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
Ukrainian nationals abroad include long-term expats, recent arrivals under temporary protection, students, and professionals. Healthcare access varies significantly based on your status and destination. Here's what we recommend:
- Cigna Global: Best overall for established Ukrainian expats. Excellent EU networks, comprehensive coverage.
- Allianz Care: Strong European coverage at competitive prices. Good for EU-based Ukrainians.
- April International: French insurer with good EU coverage. Competitive pricing.
- Bupa Global: Premium option for professionals wanting top-tier coverage.
- SafetyWing: Budget option for digital nomads and remote workers.
Important: Ukraine Coverage
Due to the ongoing conflict, most international insurers exclude Ukraine from coverage. If you plan to travel to Ukraine, verify coverage carefully and consider specialized options.
Compare Available OptionsWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Leaving Ukrainian Healthcare
Ukraine's healthcare system has faced significant disruption. Here's the current situation:
Ukrainian Healthcare System
Ukraine has a public healthcare system funded through the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU). The system has faced severe challenges since 2022 due to the conflict, with many facilities damaged and healthcare workers displaced.
Healthcare Access Abroad
Ukrainian healthcare provides no coverage outside Ukraine. Ukrainians abroad need independent healthcare coverage through either host country systems (if eligible) or international insurance.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Many Ukrainians have developed health conditions requiring ongoing care. International insurance typically has waiting periods or exclusions for pre-existing conditions. Host country public healthcare may provide better access for ongoing conditions.
Mental Health Considerations
Mental health support is particularly important. Ensure your coverage includes mental health services. Many EU host countries provide mental health support through public systems.
Refugee and Temporary Protection
Healthcare access depends heavily on your legal status:
EU Temporary Protection Directive
Ukrainians in EU countries under the Temporary Protection Directive have access to healthcare in their host country. This provides comprehensive coverage without needing private insurance for basic care.
Poland
The largest Ukrainian community is in Poland. Temporary protection provides access to Polish public healthcare (NFZ). Coverage is comprehensive for those registered under temporary protection.
Germany
Germany provides healthcare through statutory insurance (GKV) for those under temporary protection. Bürgergeld recipients are automatically covered. Coverage is comprehensive.
Other EU Countries
Each EU country implements temporary protection differently. Healthcare access is generally available but varies in scope. Check local rules in your specific country.
Temporary Protection vs. Private Insurance
If you're under temporary protection, you likely have healthcare access through your host country. Private insurance may be unnecessary unless you want enhanced access or are traveling outside your host country.
Quick Comparison
*Ukraine coverage excluded due to ongoing conflict. Check with insurers for current status.
| Provider | Ukrainian Support | EU Network | Ukraine Coverage | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Limited | Excellent | Excluded* | €150/mo |
| Allianz Care | Limited | Excellent | Excluded* | €145/mo |
| April International | No | Strong | Excluded* | €140/mo |
| Bupa Global | Limited | Excellent | Excluded* | €160/mo |
| SafetyWing | No | Good | Excluded | €45/mo |
Detailed Reviews
Cigna Global
Cigna Global offers comprehensive international coverage with excellent EU networks. Strong presence in Poland and Germany—key destinations for Ukrainians. Plans come in three tiers with coverage up to unlimited.
Ukraine is currently excluded from coverage due to the conflict. Good option for established expats needing coverage outside their host country's public system.
Best for: Established Ukrainian expats and professionals wanting comprehensive international coverage.
Allianz Care
Allianz Care offers excellent European coverage at competitive prices. Strong networks throughout the EU. Good value for comprehensive coverage in European destinations.
Ukraine currently excluded. Good for those traveling within Europe beyond their host country.
Best for: Ukrainian expats in EU countries wanting strong European networks at good value.
April International
April International is a French insurer with good EU coverage. Competitive pricing makes it accessible. Networks strong throughout Western Europe.
Best for: Ukrainian expats seeking affordable international coverage in Western Europe.
Bupa Global
Bupa Global offers premium international coverage with excellent worldwide networks. Top-tier service quality. Higher pricing reflects premium positioning.
Best for: Ukrainian professionals who want the best coverage available.
SafetyWing
SafetyWing offers budget-friendly coverage for digital nomads and remote workers. Lower coverage limits than comprehensive plans. Good for basic protection on a limited budget.
Best for: Ukrainian remote workers and digital nomads on a budget.
Understand Your Status First
If you're under temporary protection, check your host country healthcare access first. You may not need private insurance for basic coverage.
Compare Private OptionsWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Popular Destinations
Ukrainian diaspora is concentrated in specific countries:
Poland
Largest Ukrainian community—over 1 million Ukrainians live in Poland. Polish public healthcare (NFZ) covers those under temporary protection. Many Ukrainians work in Poland with employer-provided coverage.
Germany
Second largest EU destination. German statutory insurance provides comprehensive coverage for those under temporary protection. Well-organized support infrastructure.
Czech Republic
Significant Ukrainian community. Czech health insurance covers those with valid residence. Temporary protection provides access to public healthcare.
United Kingdom
Growing Ukrainian community through various visa schemes. NHS provides free healthcare to legal residents. Coverage begins when you have permission to stay.
Common Questions
Do I need private insurance under temporary protection?
Usually not for basic healthcare in your host country. Private insurance is useful for enhanced access, faster service, or travel outside your host country.
Can I get coverage for Ukraine travel?
Most international insurers exclude Ukraine due to the conflict. Check with specialized insurers or your host country about coverage for Ukraine visits.
What about pre-existing conditions?
Host country public healthcare under temporary protection typically covers pre-existing conditions. Private insurance may have waiting periods or exclusions.
Is mental health covered?
EU host countries generally provide mental health support under temporary protection. Private insurance varies—check specific policy terms for mental health coverage.
What if I'm working with an EU employer?
Employment typically provides access to statutory health insurance in your host country. This may be more comprehensive than temporary protection coverage.
Is Ukrainian support available?
Few international insurers offer Ukrainian-language support. Many Ukrainians are multilingual. Host country healthcare often has translation services available.
Final Verdict
Ukrainian nationals abroad should first understand their host country healthcare access. Those under EU temporary protection have comprehensive public healthcare access and may not need private insurance for basic care.
For enhanced access, travel coverage, or professional needs, Cigna Global and Allianz Care offer strong EU coverage. SafetyWing provides budget-friendly options for remote workers.
Remember: Ukraine coverage is currently excluded by most insurers. Plan accordingly if you intend to visit Ukraine, and prioritize safety above insurance considerations.
