Short Term International Medical Insurance

When you need health coverage abroad for just a few weeks or months, a short term international medical insurance plan can be a cost-effective alternative to an annual policy. It gives you access to quality care worldwide — without paying for months you don’t need.

Who It’s For

Short term cover is ideal for:

Short work assignments – Consultants, contractors, or temporary staff abroad.
Gap coverage – While waiting for a permanent policy or employer benefits to start.
Extended travel – More than a holiday, but less than a year.
Family visits – Staying with relatives overseas for several months.
Students or interns – Short academic or training placements abroad.

What It Covers

Depending on the insurer, benefits may include:

Inpatient & hospital care – Surgery, specialist fees, private/semi-private rooms.
Emergency treatment – Accidents, sudden illnesses, ambulance services.
Medical evacuation & repatriation – Transfer to your home country or a centre of excellence.
Outpatient treatment – Optional GP visits, prescriptions, and diagnostics.
24/7 medical assistance – Global helplines for emergencies.

How It Differs from Travel Insurance

While travel insurance focuses on trip cancellations and emergencies, short term medical insurance offers:

Broader medical benefits — not just emergencies.
Higher annual and per-incident limits.
Access to private hospitals and specialists abroad.
Coverage tailored to expatriate-style stays.

Watch Points Before You Buy

Minimum & maximum duration – Often from 1 month to 11 months.
No renewals beyond limit – Many require a new application after the maximum term.
Pre-existing conditions – Usually excluded unless specifically accepted.
Area coverage – Adding the USA can significantly raise premiums.
Waiting periods – Some benefits (e.g., dental, maternity) may be excluded entirely.

How ExpatFinder Helps

We compare the full short term expat insurance market — April International, Cigna Global, Allianz Care, Bupa Global, MSH International, and more — to find plans that:

Fit your exact trip length without locking you into an annual contract.
Provide realistic hospital and outpatient limits.
Offer direct settlement for major treatments.
Match your destination and medical expectations.

A short term international medical insurance policy is like renting a top-quality safety net — there when you need it, gone when you don’t.