Expat & Visa Holder Health Insurance

Do Visa Holders Need Health Insurance in NZ?

Visa Types Requiring Health Insurance

• Work visas (most types): Essential Skills, Talent, Work to Residence
• Student visas: Mandatory for all international students
• Visitor visas (some): Longer-term visitors may need insurance
• Working Holiday visas: Highly recommended but not always mandatory

Visa Types Not Requiring Insurance (But Still Recommended)

• Residence visas: You have access to public healthcare
• Partner visas: Public healthcare access

Note: Even if not mandatory, health insurance is highly recommended for ALL visa holders to avoid long public hospital wait times (6-12 months for non-urgent surgery).

Health Insurance for Work Visa Holders

Essential Skills Work Visa

Many employers require or provide health insurance. If your employer doesn't offer it, you'll need to purchase individual coverage.

Recommended coverage: Hospital + Specialist ($80-$150/month)

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

New visa category replacing Essential Skills. Some employers provide group health insurance as part of employment package.

Minimum coverage recommended: Basic hospital coverage ($60-$100/month)

Talent (Accredited Employer) Visa

Higher-skilled workers often receive health insurance as employment benefit. If not, comprehensive coverage is recommended given income levels.

Recommended coverage: Comprehensive with extras ($120-$200/month)

Health Insurance Costs for Expats

By Age Group:

• Ages 25-35: $60-$120/month (basic to comprehensive)
• Ages 35-45: $90-$180/month
• Ages 45-55: $130-$250/month

Family Coverage:

• Couple (both 30s): $150-$300/month
• Family (2 adults + 2 children): $200-$400/month

Best Providers for Expats

Southern Cross Health Insurance

Best for: Expats wanting maximum coverage and choice

• Largest provider network
• Most comprehensive coverage
• Established reputation
• Premium pricing

Cost (age 35): $110-$200/month

nib Health Insurance

Best for: Value-conscious expats

• 15-25% cheaper than Southern Cross
• Excellent coverage for most needs
• Good for healthy expats
• Wellness rewards program

Cost (age 35): $85-$160/month

Cigna Global Health Options

Best for: Expats planning to travel/work internationally

• International coverage options
• Emergency care overseas
• Good for digital nomads
• Higher premiums

Cost (age 35): $120-$220/month

What's Covered (Typical Expat Plan)

Hospital + Specialist Coverage:

• Private hospital accommodation
• Surgical procedures
• Specialist consultations
• Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scans)
• Cancer treatment
• Emergency ambulance
• Pre and post-operative care

Optional Extras:

• GP visits
• Dental and optical
• Physiotherapy
• Prescription medications

Pre-Existing Conditions for New Arrivals

Waiting Periods:

• New conditions: No waiting period (covered immediately)
• Pre-existing conditions: 12-24 month waiting period
• Chronic conditions: 24-36 months or permanent exclusion

Tip for Expats:

Get health insurance as soon as you arrive in NZ. Waiting means any health issues that develop become pre-existing conditions with long waiting periods.

Transitioning from Temporary to Permanent Residence

When You Get Residence:

• You gain access to NZ public healthcare system
• Health insurance becomes optional (but recommended)
• Can switch to resident rates (sometimes slightly better)
• No need to restart waiting periods if continuing coverage

Should You Keep Health Insurance After Getting Residence?

Yes, if:

• You value faster access to specialists and surgery
• You want choice of doctors and private hospitals
• You're over 35 (higher likelihood of needing care)
• You have family history of health issues

Maybe not, if:

• You're young (under 30), healthy, and budget-conscious
• You're comfortable with public system wait times
• You prefer to self-insure/save the premium

Working Holiday Visa Health Insurance

Requirements:

Most working holiday visa applicants must show proof of comprehensive travel/medical insurance for duration of stay.

Options:

• Travel insurance: $40-$80/month, basic coverage
• NZ health insurance: $60-$100/month, better coverage
• Hybrid plans: Travel insurance + NZ health add-on

Recommendation: If staying 12+ months, get NZ health insurance instead of travel insurance for better coverage and value.

Common Questions from Expats

Can I use my home country health insurance in NZ?

Generally no. You need NZ-based health insurance that covers treatment in New Zealand. Some international policies offer NZ coverage but verify carefully.

What if I need emergency treatment?

Emergency care at public hospitals is free for everyone in NZ (including temporary visitors). Health insurance covers elective, non-urgent care and private facilities.

How do I prove I have health insurance for my visa?

Your insurer will provide a certificate of currency showing coverage dates and coverage amounts. Submit this with your visa application.

Can I cancel my insurance if I leave NZ?

Yes. Most policies allow cancellation with 30 days notice. You may receive a partial refund for unused coverage depending on policy terms.