Top Health Insurance Plans for French Expats in Costa Rica

Top health insurance for French expats in Costa Rica comes from leading insurers such as Allianz, Cigna, NOW Health International, AXA, April International, VUMI, William Russell, and IMG. They offer different types and levels of coverage to meet expats’ varying needs. 

If you’re a French citizen planning a move to Costa Rica, you may be wondering how to secure reliable access to quality healthcare. This article will guide you through your options.

In this Pacific Prime article, we’ll highlight the top health insurance plans for French expats in Costa Rica, detailing the level of coverage and benefits offered by different insurers. We’ll also provide tips to help you find the right plan that best suits your needs. 

Start by Comparing
Insurance Plans Online

Browse and Compare 50,000+
International Health Plans

Compare NOW

Our Top Insurance Recommendations for French Expats in Costa Rica 

International health insurance plans from the following insurers provide comprehensive coverage for French expats living in Costa Rica: 

• Allianz
• Cigna Global 
• NOW Health International
• AXA
• April International
• VUMI
• William Russell
• IMG

These providers are not ranked in any particular order; each offers excellent coverage that gives expats peace of mind while living in Costa Rica. Let’s take a closer look at each insurer and the plans they offer.

All monetary values are shown in U.S. dollars and converted to euros for the convenience of French readers, unless otherwise noted.

Allianz: Dependable Health Insurance for French Expats in Costa Rica

Allianz is a reputable global insurer operating in over 70 countries worldwide, including Costa Rica. Their international health plan comes in three different levels of coverage: Care Base, Care Enhanced, and Care Signature.

The basic coverage included in every plan is inpatient treatment, surgeries, diagnostic tests, oncology, psychiatry, HIV/AIDS, and medical evacuation and repatriation. Care Enhanced and Care Signature cover routine maternity with a 12-month waiting period. 

Plan highlights: 

• • Worldwide coverage, with options to exclude the US or limit coverage to Africa or Europe
  • Excellent customer service, including 24/7 global support, Expat Assistance Program (EAP), travel security, and second medical opinion service

• Add-on options: 

• • Outpatient treatment
  • Dental care

Cigna Global: Tailored Health Solutions for French Expats in Costa Rica

Cigna Global offers high-quality health coverage for French expats in Costa Rica through their four core plans, including Close Care, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, which are customizable to best suit each individual’s needs. 

The basic coverage includes inpatient treatment, pandemic and epidemic, ambulance service, mental health care, cancer treatment, and newborn care, with maternity coverage available in the Gold and Platinum plans. 

Plan highlights: 

• • Worldwide coverage, with optional exclusion for the US; Close Care limits coverage to Costa Rica and France 
  • Comprehensive support channels, with 24/7 multilingual customer support and global telehealth services via the Cigna Wellbeing app

• Add-on options:

• • Outpatient care
  • Medical evacuation and repatriation 
  • Vision and dental care
  • Health and well-being

Note that the Close Care plan is structured for those who only need essential coverage between Costa Rica and France, with add-ons limited to outpatient, wellness, and dental care.

NOW Health International: Simple and Transparent Health Plans for French Expats in Costa Rica

NOW Health is an insurance specialist, known for their wide range of coverage options for expats in over 200 territories, including in Costa Rica. French expats can choose from the two main core plans: SimpleCare and WorldCare, each with their own strengths. 

SimpleCare delivers broad protection for inpatient care, outpatient surgery, cancer care, organ transplant, medical evacuation, and repatriation at a lower premium. 

WorldCare, on the other hand, provides maximum flexibility and a wide range of benefits, including inpatient care and outpatient surgery, cancer care, GP and specialist visits, medical evacuation and repatriation, and coverage for pregnancy-related conditions, for those seeking top-tier coverage.

Plan highlights: 

• • Worldwide coverage, excluding the US 
  • Fully digital, with virtual membership cards for highly convenient direct billing 

• Add-on options (availability depends on plan tier):

• • Routine dental treatment
  • Maternity care
  • US elective treatment (available only with WorldCare plans)
  • Wellness, optical, and vaccinations

AXA: Comprehensive Health Insurance for French Expats in Costa Rica 

Originating from France in 1985, AXA is a highly trusted insurance provider among French expats with their core international health plans, offering up to five different benefit levels: Foundation, Standard, Comprehensive, Prestige, and Prestige Plus. 

The basic benefits include inpatient treatment, emergency cover, cancer care, ambulance transport, medical evacuation and repatriation, surgery costs, and diagnostic tests. The higher-tier plans start including non-routine dental care, outpatient treatment, and chronic conditions. 

Plan highlights: 

• • Worldwide coverage, with optional exclusion for the US

• • Expat-oriented additional services include second medical opinions, virtual doctors, and mental health services

• Add-on options:

• • Outpatient treatment, tests, and vaccinations (for plans not included by default)
  • Routine dental care

April International: Customizable Protection for French Expats in Costa Rica

April International is a French health insurance provider that has expanded its presence all over the world. Their MyHealth International plan is fully customizable with five coverage options: Emergency, Formule Basic, Essential, Comfort, and Premium.

The basic coverage includes all essential medical services for French expats in Costa Rica, i.e., hospitalization for emergency, hospitalization for chronic illnesses (except Emergency Plan), medical repatriation, and medical evacuation. 

Plan highlights: 

• • Coverage area is based on the destination country’s zone, with options to upgrade to higher zones or worldwide
  • Simplified customer experience with services such as 24/7 telehealth service, Easy Pay Card, and Easy Claim application 

• Add-on options:

• • Outpatient benefits and prevention
  • Dental and optical benefits (six-month waiting period)
  • Maternity (12-month waiting period)

VUMI: Outstanding Health Insurance Services for French Expats in Costa Rica

VUMI, or VIP Universal Medical Insurance, is an international health insurer known for its exceptional service and member experience. Its Global Flex VIP plan comes in five coverage levels: Basic, Standard, Superior, Ultra, and Total, giving expats options to match different healthcare needs.

Their basic benefits included are considered highly inclusive, covering inpatient and outpatient treatment, psychiatric treatment, cancer care, medical evacuation, emergency dental treatment, maternity and birth complications, diagnostic tests, organ transplants, and HIV/AIDS

Plan highlights: 

• • Worldwide coverage, with optional exclusion for geographical areas, including the US, Africa, Asia, and the Indian subcontinent
  • Remarkable services, including 24/7 multilingual support, second medical opinions, and patient concierge services 
• Add-on options:
  • Wellness and optical benefits (not available for Basic plan)
  • Emergency and non-emergency evacuation to the country of choice, country of residence, and home country

William Russell: Trusted Health Solutions for French Expats in Costa Rica

William Russell started as a boutique health insurer and has grown to an international level thanks to their reputation for outstanding customer experience. Their international health plan comes in four different coverage levels, including Bronze, SilverLite, Silver, and Gold. 

The most basic coverage includes inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, local ambulance, cancer care, medical evacuation, repatriation of mortal remains, HIV/AIDS, surgery expenses, diagnostic tests, and pregnancy complications. 

Additional coverage added in the top plan includes routine maternity and dental care, mental health treatment, and wellness and vaccinations. 

Plan highlights: 

• • Worldwide coverage, with seven flexible options for regional exclusions
  • Personalized customer support, with dedicated point of contact, 24/7 medical emergency line, and a travel safety application

• Add-on options:

• • Routine maternity and dental care (for Silver and SilverLite only)

IMG: Top-rated Insurance Plans for French Expats in Costa Rica

IMG is an award-winning international health insurer that aims to provide peace of mind for expats and travelers across the world. Their most popular international health plan, Global Medical, is available in four coverage tiers, including Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.

The basic plan includes inpatient and outpatient treatment, cancer care, local ambulance, medical evacuation, return of mortal remains, surgery, and diagnostic tests. Higher-tier plans add political evacuation, repatriation, dental, vision, maternity, and newborn coverage under the Platinum level.

Plan highlights: 

• • Worldwide coverage, with optional exclusion of the US, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, Singapore, and Taiwan
  • Enhanced benefits, including emergency medical evacuation support, travel and medical concierge, and 24/7 multilingual support

• Add-on options:

• • Dental and vision care (for plans not included by default)

Our Recommended International Health Insurance Plans

• Worldwide Coverage (excluding the US)
• Access to Cigna's trusted global network of hospitals and doctors
• 4 Core Insurance Plans

Get a Quote NOW

• Lifetime Renewal Possibilities
• 24/7 Medical Help via Global Virtual Care
• Direct Billing Options

Get a Quote NOW

What to Look for in a Health Insurance Plan in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica offers excellent healthcare through its public system (Caja Costarricense De Seguro Social) and world-class private facilities. For French expats used to France’s Sécurité sociale, which broadly covers essential medical services, look for these features to help you find the right plan.

Inpatient and Outpatient Benefits

Check which benefits your policy includes. Inpatient coverage applies to care that requires an overnight hospital stay, while outpatient coverage applies to services like consultations, tests, and minor procedures. 

Some plans include only inpatient care as standard, with outpatient benefits available as an add-on; others include both, but with different limits across tiers. Review your policy carefully to avoid gaps or surprises at claim time.

Waiting Periods and Exclusions

Most international plans include waiting periods or exclusions for certain benefits or pre-existing conditions. Depending on the insurer, coverage for pre-existing conditions may begin after 6–12 months or be excluded entirely. Maternity benefits typically carry a 12–24 month waiting period.

Unlike France’s public system, where pre-existing conditions are covered without delay, private insurers may exclude them, along with high-risk activities, dental treatment, or mental health care, unless optional riders are added.

Network Hospitals 

In-network hospitals are facilities that have direct agreements with your insurer, allowing you to receive care without paying upfront for covered services. Always confirm whether your preferred hospitals or clinics are included in the insurer’s network to ensure smooth, cashless access to treatment.

Evacuation and Repatriation 

If specialized care is needed beyond what local facilities can provide, evacuation coverage ensures transport to the nearest suitable hospital without the high cost. Repatriation benefits, on the other hand, offer the option to return to France when medically necessary. 

These benefits are especially important for French expats living in Costa Rica. While Costa Rica offers excellent healthcare, certain complex conditions may require treatment in another country or, in rare cases, transport back to France. 

Deductibles and Copayments

Deductibles and copayments directly affect how much you pay for premiums and out of pocket. A higher deductible can lower your premium, but increases your upfront cost when seeking care. Copayments require you to pay a set portion of each visit or treatment. 

Choosing wisely can help you strike a balance between quality and affordability. 

Customer Support

Choose insurers with reliable multilingual assistance and a clear claims process. For French expats in Costa Rica, responsive support in English or French makes approvals, reimbursements, and policy questions easier to manage. A dependable team ensures you get timely help when it matters.

Why Use a Broker for Health Insurance in Costa Rica 

Insurance brokers make it easier for French expats who may be unfamiliar with the private healthcare system to choose, apply for, and manage health insurance while settling into life in Costa Rica. Here is how they help:

• Personalized guidance: Brokers take time to understand your medical history, lifestyle, and budget, then compare plans to recommend coverage that fits your situation.
  
• Expert knowledge: Brokers bring deep knowledge of the international insurance market and Costa Rica’s healthcare system. They can suggest the right type and level of coverage for your situation, including options for chronic conditions, maternity, or specialist care.
• End-to-end support: From comparing plans and submitting applications to handling claims and renewals, brokers guide you through every step. They act as your advocate, ensuring you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
  
• Time and cost savings: Brokers help you identify the best value without spending hours researching. They handle the complex details so you can focus on settling into life in Costa Rica without worrying about healthcare logistics.

Secure Your Coverage in Costa Rica with Pacific Prime 

Health insurance plans from Allianz, Cigna, NOW Health International, AXA, April International, VUMI, William Russell, and IMG are among the top options for French expats in Costa Rica looking for reliable, international coverage. 

Each insurer provides top-tier benefits and member support. However, with so many options available, Pacific Prime understands how overwhelming it can be to choose the best one for yourself. 

With over 25 years of experience, Pacific Prime helps expats find coverage that suits their budget and needs, from international health insurance to family plans and short-term options. Once you’re covered, we continue to provide support to ensure peace of mind throughout the entire policy term. 

Are you still unsure about your health coverage in Costa Rica? Contact us for a FREE quote comparison and expert, unbiased advice today.

Kickstart Your Search for the Perfect Insurer

Compare over
50,000 Plans
from Top Insurers

Compare NOW

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does health insurance cost in Costa Rica?

Expat health insurance in Costa Rica costs an average of €4,430 for an individual per year, according to the Cost of Health Insurance Report 2024. However, the exact cost varies depending on the level of coverage, deductible and copayment rates, your age, and any pre-existing conditions.

How do expats get health insurance in Costa Rica?

Expats can obtain health insurance in Costa Rica from its public health scheme (CCSS) and private and international health insurers. While it’s mandatory for legal residents to enroll in the CCSS, many expats still opt for private insurers for broader coverage and access to private hospitals. 

Where is the best healthcare in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has a well-developed private healthcare system with modern facilities and internationally trained doctors, particularly in San José and other major cities. The top private hospitals include Hospital CIMA, Clínica Bíblica Hospital, Hospital Metropolitano, and Hospital La Católica. 

What is the best health insurance for expats?

International insurers like Allianz, Cigna, AXA, VUMI, and IMG offer a range of options tailored for expats, from basic coverage to comprehensive plans with maternity, dental, and global benefits. However, the best plan depends on your needs, budget, and lifestyle. 

Which Latin American country has the best healthcare system for expats?

Costa Rica is widely considered to have the best healthcare system for expats in Latin America, offering a high-quality universal system with both public and private options. Other countries like Panama, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico are also well-regarded among expats. 

• Author
• Recent Posts

Palida Weerawat

Palida is a passionate writer who is now creating content at Pacific Prime Thailand. She recently earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University, where she received formal training to write clearly and effectively. While studying, Palida had experiences publishing social and cultural features on social media platforms and working as an English tutor, where she refined her skills in breaking down complex ideas and explaining them in a simple, straightforward manner—skills that she has transitioned into delivering insurance-related content.

With her background as an avid traveler and as an exchange student in Spain, Palida values the benefits of insurance and understands the frustrations that may come with making the best decisions for your health and safety in an unknown environment. Here at Pacific Prime, she aspires to create content that will help expats and travelers understand international health insurance with ease.

In her spare time, Palida enjoys reading short stories as much as binging on sitcoms. She is also a self-proclaimed "foodie" with the goal of trying as many cuisines from all over the world as possible. Combining her passion for writing with her love for food, she is an aspiring Google Local Guide reviewer.

Latest posts by Palida Weerawat (see all)

• GIG Gulf Insurance for Dubai Expats in 2026 - April 27, 2026
• Thailand Elite Visa 2026 Updated: Membership Options, Costs & Benefits - April 25, 2026
• How to Get Group Medical Insurance in Hong Kong (2026 Guide) - April 21, 2026