IMG Global Health Insurance in Mexico

IMG Global in Mexico

IMG Global offers a budget-friendly path to international health insurance for expats in Mexico. While not as well-known as Cigna or BUPA, IMG provides solid coverage at lower price points, making it attractive for cost-conscious expats.

The key advantage: IMG's 50% deductible waiver for treatment outside the US makes high-deductible plans especially practical in Mexico, where healthcare is already affordable.

The 50% Deductible Waiver

IMG's standout feature for Mexico expats: if you receive treatment outside the US, your deductible is automatically reduced by 50%.

How It Works

• $5,000 deductible → $2,500 effective deductible in Mexico
• $2,500 deductible → $1,250 effective deductible in Mexico
• $10,000 deductible → $5,000 effective deductible in Mexico

Why This Matters in Mexico

Mexican healthcare is already affordable:

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

With a $5,000 deductible (effective $2,500 in Mexico), you get the cheapest possible premium while still having major expenses covered. Most expats would have to incur significant medical costs before hitting even the reduced deductible.

Network Coverage in Mexico

IMG has a smaller network in Mexico compared to local insurers or Cigna. Most expats use the reimbursement model: pay providers directly, then submit claims.

How It Works in Practice

• Any licensed provider: See any doctor or hospital in Mexico
• Pay at time of service: Pay with card or cash
• Submit for reimbursement: Upload factura via IMG app
• Fast processing: Typical reimbursement in 5-10 business days

This works well in Mexico because:

• Healthcare costs are affordable even without insurance
• Mexican providers issue detailed receipts (facturas)
• Complete freedom of provider choice
• No network restrictions

Emergency Care

For emergencies, go to the nearest hospital. IMG covers emergency care at any facility. Contact IMG's 24/7 assistance line for help with hospital coordination or if you need medical evacuation (covered up to $500K).

Plans and Pricing

IMG Global offers Global Medical Insurance with flexible deductible options:

Prices for "excluding USA" plans. Adding US coverage significantly increases premiums.

Savings Comparison

How does IMG compare to premium international insurers?

Coverage Highlights

• Annual maximum: Up to $8M
• Inpatient: Hospital, surgery, ICU fully covered
• Outpatient: Doctor visits, labs, imaging
• Emergency evacuation: Up to $500K
• Maternity: Available after waiting period
• Mental health: Included (check limits)

vs Mexican Insurers

How does IMG Global compare to Mexican insurance companies?

Choose IMG Global If:

• Budget is a major consideration
• High-deductible strategy appeals to you
• You're comfortable with reimbursement model
• You travel outside Mexico and want worldwide coverage
• Medical evacuation is important
• You might relocate from Mexico
• Maximum coverage limits matter (up to $8M)

Choose a Mexican Insurer If:

• You want direct billing at local hospitals
• Extensive local network is important
• You're staying in Mexico permanently
• Per-illness deductibles work for you
• You prefer peso billing

Consider Premium International Insurers If:

• You need US coverage
• You have significant pre-existing conditions
• Mental health parity is essential
• Brand recognition matters

See all Mexico insurance options →

Using Your Insurance in Mexico

Reimbursement Process

1. See any licensed provider in Mexico
2. Pay at time of service (get factura with RFC)
3. Submit claim via IMG app or online portal
4. Processing typically 5-10 business days
5. Reimbursement to your bank account

Documentation Tips

• Mexican facturas are accepted without translation
• Keep itemized receipts (not just credit card receipts)
• Include diagnosis codes when available
• Submit promptly (within 90 days)

IMG MyIMG App

The IMG app lets you:

• Submit claims with photo upload
• Track claim status
• Access digital ID card
• Contact 24/7 assistance

Medical Evacuation

IMG includes up to $500K in medical evacuation coverage — critical if you live outside major cities and might need transport to Mexico City, Guadalajara, or the US for specialized care.

Who Should Choose IMG in Mexico

Common Questions

How does the 50% deductible waiver work?

When you receive treatment outside the US, your deductible is automatically reduced by 50%. If you chose a $5,000 deductible, you only need to meet $2,500 in Mexico before coverage kicks in. This happens automatically — no need to request it.

Can I use IMG Global and IMSS together?

Yes. Many expats enroll in IMSS (~$500/year) for basic routine care, then keep IMG for private care, emergencies, international coverage, and major medical situations. This combination provides comprehensive coverage at minimal cost.

What if I need hospitalization?

Go to any hospital. Contact IMG's assistance line — they can help coordinate with the hospital, arrange direct payment for large expenses, and provide support throughout your stay. Medical evacuation is covered up to $500K if you need transport to a major city or the US.

Does IMG cover pre-existing conditions?

IMG typically excludes pre-existing conditions or applies waiting periods. If you have significant health conditions, consider BUPA Global which may offer more favorable handling.

How does IMG compare to IMSS?

IMSS costs ~$500/year with access to public facilities. IMG Global costs $540-1,320/year depending on deductible, with access to any private facility worldwide, medical evacuation, and up to $8M coverage. Many expats use both: IMSS for routine care, IMG for everything else.

Is IMG a good choice for retirees?

It can be. IMG's high-deductible options work well for healthy retirees who want catastrophic coverage at low cost. However, if you have pre-existing conditions or expect to use healthcare frequently, a premium insurer like BUPA may be more appropriate.