What health insurance options are available for expats in the Philippines?

Expats in the Philippines can choose from: (1) International health insurance plans like Pacific Cross and Cigna for global coverage, (2) Local HMO plans like Maxicare for domestic coverage, or (3) PhilHealth enrollment for basic government coverage. Most expats combine a local HMO with international coverage.

Is health insurance mandatory for foreigners in the Philippines?

Health insurance is not legally mandatory for foreigners in the Philippines. However, it is strongly recommended. Without insurance, medical costs at private hospitals can be very high, and public hospitals may not meet the standards expected by most expats.

Can foreigners enroll in PhilHealth in the Philippines?

Yes. Foreigners legally residing in the Philippines can voluntarily enroll in PhilHealth. It provides basic coverage for hospitalization and some outpatient services. However, most expats supplement PhilHealth with a private HMO or international plan for comprehensive protection.

What is the cost of health insurance for expats in the Philippines?

International health insurance for expats typically ranges from PHP 60,000 to PHP 200,000+ per year, depending on coverage level and provider. Local HMO plans are more affordable at PHP 20,000–80,000 per year. The right choice depends on your lifestyle and how often you travel internationally.

Are there hospitals in the Philippines that cater specifically to foreigners?

Yes. Hospitals like St. Luke's Medical Center (BGC and Quezon City), Makati Medical Center, and The Medical City offer services tailored to expatriates, including English-speaking staff, international patient departments, and cashless insurance processing.

How do local health insurance plans compare to international plans for expats?

Local plans (Maxicare, Intellicare) are more affordable and have excellent domestic hospital networks, but offer no international coverage. International plans (Pacific Cross, Cigna) provide global coverage and emergency evacuation, but cost significantly more. Expats who travel frequently should consider international plans.

What health insurance options are available for expats in the Philippines?

Expats in the Philippines can choose from: (1) International health insurance plans like Pacific Cross and Cigna for global coverage, (2) Local HMO plans like Maxicare for domestic coverage, or (3) PhilHealth enrollment for basic government coverage. Most expats combine a local HMO with international coverage.

Is health insurance mandatory for foreigners in the Philippines?

Health insurance is not legally mandatory for foreigners in the Philippines. However, it is strongly recommended. Without insurance, medical costs at private hospitals can be very high, and public hospitals may not meet the standards expected by most expats.

Can foreigners enroll in PhilHealth in the Philippines?

Yes. Foreigners legally residing in the Philippines can voluntarily enroll in PhilHealth. It provides basic coverage for hospitalization and some outpatient services. However, most expats supplement PhilHealth with a private HMO or international plan for comprehensive protection.

What is the cost of health insurance for expats in the Philippines?

International health insurance for expats typically ranges from PHP 60,000 to PHP 200,000+ per year, depending on coverage level and provider. Local HMO plans are more affordable at PHP 20,000–80,000 per year. The right choice depends on your lifestyle and how often you travel internationally.

Are there hospitals in the Philippines that cater specifically to foreigners?

Yes. Hospitals like St. Luke's Medical Center (BGC and Quezon City), Makati Medical Center, and The Medical City offer services tailored to expatriates, including English-speaking staff, international patient departments, and cashless insurance processing.

How do local health insurance plans compare to international plans for expats?

Local plans (Maxicare, Intellicare) are more affordable and have excellent domestic hospital networks, but offer no international coverage. International plans (Pacific Cross, Cigna) provide global coverage and emergency evacuation, but cost significantly more. Expats who travel frequently should consider international plans.

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Expats8 min read

Health Insurance for Expats
in the Philippines (2026)

Living in the Philippines as a foreigner? Here's everything expats need to know about health insurance options, costs, and the best international and local providers available.

Last updated: April 2026

International Coverage Available

Health Insurance for Expats Philippines - Compare Ph

Key Facts for Expats

Health insurance is NOT mandatory for foreigners in the Philippines, but strongly recommended.
Foreigners can enroll in PhilHealth for basic government coverage.
International plans (Pacific Cross, Cigna) provide global coverage including emergency evacuation.
Local HMO plans (Maxicare) are more affordable and cover all major private hospitals in PH.
Top expat-friendly hospitals: St. Luke's BGC, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City.

Top Picks for Expats

Best Health Insurance for Expats in the Philippines

Pacific Cross Health Insurance

Best for Expats

4.8

·₱60,000–₱200,000/yr

Global CoverageEmergency EvacuationNo Lifetime LimitRepatriation

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Pros

True international coverage
No lifetime benefit limit on premium plans
Emergency medical evacuation included
Dedicated expat support team

Cons

Significantly higher premiums
Overkill for domestic-only needs

Best For: Expats, foreign residents, frequent international travelers

Cigna Global Health

International Leader

4.7

·₱80,000–₱250,000/yr

Worldwide CoverageMental HealthDental & Vision24/7 Support

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Pros

Comprehensive worldwide coverage
Mental health benefits included
Strong customer service
Flexible plan customization

Cons

Premium pricing
Complex plan selection process

Best For: Corporate expats, high-income foreign residents

Maxicare Healthcare (Local)

Best Local Option

4.7

·₱20,000–₱80,000/yr

400+ PH HospitalsOutpatientInpatientTelemedicine

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Pros

Best local hospital network
Affordable vs international plans
Accepted at top private hospitals

Cons

No international coverage
Limited to Philippines only

Best For: Expats staying long-term in the Philippines, budget-conscious foreigners

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Expat Health Insurance in the Philippines

Compare international and local plans tailored for expats living in the Philippines.

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Health Insurance for Expatsin the Philippines (2026)

Best Health Insurance for Expats in the Philippines

Pacific Cross Health Insurance

Cigna Global Health

Maxicare Healthcare (Local)

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Expat Health Insurance in the Philippines

Health Insurance for Expats
in the Philippines (2026)