It all sounds paradise, studying in the Maldives: the turquoise lagoons, the coral reefs, and the relaxing lifestyle. However, on top of the postcard adorable scenery, there is one practical thing that all international students have to obtain before they come and that is health insurance.
Being a student in a local university, such as Maldives National University, or having a research exchange on one of the islands, the right coverage is not only about paperwork. It’s about peace of mind. Even the paradise has emergencies.
This guide goes into detail to list the best international student health insurance companies that are applicable or cover Maldives. You will find out who they are, what they are selling and what will make them different to be able to make a confident, well informed choice.
Why International Students Need Health Insurance in the Maldives
Let’s start with the basics.
The Maldives is a tiny island state, which is distributed on over a thousand coral islands. Its healthcare is also rising however there is limited specialized care and facilities of advanced treatment outside Malé the capital.
You will have to rely on small clinics to get primary care in case you are studying in an atoll region. In the case of serious diseases, accidents, or surgery, they will usually fly their patient to Malé, or even to another country, such as India, Sri Lanka, or Singapore.
This is where the all-inclusive health insurance comes in. It is not only a matter of reimbursement of the visit to a doctor. It is about making sure that, when you need the services the most, you can have high-quality care and do not empty your pockets.
The Ministry of Higher Education and Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS)-like structures of the Maldives tend to ask of evidence of health insurance in visa obtaining and university admission. Majority of the international students are unable to enroll without demonstrating valid coverage.
What to Look for in a Student Health Plan for the Maldives
Before jumping into the list, it’s worth knowing what to look for. The Maldives’ geography makes certain features more important than others.
Here’s what your policy should include:
- Emergency medical evacuation — the single most important feature.
Hospitals outside Malé can’t handle complex emergencies. You’ll need coverage that pays for evacuation by air or sea. - Inpatient and outpatient care — for both hospital stays and everyday clinic visits.
- Repatriation coverage — returning you to your home country in extreme medical situations.
- Tropical disease coverage — dengue fever and other vector-borne illnesses are realities in the region.
- 24/7 multilingual support — for navigating emergencies in unfamiliar places.
- Direct billing options — so you don’t have to pay upfront and wait weeks for reimbursement.
- Valid worldwide or in the Maldives region — make sure the country is explicitly listed or not excluded in your plan.
Once you confirm these, you’re ready to compare the best global providers.
🌍 1. Allianz Care – International Student Healthcare Plan
Website: allianzcare.com
Allianz Care is a long-standing and reliable company in the international insurance field, with its reputation of reliability and worldwide presence. They have a plan called International Student Healthcare Plan that is designed to cover students studying abroad.
The thing with Allianz is that it is flexible. You are free to select a variety of add-ons – outpatient care, dentistry, maternity, and even mental health support. Repatriation and evacuation services are also included in the plan and these services are very important to the students in the island countries such as the Maldives.
Their 24/7 multilingual assistance means that you are able to get assistance regardless of your language or location. And their direct-billing relationships with hospitals all over the world give them fewer headaches in an emergency.
Allianz Care is difficult to compete with in case you seek a high-quality experience without worries. It suits the students who would like to be covered in the most comprehensive way and would pay a little more for the highest quality worldwide service.
🌏 2. Cigna Global – International Student Health Insurance
Website: cignaglobal.com
Another global health coverage leader in the world is Cigna and their International Student Health Insurance plan is flexible and robust in global support.
Cigna’s standout feature? Customization.
You are able to design your plan to suit your specific requirements exactly, such as setting up the level of coverage, including dental or vision, and specifying certain geographic areas (such as global coverage that includes the Maldives).
They have a network of hospitals in over 200 countries and it is no wonder that one can find a doctor or even a clinic whose name is Cigna. Their telehealth and online consultation will be highly valued by students studying in smaller or distant islands, which will be beneficial when in-person care is distant.
The plans by Cigna are not the most affordable but the flexibility, reliability, and world coverage make it a smart long-term investment among the students.
🌍 3. William Russell – International Student Health Insurance
Website: william-russell.com
William Russell has been insuring the global citizens since more than 30 years and their student plans show that. The company targets young adults studying abroad and emphasizes on simplicity and one to one service.
Their policies include inpatient and outpatient, emergency evacuation, mental health assistance, and preventative services. What is unique about William Russell is customer care, which is personalized – not a number in a big company.
Their staff makes you know what to expect in terms of benefits, claim, and even plan care in case you are hospitalised in a different country.
To foreign students in the Maldives that human touch comes in handy particularly when you are miles apart.
This plan is the best choice to those students who prefer a well-rounded people-first insurer but with a good international protection.
🌎 4. APRIL International – MyStudies Student Cover
Website: april-international.com
The MyStudies Cover by APRIL International is designed specially to cover the students between the ages of about 16 to 40. It is actually cheap but expansive and therefore suitable to students in shorter programs or exchange semesters.
The coverage is outpatient and inpatient care, emergency dental care, mental health care, and repatriation. The cashless hospital access through APRIL also applies in the Maldives region, which has more than 180 countries.
They are characterized by their convenient digital applications – students are able to work with claims, add documents, and call the helpdesk with their phones.
APRIL is a highly suitable match in case you need a relatively cheap but highly tech-savvy solution that will nevertheless satisfy the university and visa requirements.
🌍 5. AXA Global Healthcare (AXA PPP International)
Website: expat-quotes.com
Needless to say, AXA does not require much introduction. AXA Global Healthcare being one of the largest insurers in the world has credible premium global coverage including the Maldives.
They have extensive plans which cover the provision of access to private hospitals, outpatient services, management of chronic conditions and 24/7 emergency support.
The Virtual Doctor service by the company gives you an opportunity to have a conversation with a doctor via video consultation, which is an essential feature of students in remote islands.
The AXA has a positive image of the high-quality, internationally-known services, which is why it can be particularly attractive to students who value the experience in hospitals and quick settlement. It is a default choice when you want to have access to high-end healthcare without the hassle of having a small local healthcare center.
🌐 6. IMG Global – Student Health Advantage
Website: imglobal.com
IMG Global has long been popular among students, volunteers, and travelers. Their Student Health Advantage plan is specifically designed for people studying abroad.
It’s available in two versions — Standard and Platinum. Both include medical expenses, emergency evacuation, repatriation, and maternity (in Platinum).
IMG’s specialty lies in affordable short-term or medium-term study coverage, so it’s ideal for semester or year-long programs rather than full four-year degrees.
Their 24-hour emergency hotline is excellent, and their partnerships with local clinics help streamline claims. If you’re looking for value-for-money coverage with global reach, IMG Global should be near the top of your list.
🌍 7. Expatriate Group – International Health Insurance for Students
Website: expatriatehealthcare.com
Expatriate Group is designed for international lifestyles — and that includes students who live far from home. Their student plan is budget-friendly yet practical, covering the essentials without unnecessary extras.
It includes hospitalization, surgery, medical evacuation, and some outpatient benefits. You can upgrade to include dental or maternity if needed.
Expatriate Group is particularly transparent about pricing and policy limits, making it easy to know what you’re getting.
If you’re an international student watching your budget but don’t want to compromise on critical protection, this is a strong, cost-effective option.
🌏 8. Indigo Expat – Tailored Insurance for Students in the Maldives
Website: indigo-expat.com
Here’s something unique. Unlike most global insurers who cover the Maldives as part of a worldwide zone, Indigo Expat offers plans that specifically mention the Maldives in their regional coverage guides.
This means you can expect localized expertise and compliance with local regulations. Their policies include emergency evacuation, inpatient and outpatient care, dental, and optional repatriation.
Indigo Expat also provides detailed country information — including healthcare quality and evacuation guidelines — so students know exactly what to expect before arrival.
If you prefer a Maldives-focused, niche provider that understands the island healthcare realities, Indigo Expat is a top-tier choice.
🌍 9. Mondassur – Student Insurance for Maldives
Website: mondassur.com
Mondassur is a French-based insurer specializing in international health and travel insurance. Their student and expat plans are designed for those relocating to specific countries, including the Maldives.
Their policies typically include medical expenses, hospitalization, evacuation, and repatriation, with optional dental and optical coverage.
What’s noteworthy about Mondassur is their straightforward process for visa documentation — perfect for students who need quick proof of insurance for university admission.
It’s ideal for short-term or medium-term programs and for those who prioritize clear paperwork, simple terms, and a direct claims process.
🌏 10. Pacific Prime – Global Broker and Comparison Platform
Website: pacificprime.com
Unlike the others on this list, Pacific Prime isn’t an insurance company — it’s a broker and advisor.
That means they compare plans from dozens of insurers (including Cigna, AXA, Allianz, and Bupa) and help you choose the one that fits your situation and budget.
For students unsure where to start, Pacific Prime is invaluable. You can get side-by-side comparisons, detailed benefit breakdowns, and even advice on university compliance.
Their service is free — they’re paid by insurers, not by students. This makes them a smart first stop if you’re overwhelmed by the options.
🧭 Choosing the Right Plan: A Few Final Tips
Selecting health insurance isn’t about picking the biggest name. It’s about finding the right fit for your lifestyle, budget, and study goals. Here are a few practical tips to make your decision smoother:
- Confirm university requirements.
Some universities in the Maldives have minimum coverage standards or prefer certain providers. Always check before purchasing. - Consider evacuation coverage as non-negotiable.
The Maldives’ island geography makes this essential. Medical evacuation can cost thousands of dollars without coverage. - Compare deductibles, not just premiums.
A lower monthly cost can hide higher out-of-pocket expenses later. Balance both sides. - Use digital tools.
Choose a provider with an app or online claim system. You’ll thank yourself during your first clinic visit. - Read the fine print.
Know what’s excluded — pre-existing conditions, sports injuries, or mental health — and clarify with the insurer. - Keep documents handy.
Save digital and printed copies of your insurance certificate and claim instructions. You’ll need them for visa, enrolment, or emergencies.
🌴 Pro Tips:
The Maldives offers a one-of-a-kind study experience — where lectures meet lagoons and exams follow sunsets. But behind the beauty lies a logistical truth: you must be prepared for health challenges.
A robust insurance plan ensures that a medical emergency doesn’t derail your studies or finances.
If you want simplicity and trust, Allianz Care and Cigna Global are world-class.
If affordability matters more, IMG Global or Expatriate Group might suit you better.
If you prefer Maldives-specific guidance, Indigo Expat or Mondassur offer local insights.
And if you’re still deciding? Start with Pacific Prime — they’ll help you compare all your options without bias.
Because studying in paradise should feel safe — not stressful.
And with the right insurance, it can.
📚 References:
- Allianz Care. (n.d.). International student health insurance. Allianz Partners. https://www.allianzcare.com/en/personal-international-health-insurance/who-we-help/students.html
- APRIL International. (n.d.). International student health insurance – MyStudies cover. APRIL Group. https://www.april-international.com/en/international-student-insurance
- AXA Global Healthcare. (n.d.). International health insurance for expats. Expat-Quotes. https://www.expat-quotes.com/directory/maldives/health/international-health-insurance/axa-ppp-healthcare.htm
- Cigna Global. (n.d.). International student health insurance. Cigna Healthcare. https://www.cignaglobal.com/students
- Expatriate Group. (n.d.). International health insurance for students. Expatriate Healthcare. https://www.expatriatehealthcare.com/international-health-insurance/students/
- IMG Global. (n.d.). Student Health Advantage travel medical insurance. International Medical Group. https://www.imglobal.com/travel-medical-insurance/student-health-advantage
- Indigo Expat. (n.d.). International health insurance for expatriates in Maldives. Indigo Expat Assurances. https://indigo-expat.com/en/informations/country-guide/international-health-insurance-expatriates-maldives/
- Maldives National University (MNU). (n.d.). International students. https://mnu.edu.mv/international-students/
- Mondassur. (n.d.). Visas and health in the Maldives. Mondassur Insurance. https://www.mondassur.com/en/visas-and-health-in-the-maldives/
- Pacific Prime. (n.d.). Health insurance in the Maldives – international expat coverage. Pacific Prime International. https://www.pacificprime.com/country/asia/maldives-health-insurance-pacific-prime-international/
- William Russell. (n.d.). International health insurance for students. William Russell Ltd. https://www.william-russell.com/international-health-insurance/who-we-cover/students/
