Peru has become a growing destination for international students in recent years. From Spanish language immersion programs to university exchanges in Lima and Cusco, the country offers cultural depth and academic opportunities. Yet, studying abroad comes with responsibilities that go beyond academics. One of the most critical is ensuring access to reliable healthcare. For international students, private or international health insurance is not optional—it is a vital safeguard against the unexpected.
Why International Health Insurance Is Essential in Peru
Peru’s public healthcare system, overseen by the Ministry of Health (MINSA), provides basic services through public hospitals and clinics. While it is accessible, the system often faces challenges such as overcrowding, limited specialist availability, and long wait times. For students coming from countries with more robust systems, these realities can be disorienting.
Private healthcare in Peru offers a higher standard of care, shorter waiting periods, and access to advanced facilities. However, it comes at a cost. A single hospital admission or specialist procedure can run into thousands of U.S. dollars. Without insurance, these costs fall directly on the student. Moreover, some Peruvian universities and student visa requirements expect students to show proof of adequate health coverage before or upon arrival.
Health insurance ensures financial protection, better access to facilities, and peace of mind. It allows students to focus on their studies and cultural experiences instead of worrying about the financial consequences of illness or accidents.
Top 10 Health-Insurance Providers for Students in Peru
The following insurers—both international giants and strong local providers—are widely used by expatriates, students, and travelers in Peru. They are listed in no particular ranking, as the best choice depends on individual needs.
1. MSH International
MSH International provides tailored coverage for expatriates and students in Peru. Their plans include hospitalization, outpatient treatment, maternity, and emergency evacuation. What sets MSH apart is its global assistance service, which supports members in English, Spanish, and other languages. For students, the ability to seek medical attention without language barriers is a practical benefit (MSH International, 2025).
2. Allianz Care
Allianz Care specializes in international health plans for students and professionals across Latin America. Their Latin America–specific plans allow policyholders to select core inpatient benefits and add outpatient, dental, and repatriation coverage. Allianz is also strong in digital health, offering telemedicine consultations and wellness programs, which can be particularly useful in rural areas or during travel across Peru’s diverse geography (Allianz Care, 2025).
3. Cigna Global
Cigna Global is a leader in customizable international student insurance. Their policies allow students to choose regional or worldwide coverage, with flexible deductibles and add-on modules. In Peru, Cigna’s global network ensures students can access private hospitals in Lima and, when needed, evacuation services to neighboring hubs like Santiago or São Paulo. This is critical in cases requiring highly specialized care (Cigna Global, 2025).
4. International Medical Group (IMG)
IMG offers “Student Health Advantage” plans that cater directly to international students. These plans include preventive care, mental health services, and emergency evacuation. In Peru, mental health coverage is especially relevant since counseling services can be limited outside of large urban centers. IMG is also known for its relatively affordable pricing compared to some global competitors (IMG, 2025).
5. AXA Global Healthcare
AXA is a trusted name in international health insurance, offering plans that combine financial stability with strong claims support. Students in Peru benefit from inpatient and outpatient coverage, optional maternity benefits, and 24/7 support services. While premiums may be higher than budget insurers, AXA’s reputation for claim reliability makes it a secure option for those seeking comprehensive protection (AXA Global Healthcare, 2025).
6. Bupa Global / Bupa Perú
Bupa has both international and local presence in Peru. Bupa Global provides premium coverage worldwide, while Bupa Perú works with local networks to give students more accessible healthcare options. This combination allows students to rely on local hospitals while retaining access to international facilities if needed. For students attending universities in Lima, Bupa’s strong private hospital network is particularly advantageous (Bupa Global, 2025).
7. VUMI (VIP Universal Medical Insurance)
VUMI is a U.S.-based insurer with a strong focus on Latin America. Their plans are designed for expatriates and students who want both in-country coverage and access to high-quality care across the region. This is practical because many complex medical cases in Peru may be referred to advanced centers in Chile, Argentina, or Brazil. VUMI’s plans emphasize cross-border access, which adds flexibility for international students (VUMI, 2025).
8. Best Doctors Insurance (Teladoc Health)
Best Doctors Insurance, part of Teladoc Health, is well-known in Latin America for second-opinion services and specialized case management. Students in Peru who encounter complex conditions can access consultations from leading international specialists through the Best Doctors network. The plans also cover inpatient and outpatient care within Peru, making it a strong hybrid solution (Best Doctors Insurance, 2025).
9. RIMAC Seguros
RIMAC Seguros is one of Peru’s most established insurers, offering international health coverage in partnership with global providers. Their “Seguro de Salud Internacional” includes coverage abroad, inpatient and outpatient care, and evacuation benefits. For international students, choosing a local company like RIMAC ensures smoother claims processes in Peruvian hospitals and easier customer service in Spanish (RIMAC Seguros, 2025).
10. MAPFRE Perú
MAPFRE, a Spanish insurer with strong presence in Peru, provides international health plans that include access to Bupa’s global network. Their “Seguro Médico Internacional Previsor” allows students to receive treatment both in Peru and abroad. MAPFRE is particularly attractive for students who want the reassurance of a global partner combined with a local office presence in Lima (MAPFRE Perú, 2025).
Additional Local Options
While the ten providers above are widely recognized, two local companies are also worth noting:
- Pacífico Seguros: Offers private health and travel insurance plans suitable for international students. Their policies emphasize hospital access in Lima and other major cities (Pacífico Seguros, 2025).
- La Positiva Seguros: Provides health and travel insurance that can be tailored for students or expatriates. Their affordability makes them appealing for those on tighter budgets.
Key Factors to Compare
When deciding among these options, international students should analyze more than premiums. The following considerations are critical:
- Hospital Network in Peru: Check if the insurer partners with major private hospitals in Lima, Trujillo, and Arequipa.
- Coverage Scope: Determine whether outpatient visits, diagnostics, and prescription medications are included.
- Emergency Evacuation: Confirm whether plans cover transfers to nearby countries for complex procedures.
- Benefit Caps: Scrutinize the maximum annual and lifetime coverage amounts.
- Exclusions: Review clauses related to pre-existing conditions, mental health, and dental care.
- Waiting Periods: Some services, like maternity or dental, may require several months before coverage begins.
- Claims Process: Direct billing arrangements reduce out-of-pocket payments for students.
- Language Support: English-speaking assistance can be valuable in navigating Peruvian healthcare.
- University and Visa Requirements: Ensure your chosen policy satisfies minimum standards required by Peruvian authorities or your academic institution.
Practical Guidance for Students
- Purchase Insurance Before Arrival: Do not wait until you are in Peru to arrange coverage. Policies are easier to process from abroad, and visa requirements may mandate proof.
- Check for Student Discounts: Many providers, including Allianz and IMG, offer reduced premiums for full-time students.
- Leverage Digital Tools: Insurers like NOW Health, Allianz, and Bupa provide mobile apps for teleconsultations and claims, which simplify access.
- Ask Universities for Recommendations: Some Peruvian universities have partnerships with local insurers, reducing costs.
- Compare Cross-Border Coverage: Because advanced medical procedures may require treatment in Chile or Brazil, ensure regional evacuation is included.
- Renewability: Choose plans with guaranteed renewability to cover the full duration of study.
- Evaluate Affordability vs. Coverage: The cheapest plan is not always the most cost-effective if it excludes essential services.
Pro Tips:
Studying in Peru offers international students rich cultural and academic rewards. However, the healthcare system’s limitations make private or international health insurance indispensable. The ten providers discussed—ranging from MSH International and Allianz Care to local leaders like RIMAC and MAPFRE—offer credible, flexible solutions for overseas students. Local options such as Pacífico Seguros and La Positiva Seguros can also provide viable alternatives for those on tighter budgets.
The right choice depends on a student’s budget, health needs, and institutional requirements. By carefully comparing networks, coverage, exclusions, and claims processes, students can secure not just peace of mind but also the practical support necessary to thrive during their time in Peru.
References:
- Allianz Care. (2025). Health insurance for South America, Latin America, Caribbean. Allianz Care. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.allianzcare.com/en/personal-international-health-insurance/products-and-services/specialised-international-plans/plans-for-latin-america.html
- AXA Global Healthcare. (2025). International health insurance plans. AXA. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.axaglobalhealthcare.com/en/international-health-insurance
- Best Doctors Insurance. (2025). Medical Care™ LATAM. Best Doctors Insurance. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.bestdoctorsinsurance.com/en/medical-care-latam
- Bupa Global. (2025). Premium international private healthcare. Bupa Global. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.bupaglobal.com
- Cigna Global. (2025). International student health insurance. Cigna Global. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.cignaglobal.com/students
- IMG (International Medical Group). (2025). Student insurance – International student health insurance. IMG. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.imglobal.com/intl/student-health-insurance
- La Positiva Seguros. (2025). Seguros de salud y viajes. La Positiva. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.lapositiva.com.pe
- MSH International. (2025). International healthcare insurance for expatriates in Peru. MSH International. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.msh-intl.com/en/countries-list/international-health-insurance-peru-expats.html
- Pacífico Seguros. (2025). Seguros para ti y tu familia. Pacífico Seguros. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.pacifico.com.pe
- RIMAC Seguros. (2025). Seguro de salud internacional. RIMAC Seguros. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.rimac.com/salud/seguro-salud-internacional
- MAPFRE Perú. (2025). Seguro médico internacional previsor. MAPFRE Perú. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.mapfre.com.pe/seguros-de-salud/seguro-de-asistencia-medica-internacional-previsor
- VUMI (VIP Universal Medical Insurance). (2025). VUMI Group – International health insurance. VUMI. Retrieved October 5, 2025, from https://www.vumigroup.com
