Cigna Global Health Insurance in Thailand

Cigna Global in Thailand

Cigna Global is the most popular international insurer among expats in Thailand. The combination of high coverage limits, worldwide portability, and strong Thai network makes it a premium choice for long-term residents.

The trade-off is price. Cigna Global typically costs 50-100% more than local Thai insurers. For expats who travel frequently, may relocate, or want the highest coverage limits available, the premium is often worth it.

Thai Visa Compliance

Thailand has specific insurance requirements for certain visa types. Cigna Global can meet these requirements, but verification is essential.

O-A Visa (1-Year Retirement)

For the O-A visa, insurance requirements are:

• 400,000 THB (~$11,500) inpatient + 40,000 THB (~$1,150) outpatient, OR
• $100,000 USD / 3,000,000 THB total medical coverage
• Must be from a TGIA-approved insurer

Cigna Global Gold and Platinum plans exceed these minimums. However, you must verify Cigna is on the TGIA approved list at longstay.tgia.org before applying.

O-X Visa (10-Year Retirement)

Same coverage requirements as O-A. Cigna Global can work if TGIA-approved.

LTR Visa (Long-Term Resident)

The LTR visa requires $50,000 USD minimum coverage. Cigna Global easily exceeds this with plans offering $1-3M annual limits.

Non-O Visa (No Requirement)

If you're extending a Non-Immigrant O visa based on retirement or marriage, health insurance is not mandatory. However, Cigna Global remains a strong choice for comprehensive coverage.

Network Coverage in Thailand

Cigna Global has an excellent network in Thailand, with direct billing available at all major private hospitals.

Key Network Points

• Bangkok: Full coverage at top hospitals including Bumrungrad International (JCI-accredited, world-renowned)
• Chiang Mai: Strong network in Thailand's second-largest city
• Beach destinations: Coverage in Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, and other expat areas
• Bangkok Hospital network: Direct billing at 25+ Bangkok Hospital Group facilities nationwide

Thailand has 62+ JCI-accredited hospitals — more than any other Southeast Asian country. Cigna's network includes most of these premium facilities.

Plans and Pricing

Cigna Global offers three tiers for Thailand-based expats:

Prices for worldwide coverage excluding USA. Age 50 shown as most Thailand expats are retirees. Younger applicants pay less.

Which Plan for Thailand?

• Silver: Inpatient only. May meet visa requirements (verify). Good for healthy expats who pay routine care out of pocket.
• Gold: The practical choice. Full inpatient + outpatient, visa-compliant, strong benefits.
• Platinum: Maximum coverage including enhanced mental health and wellness. Best for those wanting comprehensive protection.

Deductible Strategy

Thailand's affordable healthcare makes high-deductible plans practical:

• Doctor visit: $30-80
• Specialist: $50-150
• Lab work: $20-60

A moderate deductible ($1,000-2,500) can reduce premiums while keeping major expenses covered.

vs Thai Insurers

How does Cigna Global compare to Thai insurers like Pacific Cross, AXA Thailand, or Luma?

Choose Cigna Global If:

• You want the highest coverage limits ($1-3M)
• You travel outside Thailand frequently
• Worldwide portability matters
• Mental health coverage is important
• You may relocate from Thailand
• English support 24/7 is essential

Choose a Thai Insurer If:

• Budget is the primary concern
• You're staying in Thailand long-term
• You don't travel outside Thailand
• Lower coverage limits are acceptable
• You're over 70 (some Thai insurers have higher age limits)

See all Thailand insurance options →

Using Your Insurance in Thailand

Direct Billing (Cashless)

At network hospitals like Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital, and Samitivej, present your Cigna membership card for cashless treatment. Thailand's major hospitals are experienced with international insurers.

Reimbursement

For non-network providers or clinics:

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

Cigna Wellbeing App

The Cigna app lets you:

• Find network providers in Thailand
• Submit claims with photo upload
• Track claim status
• Access digital membership card
• Use telehealth services

24/7 Support

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

Who Should Choose Cigna in Thailand

Common Questions

Is Cigna Global TGIA-approved for O-A visas?

Cigna Global has been accepted for Thai visas, but TGIA approval status can change. Always verify at longstay.tgia.org before applying. If Cigna isn't currently listed, consider Pacific Cross or AXA Thailand as alternatives.

Can I get Cigna Global at age 70+?

Cigna Global accepts new applicants up to age 74. If you're older, consider Pacific Cross which accepts applicants up to age 80, or look at renewal options if you already have a policy.

How does Cigna compare to Bumrungrad's own insurance?

Bumrungrad Hospital offers its own health packages. These can be cost-effective if you only use Bumrungrad. Cigna Global provides broader network access across Thailand and worldwide, plus higher coverage limits. It depends on your needs.

Is travel insurance enough for Thailand visas?

No. Travel insurance is not accepted for O-A, O-X, or LTR visa applications. You must have proper health insurance from a TGIA-approved provider. Submitting travel insurance will result in visa rejection.

What if I leave Thailand for a few months?

Cigna Global covers you worldwide. If you leave Thailand temporarily, your coverage continues wherever you go. This is a key advantage over Thai local insurers which typically only cover you in Thailand.