SafetyWing vs Allianz vs IMG: Long-Stay Coverage Compared

Quick Verdict

Long stays (3-12+ months) fall between travel and expat insurance. SafetyWing is cheapest but provides emergency coverage only. Allianz offers real health insurance with full benefits. IMG bridges the gap with solid coverage at mid-range prices.

Side-by-Side Comparison

SafetyWing

SafetyWing is the cheapest option for long stays—$55/month with no commitment. But remember: it's travel medical insurance, not health insurance. Good for emergencies and accidents; limited for routine care, chronic conditions, or ongoing treatment.

Strengths:

• Cheapest option ($55/month)
• Monthly subscription—no commitment
• No duration limits
• 30 days home country coverage per 90 days
• Simple signup, instant coverage
• Good for emergencies abroad

Weaknesses:

• Travel medical, not health insurance
• $250K limit (low for serious illness)
• Limited routine care
• Pre-existing conditions not covered
• Mental health: crisis only
• May not meet visa requirements

Best for: Young, healthy travelers on a budget. Those who just need emergency coverage. Gap year travelers. Snowbirds who are healthy.

Allianz Care

Allianz Care provides actual health insurance—routine care, prescriptions, specialists, everything. More expensive than SafetyWing, but you get real coverage. Pre-existing conditions can be considered. Best for long stays where you need genuine healthcare access.

Strengths:

• Real health insurance (not travel medical)
• Full routine and preventive care
• Pre-existing conditions underwritten
• €1M-3M coverage limits
• Best mental health coverage
• Meets visa requirements

Weaknesses:

• 3-4x more expensive than SafetyWing
• Annual commitment typically
• More paperwork to apply

Best for: Serious long-stays (6+ months). Anyone with health conditions. Those who need routine care. Long-stay retirees and snowbirds.

IMG Global

IMG Global bridges the gap between SafetyWing and premium insurers. Real health insurance at mid-range prices with flexible term options (6-24 months). Good for extended travel without full expat commitment.

Strengths:

• Health insurance at moderate cost
• Flexible term lengths (6-24 months)
• Up to $8M coverage
• Pre-existing conditions considered
• Routine care included
• Good customer service

Weaknesses:

• More expensive than SafetyWing
• Less comprehensive than Allianz
• Minimum term requirements
• Mental health coverage limited

Best for: Extended travelers (6-24 months). Those who want real insurance without premium pricing. Gap year travelers with moderate health needs.

Pricing Comparison

The price spread is significant. SafetyWing costs roughly 1/3 of comprehensive options—but provides different (more limited) coverage.

*Estimated costs excluding US coverage. SafetyWing prices for Nomad Insurance product.

What Long-Stay Travelers Need to Consider

Travel Medical vs. Health Insurance

Critical distinction:

• Travel medical (SafetyWing): Emergencies and accidents only. Not for routine care, ongoing conditions, or regular healthcare.
• Health insurance (Allianz, IMG): Full coverage including routine visits, prescriptions, preventive care, specialists.

Pre-existing Conditions

• SafetyWing: Not covered at all
• IMG: May be covered after underwriting
• Allianz: Most flexible—moratorium or underwriting options

Visa Requirements

Some long-stay visas require health insurance (not travel medical):

• SafetyWing may not meet requirements
• IMG and Allianz typically qualify
• Check your specific visa requirements

Home Country Visits

• SafetyWing: 30 days per 90-day period included
• IMG: Optional add-on
• Allianz: Optional add-on

Snowbirds (Winter in Warm Climates)

If you spend 3-6 months abroad in winter:

• Young and healthy: SafetyWing may suffice
• Over 50 or with conditions: Consider IMG or Allianz
• Make sure you have coverage when home too

Which Is Best For You?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is "long-stay"?

Generally 3+ months. Under 3 months, regular travel insurance often works. Over 12 months, you're essentially an expat and should consider full international health insurance. The 3-12 month range is where these options make most sense.

Can I extend SafetyWing indefinitely?

Yes—it's a subscription with no end date. But remember it's travel medical, not health insurance. For stays over 6-12 months, consider whether you need more comprehensive coverage, especially if you're aging or your health changes.

What if I develop a condition while on SafetyWing?

Acute conditions that develop are covered for initial treatment. But ongoing care for chronic conditions isn't covered. If you develop something requiring long-term care, you'd need to upgrade to real health insurance—and that condition would then be pre-existing.

Is 6 months too short for annual insurance?

You can buy annual insurance for a 6-month stay—it just costs more per month of actual coverage. IMG offers 6-month options specifically. Some people buy annual and cancel (with prorated refund) if plans change.

What about travel insurance for the flights?

These health-focused products don't cover trip cancellation, lost baggage, etc. If you want those benefits, consider adding a separate travel insurance policy for the trip portion, or use a credit card with travel benefits.