Can expats get healthcare in Mexico? Health insurance for foreigners
November 28, 2023
Jean G. Fowler
Latest Modification Date: 1/2/24
Moving to a whole new country requires taking care of many important aspects, including healthcare. In the past years, Mexico has become a popular destination for expats from all over the world, especially from the United States and Canada, which is why more travelers are looking for health insurance options during their stay.
While it’s common for retirees or digital nomads to move to Mexico, businesses are sending employees to relocate to the country or to work temporarily. There are two options for expats, through the public health system in the country, which is called Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), or by paying private insurance.
So the question is: can expats access public healthcare in Mexico?
Yes, they can, but only with the right visa: a basic tourist visa cannot use the IMSS system, but anyone holding a temporary or permanent residency visa is allowed to.
Whoever is officially and formally employed in Mexico contributes to the country through obligatory payroll taxes, meaning they will be signed up to the Seguro Social. IMSS offers medical care, surgeries, illness or accident work compensation, and hospitalization, but excludes dental and eye care, infertility, some treatments, and medical evacuation from the territory.
It’s worth mentioning that IMSS may also be used by the worker’s spouse or partner, their children up to 25 years old if they are still in school, and their parents if they live at the same address. Also, retired or self-employed foreign residents can choose to pay directly to the public system to be enrolled.
Expats should consider that as in other countries, public healthcare may be oversaturated and some treatments will take a longer wait time to receive, as many facilities experience a shortage of medicines, doctors, and equipment.
Even if the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social is an accessible option, locals and foreigners sometimes decide to hire a private provider for extended health care for specific treatments or an extensive coverage plan.
Although IMSS is handy and many people address their medical needs through Seguro Social, if you seek quicker and top-notch healthcare, exploring a private healthcare provider is essential.
Staying protected and being in your best health is fundamental to enjoying your time in Mexico and its wonderful features, breathtaking nature, people, culture, and delicious food, so if you’re an expat don’t hesitate to look into options for medical needs. You can explore our options such as Guardian Insurance, SafetyWing, and more!
Contact us!
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Can expats get healthcare in Mexico? Health insurance for foreigners
November 28, 2023
Jean G. Fowler
Can expats get healthcare in Mexico? Health insurance for foreigners
November 28, 2023
Jean G. Fowler
Moving to a whole new country requires taking care of many important aspects, including healthcare. In the past years, Mexico has become a popular destination for expats from all over the world, especially from the United States and Canada, which is why more travelers are looking for health insurance options during their stay.
While it’s common for retirees or digital nomads to move to Mexico, businesses are sending employees to relocate to the country or to work temporarily. There are two options for expats, through the public health system in the country, which is called Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), or by paying private insurance.
So the question is: can expats access public healthcare in Mexico?
Yes, they can, but only with the right visa: a basic tourist visa cannot use the IMSS system, but anyone holding a temporary or permanent residency visa is allowed to.
Whoever is officially and formally employed in Mexico contributes to the country through obligatory payroll taxes, meaning they will be signed up to the Seguro Social. IMSS offers medical care, surgeries, illness or accident work compensation, and hospitalization, but excludes dental and eye care, infertility, some treatments, and medical evacuation from the territory.
Latest Modification Date: 1/2/24
It’s worth mentioning that IMSS may also be used by the worker’s spouse or partner, their children up to 25 years old if they are still in school, and their parents if they live at the same address. Also, retired or self-employed foreign residents can choose to pay directly to the public system to be enrolled.
Expats should consider that as in other countries, public healthcare may be oversaturated and some treatments will take a longer wait time to receive, as many facilities experience a shortage of medicines, doctors, and equipment.
Even if the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social is an accessible option, locals and foreigners sometimes decide to hire a private provider for extended health care for specific treatments or an extensive coverage plan.
Although IMSS is handy and many people address their medical needs through Seguro Social, if you seek quicker and top-notch healthcare, exploring a private healthcare provider is essential.
Staying protected and being in your best health is fundamental to enjoying your time in Mexico and its wonderful features, breathtaking nature, people, culture, and delicious food, so if you’re an expat don’t hesitate to look into options for medical needs. You can explore our options such as Guardian Insurance, SafetyWing, and more!
Contact us!
