Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, focusing on clear, neutral information to help people find health coverage abroad.
Key Highlights: Health Insurance in Latin America
- Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama are top retirement destinations with established expat communities.
- Healthcare is affordable—private insurance costs $80-200/month in most countries.
- Mexico's IMSS offers public healthcare access to expats for ~$500/year.
- Colombia and Ecuador have growing digital nomad scenes with new visa options.
- Quality varies: Major cities have excellent private hospitals; rural areas are limited.
Featured Countries in Latin America
These are the most popular destinations for expats in Latin America. Click through for detailed coverage guides.
Mexico
Insurance recommended
View guide →
Costa Rica
Insurance recommended
View guide →
Panama
Insurance recommended
View guide →
Colombia
Insurance recommended
View guide →
Ecuador
Insurance recommended
View guide →
Peru
Insurance required for visa
View guide →
Who Latin America Is Best For
- Retirees seeking affordable retirement with good healthcare
- Digital nomads wanting timezone alignment with US/Canada
- Spanish learners immersing in Latin culture
- Those wanting proximity to the US for visits
Considerations for Latin America
- Spanish is essential outside major tourist areas and expat hubs
- Security varies by country and region—research specific areas
- Hurricane/earthquake risk in some areas (Mexico, Central America)
- Infrastructure can be inconsistent outside major cities
All Countries in Latin America
Complete list of countries in Latin America with health insurance guides:
* Insurance required for visa/residence permit
Related Resources
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Healthcare systems, insurance requirements, and visa rules change. We are not insurance brokers or licensed advisors. Verify all information with official sources before making decisions.