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
Get a Thailand-Specific Quote
See what IMG Global costs for expats living in Thailand.
Get QuoteWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
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
See how much you can save with IMG's high-deductible options.
Get a QuoteWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
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
- See any licensed provider in Thailand
- Pay at time of service (get itemized receipt)
- Submit claim via IMG app or portal
- Processing typically 5-10 business days
- 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?
Get a personalized IMG Global quote for your situation in Thailand.
Get Your QuoteWe 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.