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
GeoBlue is the international health insurance brand of Blue Cross Blue Shield, the largest health insurance network in the United States. For Americans moving abroad, GeoBlue offers something uniquely valuable: continuity with the Blue Cross network you already know.
When you return to the US—whether for visits, emergencies, or eventual repatriation—your GeoBlue plan connects to the same Blue Cross network used by over 100 million Americans. No learning curve, no surprise networks, no coverage gaps.
Quick Facts
- Parent Company: Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
- Headquarters: King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Countries Covered: 190+
- US Network: Full Blue Cross Blue Shield network
- International Providers: 1.7 million+ contracted providers
- Plan Types: Voyager (expat), Trekker (travel)
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Plans and Coverage
GeoBlue offers two product lines: Voyager plans for long-term expats and Trekker plans for travelers. Most expats will want a Voyager plan.
| Plan | Type | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voyager Essential | 6-12 months | Budget expat coverage | |
| Voyager Choice | 6-12 months | Comprehensive expat | |
| Voyager Excel | 6-12 months | Premium expat coverage | |
| Trekker Essential | 5 days - 1 year | Short-term trips | |
| Trekker Choice | 5 days - 1 year | Extended travel |
Voyager Plans (Long-Term Expat)
Voyager plans are designed for Americans living abroad for 6 months or longer. They provide comprehensive coverage both internationally and in the US.
| Benefit | Essential | Choice | Excel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maximum | $1M | $2.5M | $5M |
| Deductible Options | $250-$2,500 | $0-$5,000 | $0-$5,000 |
| Outpatient | Limited | Full | Full |
| Maternity | Not included | Optional | Included |
| Mental Health | Crisis only | Included | Enhanced |
| US Coverage | Included | Included | Included |
Key Coverage Features
- Hospital and Surgery: Full coverage at network facilities
- Emergency Care: Worldwide emergency coverage
- Outpatient Care: Doctor visits, labs, imaging (Choice/Excel)
- Prescription Drugs: Formulary coverage included
- Medical Evacuation: Up to $500,000
- Repatriation: Return of remains covered
The Blue Cross Advantage
GeoBlue's connection to Blue Cross Blue Shield provides unique benefits:
- US Network Access: Direct billing at BCBS hospitals and doctors
- Negotiated Rates: BCBS-contracted pricing in the US
- Familiarity: Same network many Americans used before moving abroad
- Credibility: BCBS is recognized by US employers and providers
International Network
Outside the US, GeoBlue maintains contracts with 1.7 million+ providers in 190 countries. Their mobile app shows nearby contracted providers with real-time availability—useful when you need care in an unfamiliar location.
Trekker Plans (Travel Medical)
Trekker plans are travel medical insurance for trips lasting 5 days to 1 year. They're designed for travelers, not long-term expats, but can bridge coverage gaps during transitions.
- Lower premiums than Voyager
- Coverage for emergencies and unexpected illness
- Not designed for ongoing healthcare needs
- Good for gap coverage between plans
Pricing
GeoBlue pricing varies by age, plan tier, and deductible. US coverage is included in all plans (not an add-on), which affects the baseline pricing.
Estimated monthly premiums (Voyager plans, including US):
- Age 30, Voyager Choice: $250-320/month
- Age 40, Voyager Choice: $320-420/month
- Age 50, Voyager Choice: $450-580/month
- Age 60, Voyager Choice: $620-800/month
Deductible impact: Choosing a $2,500 deductible over $0 can reduce premiums by 20-30%.
Voyager Essential (basic) is typically 25-35% cheaper than Choice.
Voyager Excel (premium) costs 15-25% more than Choice.
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Pros and Cons
Pros
- Full Blue Cross Blue Shield US network access
- US coverage included (not a costly add-on)
- Familiar network for Americans
- Strong mobile app with provider finder
- Good evacuation coverage ($500K)
- Telehealth included
- Direct billing at many international hospitals
Cons
- Only available to US citizens/residents
- Higher premiums than some competitors
- Pre-existing conditions excluded (2-year lookback)
- Maternity requires waiting period or upgrade
- Mental health coverage limited on Essential
- Must maintain US address/ties
- Less competitive for non-US expats
Claims and Service
Filing Claims
GeoBlue offers several ways to submit claims:
- Mobile App: Photo submission, real-time tracking
- Online Portal: Full claims management
- Direct Billing: At network providers (no claim needed)
- Email/Mail: Traditional submission options
Claims are typically processed within 7-14 business days. In the US, Blue Cross network claims process faster due to existing infrastructure.
Customer Service
GeoBlue provides 24/7 customer support with multilingual assistance. Services include:
- Provider referrals and appointment scheduling
- Pre-authorization assistance
- Claims status inquiries
- Emergency coordination
- Medical translation services
Mobile App Features
The GeoBlue mobile app is well-regarded and includes:
- Nearby provider search with maps
- Digital ID cards
- Claims submission with photo capture
- Coverage details and benefits summary
- Emergency contact one-touch calling
Who It's For
GeoBlue is designed specifically for US citizens and residents. It's a strong choice if you:
- Are a US citizen or permanent resident
- Want Blue Cross network continuity
- Return to the US frequently
- Have family/doctors in the US you want to keep seeing
- Plan to repatriate eventually
- Value brand familiarity and trust
- Work for a US company abroad
GeoBlue is not the right fit if you:
- Are not a US citizen or resident (you can't purchase)
- Don't need US coverage (other plans may be cheaper)
- Have significant pre-existing conditions
- Want the absolute lowest premiums
- Are moving abroad permanently with no US ties
Alternatives to Consider
Depending on your needs, consider these alternatives:
- Aetna International: Similar US integration, modular plan options. Read our review
- Cigna Global: Larger global network, flexible tiers, US coverage available. Read our review
- Allianz Care: Better value if you don't need US coverage. Read our review
- IMG Global: Budget-friendly option with high-deductible savings. Read our review
Ready to Compare?
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Disclaimer: This review is for informational purposes only. Plan details, pricing, and availability change. We are not affiliated with GeoBlue or Blue Cross Blue Shield and are not insurance brokers. Verify all information directly with GeoBlue before purchasing.
