All you need to know about
health insurance in India

Understanding healthcare and insurance in India

If you’re planning to move to India asan expatriate, it’s essential to understand the country’s healthcare system, which combines public and private infrastructures. In view of this diversity, taking out a suitablemutual insurance policywill give you access to the best care and allow you to travel with complete peace of mind.

The Indian healthcare system

TheIndian healthcare system is based on two main pillars: the public sector and the private sector. Public hospitals, financed by the State, provide access to low-cost care, but they are often overcrowded, with limited equipment, particularly in rural areas.

In contrast, private facilities offer high-quality care, with modern infrastructures and experienced doctors. However, these services, mainly available in large cities, remain costly and often require a mutual health insurance or private insurance to avoid high medical expenses.

Social security in India

Social security in India is mainly aimed at employees in the formal sector. Thanks to theEmployees’ State Insurance (ESI) scheme,low-income employees working in companies of a certain size can benefit from health cover and sickness benefits.

However, a large proportion of the population, particularly the self-employed and those working in the informal sector, are not covered at all. To fill this gap, in 2008the government set up the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojna (RSBY) program , designed to offer health insurance to the most modest families. An important step forward, although access to healthcare remains uneven across regions and social categories.

The importance of private health insurance for expatriates

If you’re an expatriate in India, taking out international health insurance is highly recommended. Admittedly, healthcare is often less expensive than in Europe, but with the right cover you’ll have access to the best private hospitals and be covered in the event of unforeseen circumstances, whether for a medical consultation, hospitalization or, if necessary,repatriation.

Many companies offer packages specially designed for expatriates. Before making your choice, take the time to compare offers: check reimbursement ceilings, partner hospitals and any exclusions to avoid unpleasant surprises. A good health insurance plan is an essential investment for a worry-free expatriation to India.

Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE)

French expatriates can join the CFE, which offers continuity of French social protection abroad. However, given the potentially high cost of private hospital care in India, it is often advisable to supplement CFE coverage with international health insurance to guarantee optimum coverage.

Expatriate health insurance for living in India

Navigating the Indian healthcare system requires a thorough understanding of the options available. For expatriates, taking out private health insurance, whether or not in addition to CFE, is essential to ensure adequate medical cover and peace of mind during their stay in India.