Cigna Global Health Insurance in Mexico

Cigna Global in Mexico

Cigna Global is the top choice for US expats in Mexico who want the option to access US healthcare. With US coverage included, you can see doctors in both countries, making it ideal for border residents, snowbirds, or anyone who wants US hospitals as a backup.

For expats who don't need US coverage, Cigna's "excluding USA" plans offer competitive pricing with strong Mexican network coverage and the convenience of USD billing.

US Border & Cross-Border Care

The biggest advantage of Cigna Global for Mexico expats is the US coverage option. This matters because:

Why US Coverage Matters

• Medicare doesn't work in Mexico: US retirees lose Medicare coverage when living abroad
• Specialized treatment: Some conditions may benefit from US specialists
• Border proximity: San Diego, Houston, Phoenix are hours from major Mexican cities
• Family visits: Coverage when visiting family in the US

How US Coverage Works

With Cigna's "Including USA" plans:

• Full access to US hospitals and doctors
• Same benefits apply in both countries
• Direct billing available at many US facilities
• No need for separate travel insurance when visiting the US

Excluding USA Plans

If you don't need US coverage, Cigna's "Excluding USA" plans cost 40-50% less. You still get emergency coverage in the US, but routine care must be received outside the US.

Network Coverage in Mexico

Cigna Global has a solid network in Mexico, with direct billing available at major private hospitals in all principal cities.

Key Network Points

• Major cities: Excellent coverage at top hospitals (ABC, Médica Sur, Hospital Ángeles network)
• Expat destinations: Good coverage in Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel de Allende, Merida
• Border cities: Network hospitals in Tijuana, Mexicali, Ciudad Juárez
• Any provider: Use any licensed provider and submit for reimbursement

Cigna's network is smaller than local Mexican insurers like GNP or BUPA Mexico, but covers the facilities where expats typically seek care.

Plans and Pricing

Cigna Global offers plans with or without US coverage:

Adding US coverage increases premiums by approximately 60-70%.

Which Plan for Mexico?

• Silver (Excl. USA): Hospital only. Budget option for healthy expats who want catastrophic coverage.
• Gold (Excl. USA): The practical choice for most Mexico expats. Full coverage at competitive pricing.
• Gold (Incl. USA): Best for border residents, snowbirds, or anyone who might need US hospitals.
• Platinum (Incl. USA): Premium coverage with US access. Good for families or complex health needs.

Deductible Options

Cigna offers deductibles from $0 to $5,000+. In Mexico, where routine care is affordable:

• Doctor visit: $30-60
• Specialist: $50-100
• Lab work: $20-50

A moderate deductible ($1,000-2,500) can reduce premiums while keeping out-of-pocket exposure manageable.

vs Mexican Insurers

How does Cigna Global compare to Mexican insurance companies like GNP or BUPA Mexico?

Key Difference: Deductible Structure

Mexican insurers typically use "per-illness" deductibles that apply over your lifetime. If you have a $1,000 deductible and develop diabetes, you pay $1,000 once — but if you later have a heart issue, you pay another $1,000. International plans like Cigna use annual deductibles that reset each year.

Choose Cigna Global If:

• You want US coverage options
• You prefer annual deductibles
• You want to bill/pay in USD
• Medical evacuation is important
• You might relocate from Mexico
• English support matters

Choose a Mexican Insurer If:

• You don't need US coverage
• Lowest premium is the priority
• You want the most extensive Mexican network
• You're comfortable with per-illness deductibles
• You plan to stay in Mexico permanently

See all Mexico insurance options →

Using Your Insurance in Mexico

Direct Billing (Cashless)

At network hospitals, present your Cigna membership card for cashless treatment. Major hospitals like ABC, Médica Sur, and Hospital Ángeles locations accept direct billing.

Reimbursement

For non-network providers or clinics:

1. Pay the provider (keep the factura with RFC)
2. Submit via Cigna's app or online portal
3. Typical processing: 5-7 business days
4. Reimbursement in USD to your bank account

Mexican facturas (receipts) are accepted without translation.

Medical Evacuation

Cigna includes medical evacuation coverage — important if you live in a smaller Mexican town and might need transport to a major city or the US for specialized care.

24/7 Support

Cigna offers round-the-clock multilingual support. For emergencies in Mexico, their assistance team can coordinate hospital admission and arrange evacuation if needed.

Who Should Choose Cigna in Mexico

Common Questions

Does Cigna Global replace Medicare?

Cigna Global can provide coverage that Medicare doesn't offer abroad, but it's not a Medicare replacement. If you return to the US permanently, you'd want to re-enroll in Medicare. Many expats keep Medicare Part A (hospital) which is free if you qualify, and use Cigna Global for their actual healthcare in Mexico.

Can I use IMSS and Cigna together?

Yes. Many expats enroll in IMSS (~$500/year) for basic coverage and routine care, then keep Cigna for private hospitals, US access, and major medical situations. It's a cost-effective combination.

What if I need care near the US border?

With "Including USA" plans, you can freely choose between Mexican and US providers. Living in Tijuana, you might see a local doctor for routine care and cross to San Diego for specialized treatment — same policy covers both.

How does the annual deductible work vs Mexican per-illness?

Cigna's annual deductible resets January 1st each year. Pay your deductible once, and you're covered for everything that year. Mexican insurers often use lifetime per-illness deductibles — you pay the deductible separately for each unrelated condition, but only once ever for that condition.

Is medical evacuation really necessary?

Depends where you live. In Mexico City or Guadalajara, you have world-class hospitals nearby. In a smaller town, evacuation to a major city or the US could be critical for serious conditions. Cigna includes evacuation; IMSS and most Mexican insurers don't.