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
Singaporean expats are accustomed to excellent healthcare. Your insurance needs to match these expectations while providing coverage abroad. Here's what we recommend:
- Cigna Global: Best overall for Singaporean expats. Premium service quality matching Singapore standards, excellent global networks.
- Bupa Global: Top-tier coverage with outstanding service. Meets the highest expectations.
- AIA Singapore: Major Singaporean insurer with international products. Familiar brand, Singapore coverage included.
- Allianz Care: Strong global coverage at competitive prices.
- Great Eastern: Singaporean insurer offering some international options. Familiar processes.
Singapore Coverage Costs
Singapore healthcare is expensive. International policies that include Singapore coverage carry premium pricing. Consider whether you need Singapore coverage or can use MediShield Life during visits.
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Leaving Singapore Healthcare
Singapore has an excellent healthcare system built on the "3M" framework. Here's what happens when you leave:
MediShield Life
MediShield Life is Singapore's national health insurance scheme. It continues for Singapore citizens abroad and covers hospitalization and expensive outpatient treatments at Singapore public hospitals. However, it only works in Singapore—no international coverage.
Integrated Shield Plans (IPs)
If you have an Integrated Shield Plan (from AIA, Great Eastern, Prudential, etc.), check the terms for overseas coverage. Most IPs provide limited international coverage—typically emergency treatment only, not comprehensive care abroad.
MediSave Abroad
MediSave funds remain in your CPF account while abroad. You cannot use MediSave to pay for overseas healthcare directly. However, it's available when you return to Singapore.
Employer Group Insurance
If your overseas posting is through a Singapore employer, they may provide international coverage. Verify the terms—some employer plans have limitations.
CPF and MediSave Abroad
Understanding your CPF situation is important for healthcare planning:
MediSave Account
Your MediSave account continues to earn interest while abroad. You cannot withdraw it for overseas healthcare. It remains available for Singapore healthcare needs when you visit or return.
MediShield Life Premiums
MediShield Life premiums are deducted from MediSave even while abroad. This maintains your Singapore coverage for hospitalization when you return.
Integrated Shield Plan Continuation
You can usually maintain your IP while abroad, paying premiums from MediSave or cash. This maintains Singapore coverage but doesn't provide comprehensive international coverage.
CPF Withdrawal
Permanent emigration allows CPF withdrawal, but consider the implications carefully. Once withdrawn, you lose MediShield Life and other benefits. Most Singaporeans abroad maintain their CPF.
Service Quality Expectations
Singaporeans expect excellent healthcare service. International insurance should offer fast claims processing, 24/7 support, and access to quality hospitals. Don't compromise on service quality—you're used to Singapore standards.
Quick Comparison
| Provider | Service Quality | Global Network | Singapore Coverage | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Excellent | Excellent | Add-on | SGD 350/mo |
| Bupa Global | Premium | Excellent | Add-on | SGD 400/mo |
| Allianz Care | Very Good | Strong | Add-on | SGD 320/mo |
| AIA Singapore | Good | Good | Included | SGD 280/mo |
| Great Eastern | Good | Limited | Included | SGD 250/mo |
Detailed Reviews
Cigna Global
Cigna Global offers premium international coverage that meets Singaporean expectations. Their Platinum tier provides unlimited coverage, comprehensive benefits, and excellent service quality. Global networks include top hospitals worldwide.
24/7 English service with fast claims processing. Singapore coverage can be added for visits home.
Best for: Singaporean expats who want premium coverage matching Singapore standards.
Bupa Global
Bupa Global offers top-tier international coverage with outstanding service quality. Premium positioning matches Singaporean expectations. Comprehensive benefits including mental health, wellness, and maternity.
Service is excellent throughout. Singapore coverage available at additional cost.
Best for: Singaporean expats who want the absolute best coverage available.
AIA Singapore
AIA is one of Singapore's major insurers and offers international products for Singaporeans abroad. Familiar brand, familiar claims processes, Singapore coverage included. Integration with your existing AIA products is possible.
International networks are adequate, strongest in Asia-Pacific.
Best for: Singaporean expats who prefer familiar Singapore insurer service.
Allianz Care
Allianz Care offers strong global coverage at competitive prices. Good service quality, comprehensive benefits. European networks are particularly strong.
Good value for premium coverage without the highest prices.
Best for: Singaporean expats seeking good value with strong coverage.
Great Eastern
Great Eastern is Singapore's oldest insurer and offers some international products. Familiar brand, Singapore coverage included. International networks are more limited than global specialists.
Best for: Singaporean expats who prefer familiar Singapore service and primarily need Singapore coverage.
Compare Premium Options
Singaporeans typically prioritize quality over price. Compare top-tier plans to find the right combination of service, coverage, and Singapore access.
Get Premium QuotesWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Returning to Singapore
Returning to Singapore healthcare is straightforward:
MediShield Life
MediShield Life coverage continues automatically for citizens. No re-enrollment needed—you're covered immediately upon return for hospitalization at public hospitals.
Integrated Shield Plans
If you maintained your IP while abroad, coverage continues. If you let it lapse, you may need to undergo underwriting to restart coverage, potentially with exclusions for conditions developed while abroad.
MediSave
Your MediSave funds are available immediately for approved medical expenses upon return. No changes needed.
Transition Period
Keep international insurance active briefly after returning while you confirm Singapore coverage is in order. This prevents any gaps.
Common Questions
Does MediShield Life cover me abroad?
No. MediShield Life only covers treatment at Singapore public hospitals. You need separate international insurance for healthcare abroad.
Can I use MediSave for overseas healthcare?
No. MediSave cannot be used for overseas medical expenses. It remains in your CPF account for Singapore healthcare needs.
Should I maintain my Integrated Shield Plan?
Usually yes. Maintaining your IP preserves Singapore coverage without underwriting issues. You can pay premiums from MediSave while abroad.
Is Singapore coverage expensive on international plans?
Yes. Singapore healthcare costs are high, making Singapore coverage expensive on international policies. Consider whether you need it or can rely on MediShield Life during visits.
Is AIA or Cigna better?
AIA offers Singaporean familiarity and includes Singapore coverage. Cigna has stronger global networks. Choose based on destination and how important Singapore integration is.
What if I'm posted abroad by my employer?
Your employer may provide international coverage. Verify the terms and consider whether it meets your expectations. Supplement if needed.
Final Verdict
Singaporean expats should prioritize quality international coverage matching their expectations. Cigna Global and Bupa Global premium tiers deliver excellent service worldwide. AIA Singapore suits those who prefer familiar Singaporean service.
Allianz Care offers good value for quality coverage. Great Eastern works for those primarily focused on Singapore coverage.
Maintain your MediShield Life and consider keeping your IP while abroad. Understand CPF implications before making permanent decisions. Singapore healthcare will be waiting when you return.
