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.
Quick Verdict
Choose Allianz Care If:
- ✓ You're based in Europe or move between regions
- ✓ You want a German-backed insurer's stability
- ✓ You need strong European hospital networks
- ✓ You prefer unlimited evacuation coverage
Choose Now Health If:
- ✓ You're based in Asia or Middle East long-term
- ✓ You want 10-20% lower premiums
- ✓ You value Traditional Chinese Medicine coverage
- ✓ You want enhanced mental health benefits
Overview
Allianz Care and Now Health International represent different approaches to international health insurance. Allianz, part of the German insurance giant, brings European stability and a truly global network. Now Health, founded by industry veterans in Hong Kong, focuses on delivering value and expertise in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East markets.
For expats choosing between them, geography matters most. Allianz excels in Europe and offers seamless coverage for those who move between continents. Now Health delivers better value and deeper local relationships in Asia, where they've built their business from the ground up.
Both are reputable insurers with strong financial backing. Allianz has the weight of one of the world's largest insurance groups behind it. Now Health, though younger, has grown steadily since 2012 and maintains solid reinsurance relationships.
Allianz Care at a Glance
- Parent Company: Allianz SE (Germany)
- Founded: 1890 (Allianz); Care division 2000s
- Network: 1M+ healthcare providers
- Headquarters: Munich, Germany
- Best For: Europe-based expats, global mobility
- Pricing: Mid-to-premium tier
Now Health at a Glance
- Parent Company: Now Health International
- Founded: 2012 (by Cigna/Aetna veterans)
- Network: 900K+ healthcare providers
- Headquarters: Hong Kong
- Best For: Asia/Middle East expats, value seekers
- Pricing: 10-20% below Allianz typically
Coverage Comparison
Both insurers provide comprehensive international health coverage. The core benefits—inpatient, outpatient, emergency care—are comparable. Differences appear in specific benefits and regional add-ons.
| Coverage Feature | Allianz Care | Now Health |
|---|---|---|
| Inpatient Hospital | Up to €3M (Premium) | Up to $2.6M |
| Outpatient Care | Full coverage | Full coverage |
| Mental Health | Included (limits apply) | Included (enhanced) |
| Maternity | Optional add-on | Optional add-on |
| Dental | Optional add-on | Optional add-on |
| Vision | Optional add-on | Included in some plans |
| Wellness/Preventive | Included | Included |
| Medical Evacuation | Unlimited | Up to $1M |
| Alternative Medicine | Limited | Traditional Chinese Medicine included |
| Chronic Conditions | Covered after waiting period | Covered after waiting period |
Plan Tiers Compared
| Plan Tier | Allianz Care | Now Health |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | Essential | WorldCare Lite |
| Mid-Range | Classic | WorldCare Classic |
| Comprehensive | Premium | WorldCare Prestige |
| Deductible Range | €0 - €10,000 | $0 - $5,000 |
| Annual Maximum | €3M (Premium) | $2.6M (Prestige) |
| Lifetime Maximum | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Key difference: Allianz offers higher annual maximums (€3M vs $2.6M) and unlimited evacuation. Now Health includes Traditional Chinese Medicine and enhanced mental health in base plans. Choose based on which benefits matter more to you.
Coverage Highlights
Allianz Care Strengths
- ✓ Higher coverage maximums (€3M)
- ✓ Unlimited medical evacuation
- ✓ Stronger European network
- ✓ German regulatory oversight
- ✓ Multi-currency options
Now Health Strengths
- ✓ Traditional Chinese Medicine coverage
- ✓ Enhanced mental health benefits
- ✓ Vision included in some plans
- ✓ Stronger Asia hospital relationships
- ✓ More competitive pricing
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Pricing Breakdown
Now Health typically prices 10-20% below Allianz for comparable coverage, particularly in Asia and Middle East. The gap is smaller for comprehensive plans and younger applicants. Here are representative monthly premiums:
| Profile | Allianz Care | Now Health |
|---|---|---|
| Single, Age 30 (Asia excl. US) | €140-190/mo | $120-170/mo |
| Single, Age 40 (Asia excl. US) | €200-280/mo | $180-250/mo |
| Single, Age 50 (Asia excl. US) | €320-420/mo | $280-380/mo |
| Couple, Age 35 (Asia excl. US) | €280-380/mo | $250-350/mo |
| Family of 4 (Asia excl. US) | €480-650/mo | $420-600/mo |
Pricing note: These are indicative ranges for comprehensive plans excluding US coverage. Actual premiums vary by exact plan, deductible, age, and health history. Allianz quotes in EUR; Now Health typically in USD. Exchange rates affect comparisons.
What Drives the Price Difference?
- Operational focus: Allianz maintains global infrastructure; Now Health focuses on Asia efficiency
- Brand premium: Allianz's name recognition commands higher prices
- Coverage maximums: Allianz's €3M cap costs more to underwrite than $2.6M
- Evacuation coverage: Unlimited evacuation is expensive to provide
- Regional expertise: Now Health's narrower focus allows cost savings passed to members
Deductible Impact
Both insurers offer significant discounts for higher deductibles. Choosing a €2,500/$2,500 deductible typically reduces premiums by 25-35%.
Allianz Deductible Options
- €0 — Full premium
- €500 — ~12% discount
- €1,500 — ~22% discount
- €3,000 — ~32% discount
- €10,000 — ~45% discount
Now Health Deductible Options
- $0 — Full premium
- $500 — ~15% discount
- $1,500 — ~25% discount
- $3,000 — ~35% discount
- $5,000 — ~40% discount
Network & Direct Billing
Network quality directly impacts your healthcare experience. Both insurers maintain extensive networks, but their regional strengths differ significantly.
| Region | Allianz Care | Now Health |
|---|---|---|
| Global Network Size | 1M+ providers | 900K+ providers |
| Europe | Excellent (HQ region) | Good |
| Middle East | Excellent | Excellent |
| Hong Kong | Strong | Excellent (HQ) |
| Singapore | Strong | Excellent |
| Thailand | Good | Strong |
| China (Mainland) | Good | Excellent |
| USA | Good (add-on) | Limited (add-on) |
| Direct Billing | Extensive globally | Strong in Asia |
Direct Billing Experience
Allianz Direct Billing
Allianz's global network enables direct billing across Europe, Middle East, and Asia. Their guarantee of payment system is well-established at major international hospitals. The MyHealth app shows in-network facilities and can initiate pre-authorization.
European hospitals particularly recognize Allianz, making direct billing smooth in the UK, Germany, France, and Spain. In Asia, coverage is good but not as deeply established as regional specialists.
Now Health Direct Billing
Now Health has cultivated strong direct billing relationships throughout Asia and Middle East. Hong Kong and Singapore hospitals know them well—often better than larger global insurers. Their regional focus translates to smoother experiences at top Asian medical centers.
Outside Asia, direct billing is available but less consistent. Members report occasionally needing to pay upfront and claim reimbursement in Europe or the Americas.
Regional Strengths
Where you live should heavily influence your choice. Here's how each insurer performs by region:
Europe (UK, Germany, France, Spain)
Winner: Allianz Care — Allianz's European heritage shows. Deeper hospital relationships, smoother direct billing, and better recognition at European medical centers. If you're Europe-based, Allianz is the natural choice.
Hong Kong & Singapore
Winner: Now Health — Now Health's headquarters are in Hong Kong. Their hospital relationships here are exceptional. Singapore coverage is equally strong. For these financial hubs, Now Health delivers better value and smoother experiences.
UAE & Middle East
Winner: Tie (slight edge to Now Health on price) — Both are strong in the UAE market. Allianz has established presence; Now Health has grown aggressively. Now Health's pricing advantage makes them attractive for cost-conscious expats.
Thailand & Southeast Asia
Winner: Now Health — Now Health's Traditional Chinese Medicine coverage appeals to many Southeast Asia expats. Their network at Bangkok's international hospitals is strong. Better value in this price-sensitive market.
China (Mainland)
Winner: Now Health — Now Health's Hong Kong base and Chinese-speaking staff give them advantages navigating mainland healthcare. Better hospital relationships in tier-1 cities.
United States
Winner: Allianz Care (if needed) — Neither specializes in US coverage, but Allianz's global network handles US needs better. If US coverage is important, consider Cigna Global instead of either option here.
Claims Experience
Claims processing is where insurance companies prove their worth. Both Allianz and Now Health have good reputations, with different strengths.
Allianz Care Claims
- Submission: App, portal, email, mail
- Processing time: 5-10 business days
- Reimbursement: Multiple currency options
- Languages: 20+ languages
- 24/7 support: Yes, global assistance
Allianz's MyHealth app enables mobile claims submission. Their global service centers operate around the clock. Multi-currency reimbursement is useful for frequent travelers.
Now Health Claims
- Submission: App, portal, email
- Processing time: 5-7 business days
- Reimbursement: USD, HKD, or local currency
- Languages: English, Chinese, Arabic
- Support hours: Extended hours (Asia-focused)
Now Health members consistently report fast claims processing in Asia. Their Hong Kong team handles claims efficiently with good communication. Not 24/7, but covers Asian business hours well.
Both perform well: Neither has significant claims complaints. For routine claims, expect 5-10 day processing. Complex claims require more time with either insurer but are handled professionally.
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Pre-existing Conditions
Both insurers require medical underwriting and handle pre-existing conditions similarly. Full disclosure is essential with either.
Allianz Care Approach
- • Full medical underwriting required
- • Case-by-case evaluation
- • May exclude, load premium, or apply waiting periods
- • Moratorium option in some markets
- • Typically 24-month wait for pre-existing coverage
Now Health Approach
- • Medical underwriting required
- • Individual assessment
- • Exclusions or premium loading possible
- • Generally 24-month wait for pre-existing
- • Some flexibility for group transitions
Important: Always disclose pre-existing conditions completely. Non-disclosure can void your entire policy. Both insurers investigate claims related to pre-existing conditions, and denied claims due to non-disclosure are common across the industry.
Real-World Scenarios
Here's how each insurer typically performs in common expat situations:
German Engineer in Singapore
38-year-old, single, wants comprehensive coverage. May return to Germany in 3-5 years.
→ Allianz Care Classic — European continuity matters for potential return. German-backed insurer provides peace of mind. Slight premium over Now Health worth it for flexibility.
British Family in Hong Kong
Family of 4, parents age 42. Settled in Hong Kong long-term. Budget matters with school fees.
→ Now Health WorldCare Classic — Hong Kong is Now Health's home turf. 15-20% savings adds up for a family. Excellent local hospital relationships. Kids' coverage comprehensive.
French Executive in Dubai
50-year-old, married, corporate assignment. Company provides insurance choice. Wants premium coverage.
→ Either works—compare quotes — Both strong in UAE. Allianz offers European continuity if assignment changes. Now Health offers better value. Let actual quotes decide.
Australian Retiree in Thailand
65-year-old couple, uses both Western and traditional medicine. Fixed retirement income.
→ Now Health WorldCare Classic — TCM coverage is valuable in Thailand. Better pricing for retirees. Strong Bangkok hospital network. Savings significant at this age.
American Tech Worker in London
32-year-old, healthy, startup employee. Company doesn't provide insurance. May move within Europe.
→ Allianz Care Essential — Europe is Allianz territory. Flexibility for moves within EU. German insurer recognition at UK/EU hospitals. Competitive for young healthy individuals.
Couple with Pre-existing Conditions
Both 55, one has controlled Type 2 diabetes, other has mild asthma. Moving to Singapore.
→ Get quotes from both — Underwriting determines pricing. Now Health may be more competitive in Singapore. Both will cover after waiting periods. Compare actual quotes with full disclosure.
Who Should Choose Which
Choose Allianz Care If You:
- ✓ Are based in Europe or may relocate there
- ✓ Value German/European regulatory oversight
- ✓ Move between continents frequently
- ✓ Want higher coverage maximums (€3M)
- ✓ Need unlimited evacuation coverage
- ✓ Prefer 24/7 multilingual support
- ✓ Want multi-currency payment flexibility
Choose Now Health If You:
- ✓ Are based in Asia/Middle East long-term
- ✓ Want 10-20% lower premiums
- ✓ Value Traditional Chinese Medicine
- ✓ Want enhanced mental health coverage
- ✓ Prefer regional expertise over global scale
- ✓ Are in Hong Kong, Singapore, or mainland China
- ✓ Don't need extensive European coverage
Final Verdict
Both Allianz Care and Now Health International are solid choices for international health insurance. They serve different markets well, and the right choice depends primarily on where you live.
Allianz Care is the better choice for Europe-based expats, those who value German insurance stability, or people who move between continents. You pay a modest premium for global infrastructure and higher coverage limits.
Now Health is the smarter choice for Asia and Middle East expats who want excellent coverage at better prices. Their regional focus translates to deeper hospital relationships and smoother experiences in their core markets.
If you're in a region where both perform equally (like UAE), get quotes from both. The actual pricing for your specific profile may make the decision clear.
Bottom Line
Allianz Care for European coverage and global mobility. Now Health for Asia/Middle East value and expertise. Both are reputable insurers—match their strengths to your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Now Health as financially stable as Allianz?
Allianz SE is one of the world's largest insurers, giving Allianz Care exceptional financial backing. Now Health is smaller but maintains strong reinsurance relationships and has operated profitably since 2012. Both will pay claims—Allianz just has deeper pockets if catastrophe strikes.
Can I switch between Allianz and Now Health?
Yes, but you'll undergo new underwriting. Pre-existing conditions may be treated as new. If you're switching from a group plan, ask about continuous coverage credits. Neither insurer guarantees accepting your previous coverage terms.
Which is better for families?
Both offer comprehensive family coverage. Allianz is better for globally mobile families or those in Europe. Now Health can save an Asia-based family $1,500-3,000/year with comparable coverage. Children's benefits are strong with both insurers.
How do mobile apps compare?
Allianz's MyHealth app is more polished with more features—facility finder, claims tracking, digital ID cards, and 24/7 support access. Now Health's app covers basics well but isn't as feature-rich. If app experience matters, Allianz has the edge.
What about maternity coverage?
Both offer maternity as an optional add-on with 10-12 month waiting periods. Coverage limits and pricing are similar. Neither covers pregnancy complications arising from pre-existing conditions. Add maternity before conception for best coverage.
Which processes claims faster?
Both process routine claims in 5-10 business days. Now Health members in Asia often report slightly faster processing due to local operations. Allianz's global infrastructure can mean more consistent processing regardless of where you file from.
