I. International health insurance USA
I. International health insurance USA
Do you need an international health insurance in the USA?
Unlike many countries, the USA does not have universal healthcare.
Medical services are entirely private and prices can be extreme, especially for hospital stays or emergency care.
Local insurance options are fragmented, with variable coverage and exclusions.
The United States is a global leader in innovation, education, and economic opportunity, but also home to one of the most complex and costly healthcare systems in the world.
For expatriates relocating to or residing in the USA, international health insurance is not just a recommendation, it’s essential for accessing care safely and affordably.
International health insurance in the USA provides:
Guaranteed access to premium care without surprise costs
Freedom to choose any doctor or facility, even out of network
Global coverage for travel, relocation, or repatriation
Lifetime guarantees and multilingual claims support
Our USA-based advantages
What our expat clients in the USA value most ?
Protection from extreme out-of-pocket medical costs
Coverage for dependents and international families
Access to world-class institutions like Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and NYU Langone
Preventive care, diagnostics, and mental health included
No exclusions for pre-existing or chronic conditions
Destinations covered for USA residents
Many of our internationally mobile clients based in the US split their time between:
Our plans ensure continuity of care across borders and time zones.
What is the average cost of medical care in the USA?
The US has the highest healthcare costs in the world. Without adequate insurance, even routine visits can be unaffordable.
Routine medical care
Routine care in the US is efficient but expensive, especially for those without employer-sponsored or government coverage.
$150 to $300
$350 to $800
$100 to $300
Dental care
Dental care in the US is entirely private. Without insurance, even basic procedures can be a significant cost.
$120 to $250
$150 to $400
$1,000 to $2,500
$3,000 to $6,000
Optical care
Vision services are not included in public coverage. Private plans are essential to manage the cost of eyewear and exams.
$250 to $600
$50 to $120
$100 to $250
Medical imaging
The US offers advanced diagnostics, but prices are among the highest in the world without insurance.
$1,000 to $3,500
$300 to $800
$250 to $500
$800 to $2,500
Specialist consultations
Specialists are widely available across the US. With no universal pricing, fees vary by city and provider.
$250 to $600
$200 to $500
$200 to $400
$300 to $700
$150 to $350
Hospitalization in the USA
Hospital stays in the US are costly. Private rooms, surgeries, and maternity care are often unaffordable without comprehensive insurance.
$2,000 to $4,000
3,500 to $6,000
$10,000 to $20,000
$15,000 to $80,000
$5,000 to $12,000
II. What every expat should know before moving to the USA
II. What every expat should know before moving to the USA
In the USA, medical care is top-tier but costly.
Expats without access to Medicare or employer plans need private protection that covers both local and global needs.
Visa and USA residence permit
Most expats enter the US on work, student, or investment visas.
Health insurance is often not included or is limited to in-network providers. International insurance is accepted by many facilities and offers greater flexibility.
Accommodation and housing
Housing costs vary drastically. In cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco, rents are high, easily $3,000+ per month for one-bedroom apartments. Smaller cities offer more affordable options.
| Education and schools
Public schools are free but vary in quality. International families often prefer private or international schools, particularly in urban centers. US universities are highly regarded but tuition is high.
| Transport and mobility
In large cities, public transportation is widely available (New York, Washington D.C., San Francisco).
In most states, however, a personal vehicle is necessary.
Ride-sharing is popular and widely accessible.
| Employment and business
The US job market is diverse and competitive. Work visas are tied to employer sponsorship.
Entrepreneurs and investors may enter through E-2 or EB-5 visas.
Health insurance is often tied to employment, making independent coverage critical.
| Language and integration
English is the primary language, but many areas are multilingual.
Integration is easy in cosmopolitan cities.
Healthcare access, however, requires understanding how insurance networks and co-pays work, often confusing to newcomers.
| Healthcare and insurance
The American system operates on a fee-for-service basis.
Emergency care is available to all, but extremely expensive.
International health insurance avoids unexpected bills, provides global coverage, and is essential for non-residents.
| Cost of living and housing
The US combines high living standards with high variability in cost.
Healthcare, housing, and childcare are the biggest expenses.
Taxes vary by state and must be understood clearly when relocating.
III. Your gateway to American healthcare, without limits
III. Your gateway to American healthcare, without limits
Living in the US means opportunity, but also responsibility, especially when it comes to healthcare.
OnlyHealth provides you with seamless access to American medical excellence, without the financial risk or complexity.
Wherever you are, whatever your visa status, we keep your health protected.