Will I get health insurance when teaching English abroad?
When considering teaching English abroad, one common concern is whether you will receive health insurance coverage. This varies significantly depending on the country and the employer. Generally, in many countries, reputable ESL teaching positions include health insurance as part of the employment package. However, this is not universal, and it is crucial to inquire specifically about health insurance coverage during your job interview. For example, in countries like South Korea and Japan, it is common for employers to provide health insurance, while in others, teachers may need to arrange their own.
Table of Contents
Will I get health insurance when teaching English in Asia?
Will I get health insurance when teaching English in Europe?
Will I get health insurance when teaching English in the Middle East?
Will I get health insurance when teaching English in Latin America?
How do I purchase health insurance for teaching English abroad?
Will I get health insurance when teaching English in Asia?
In most of the big ESL job markets across Asia such as China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia and Vietnam, health insurance is typically included in a teaching contract. In most cases the cost will be fully covered by the employer, although a small sum might be deducted from your salary in certain situations. In other less developed markets, health insurance is less likely to be provided but this will depend on the employer and the quality of the position.
Will I get health insurance when teaching English in Europe?
If you are an EU citizen you should have access to the local health care system when working in another EU country. If you are a non-EU citizen and have a work permit for an EU country you should also be eligible for health care services, although this normally requires a monthly deduction from your salary. Teachers who are placed in teaching jobs via government run teaching assistant programs such as those in France and Spain should have full health cover included in their benefit package. However, work permits are quite hard to come by for non-EU citizens in many European countries, so many people end up working 'under the table', which means you will be responsible for your own health insurance. If you plan on heading to Europe on a student or working holiday visa you will also need to have proof of adequate health insurance coverage when making your application.
Will I get health insurance when teaching English in the Middle East?
Across the Middle East it is common practice for schools and language centers to include health insurance in the benefit package offered with the teaching contract. This applies to all the main ESL markets in the region, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait.
Will I get health insurance when teaching English in Latin America?
Across South and Central America, it is generally difficult for foreign teachers to get their hands on an official work permit. Because of this, the majority of teachers working in this region are responsible for their own health insurance cover. There are a few exceptions such as Chile and Mexico where official work visas and legally binding contracts are relatively common.
How do I purchase health insurance for teaching English abroad?
To purchase health insurance for teaching English abroad, start by conducting an online search for international health insurance providers. Focus on long-term international insurance policies, as these are typically more affordable and suitable than short-term travel or domestic health insurance options. For a comprehensive policy, budget approximately $50 USD per month, though diligent research might reveal more cost-effective choices. Additionally, if your teaching contract includes health insurance, assess whether it covers international travel outside your work country. If not, consider buying an extra policy for such travel.
