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IMG Global Health Insurance in Thailand

Budget-friendly international coverage for expats in Thailand. How IMG's 50% deductible waiver works in practice.

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John Spencer

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.

IMG Global in Thailand

IMG Global offers a budget-friendly path to international health insurance for expats in Thailand. Their high-deductible options and 50% deductible waiver make them one of the most affordable international options available.

Given Thailand's affordable healthcare, IMG's high-deductible strategy works especially well here. Pay routine care out of pocket (doctor visits $30-80), and let insurance cover what matters: hospitalization, surgery, major illness.

$8M

Max annual limit

50%

Deductible waiver outside US

$500K

Medical evacuation

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See what IMG Global costs for expats living in Thailand.

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Thai Visa Compliance

Thailand requires TGIA-approved insurance for O-A, O-X, and LTR visas. IMG Global is less commonly used for Thai visas than local insurers.

Visa Requirements

  • O-A/O-X: 400,000 THB inpatient + 40,000 THB outpatient, or $100,000 total
  • LTR: $50,000 USD minimum
  • Must be TGIA-approved

IMG Global's coverage limits exceed these minimums, but TGIA approval status must be verified.

TGIA Approval Warning

IMG Global is less commonly used for Thai visas. If you need guaranteed TGIA approval, consider Pacific Cross or AXA Thailand for your visa application. You can use IMG Global alongside or after obtaining your visa for additional worldwide coverage.

Non-O Visa (No Requirement)

If you're extending a Non-Immigrant O visa, insurance is not mandatory. IMG Global works well as affordable international coverage in this case.

Network Coverage in Thailand

IMG has a smaller direct network in Thailand compared to local insurers. 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 Thailand
  • Pay at time of service: Pay with card or cash
  • Submit for reimbursement: Upload receipt via IMG app
  • Fast processing: Typical reimbursement in 5-10 business days

This works well in Thailand because:

  • Healthcare costs are affordable ($30-150 for most visits)
  • Thai hospitals provide detailed receipts
  • Complete freedom of provider choice
  • No network restrictions at Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital, etc.

Plans and Pricing

IMG Global offers Global Medical Insurance with flexible deductible options:

Plan Coverage Thailand (Age 50) Visa Compliant
Global Medical Insurance Inpatient + Outpatient $85-120/mo Verify TGIA
With $2,500 Deductible Inpatient + Outpatient $60-85/mo Verify TGIA
With $5,000 Deductible Inpatient + Outpatient $50-70/mo Verify TGIA
With $10,000 Deductible Inpatient + Outpatient $40-55/mo Verify TGIA

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

The 50% Deductible Waiver

IMG's standout feature: treatment outside the US gets 50% off your deductible. In Thailand:

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

Savings Comparison

Coverage Type IMG Global Premium Insurers Annual Savings
Standard deductible $1,020-1,440/yr $2,160-2,880/yr $1,140-1,440
$2,500 deductible $720-1,020/yr $1,560-2,160/yr $840-1,140
$5,000 deductible $600-840/yr Limited options $700+

Coverage Highlights

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

Calculate Your Savings

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vs Thai Insurers

How does IMG Global compare to Thai insurers like Pacific Cross or AXA Thailand?

Factor IMG Global Thai Insurers
Monthly Cost (Age 50) $85-120 $60-150
With High Deductible $40-70 Limited options
Network in Thailand Smaller (reimbursement) Excellent
Annual Maximum Up to $8M Varies (often lower)
Deductible Waiver 50% outside US No
Portability Worldwide Thailand only
Medical Evacuation Up to $500K Usually not
TGIA Approved Verify Yes

Choose IMG Global If:

  • Budget is a major consideration
  • High-deductible strategy appeals to you
  • You don't need TGIA approval (Non-O visa or after initial visa)
  • You travel outside Thailand frequently
  • Medical evacuation is important
  • Maximum coverage limits matter ($8M)

Choose a Thai Insurer If:

  • TGIA approval is essential (O-A/O-X visa)
  • You want direct billing at local hospitals
  • You're staying in Thailand permanently
  • You're over 70 (Pacific Cross accepts to age 80)

See all Thailand insurance options →

Using Your Insurance in Thailand

Reimbursement Process

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

Documentation Tips

  • Thai hospital receipts are accepted
  • Keep itemized bills showing procedures and costs
  • Submit promptly (within 90 days)

Medical Evacuation

IMG includes up to $500K medical evacuation — critical if you live outside Bangkok and might need transport to a major hospital or evacuation to another country.

Who Should Choose IMG in Thailand

Good Fit

  • Budget-conscious expats
  • Healthy individuals with high-deductible tolerance
  • Those on Non-O visas (no TGIA needed)
  • Expats who travel frequently
  • Those wanting maximum coverage limits
  • People comfortable with reimbursement

Consider Alternatives

  • Those needing TGIA approval
  • Expats wanting direct billing
  • Those with pre-existing conditions
  • People preferring established Thai insurers
  • Those needing extensive mental health

Common Questions

Is IMG Global TGIA-approved?

IMG Global is less commonly used for Thai visas. Verify at longstay.tgia.org. If not approved, consider Pacific Cross or AXA Thailand for visa applications, and IMG for additional worldwide coverage.

How does the 50% deductible waiver work?

Treatment outside the US automatically gets 50% off your deductible. A $5,000 deductible becomes $2,500 in Thailand. No request needed — it's automatic.

What if I need hospitalization in Thailand?

Go to any hospital. Contact IMG's assistance line for help coordinating with the hospital and arranging direct payment for large expenses.

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 or Pacific Cross.

Ready for Budget-Friendly Coverage?

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We may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Visa requirements and TGIA approval status change. Verify at longstay.tgia.org before applying.

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