Israel Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Israel

To combat the expensive medical costs in Israel and to avoid being detained due to payment issues, Expats in Israel should secure international health insurance for their time in Israel to grant them protection and access to quality healthcare.

In this guide, we will explore Israel's healthcare system, detailing the public health services, private health insurance options, and what expats need to know whether they are already living in Israel or considering making it their new home.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Israel

The Healthcare System in Israel

Healthcare in Israel is universal and mandatory for all residents, providing basic health services. The system is among the world's most expensive, comparable to Hong Kong, Singapore, and the US.

While Israel's socialized healthcare covers citizens, it excludes tourists and non-permanent residents, who must obtain private health insurance. The medical infrastructure, including Magen David Adom, is well-developed in Israel but less so in some areas of the West Bank and Gaza.

In emergencies, all individuals receive treatment, but non-payment may result in being detained until settled. Those affected by hostilities in Israel are eligible for government benefits, but expat health insurance is still crucial.

Health Insurance Options in Israel for Expats

Expats in Israel are generally covered by one of the following, their group medical plan from their employer or private health insurance. While the group medical plan offers basic medical coverage, they are often limited. Expats are generally recommended to secure a private plan for more coverage.

Public Health Insurance in Israel

In Israel, public health insurance is universal and mandatory for all residents, providing basic healthcare services. However, tourists and non-permanent residents are not covered by the public system and are advised to obtain private health insurance during their stay

Private Health Insurance in Israel

Private health insurance in Israel is accessible through both local and international insurance providers. Expats frequently prefer international insurance companies for their extensive coverage and worldwide benefits. Private insurance grants access to top-tier medical facilities as well.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Israel

The best private insurance providers for expats in Israel include Allianz, AXA, Cigna, and GeoBlue. These insurance providers offer expats some of the most comprehensive international medical coverages in Israel.

Allianz Care

Allianz Care offers expats in Israel international health insurance plans that provide comprehensive coverage during their stay. Their plans offer flexibility, worldwide expertise, and innovative services. Allianz Care’s global network of 1.9 million medical providers covers Israel.

AXA

AXA is a world-renowned health insurance company with customizable coverage options for their international health insurance plans for expats in Israel. Expats can choose between five main international health insurance plans, Foundation, Standard, Comprehensive, Prestige, and Prestige Plus.

Cigna Global

Cigna Global offers flexible insurance plans with 24/7 access to their customer care team for expats in Israel. In addition to comprehensive international health insurance options, foreigners visiting Israel can also benefit from their short-term expat health insurance options

GeoBlue

GeoBlue offers some of the most extensive and affordable insurance plans for expats in Israel. Expats can choose between the Xplorer Essential and Xplorer Premier plans from GeoBlue, both options include optional add-ons for further customizability.

Facts to Consider When Picking Insurance in Israel

There are several factors to consider when picking insurance in Israel, such as your needs and requirements. Once you have determined what you need to be covered, you will be able to look for a plan that suits your needs and requirements the most.

Important factors to consider when picking health insurance in Israel include:

Premiums and Payment Options

Premiums are an important factor you need to consider when picking the right insurance plan in Israel. Choosing a plan with flexible payment options such as deductibles and copayments will allow you to adjust your plan to have the most coverage whilst still staying within budget.

Plan Customizations

Customizability is another key factor to consider when picking the right insurance in Israel. The ability to add or drop benefits from a plan will allow you to customize your benefits and create a plan that covers you the way you need it to.

Exclusions

The benefits and coverage of a plan are important, however, it is also equally important that you look at a plan’s exclusions when picking an insurance plan that’s right for your stay in Israel. Those with chronic conditions and pre-existing conditions should pay particular attention to this factor.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Israel

There are several health and safety tips travelers in Israel should be aware of, from staying informed of the country's current situation and avoiding conflict areas to keeping friends and families updated with your travel itinerary and being cautious of cultural differences.

We understand that foreign countries can be confusing. The below Israel travel tips cover the topics of local customs, laws, and general behavior. Please be advised that the information contained below is only for reference purposes.

• Avoid taking pictures of military or police personnel or installations, as the Israeli authorities take any perceived security threats extremely seriously.
• You should carry identification at all times when traveling in and around Israel in case the authorities ask for it and make copies of your passport in case it gets lost.
• Israel has severe penalties for drug-related offenses, such as smuggling or trafficking illegal drugs. Being caught in possession of illegal drugs is likely to result in a prison sentence followed by deportation.
• Israeli roads are often crowded and aggressive driving is a common problem. Israel has a very high fatality rate from automobile accidents. In winter headlights have to be used day and night for intercity travel.
• Most visits to Israel are trouble-free. However, theft of valuables, credit cards or passports from public beaches is common.

Travel Insurance for Expats in Israel

To mitigate expenses and stress, travel medical insurance is essential for those visiting Israel. Hospitals may enforce payment and legal measures to settle bills before allowing individuals to leave. Visitors injured by 'acts of hostility' can receive benefits, depending on circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Israel have free healthcare?

Israel does not have free healthcare for all. Healthcare in Israel is universal and mandatory for residents, but non-citizens may face high costs for medical services.

How much does health insurance cost in Israel?

The average cost of international health insurance in Israel for individuals is USD $6,317 and USD $17,530 for families according to Pacific Prime’s Cost of International Health Insurance Report 2024.

Does Israel have good healthcare?

Israel is known to have great healthcare, with high standards in many parts of the country. However, the cost of healthcare for non-citizens can be relatively high compared to other countries.

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Moving to Israel can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to note that the cost of living and healthcare expenses can be high in the country, underscoring the importance of having insurance for both expats and travelers.

For expats, it is strongly advised to secure a comprehensive international health insurance plan to offset the elevated medical costs in Israel. Travelers are also encouraged to obtain travel insurance to safeguard their trip and ensure access to quality medical care during emergencies.

This is where Pacific Prime can help you. Contact our expert advisors to discuss your healthcare needs. Using a broker like Pacific Prime can ensure that you not only get the right coverage at the best price but that you have the ongoing support of our team for the duration of your policy.