person's age
• Significant age gap means different costs
• Consider separate policies if big age difference
• Joint may not save money with age spread

Different Health Needs

When one partner needs more coverage:

• Modular plans let you customize each
• One can have maternity, other not
• Different deductibles possible
• Separate policies may make more sense

Relocation Flexibility

If your plans might change:

• Verify coverage in potential destinations
• Check ease of address changes
• Understand what happens if one partner moves
• Global plans offer most flexibility

Domestic Partners

Coverage for unmarried couples:

• Most major insurers accept domestic partners
• May need to cohabit or share address
• Some have time requirements (6-12 months together)
• Legal civil partnerships usually accepted
• Verify specific insurer requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we have to be married for a joint policy?

No. Most international health insurers accept domestic partners, civil unions, and long-term cohabiting couples. Requirements vary—some need shared address, others require minimum time together. Verify with your chosen insurer.

Is a joint policy cheaper than two individual policies?

Usually yes. Many insurers offer 5-10% discounts for couple or family policies. Even without explicit discounts, administrative costs are lower. However, if needs differ significantly, individual policies might be more efficient.

Can we have different coverage levels on a joint policy?

With some insurers, yes. Modular plans (like Cigna Global) allow different modules for each person. Others require same coverage for both. Check specific insurer flexibility before deciding.

What happens if we separate?

Joint policy would need to be split into two individual policies. This may require new underwriting and could affect coverage for pre-existing conditions. Consider this risk when choosing joint vs individual policies.

Should we add maternity coverage now?

If children are possible within 2-3 years, add it now. Maternity has 10-12 month waiting periods. You can't add it after becoming pregnant. It's cheaper to remove later than to miss the window.

Can one partner be primary policyholder?

Yes. On joint policies, one person is typically designated as the primary policyholder for administration purposes. Both partners have equal coverage rights. This doesn't affect coverage—just who receives communications.