Mexico has been a popular country to relocate to for UK expats. Although there are travel warnings, many UK expats continue to move to Mexico and other places worldwide. Brexit or the UK’s decision to withdraw from the European Union has been a factor for many.
While this is exciting, it also presents unique challenges that require careful planning. Assessing travel insurance, health insurance, and healthcare in Mexico for expats is critical when moving abroad, particularly for UK expats relocating to Mexico.
Mexico attracts expats of various nationalities. From Americans to the Spanish, Mexico is especially popular among retirees. There are many groups that UK expats can join to build their own community, too.
There are also many cities and regions to live in. Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco, and Mexico City are popular choices, with many UK expats moving to Mexico City.
In fact, it is the highest-ranked destination for living and working abroad due to its cheap cost of living. The cost of living in Mexico is about half that of living in the UK.
Many UK expats in Mexico also reported having no difficulty settling into the country because of welcoming locals and the expat community. Although community and affordability are important, what about healthcare in Mexico for expats?
In this guide, we will delve deeper into how health insurance works for UK expats in Mexico. We will discuss the importance of expat insurance, its coverage, and how to select the most suitable insurance plan that caters to your individual needs.
We will also discuss employee benefits that UK expats in Mexico can receive. Whether you’re an employer sending UK employees to Mexico or an employee, here’s everything you need to know about healthcare in Mexico for expats.
Why Do UK Expats in Mexico Need Health Insurance?
Both private and public healthcare systems across the globe are diverse and unique, and Mexico is no different.
While Mexico boasts a public healthcare system, it may not offer the same care and coverage as in the UK. This discrepancy can lead to unexpected medical expenses and inadequate healthcare services for UK expats in Mexico. Indeed, healthcare in Mexico for expats may look different. This can be particularly stressful in a foreign country.
Having health and travel insurance is therefore essential for UK expats in Mexico.
This not only ensures that healthcare in Mexico for expats is covered but also ensures:
- Access to high-quality healthcare services
- Necessary medical attention without incurring exorbitant costs
- A safety net so expats can navigate their new environment with peace of mind
- Continuous medical care for pre-existing conditions
- Regular checkups and monitoring for prevention and detection of diseases and medical conditions
- Emergency repatriation in the event of a serious medical emergency
Benefits of Health and Travel Insurance for UK Expats in Mexico
Expat health and travel insurance is valuable for UK expats in Mexico. It offers many benefits that contribute to a secure and worry-free expat life.
Here are some of the key advantages:
- Comprehensive Worldwide Coverage
Health and travel insurance in Mexico typically provides comprehensive coverage for a broad spectrum of medical services. These include routine doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription medications.
This extensive coverage ensures that UK expats have access to the healthcare they need, whether it's for routine check-ups, preventive care, or emergency treatments. It provides a safety net to help mitigate the financial risk associated with unexpected health issues or accidents.
Another significant advantage is worldwide coverage. This means that UK expats can receive medical treatment not only in Mexico but also in other countries.
For those UK expats in Mexico who enjoy travelling throughout South America or North America, health insurance can be handy as it provides them with the reassurance of getting the necessary medical treatment they might need during their travel.
This global coverage is also beneficial for those who travel frequently or have family members living in different parts of the world.
It provides the flexibility to seek medical care wherever it's most convenient or necessary, ensuring that geographical boundaries do not limit access to quality healthcare and your time in Mexico.
- Language Assistance
Health insurance is also beneficial because it provides access to language assistance, especially while navigating Mexico's public healthcare system.
Navigating the healthcare system in a foreign country can be daunting, especially when faced with a language barrier.
Many expat health and travel insurance in Mexico offer language assistance services, which can be invaluable for UK expats in Mexico who don’t speak Spanish.
Although many healthcare professionals in Mexico speak English, these services can help UK expats communicate effectively with healthcare providers and ensure they fully understand their medical conditions and treatment options when language is an issue.
This can lead to better healthcare outcomes and a more comfortable healthcare experience.
- Emergency Evacuation
In a medical emergency, Mexico's expat health and travel insurance often covers emergency evacuation services. If a UK expat requires specialized medical treatment unavailable locally, they can be transported to a facility for the necessary care.
This can be a lifesaving benefit, especially in remote areas with limited access to advanced medical facilities. It provides an additional layer of security, knowing that you can access the best possible care in a critical situation.
Importance of Health and Travel Insurance for Young UK Expats in Mexico
Young UK expats in Mexico may not think healthcare insurance is important, but accidents happen. Get good healthcare and travel insurance in Mexico to protect you from expensive accidents.
Your plan could cover up to a certain percentage of the accident bill. For example, you would only pay GBP 200 if your insurance covered 80% of a bill totalling GBP 1,000!
What Does Healthcare in Mexico For Expats Look Like?
Mexico's healthcare system is comprehensive and affordable, with public and private healthcare facilities compared to many countries.
However, the quality of care can vary depending on where you are. Stretched for resources, there aren't as many services in the countryside. The cities, however, are well-equipped. For example, Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara are the best cities to receive medical care for UK expats in Mexico.
The healthcare system aims to provide universal coverage through the Instituto de Medicina y Seguridad Social Bienestar (IMSS-Bienestar) for all Mexican residents – including UK expats in Mexico. This was previously known as the Instituto de Salud para el Bienestar (INSABI).
In addition, there is the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) and Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE). However, these healthcare institutions are undergoing significant changes as the country transitions from INSABI to IMSS-Bienestar. These changes can affect various parts of the health insurance process including how patients are treated.
UK expats in Mexico can access the IMSS and ISSSTE if eligible. Eligibility depends on your visa. Beneficiaries must have Mexican residency or work for a Mexican employer. When you work for a Mexican employer, you are automatically enrolled in IMSS.
You may even be entitled to employee benefits in Mexico that cover private healthcare, such as private doctors and services, along with travel insurance. If you work for a UK branch or subsidiary, you could be entitled to not only employee benefits in Mexico but also have the same employee benefits as you did in the UK.
COVID-19 and Healthcare for UK Expats in Mexico
The Mexican healthcare system was hit hard during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mexico experienced the highest excess mortality and significant disruptions to other care in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). There were approximately 290,000 deaths during the pandemic, and many are unrecorded due to the lack of testing.
In 2020, less than half of Mexicans were vaccinated. This is the third-lowest vaccination rate against COVID-19 in the OECD.
Underfunded and understaffed, Mexico only spends about 5.5% of its GDP on healthcare today. What does this mean for UK expats in Mexico?
Healthcare services may not always meet the standards that UK expats in Mexico are accustomed to. While the UK's National Health Service (NHS) is criticized for long wait times, wait times in Mexico may be even longer.
Furthermore, Mexico’s health coverage and financial protection for its population still lags behind the OECD average. Only 48% of the Mexican population is satisfied with the availability of quality healthcare, compared to an average of 71% among OECD countries.
How Can UK Expats in Mexico Access Healthcare?
The cost of health insurance in Mexico for expats depends on their visas and how long they intend to stay in Mexico. Here are three levels of healthcare that Mexico offers UK expats in Mexico.
- Base-Level Healthcare: IMSS-Bienestar (previously INSABI)
This program is universal. Its main goal is to provide care for those who cannot get it from the IMSS or ISSSTE. UK expats in Mexico are eligible for this program as long as they are Mexican residents.
There is no age limit or cost to enroll, but your location of residence may affect your eligibility since this program is meant to help poorer communities who cannot afford IMSS, ISSSTE, or private insurance.
Consequently, not everything is covered. Prescribed medications, cancer, diabetes, long-term treatments, or significant surgeries are not fully covered. In the past, INSABI only covered up to 40-60% of these costs. The coverage is subject to change since the program is changing at the time of writing.
How Do UK Expats in Mexico Enroll in IMSS-Bienestar?
To enroll, you must bring your Clave Única de Registro de Población (CURP), your personal ID code number, your passport, visa, and any other identification documents.
- Mid-Level Healthcare: IMSS and ISSSTE
IMSS for UK Expats in Mexico
IMSS covers surgery, medication, hospitalization, and compensation for work-related illnesses or accidents for up to 52 weeks.
It also assigns a primary care physician. The IMSS is more comprehensive and also covers spouses, partners, children up to 16 years old (or 25 years old if the children are students), and parents (if parents live with the insured individual).
How Do UK Expats in Mexico Enroll in IMSS?
UK expats in Mexico are automatically enrolled in IMSS and contribute payroll taxes when they work for a Mexican employer or subsidiary. Enrollment and contributions are mandatory, even if supplemental insurance is provided to UK expats in Mexico.
Retired or self-employed foreign residents with legal residency in Mexico can enroll in IMSS voluntarily and contribute if they choose to.
To enroll, UK expats in Mexico can apply in person at their nearest IMSS office or online with the required documentation.
This includes:
- Passport
- Residency visa
- Proof of accommodation (rental agreement)
- IMSS application form
- Birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Two photographs
- A receipt of the first year’s premium.
This is a long-term solution for UK expats staying in Mexico for more than six months.
ISSSTE for UK Expats in Mexico
The ISSSTE is similar to the IMSS. However, it is specifically tailored for government employees, which may not apply to most UK expats in Mexico. It costs nothing to enroll since the state pays for it.
How Do UK Expats in Mexico Enroll in ISSSTE?
UK expats in Mexico can access and qualify for the ISSSTE if they have an FM2 or FM3 visa. This visa is an excellent pathway for long-term residency in Mexico. To qualify for these visas, UK citizens must prove they have the funds to live in Mexico, invest, or bring professional skills to Mexico.
- Top-Level Healthcare: Private Health Insurance
Some UK expats in Mexico may receive supplemental private health insurance as part of their employee benefits in Mexico when working for a UK or Mexican company in addition to the national health programs mentioned above. Anyone can purchase private health insurance to gain direct access to private clinics, doctors, and hospitals.
Types of Private Health and Travel Insurance in Mexico
Private health and travel insurance in Mexico covers services that are not covered by the IMSS and ISSSTE. This includes dental, vision, physiotherapy, private care, evacuation, therapy, treatment for pre-existing health conditions, and more. Here are two types of private health and travel insurance for UK expats in Mexico.
1. International Health Insurance
International health and travel insurance in Mexico is specifically designed to provide coverage for UK citizens living outside their home country. These plans cover:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Prescription drugs
- Medical evacuation, and repatriation in the case of a serious medical emergency.
International health insurance plans are typically more expensive than local plans, but they offer the advantage of worldwide coverage. If you travel frequently (like a digital nomad) or split your time between Mexico and the US, you will be covered in both places. This makes your time in Mexico more enjoyable.
Great options include:
- William Russell Insurance (caters to UK expats and UK employees worldwide)
- SafetyWing (caters to digital nomads)
- IMG Global (only caters to medical needs)
- Allianz Global Assistance (caters to short-term stays)
- Cigna Healthcare (caters to big companies with employees worldwide)
2. Local Mexican Health Insurance
Another option for US expats in Mexico is to purchase a local health insurance plan, designed for Mexican residents. These plans only offer coverage within the country and are often more affordable. Local Mexican health insurance plans can be a good option if you spend most of your time in the country. There is so much to explore!
However, it's important to note that these plans may not offer the same coverage as international plans, particularly for more complex medical procedures or treatments.
Choosing the Right Insurance Plan For UK Expats In Mexico
Selecting the right health insurance plan in Mexico for UK expats involves careful consideration of several factors. Here are some key points to consider:
Coverage Options
Different insurance plans offer varying levels of coverage. It's crucial to review the coverage options and ensure that the plan aligns with your specific healthcare needs.
Consider factors such as the frequency of doctor visits, potential hospital stays, prescription medications, and any pre-existing conditions you may have.
Network of Healthcare Providers
It's important to check if the insurance plan has a network of healthcare providers in Mexico. Access to a wide and flexible network of doctors, hospitals, and clinics ensures you can choose and receive quality healthcare services conveniently.
It's important to note that certain health coverage systems may fluctuate from time to time, due to the services offered and covered.
Cost
The cost of the insurance plan, including monthly premiums, deductibles, and copays, is a significant factor to consider. It's important to find a balance between affordability and the level of coverage provided.
Compare different insurance plans to find the one that offers the best value for your money. Remember, the cheapest plan may not always provide the best coverage, and the most expensive plan may not always be necessary.
Customer Reviews, Reputation, and Service
It's beneficial to research the insurance provider's reputation and read customer reviews. This will give you an insight into the level of customer service and satisfaction you can expect.
Look for insurance providers with a strong track record and positive customer feedback. Also, consider their customer service – are they easy to reach? Can they provide help efficiently?
Purchasing Health and Travel Insurance in Mexico
There are several ways to purchase health insurance for UK expats in Mexico. Insurance brokers can help UK expats in Mexico find insurance that fits their needs.
If you prefer to do it yourself, you can research and buy insurance from insurance marketplaces, like International Citizens Insurance or the insurance companies themselves! This might be time-consuming, but you could land a good deal.
It's essential to verify the credibility of your insurance broker, the online platform, and the company you are buying insurance from. Ensure that it's secure before providing any personal or financial information.
Considering All the Factors Before Selecting Health Insurance
Health insurance is crucial for UK expats living in Mexico. It provides peace of mind and ensures expat employees can access quality healthcare services when needed. Expat insurance offers comprehensive coverage, worldwide access to medical treatment, language assistance, and emergency evacuation services.
When choosing an insurance plan, consider the coverage options, network of healthcare providers, cost, and customer reviews. By selecting the right insurance plan, UK expats can enjoy their lives in Mexico, knowing their health is protected.
Remember, health insurance is not just about financial protection; it's about ensuring access to the best possible care when needed.
So, take the time to research, compare, and choose the best health insurance plan that suits your needs and your employees’ needs. Health is wealth, and it's worth investing in.
Get Insurance Right with An EOR For UK Employees in Mexico
If you’re an employer hoping to find the right insurance coverage for your UK employees in Mexico, you should speak to an Employer of Record (EOR) in Mexico like Borderless. You may also wonder about Mexico’s other labor laws, maternity leave policy, and required Christmas bonus.
Our in-house experts know the ins and outs of employment in Mexico. They can provide the proper advice and insurance coverage for your UK employees in Mexico so they can live a stress-free expat life! Speak to us today.
Disclaimer: Borderless does not provide legal services or legal advice to anyone. This includes customers, contractors, employees, partners, and the general public. We are not lawyers or paralegals. Please read our full disclaimer here.
