If your contract already includes medical insurance, that coverage often does not start until you register and get your "residency" status in the country you are teaching. In most countries this takes 1-2 months after you arrive.

It is important to have some sort of medical coverage or travel insurance while your residency is being processed.

Even after your residency is established and the local medical insurance starts, it is also important to have Emergency Medical Insurance in case there is a serious problem and you need extended medical attention. This medical coverage will get your relocated, by whatever means necessary, to the closest center that can provide you with the treatment you need.

"I already have coverage that I am going to keep when I go abroad."

If you already have a local government or private plan GREAT! Keep it if you can! It is REALLY important to not completely rely on your current health plan whether government or private to cover the costs if you get sick or injured while you are abroad. At best, your health plan will cover only a portion of the bill.

It is your responsibility to obtain and understand the terms of your medical coverage.

Some credit cards offer health and travel insurance but only for certain periods and do not assume that the card along will provide adequate coverage.

Get started now.

1. Pick the coverage that works best for you.
2. Download the application form relating to that coverage.
3. Fill out the Ex-Patriot Overseas Medical Application Form
4. Fax it to our office

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