Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Indonesia?

Moving to Indonesia as an expat or digital nomad brings with it a host of considerations, one of the most important being health insurance. Indonesia does not have a reciprocal health care agreement with most countries, and while there is a public healthcare system, it is primarily for citizens and permanent residents. Newcomers seeking residency are generally required to have their own health insurance coverage. The Indonesian government has not set a minimum coverage amount for health insurance, but it is understood that the insurance should cover a wide range of medical services to ensure comprehensive care. Coverage should be valid for the length of your stay or until you are eligible to join the public healthcare system, which typically happens once you have obtained residency. It is crucial to ensure that your health insurance is valid in Indonesia and meets any visa or residency requirements.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Most expat health insurance plans are designed to meet the requirements of various countries for incoming residents. However, it is essential to verify that your chosen plan is acceptable in Indonesia. The insurance should cover major medical expenses, including hospitalization, emergency services, and possibly medical evacuation. Some visa categories may have specific insurance requirements, so it's important to check the details of your visa and consult with the insurance provider to ensure compliance. Additionally, it's advisable to have a policy that allows for treatment in both public and private facilities, as private hospitals offer a higher standard of care and are more commonly used by expats.

Which local health insurers offer this type of insurance?

There are several local health insurers in Indonesia that offer plans suitable for expats and digital nomads. Companies such as PT Asuransi Allianz Life Indonesia, PT AXA Mandiri Financial Services, and PT Prudential Life Assurance provide a range of health insurance products that cater to the needs of foreigners living in Indonesia. These insurers offer plans that include access to a network of hospitals, both public and private, and provide comprehensive coverage that can be tailored to individual needs. It's important to compare plans and read the fine print to ensure that the insurance meets your requirements and provides adequate coverage.

Advice from Expats in Indonesia about Health Insurance

Experienced expats in Indonesia often emphasize the importance of obtaining comprehensive health insurance that covers not only basic medical care but also potential emergencies and chronic conditions. They advise newcomers to look for plans with a high coverage limit to avoid out-of-pocket expenses, which can be significant in the case of serious medical issues. Additionally, it's recommended to choose a plan that includes medical evacuation, as the quality of healthcare can vary greatly across different regions of Indonesia. Expats also suggest opting for insurers with a good reputation for customer service and claims processing, as navigating the healthcare system in a new country can be challenging. Lastly, it's wise to ensure that your policy is renewable and that it covers you for the entire duration of your stay in Indonesia.

Expats Talk about Health Insurance in Indonesia

"My kids and I all had dengue fever at the same time and were taken very well care of at BIMC, Nusa Dua. I am so pleased we had health insurance because the hospital bill would have cost us a hefty US $2100," said one expat who moved to Bali, Indonesia.