Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Pakistan?

When considering a move to Pakistan as an expat or digital nomad, one of the most critical aspects to address is your health insurance coverage. While Pakistan does not have a mandatory health insurance requirement for entry or residency, it is highly advisable to have a comprehensive health insurance plan in place. The public healthcare system in Pakistan may not meet the standards that many expats are accustomed to, and private healthcare, which offers higher quality services, can be expensive. Therefore, securing a health insurance policy that provides adequate coverage for medical expenses, including hospitalization, emergency services, and possibly evacuation, is essential for your peace of mind and financial protection.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Since Pakistan does not enforce a specific health insurance requirement for residency, expat health insurance policies are generally acceptable, provided they offer sufficient coverage. It is crucial to ensure that your policy covers the full duration of your stay and includes comprehensive medical care. Some expats opt for international health insurance plans that offer flexibility and extensive coverage, including the option for treatment in other countries if necessary. When selecting a policy, verify that it covers medical treatment in Pakistan and check for any exclusions that might affect your access to healthcare services.

Which local health insurers offer this type of insurance?

In Pakistan, several local insurance companies offer health insurance plans that cater to the needs of expats and digital nomads. These insurers typically provide a range of plans, from basic coverage to more comprehensive options. Some of the well-known insurance companies in Pakistan include Jubilee General Insurance, Adamjee Insurance, and EFU General. These companies offer various health insurance products that can be tailored to individual needs, including inpatient and outpatient care, maternity coverage, and additional benefits. It is advisable to compare different plans and read the fine print to understand the extent of coverage, any waiting periods, and the claims process.

Advice from Expats in Pakistan about Health Insurance

Expats living in Pakistan often emphasize the importance of obtaining a robust health insurance plan. They advise newcomers to look for policies that offer a wide network of hospitals, direct billing options, and a straightforward claims process. It's also recommended to consider plans that include medical evacuation, as this can be crucial in cases where specialized treatment is not available locally. Additionally, expats suggest choosing a plan with a high coverage limit to ensure that all potential medical expenses are covered, as healthcare costs can escalate quickly in the event of serious illness or injury. Lastly, it's beneficial to review the customer service reputation of the insurance provider, as reliable support can be invaluable in navigating the healthcare system in a new country.

Expats Talk about Health Insurance in Pakistan

"Having traveled fairly well and lived in the US for one years as a student at Harvard and later 2 years working there, I would not compare the Pakistan health facilities with the developed countries but Pakistan trained doctors are welcomed all over the developed economies in droves. The quality of Pakistan's health facilities is very reliable if you've money to spend. Private hospitals and facilities abound and provide real good quality of services which is very low priced in comparison to international prices for comparable services and procedures. The quality of public-funded universal coverage is bad due to lack of resources and management efficiency nonetheless," said one Pakistan.