Cigna Global Health Insurance in Costa Rica

Cigna Global in Costa Rica

Cigna Global is a popular choice for expats in Costa Rica who want fast access to private hospitals and the option for US care. While CAJA enrollment is mandatory for all residents, Cigna Global provides what CAJA doesn't: immediate private hospital access, English support, and worldwide coverage.

The combination of CAJA (required) plus Cigna (optional) gives you the best of both worlds: free prescriptions and basic care through CAJA, premium private care through Cigna.

CAJA + Cigna Strategy

Understanding how CAJA and Cigna work together is key to optimizing your healthcare in Costa Rica.

CAJA (Mandatory)

• Required for all legal residents — no exceptions
• Cost: ~$75/month depending on income
• Covers: Basic care, prescriptions, hospitalizations at CAJA facilities
• Limitations: Long waits, assigned clinic, limited English

Cigna Global (Optional Supplement)

• Immediate access to private hospitals (CIMA, Clínica Bíblica)
• No wait times for specialists or procedures
• English-speaking staff and support
• Coverage outside Costa Rica including US (optional)
• Medical evacuation if needed

Network Coverage in Costa Rica

Cigna Global has a solid network in Costa Rica, with direct billing at major private hospitals in San José and surrounding areas.

Key Network Points

• San José: Full coverage at CIMA, Clínica Bíblica, Hospital La Católica
• Escazú: Hospital Metropolitano and CIMA San José
• Beach areas: Limited network; may require travel to San José for specialized care
• Reimbursement: Use any licensed provider and submit for reimbursement

Costa Rica's best private hospitals are concentrated in the Central Valley (San José area). If you live in Guanacaste, the Caribbean coast, or the Southern Zone, you may need to travel for serious care.

Plans and Pricing

Cigna Global offers plans with or without US coverage:

Adding US coverage increases premiums by 70-80%. Age 50 shown as typical for Costa Rica expats.

Which Plan for Costa Rica?

• Silver (Excl. USA): Inpatient only. Use with CAJA for a budget approach.
• Gold (Excl. USA): The practical choice. Full coverage for Costa Rica-based care.
• Gold (Incl. USA): Adds US coverage. Good for frequent US visitors or those wanting US medical options.
• Platinum: Maximum coverage. Best for those wanting comprehensive protection.

US Coverage Consideration

Many US expats in Costa Rica want the option to return to the US for specialized care. With Cigna's "Including USA" plans, you can see doctors in both countries on the same policy.

vs Costa Rican Options

How does Cigna Global compare to local options like CAJA and INS?

Choose Cigna Global If:

• You want immediate private hospital access
• US coverage is important
• English support matters
• You travel outside Costa Rica frequently
• Medical evacuation is important
• You might relocate from Costa Rica

Rely on CAJA + INS If:

• Budget is the primary concern
• You're comfortable with public healthcare
• You don't travel outside Costa Rica
• You're under 70 (INS age limit)
• Long wait times are acceptable

See all Costa Rica insurance options →

Using Your Insurance in Costa Rica

Direct Billing (Cashless)

At network hospitals like CIMA and Clínica Bíblica, present your Cigna card for cashless treatment. These hospitals are experienced with international insurers.

Reimbursement

For non-network providers:

1. Pay the provider (get itemized receipt)
2. Submit via Cigna's app or portal
3. Typical processing: 5-7 business days
4. Reimbursement to your bank account

Medical Evacuation

Cigna includes medical evacuation — important if you live outside the Central Valley and might need transport to San José or the US for specialized care.

Who Should Choose Cigna in Costa Rica

Common Questions

Do I still need CAJA if I have Cigna?

Yes. CAJA is mandatory for all legal residents in Costa Rica. Cigna is a supplement, not a replacement. You cannot receive your residency card without CAJA enrollment.

Can Cigna replace CAJA for residency?

No. Since 2010, CAJA enrollment is required for residency. Private insurance like Cigna doesn't fulfill this requirement. You must have both: CAJA (required) and Cigna (optional).

What if I need care outside San José?

Cigna covers treatment at any licensed provider through reimbursement. For serious conditions, you may need to travel to San José where the best private hospitals are located. Cigna's medical evacuation benefit can help with this.

How does Cigna compare to INS private insurance?

INS is Costa Rica's state insurance company offering private coverage. It's cheaper than Cigna but only available to residents under 70 and only covers Costa Rica. Cigna offers worldwide coverage, higher limits, and no age restrictions (up to 74 for new applicants).