Cuban International Medical Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Cuba

Expats living in Cuba should consider getting an international medical insurance plan because these packages are designed specifically for the unique circumstances of living abroad. Global health plans can cover you in every country, offer services in most languages, and be customized to your needs.

International health insurance plans can include coverage for:

• Inpatient
• Outpatient
• Vision
• Dental
• Maternity
• Preventative care

You get to choose your insurance provider, level of coverage, and add-on benefits. Unlike a public insurance plan that is handed to you, with a private international plan you get to customize it to your needs and budget.

In this Pacific Prime article, we'll explain what health insurance options are available to expats in Cuba, how the Cuban healthcare system is set up, what expats should consider when picking their insurance policy, and what health and safety tips travelers should know before departure.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Cuba

Cigna Global Insurance Plan

• Worldwide Coverage (excluding the US)
• Access to Cigna's trusted network of hospitals and doctors
• Numerous Deductible Options
• 24/7 Customer Support
• 4 Core Insurance Plans

Plan Details Get a Quote

Allianz Care Health Insurance

• World-leading Health Insurance Provider for Expats
• Extensive Network With Over 1.9 Million Medical Providers
• Quick and Efficient Claims Process
• Maximum Plan benefit up to USD $5,000,000

Plan Details Get a Quote

The Healthcare System in Cuba: Explained for Expats

Cuba’s government fully runs and finances the Cuban healthcare system, providing free universal care to Cuban citizens. The government has a focus on making primary care accessible for all citizens, and with their high number of doctors, their health scores often outrank neighboring countries.

Despite their improvement of overall health, Cuban medical facilities are often undersupplied and rundown due to their restricted budget.

Cuba’s healthcare system consists of three tiers of coverage: primary community-based care, secondary regional hospitals, and tertiary specialized national hospitals.

1. First-Level Clinics (Consularios): These community-based clinics follow Cuba’s MEF model (general family-doctor-nurse model) that rely on a doctor to care for the health and welfare of everyone living in their assigned neighborhood. These decentralized, front-line healthcare professionals resolve around 80% of all health cases.
2. Second-Level Provincial Hospitals: Patients needing a higher level of care are referred to their regional hospitals and centers where specialized treatments can be provided. Around 15% of all health cases are treated at this level.
3. Third-Level Nationally-Specialized Hospitals: Only patients with the most extreme cases are transferred to a tertiary specialized hospital or center for treatment and study. Five percent of cases are treated in these centers.

Cuban Public Sector and Hospitals

Cuba’s public, government-run hospitals and clinics provide free care to all Cuban citizens, but most medical facilities are in poor condition needing remodels, frequently experience shortages for essential medications, and lack up-to-date modern medical equipment.

Cuban citizens typically use these medical facilities when seeking care, and expats typically prefer to seek treatment elsewhere.

Cuban Private Hospitals: Where Expats Can Go

Cuba no longer has any private hospitals or clinics, but there are specialist clinics and better hospitals designated as “tourist” hospitals/clinics reserved for foreign diplomats, tourists, and expatriates. Expats can find some of these international clinics in Santa Lucia, Varadero, and Havana.

Expats are usually referred to Cira Garcia Hospital in Havana since it is a “tourist” hospital. These designated facilities are still publicly run by the government but they can have access to higher-end equipment and medical supplies and physicians and nurses who speak English.

In the 1959 revolution by Fidel Castro, Cuba’s healthcare system was drastically reformed, and this is when they weaned away from private, for-profit medical facilities.

Mandatory Medical Insurance for Travelers and Expats in Cuba

Expats and travelers entering Cuba are required by law to have medical health insurance that lasts the entire duration of their stay. It is best for expats to secure private international health insurance before they arrive in Cuba so they can thoughtfully select a plan that fits their needs and budget.

If expats do not have health insurance when they arrive in Cuba, they will have to purchase a minimum coverage plan at their airport, port, or marina that typically has only basic protection.

Here are some important facts for expats to know about Cuba’s healthcare system:

• Expats aren’t allowed to leave the island if they have outstanding medical bills, so make sure you have insurance, make your claims promptly, and pay your fees.
• Expats will want to make sure they have enough cash to pay for their medical costs, because Cuba doesn’t accept credit or debit cards from out of the country.
• Cuba sends a lot of their doctors on mission trips abroad to learn English, so it is possible for you to find a physician who can treat you in English
• Dial 106 in a medical emergency. Some Cuban hospitals will provide foreigners free emergency medical treatment. If your emergency is severe, you may be medically evacuated to another country.
• There are pharmacies dedicated to international travelers, though it is best to bring your own medications.

Health Insurance Options in Cuba for Expats

Expats can choose to get health insurance from a local Cuban provider, such as Asistur, or from an international provider like GeoBlue or Cigna. Because public insurance tends to have more limitations, expats may prefer an international insurance plan for more comprehensive coverage and options.

Public Insurance in Cuba

Expats who do not plan ahead and purchase a private insurance plan must get public insurance from Cuba. Asistur is the best-known local provider in Cuba and their plans typically provide basic medical coverage for general and specialized consultations, essential medicines, and hospital care.

Benefits of Asistur Coverage:

• Typically it is more affordable than international insurance.
• Expats can sign up for this easily at any airport or marina when they enter Cuba.
• It covers medical expenses due to accident or illness.
• It covers emergency medical evacuation or repatriation.
• This coverage can be included in your U.S. plane ticket to Cuba.
• It may cover initial urgent care for pre-existing medical conditions.
• This is a reliable and trusted provider that meets the Cuban coverage requirements.

Drawbacks of Asistur Coverage:

• Coverage is more limited and less comprehensive, leaving expats to have to pay out of pocket for more of their medical expenses.
• It doesn’t cover expats when they leave Cuba, which can hinder expats who plan to travel internationally frequently.
• It may have fewer options to customize your coverage to your health needs.
• The highest plan limit expats can get is topped at only USD $25,000.

Private Insurance in Cuba

It is highly recommended that expats living in Cuba secure a private insurance plan through an international insurance company, such as Allianz Care or IMG. Private insurance that covers Cuba can be flexible, customizable, renewable, and affordable and meet the legal requirements.

Benefits of Private Coverage:

• Expats can be covered in Cuba and worldwide, allowing them to seek medical treatment or care in any country of the world.
• International providers can give comprehensive medical coverage from inpatient to outpatient care, from vision to dental work, from maternity coverage to mental health services.
• Patients get access to a higher quality of care through specialty facilities, international clinics, and private hospitals (in other countries).
• Emergency medical evacuation is an automatic benefit that ensures you are covered to be transported to the nearest country with adequate supplies to treat your condition.
• Customizable plans, tiers of coverage, and add-on benefits are available for you to choose from.
• Expats get greater access to multilingual medical professionals and insurance customer support.
• Fast reimbursements and direct billing options are available in countries outside of Cuba when expats travel off the island.

Drawbacks of Private Coverage:

• Coverage can be more expensive, depending on the level of coverage selected.
• Not all international health insurance plans cover Cuba due to the various traveling restrictions the U.S. has for Cuba, so it is essential to double-check that your plan or provider states they do cover Cuba.
• Some plans may have exclusions for pre-existing conditions.
• Some plans may not meet the local requirements, so it’s possible in Cuba you’ll be required to purchase a local plan as well. Some expats may prefer this since the double coverage helps fill in the gaps of the local plan.
• There may be a limited local network of physicians available.

To learn about how an international broker can help you find the best plan for your needs, read our article all about it or contact our insurance experts today.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Cuba

IMG, AXA, William Russell, Cigna Global, and Allianz Care are the best private international health insurance providers for expatriates living and/or working in Cuba.

Let’s learn a little more about each provider below. Feel free to read our article detailing the Top 10 International Health Insurance Providers for more suggestions.

IMG

IMG Global offers worldwide coverage through their expat international health insurance plans so you’re covered wherever you travel. Four tiers of coverage allow you to select $1,000,000 in total coverage per individual up to $8,000,000. IMG plans cover medical evacuation and prescription drugs.

Here are some more IMG highlights:

• Inpatient treatment
• Surgery
• Labs and diagnostics
• Physical therapy
• Cancer treatment

Plan Details Get a Quote

AXA

AXA Global, also known as AXA Group or simply AXA, has more than 55 years of experience. They serve more than 95 million expats, digital nomads, businesses, and others in over 50 countries. Standard in AXA plans are their second medical opinion service and evacuation and repatriation coverage.

Here are some more AXA highlights:

• Inpatient hospital charges and surgeries
• Emergency care
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• A range of cancer treatments
• Ambulance transport
• CT, PET, and MRI scans

Plan Details Get a Quote

GeoBlue

GeoBlue’s international network of providers spans more than 180 countries and territories and includes more than 1.7 million providers. GeoBlue offers the Xplorer Essential and the Xplorer Premier expat health insurance plans. These plans are favorites for U.S. expats.

Their exclusive deals for U.S. citizens make getting coverage within the U.S. more affordable than many other providers.

Here are some more GeoBlue highlights:

• Diagnostic lab work and X-rays
• Surgery
• Inpatient medical emergencies
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation

Plan Details Get a Quote

Cigna Global

Cigna Global offers international health insurance to expats living in more than 200 markets and territories around the world. Cigna has 1.5 million health professionals and 24/7 customer support workers who speak more than 50 languages. Individuals, families, and businesses can get Cigna coverage.

Here are some more Cigna highlights:

• Hospitalization
• Inpatient and outpatient services
• Cancer treatment
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Accidental death or total permanent disability compensation

Plan Details Get a Quote

Allianz Care

Allianz Care is a world-leading health insurance provider for expats living globally. As the international health brand of the larger Allianz Partners, Allianz Care offers health, life, critical illness, and disability insurance around the globe in 75 countries and over 58 languages.

Here are some more Allianz highlights:

• Inpatient treatment
• Surgical costs
• Cancer treatment
• Diagnostic services
• Medical evacuation coverage

Plan Details Get a Quote

Allianz Care is our most recommended provider for expats living in Cuba.

Facts to Consider when Picking Insurance in Cuba

Health insurance is legally required by all visitors to Cuba, so expats will want to make sure they select an insurance plan that meets these requirements, is accepted by Cuban immigration and local medical institutions, and includes sufficient coverage.

Consider these concerns when picking your Cuban policy:

1. Insurance Is Mandatory for Entry: Cuban authorities require all travelers to carry valid health insurance. Proof may be requested at customs, and without it, you’ll have to purchase a Cuban policy on arrival—often with limited coverage.
2. Local Cuban Insurance Is Basic: If you buy insurance from Cuban providers like Asistur at the airport, expect basic coverage for local services only. These policies do not usually include medical evacuation or access to international clinics outside Cuba.
3. Not All Foreign Policies Are Accepted: Only certain international insurance providers have arrangements with Cuban medical institutions. Even then, services may require out-of-pocket payments with reimbursement later. Always confirm provider compatibility in advance with both Cuban immigration and medical institutions.
4. Emergency Evacuation Coverage Is Crucial: Cuba's healthcare system, while accessible, may lack advanced treatments or equipment. Choose a policy that includes medical evacuation to a nearby country like Mexico, Canada, or the U.S. in case of serious illness or injury.
5. Access to International Clinics May Be Limited: Facilities like Clínica Cira García in Havana cater to foreigners and often provide higher-quality care. Make sure your policy covers treatment in these facilities, as they may not accept all insurance types.
6. Pre-existing Conditions May Not Be Covered: Many international insurance plans exclude or limit coverage for pre-existing conditions. If you have ongoing health needs, look for a policy that includes these or offers additional support.
7. Duration of Stay Affects Your Plan: Short-term travel insurance may be sufficient for brief visits. For long-term stays, such as for work or retirement, consider expat insurance plans that provide comprehensive, renewable coverage.
8. Customer Support & Claims Process Matter: Choose a provider with 24/7 support, a user-friendly claims process, and a reputation for prompt reimbursements. Support in English or your native language can be especially important during medical emergencies.
9. Spanish Translation: Spanish is the main language spoken in Cuba, so if you don’t speak Spanish, you’ll want to find insurance coverage that includes Spanish support or access to English-speaking healthcare professionals.
10. Get Sufficient Coverage: Many travelers and expats going to Cuba make the mistake of not getting enough coverage. Cuban sources recommend at least a $25,000 USD coverage limit.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Cuba

Drink bottled water, protect against mosquito-borne illnesses, prepare your emergency contacts before you travel, and stay safe in the heat and humidity. Learn these and more essential health and safety tips for travelers in Cuba below.

1. Check for Travel Restrictions: As of May 2025, the USA prohibits tourists from traveling to Cuba, but there are 12 other categories of authorized travel to Cuba. These restrictions can change, so be sure to stay up to date.
2. Get Travel Health Insurance: Cuba requires all visitors to have valid travel health insurance. Make sure your policy covers emergency care, hospitalization, and medical evacuation, as advanced treatments may not be available locally.
3. Bring Your Medications: Many medications are scarce or unavailable in Cuba. Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medicines for your entire stay, along with the original packaging and a copy of your prescription.
4. Drink Bottled Water: Tap water in Cuba is not recommended for drinking. Always opt for bottled, boiled, or filtered water to avoid stomach illnesses. Be cautious with ice and raw foods washed in tap water.
5. Stay Sun-Safe: Cuba’s tropical sun can be intense. Wear high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during midday hours.
6. Be Aware of Mosquito-Borne Illnesses: Dengue fever and Zika virus are present in Cuba. Wear mosquito repellent, use bed nets, and wear long sleeves and pants in the early morning and evening hours to reduce exposure.
7. Choose Food and Restaurants Carefully: Stick to freshly prepared, well-cooked foods from reputable restaurants. Be cautious with street food unless it’s hot and made in front of you. Wash fruits with bottled water or peel them yourself.
8. Watch Your Step: Sidewalks and roads in Cuba can be uneven or poorly lit. Wear sturdy shoes and be mindful when walking, especially at night, to avoid trips or injuries.
9. Stay Safe in the Heat: Humidity and heat can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. Drink water frequently, rest in shaded areas, and pace your outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
10. Follow Local Health Guidelines: Follow local regulations on COVID-19 or other public health concerns. Bring a few masks and hand sanitizer, especially for use in crowded areas or clinics.
11. Emergency Contacts: Know where to find the nearest international clinic, like Clínica Cira García in Havana. Save emergency numbers, including your embassy and local medical assistance, before you travel.
12. Tips for U.S. Expats: Don’t spend money at any businesses or hotels on the U.S. restricted list. Save all your receipts since the U.S. government can request your receipts for up to five years. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need health insurance to enter Cuba?

Cuba mandates all travelers, including expats, to have valid international health insurance covering medical care during their stay. You may be asked to show proof upon arrival, and if you don’t have coverage, you’ll be required to buy a local Cuban policy at the airport.

Can I use international insurance in Cuban hospitals?

International insurance is generally only accepted at certain clinics and hospitals that cater to foreigners, like Cira García in Havana. It’s essential to check whether your policy has agreements with Cuban institutions or if you’ll need to pay upfront and get reimbursed later.

What does expat health insurance in Cuba typically cover?

A solid international expat plan in Cuba usually covers doctor visits, emergency services, hospitalization, and prescription medications. Since high-end medical care and evacuation options are limited in Cuba, many plans also include emergency medical evacuation to countries like Mexico or Canada.

Can I buy health insurance upon arrival in Cuba?

Expats can buy insurance from Cuban provider Asistur upon arrival, but it’s a basic plan covering only limited local services. For broader coverage, such as emergency evacuation or access to private clinics abroad, it’s best to purchase comprehensive international insurance before you travel.

Conclusion: Compare Plans and Quotes Now

Expats living in Cuba are required to purchase medical insurance in Cuba, and now you can decide if you want a local insurance company or an international expert to be your provider.

As an insurance broker with over 20 years of experience in the industry, Pacific Prime offers a wide spectrum of health insurance policies. From family insurance and maternity coverage to travel insurance, we are more than capable of finding the perfect plan that balances your budget with your needs. Let us help you!

Get a free quote now with our online comparison tool that features over 50,000 insurance plans. For tailored, impartial advice, contact our team of expert insurance advisors today!