Liechtenstein Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance in Liechtenstein for Expats

Expats are strongly urged to purchase health insurance because Liechtenstein only has one hospital that offers basic treatments. 

If specialized treatment is required, international health insurance will cover any potential costs stemming from evacuations or repatriation to neighboring countries where healthcare is up to standard. 

In this article from Pacific Prime, we will give you a snapshot of the healthcare system in Liechtenstein and your insurance options there. 

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Liechtenstein

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

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

Overview of Liechtenstein’s Healthcare System

Liechtenstein has a universal healthcare system funded by the national healthcare fund through mandatory contributions. The Ministry of Public Health oversees all public health services, health insurance, pharmaceutical products, and food safety. 

In regards to private healthcare, Liechtenstein does not have a private healthcare system. This is to ensure decentralization and a free healthcare market wherein its citizens are provided with affordable and fair healthcare. 

Public Healthcare in Liechtenstein for Expats

In terms of public healthcare, there is only one hospital in Liechtenstein: the National Hospital, and it's located in the capital city of Vaduz. Run in conjunction with private doctors, it specializes in surgery, gynecology, internal medicine, obstetrics, and psychiatry. 

Listed below are some key characteristics of Liechtenstein’s public healthcare: 

• Emergency Medical Care: Free and accessible to everyone, regardless of insurance status. In emergencies, you can receive care without needing a referral.
• Health Centers Across Liechtenstein: These centers offer outpatient care, specialist services, and emergency aid. Every town, including those outside Vaduz, has emergency services provided by general physicians, specialists, and ambulances.
• Specialized Medical Care: For serious conditions or complex injuries like major fractures, patients are transferred to hospitals in Austria or Switzerland for advanced treatment. Having a comprehensive insurance plan is highly recommended.
• Abortion Laws: Abortion is illegal and carries a prison sentence in Liechtenstein. Women must travel to Switzerland or Austria to undergo legal procedures in licensed medical facilities.

Private Healthcare in Liechtenstein for Expats

There is no private healthcare in Liechtenstein to ensure decentralization and fair access to healthcare. The only private healthcare services are tied to dentistry, wherein 26 dental clinics in the country are all privately owned, meaning you must pay for dental care in full and out of pocket. 

In the case of emergencies, you are strongly advised to travel to neighboring countries, Austria, or Switzerland for special treatment. This is where having private health insurance will come in handy, to cover medical evacuations and specialized care in bordering countries.

Health Insurance Options for Expats in Liechtenstein

In Liechtenstein, universal public healthcare is available to all citizens and registered residents. Holders of EHIC can also enjoy the same benefits during their stay here. However, keep in mind that healthcare is not free, even with universal health insurance.

National Healthcare Fund 

All permanent residents and workers (including expats) must contribute to the public health insurance fund. After registration, both employers and employees are required to contribute a portion of their salary to this fund. Then, they are free to enjoy Liechtenstein's public healthcare.

Contributions made by employed family members also cover their dependent family members. Keep in mind that your dependents still need to register for health insurance individually. On the other hand, pensioners, residents receiving long-term sickness benefits, or those on maternity leave are exempt.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

Do you have an EHIC? If so, you can enjoy access to this healthcare system the same way Liechtenstein citizens do by paying 67 CHF. This approximates to one month's worth of state health insurance when you enter the country.

For state-run medical facilities like the National Hospital, you need an EHIC to avoid incurring full charges. Double-check to make sure your visit isn't counted as a private case rather than a state case! EHIC holders must pay 50% of the total medical fee.

EHIC covers your costs for up to 90 days of your stay in Liechtenstein. Then, you must register to qualify for the same healthcare entitlements as the residents. This way, you can start contributing to the national healthcare fund. 

Note: It is also mandatory that you apply for a residence permit. However, it's only valid for 5 years, and the conditions can be incredibly restrictive.

Private Health Insurance for Expats in Liechtenstein

Many expatriates choose to supplement mandatory health insurance (OKP) in Liechtenstein with private health insurance to enhance their coverage and access additional benefits. 

Key aspects of private health insurance for expats in Liechtenstein include:

• Supplementary Coverage: Private insurance can cover services not fully reimbursed by mandatory health insurance, such as dental treatments, alternative therapies, and private hospital accommodations.
• Employer-Sponsored Options: Some employers offer private health insurance as part of their benefits package, covering premiums partially or entirely. It's advisable to check with your employer about available options.
• Self-Employed and Freelancers: Tailored plans are available for individuals outside traditional employment structures, offering flexible coverage options to suit diverse needs.
• Comprehensive and International Plans: For expats requiring worldwide healthcare access, international health insurance plans provide coverage that includes medical evacuation, repatriation, and access to a global network of medical practitioners.
• Tailored Expat Policies: Many providers offer plans specifically designed for expatriates, featuring multilingual customer support and direct billing with select healthcare providers, ensuring seamless access to medical services.

International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Liechtenstein

Expats in Liechtenstein can choose from a variety of coverage options offered by international insurance providers such as Cigna, AXA, Allianz, April International, Bupa Global, and many more. Below, we will go over each service provider and give you a rundown of what each plan has to offer.

Cigna Global Insurance Plan

Cigna offers global health plans with different tiers (Silver, Gold, and Platinum) that cover services such as hospitalization, inpatient and day patient treatments, emergency evacuation, and preventive care. This flexibility makes Cigna a preferred option for those needing adaptable coverage.

Some examples of shared coverage by all Cigna insurance plans include:

• Hospitalization
• Inpatient and daypatient treatments
• Cancer treatments
• Physiotherapy
• Accidental death or total permanent disability compensation

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AXA

AXA Global health insurance provides various levels of customizable coverage, including options for hospitalization, outpatient treatments, emergency care, and medical evacuation. AXA’s plans are popular among expats for their coverage of a wide range of health services. 

Some examples of shared coverage by all AXA insurance plans include:

• Hospital charges and surgery
• Virtual doctor service
• Mind health service
• Emergency coverage
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Wide range of cancer treatment
• Ambulance transport
• CT, PET and MRI scans

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Allianz

Allianz offers international insurance plans that can cover hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostics, and outpatient care. Expats in Liechtenstein can add riders for dental and optical services to any basic plan, providing a tailored insurance experience that accommodates different health needs.

Some of the basic coverage for their plans includes:

• Inpatient costs
• Diagnostics and laboratory tests
• Surgeries
• Ambulances transport
• Cancer treatment

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April International

April International specializes in health insurance tailored to expats, offering plans that cover hospitalization, outpatient services, dental, and maternity. Known for user-friendly mobile claims and support, April International also has a 24/7 telemedicine service and a vast direct billing network.

Some of the shared coverage across their plans are:

• Inpatient treatment
• Outpatient treatment
• Emergency repatriation
• Emergency evacuation
• Maternity coverage
• Vision and dental coverage

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Health Insurance in Liechtenstein

When selecting health insurance as an expatriate in Liechtenstein, it's essential to evaluate several key factors like pre-existing conditions to ensure comprehensive coverage and access to necessary medical services. Consider the following aspects:

• Mandatory Health Insurance (OKP): All residents are required to enroll in the state's mandatory health insurance, which covers essential medical services. You can choose from licensed providers such as Concordia, FKB, and SWICA.
• Supplementary Coverage: While mandatory insurance covers basic healthcare needs, it may not fully reimburse certain treatments, dental care, optical services, or private hospital accommodations. Opting for supplementary private insurance can bridge these gaps and provide more comprehensive coverage.
• Employer-Sponsored Plans: Some employers offer private health insurance as part of their employee benefits package, potentially covering premiums partially or entirely. It's advisable to inquire with your employer about available options to reduce personal expenses.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Private insurers may have varying policies regarding pre-existing conditions, including waiting periods, higher premiums, or exclusions. Clarify these terms with potential insurers to ensure adequate coverage.
• Family Coverage: If you have dependents, ensure that your chosen policy extends coverage to family members. While mandatory health insurance covers dependents, supplementary insurance may offer more tailored family options.
• International Coverage: For frequent travelers, international health insurance plans offer worldwide access, medical evacuation, and multilingual support, ensuring you're covered beyond Liechtenstein's borders.
• Claims and Reimbursement Process: Healthcare in Liechtenstein often requires upfront payment, with reimbursements processed later. Seek policies with straightforward claims procedures and options for direct billing at select providers to streamline the reimbursement process.

Health and Safety Tips for Expats and Travellers in Liechtenstein

To keep yourself healthy and safe in Liechtenstein, it is important to research local customs and road safety precautions, vaccination requirements, local food and drink, and emergency contacts. 

Here are key tips to consider:

• Emergency Contacts: In case of emergencies, dial 112 for immediate assistance; this number is operational across the EU.
• Healthcare Access: Liechtenstein offers high-quality healthcare services. For serious medical conditions, patients may be transferred to neighboring countries like Switzerland. It's advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers such scenarios.
• Vaccinations: Ensure that routine vaccinations, including tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), and measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), are up to date. For those planning outdoor activities, consider vaccinations against tick-borne encephalitis, as ticks can transmit infections like Lyme disease.
• Food and Water Safety: Tap water in Liechtenstein is generally safe to drink. However, if staying in different areas, it's advisable to check with locals, as taste can vary. Always ensure food is well-cooked and sourced from reputable establishments.
• Outdoor Activities: Liechtenstein's mountainous terrain offers numerous hiking opportunities. Always check weather forecasts, stay on marked trails, and avoid hiking alone. In winter, be aware of avalanche risks and ensure you're adequately equipped for cold conditions.
• Crime and Personal Safety: Liechtenstein has low crime rates, but petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas, and remain vigilant.
• Road Safety: Roads are generally well-maintained but in winter, heavy snowfall can make some roads impassable. If driving, ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter conditions and carry essentials like water, food, warm clothing, and medicines.
• Natural Hazards: Be aware of potential natural hazards such as avalanches, landslides, and sudden weather changes, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. Always inform someone about your itinerary and consider hiring a guide for challenging excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What medical treatments are covered under the national healthcare fund?

Under the national healthcare fund, most medical services are covered. This naturally includes regular check-ups with your general physician. It also covers hospitalization, prescriptions, pregnancy, childbirth, and rehabilitation.

How much does it cost? 

You'll need to pay a premium for your statutory health insurance plan, as well as any co-payments for the healthcare you access. The cost of the premiums varies depending on your insurance company, but they're usually around 300 to 320 Swiss francs per month.

Why is it a good idea to have health insurance in Lichtenstein?

Health facilities are limited in Lichtenstein, and if you require specialized care, the only alternative is to travel to a neighboring country to receive it, which is expensive. This requires having health insurance to cover these exorbitant costs. 

Conclusion

If you are not a national or an EHIC holder in Lichtenstein, your best option is private insurance. Moreover, resident permits are hard to come by in Liechtenstein. This makes it a good idea to secure a comprehensive international insurance plan before you relocate.

With only one hospital in the nation, delays in accessing urgent medical care are inevitable. We recommend an insurance plan that covers your repatriation costs. If you are injured, you would want to receive the best care for your condition outside of the country. 

Pacific Prime has over two decades of experience as a broker in the insurance industry. We are committed to finding the perfect health insurance plan to suit your budget and needs. Most importantly, our experts provide free quotations and leverage our close partnerships with all major insurers. 

Contact us today so we can help or get a free quote!