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.
Overview
Allianz Care is the international health insurance arm of Allianz Partners, part of Allianz SE—one of the world's largest insurance and financial services companies with over €150 billion in revenue. With an A+ Superior rating from A.M. Best, they bring significant financial backing to the expat insurance market.
What sets Allianz Care apart is their moratorium underwriting option—a pathway for people with pre-existing conditions to eventually get coverage. Combined with a 2 million+ provider network (the largest in the industry) and deductible options that save up to 60%, Allianz Care offers unique value for the right expat.
Quick Facts
- Parent Company: Allianz SE (Munich, Germany)
- Financial Rating: A+ Superior (A.M. Best)
- Network Providers: 2 million+ (largest in industry)
- Countries Covered: 200+ territories
- Plan Types: Base, Enhanced, Signature
- Age Limit: Up to 75 to enroll
- Underwriting: Full medical OR moratorium option
- Deductible Savings: Up to 60% with €10,000 deductible
The Moratorium Advantage: Unlike most insurers who permanently exclude pre-existing conditions, Allianz offers moratorium underwriting. Pre-existing conditions are excluded initially, but after 2 years without claims for that condition, it becomes covered. This is a genuine pathway to full coverage that few competitors offer.
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Quick Assessment: Is Allianz Care Right for You?
Before diving into details, here's a quick framework to assess whether Allianz Care fits your needs.
Allianz is likely a great fit if you:
- Have pre-existing conditions and want a path to coverage
- Want access to the largest provider network (2M+)
- Prefer high-deductible plans with major savings (up to 60%)
- Live in or are moving to Europe
- Value financial stability (Allianz SE backing)
- Want flexible modular coverage options
- Are under 75 and can enroll
Consider alternatives if you:
- Prioritize customer service ratings (Allianz reviews are mixed)
- Need certainty about what's covered (moratorium has ambiguity)
- Live in Germany, Ireland, UAE, or Brazil (not available)
- Want to cancel mid-year (not allowed after cooling off)
- Need extensive mental health coverage (BUPA better)
- Prefer premium service over competitive pricing
Plans and Coverage
Allianz Care offers three main plan tiers—Base, Enhanced, and Signature—each with increasing coverage limits and benefits. All plans include inpatient care as a foundation, with optional add-ons for outpatient and dental coverage.
Plan Comparison
| Feature | Base | Enhanced | Signature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maximum | €1.35M | €2.7M | €5M |
| Inpatient Hospital | Full coverage | Full coverage | Full coverage |
| Outpatient Care | Optional add-on | Included | Included |
| Mental Health | Inpatient only | In + Outpatient | Enhanced |
| Maternity | Optional add-on | Included | Included + Fertility |
| Dental | Optional add-on | Optional add-on | Included |
| Vision | Not included | Optional add-on | Included |
| Cancer Treatment | Up to plan max | Up to plan max | Up to plan max |
| Medical Evacuation | Included | Included | Included |
Base Plan
Essential coverage focused on major medical events. €1.35 million annual limit with inpatient coverage included. Outpatient, dental, and maternity are available as add-ons. Best for healthy individuals who want protection against catastrophic events while managing routine care out-of-pocket.
Enhanced Plan
Comprehensive coverage suitable for most expats. €2.7 million annual limit with outpatient and maternity included. Mental health covers both inpatient and outpatient. This is the sweet spot for most expats who want full coverage without Signature pricing.
Signature Plan
Premium coverage with €5 million annual limit. Includes everything in Enhanced plus dental, vision, and fertility treatment (up to €9,450 with 12-month waiting period). Bariatric surgery available with 24-month waiting period. For those who want maximum coverage.
Moratorium vs Full Medical Underwriting
This is Allianz Care's most important feature. You can choose between two underwriting approaches:
| Underwriting Type | Full Medical Underwriting | Moratorium Underwriting |
|---|---|---|
| Application Process | Detailed health questionnaire | Simple declaration |
| Pre-existing Conditions | May be excluded permanently | Excluded initially, covered after 2 years |
| Approval Time | Days to weeks | Often instant |
| Premium Impact | May have loading | Standard rates |
| Coverage Certainty | Know exclusions upfront | Uncertainty until claim time |
| Best For | Those wanting clarity | Those with pre-existing conditions |
How Moratorium Works: Pre-existing conditions (anything you've had symptoms of, treatment for, or advice about in the 5 years before enrollment) are excluded initially. After 2 consecutive years without related treatment, symptoms, or advice, the condition becomes covered. It's a genuine pathway to full coverage—rare in international insurance.
Optional Add-Ons
- Outpatient: Doctor visits, diagnostics, prescriptions, eye exams, glasses/contacts
- Dental: Preventive and restorative dental care
Geographic Coverage Options
- Worldwide (including USA): Full global coverage
- Worldwide excluding USA: Significant savings
- Europe: Regional coverage at lower rates
- Africa: Regional option available
Important: Allianz Care is not available if you reside in Brazil, Dubai/UAE, Germany, Ireland, Iran, North Korea, Russia, or countries under international sanctions. Check availability before applying.
Pricing Analysis
Allianz Care pricing depends on your age, plan tier, deductible choice, coverage area, and optional add-ons. The combination of high-deductible options (up to 60% savings) makes them competitive for budget-conscious expats.
Estimated Monthly Premiums (Worldwide Excluding USA)
| Profile | Base | Enhanced | Signature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age 25, €0 deductible | €100-120/mo | €140-170/mo | €200-240/mo |
| Age 35, €500 deductible | €110-140/mo | €150-190/mo | €220-280/mo |
| Age 45, €1,000 deductible | €135-175/mo | €190-240/mo | €280-350/mo |
| Age 55, €2,500 deductible | €180-230/mo | €250-320/mo | €380-480/mo |
| Age 65, €5,000 deductible | €280-360/mo | €380-480/mo | €540-680/mo |
Note: These are estimates for worldwide coverage excluding USA. Adding US coverage increases premiums by approximately 40-50%.
Deductible Options and Savings
Allianz offers aggressive deductible discounts—some of the highest in the industry:
- €0 deductible: Base premium (no savings)
- €150 deductible: ~5% savings
- €500 deductible: ~15% savings
- €1,000 deductible: ~25% savings
- €2,500 deductible: ~35% savings
- €5,000 deductible: ~45% savings
- €10,000 deductible: ~60% savings
Real Math: A 40-year-old on Enhanced with €0 deductible might pay €220/month (€2,640/year). With €5,000 deductible: ~€120/month (€1,440/year). Annual savings: €1,200. If you don't hit your deductible, that's real money back in your pocket.
Payment Options
- Annual: No surcharge (best value)
- Half-yearly: 3% surcharge
- Quarterly: 4% surcharge
- Monthly: 5% surcharge (requires direct debit)
5-Year Cost Projection
For a 40-year-old on Enhanced with €2,500 deductible, paying annually:
- Year 1: ~€2,040 (€170/month equivalent)
- Year 2: ~€2,140 (5% increase)
- Year 3: ~€2,250 (age + inflation)
- Year 4: ~€2,360
- Year 5: ~€2,480
- 5-Year Total: ~€11,270
Compare to BUPA Premier at ~€16,000+ over 5 years—Allianz saves roughly €4,700.
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Claims Experience
Allianz Care claims they process 74% of claims within 24 hours and most within 48 hours. However, customer reviews are mixed—some praise quick processing while others report frustrations.
| Claims Aspect | Allianz Care |
|---|---|
| Submission Methods | MyHealth portal, mobile app, email |
| Processing Time | 74% within 24 hours, most within 48 hours (company claim) |
| Direct Billing | 2 million+ providers globally |
| Pre-authorization | Required for planned hospitalization |
| Reimbursement | Bank transfer, multiple currencies |
| Appeals Process | Formal appeals with medical review |
Direct Billing Network
With 2 million+ providers, Allianz has the largest direct billing network in international health insurance:
- Process: Contact Allianz before admission to arrange direct billing
- Coverage: Major hospitals worldwide
- Benefit: No out-of-pocket for covered services at network facilities
- Limitation: Outpatient care often requires reimbursement
Claims Processing
- Online: MyHealth portal for submission and tracking
- Mobile App: Photo upload and real-time status
- Turnaround: 24-48 hours (company claim); varies in practice
- Payment: Bank transfer in your preferred currency
Pre-authorization Requirements
Pre-authorization is required for:
- All planned/elective hospitalizations
- Advanced imaging (MRI, CT scans)
- Surgical procedures
- Cancer treatments
- Mental health inpatient stays
Reviews Note: While Allianz claims fast processing, customer reviews are mixed. Common complaints include difficulty getting claims approved for certain conditions and strict interpretation of pre-existing condition exclusions. Document everything and understand your coverage before you need to use it.
Customer Service
Allianz Care provides 24/7 emergency assistance and customer support with several value-added services.
Support Channels
- Phone: 24/7 emergency assistance line
- Email: Customer service inquiries
- MyHealth Portal: Claims, documents, policy management
- Mobile App: Full functionality on the go
Value-Added Services
- MediLine Medical Advice Service: Speak with medical professionals for health advice
- Telemedicine Hub: Remote consultations with doctors
- Expat Assistance Program: Counseling, legal referrals, financial guidance
- Second Medical Opinion: Expert review for serious diagnoses
Customer Reviews
Allianz Care customer reviews are mixed compared to competitors like IMG (4.6/5) or Cigna. Common themes:
- Positive: Large network, coverage options, financial stability
- Negative: Claims disputes, strict pre-existing interpretations, inconsistent service
This doesn't mean Allianz is bad—many customers have positive experiences. But set realistic expectations and document everything.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Largest network (2 million+ providers)
- Moratorium underwriting for pre-existing conditions
- Up to 60% savings with high deductibles
- Strong financial backing (Allianz SE, A+ rating)
- Flexible modular plan design
- Telemedicine and medical advice included
- Expat Assistance Program (counseling, legal)
- Enroll up to age 75
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- No waiting periods for core coverage
Cons
- Mixed customer reviews on claims handling
- Strict interpretation of pre-existing exclusions
- 12-month maternity waiting period
- Can't cancel mid-year (after 30-day cooling off)
- Not available in several countries (Germany, Ireland, UAE, Brazil)
- Monthly payments have 5% surcharge
- Moratorium creates uncertainty until claim time
- Mental health coverage limited vs BUPA
Real-World Scenarios
Here's how Allianz Care performs in common expat situations:
Scenario 1: Pre-existing Hypertension via Moratorium
55-year-old with controlled hypertension (on medication for 8 years) applies for Enhanced plan using moratorium underwriting.
Outcome: Application approved instantly without health questionnaire. Hypertension excluded initially. After 2 years without blood pressure-related claims, treatment, or advice, hypertension becomes covered. Member manages condition carefully for 2 years, then gets full coverage. Other conditions covered from day one.
Scenario 2: Moratorium Backfires
40-year-old with history of back pain uses moratorium. At month 18, has severe episode requiring surgery.
Outcome: Claim denied—back issues are still in moratorium period. Member pays €15,000 for surgery out-of-pocket. The 2-year clock resets. With full medical underwriting, they would have known upfront if back issues were excluded or covered with limitations.
Scenario 3: High-Deductible Strategy Works
35-year-old healthy expat chooses Enhanced with €5,000 deductible, saving 45% on premiums (~€1,200/year).
Outcome: Over 3 years, member has no major claims. Total savings: €3,600. In year 4, needs €8,000 surgery. Pays €5,000 deductible, Allianz covers €3,000. Net position: still €1,600 ahead vs €0 deductible plan. Strategy works for healthy individuals.
Scenario 4: Claims Dispute
Member submits €4,500 claim for diagnostic tests. Allianz partially denies, claiming some tests weren't medically necessary.
Outcome: Member appeals with doctor's letter explaining necessity. After 6 weeks, Allianz approves additional €2,000 but maintains €1,500 denial. Member frustrated but receives €3,000 of €4,500 claim. Documentation and persistence matter.
Scenario 5: Network Size Advantage
Expat in rural Portugal needs specialist care. Searches for in-network options.
Outcome: With 2 million+ providers, Allianz has more options within 50km than competitors. Member finds in-network specialist, arranges direct billing, and avoids reimbursement hassle. Large network provides real convenience in less urban areas.
Who It's For
Ideal Allianz Care Members
- Pre-existing conditions: Moratorium offers genuine pathway to coverage
- Budget-conscious with high deductible tolerance: Up to 60% savings
- European expats: Strong presence and regulatory familiarity
- Those wanting largest network: 2 million+ providers worldwide
- Modular coverage seekers: Customize exactly what you need
- Under 75: Enrollment age limit is competitive
Better Alternatives Exist If You:
- Prioritize customer service: Cigna and BUPA have better reviews
- Need mental health parity: BUPA offers unlimited coverage
- Want claim certainty: Full underwriting elsewhere may be clearer
- Live in excluded countries: Germany, Ireland, UAE, Brazil
- Need US coverage integration: Aetna has better US network
How It Compares
| Aspect | Allianz Care | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Network Size | 2 million+ providers | Largest network available |
| Moratorium Option | Yes (unique) | Most competitors don't offer this |
| Deductible Savings | Up to 60% with €10K | Highest savings available |
| Pre-existing Conditions | Moratorium pathway | Best option for existing conditions |
| Customer Reviews | Mixed | Lower than IMG/Cigna |
| Claims Speed | 74% in 24 hours (claimed) | Faster than IMG, varies in practice |
Allianz vs Cigna Global
Cigna has better customer reviews and faster claims reputation. Allianz has larger network and moratorium option. Choose Allianz for pre-existing conditions or budget; Cigna for service.
See full Allianz vs Cigna comparison →
Allianz vs BUPA Global
BUPA offers mental health parity and better customer ratings but costs more. Allianz offers moratorium and better pricing. Choose BUPA for mental health; Allianz for pre-existing conditions.
See full Allianz vs BUPA comparison →
Allianz vs IMG Global
Both are budget-friendly. IMG has better reviews (4.6/5) and the 50% deductible waiver. Allianz has larger network and moratorium. Choose IMG for value/reviews; Allianz for network/pre-existing.
See full Allianz vs IMG comparison →
Allianz vs AXA Global
Both are EU-based with similar pricing. AXA has slightly better European presence; Allianz has larger network and moratorium. Similar value propositions—compare specific quotes.
See full Allianz vs AXA comparison →
Frequently Asked Questions
How does moratorium underwriting actually work?
With moratorium, you don't complete a health questionnaire. Instead, any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the past 5 years is automatically excluded. After 2 consecutive years without any related treatment, symptoms, or medical advice for that condition, it becomes covered. The catch: you don't know exactly what's excluded until you file a claim.
Should I choose moratorium or full medical underwriting?
Choose moratorium if you have pre-existing conditions and want a path to eventual coverage, or if you want quick approval without health questions. Choose full medical underwriting if you want certainty about what's covered upfront, or if you're healthy and want clean coverage from day one.
Why isn't Allianz available in Germany?
Allianz SE is a German company, and Germany has specific regulations requiring local health insurance for residents. Allianz Care is designed for international expats, not German domestic coverage. German residents need German domestic insurance (like TK, AOK, or private German plans).
Why are customer reviews mixed?
Most complaints relate to claims disputes, especially around pre-existing condition interpretations and "medical necessity" denials. Allianz is a large insurer with many policies—some experiences are excellent, others frustrating. Document everything and understand your policy before you need to use it.
Can I cancel my policy mid-year?
No. After the initial 30-day cooling off period, Allianz Care policies run for the full policy year. You can't cancel mid-year unless you have specific qualifying life events. This is standard for annual health insurance but worth knowing before you commit.
How does the 60% deductible savings work?
Allianz offers deductible options from €0 to €10,000. The €10,000 deductible saves approximately 60% on premiums compared to €0 deductible. This is higher than most competitors. It works well for healthy individuals who rarely hit their deductible—you keep the premium savings.
Our Verdict
Allianz Care is the best choice for expats with pre-existing conditions who want a realistic path to coverage. The moratorium underwriting option is rare and genuinely valuable. Combined with the largest provider network (2M+) and aggressive deductible discounts (up to 60%), Allianz offers unique value.
However, mixed customer reviews mean you should go in with realistic expectations. Document everything, understand your policy, and be prepared to advocate for yourself if you have claims disputes. The moratorium also means uncertainty until you actually file a claim.
Bottom line: For pre-existing conditions or budget-conscious expats wanting the largest network, Allianz is hard to beat. For those prioritizing customer service or mental health coverage, look elsewhere.
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Compare Allianz vs Cigna →Disclaimer: This review is for informational purposes only. Plan details, pricing, and availability change. Always verify current information directly with Allianz Care before purchasing. Coverage restrictions and excluded countries may have changed since this review was written. We are not insurance brokers and do not sell insurance.
