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.
Allianz Care in Costa Rica
Allianz Care offers international coverage for expats in Costa Rica with a standout feature: high-deductible options that can cut premiums by up to 60%. Combined with Costa Rica's affordable healthcare and mandatory CAJA for routine care, this strategy can save significant money.
2M+
Providers worldwide
60%
Max deductible savings
$5M
Annual limit available
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See what Allianz Care costs with different deductible options.
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CAJA + Allianz Strategy
The smart approach in Costa Rica is using CAJA for routine care and Allianz for major expenses.
How This Works
- CAJA (~$75/mo): Use for prescriptions, routine visits, basic care
- Allianz with high deductible (~$65-100/mo): Use for private hospitals, specialists, emergencies
- Total: ~$140-175/mo for comprehensive coverage
High-Deductible Makes Sense Here
Since CAJA handles routine care and prescriptions, you're unlikely to hit a moderate deductible on Allianz except for major events. A $2,500-5,000 deductible significantly reduces premium while still covering what matters: hospitalization, surgery, cancer treatment.
Network Coverage in Costa Rica
Allianz Care has a good network in Costa Rica, with direct billing at major private hospitals.
| City | Major Network Hospitals | Direct Billing |
|---|---|---|
| San José | CIMA Hospital, Clínica Bíblica, Hospital La Católica | |
| Escazú | Hospital Metropolitano | |
| Heredia | Hospital Heredia (private wing) | |
| Guanacaste | Clínica Bíblica Santa Cruz |
Key Network Points
- Central Valley: Full coverage at CIMA, Clínica Bíblica, Hospital La Católica
- Beach/rural areas: Limited direct billing; reimbursement model works
- Flexibility: Use any licensed provider and submit for reimbursement
Plans and Pricing
| Plan | Coverage | Costa Rica (Age 50) | Deductible Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential | Inpatient + Emergency | $95-130/mo | Up to $5,000 |
| Classic | Essential + Outpatient | $150-200/mo | Up to $5,000 |
| Premium | Comprehensive | $200-260/mo | Up to $5,000 |
| Platinum | Premium + Enhanced | $250-330/mo | Up to $5,000 |
Prices for worldwide coverage excluding USA. High deductibles ($2,500-5,000) reduce premiums by 40-60%.
Which Plan for Costa Rica?
- Essential + High Deductible: Budget option. Use CAJA for outpatient, Allianz for hospital only.
- Classic: Balanced choice. Full coverage when you need private care.
- Premium/Platinum: Maximum coverage for those wanting comprehensive protection.
Calculate Your Savings
See how different deductible options affect your premium.
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vs Local Options
| Factor | Allianz Care | CAJA + INS |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (Age 50) | $150-200 | ~$135 combined |
| With High Deductible | $65-100 | Limited options |
| Private Hospital Access | Yes | INS network only |
| Deductible Savings | Up to 60% | Limited |
| Portability | Worldwide | Costa Rica only |
| Medical Evacuation | Included | Not included |
| Required for Residency | No (CAJA required) | CAJA required |
Choose Allianz Care If:
- You want high-deductible premium savings
- Worldwide portability matters
- You travel outside Costa Rica
- Medical evacuation is important
Rely on CAJA + INS If:
- Budget is the primary concern
- You don't travel internationally
- You're under 70
See all Costa Rica insurance options →
Using Your Insurance in Costa Rica
Direct Billing
At network hospitals, show your Allianz card for cashless treatment.
Reimbursement
For non-network providers, pay and submit via the MyHealth app. Processing typically takes 5 business days.
Who Should Choose Allianz in Costa Rica
Good Fit
- Budget-conscious (high-deductible strategy)
- Expats who travel frequently
- Those who might relocate
- People valuing flexibility
Consider Alternatives
- Those wanting US coverage (Cigna)
- Permanent Costa Rica residents
- Those comfortable with CAJA only
Common Questions
Do I still need CAJA with Allianz?
Yes. CAJA is mandatory for all legal residents. Allianz is a supplement, not a replacement.
How does the high-deductible work?
Choose a deductible ($500-$5,000). You pay healthcare costs up to that amount annually. Higher deductible = lower premium. With CAJA handling routine care, you may rarely hit your deductible.
Ready for Coverage in Costa Rica?
Get a personalized Allianz Care quote with deductible options.
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. CAJA requirements change. Verify all information with Allianz Care and Costa Rican authorities.
