When you think of Bhutan, you likely picture peaceful monasteries, dramatic Himalayan landscapes, and a nation guided by Gross National Happiness. What you might not picture—until it’s urgent—is what happens if you get sick while studying there.
For international students heading to Bhutan, health insurance is not optional. It’s a requirement for university enrollment and often essential to complete the student visa process. But Bhutan doesn’t have a strong local insurance market tailored for international students. That creates a critical need for global insurance providers—ones that understand what students need and how to deliver it across borders.
This blog walks you through the top 10 health insurance providers best suited for overseas students studying in Bhutan. We’ll go beyond the names to explore what these plans offer, how to choose the right one, and what to look out for so that you can protect your health and your education journey.
🎯 Why Health Insurance Is Essential in Bhutan
Let’s set the stage.
Bhutan has a small but growing number of international students. Whether you’re studying at the Royal University of Bhutan, participating in a Buddhist studies program, or working through an environmental research fellowship, you’ll be required to show proof of valid health insurance.
But there’s a catch.
Bhutan’s domestic health insurance market isn’t developed for foreign nationals. While local citizens have access to government-supported healthcare, this coverage doesn’t apply to foreign students. That means you need private international coverage—not only to get your visa approved but to ensure access to timely, high-quality care if anything goes wrong.
🌍 The Top 10 Health Insurance Providers for International Students in Bhutan
These global insurance companies are widely recognized and cater specifically to students living abroad. They offer online enrollment, instant policy documents, and a range of coverage tiers to fit your budget and needs.
Let’s explore them one by one.
- IMG Global (Student Journey Series)
Why it’s ideal: IMG is one of the most reputable names in international student insurance. Their plans are accepted globally and designed specifically with academic lifestyles in mind.
Key Features:
Three coverage tiers: Lite, Plus, and Platinum
Up to $500,000 in medical coverage
Telehealth services included
Mental health benefits for therapy and counseling
Who it’s for: Students who want layered options and strong digital access to care.
IMG’s flexibility makes it an excellent choice whether you’re in Bhutan for a semester or a full academic program.
- International Student Insurance (ISI)
Why it’s ideal: ISI focuses entirely on international students. They understand visa compliance, university requirements, and common student health needs.
Key Features:
Visa-compliant coverage options
Coverage for mental health, maternity, and sports-related injuries
Affordable pricing with comprehensive support
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious students who want full-spectrum health benefits.
ISI’s plans are widely accepted and can be bought and managed online, which is a huge plus.
- April International
Why it’s ideal: April is known for its 100% online experience and quick policy delivery—great when deadlines are tight.
Key Features:
Civil liability and repatriation included
Digital-first claims process
Coverage certificates issued instantly
Who it’s for: Students who value legal protection and easy, mobile-based service.
April International is also a smart choice for students living in group housing or involved in internships.
- Allianz Care
Why it’s ideal: A trusted name in global insurance, Allianz offers customizable plans that are easy to scale with your academic journey.
Key Features:
Choose from outpatient, dental, emergency, and maternity modules
24/7 multilingual assistance
Direct billing with many global providers
Who it’s for: Students who want premium service with modular flexibility.
Allianz plans are often preferred by universities due to their strong compliance track record.
- Cigna Global
Why it’s ideal: Cigna allows you to build your own plan using modular options. Start with a base plan and add coverage as needed.
Key Features:
Customizable plans with dental, vision, and outpatient options
Global provider network and support in Bhutan and South Asia
Access to virtual GP and health advice
Who it’s for: Students who want complete control over what they’re paying for.
Cigna also supports family members, which is helpful for postgraduate or doctoral students with dependents.
- Seven Corners (Liaison Student Series)
Why it’s ideal: Known for emergency response and strong student support services, Seven Corners offers good coverage with user-friendly tools.
Key Features:
Focused on students studying outside their home country
Evacuation and repatriation included
Flexible deductibles and plan durations
Who it’s for: Students who want emergency-ready coverage with clear terms.
If you’re trekking or involved in outdoor fieldwork in Bhutan, Seven Corners could be a strategic choice.
- Insubuy
Why it’s ideal: Insubuy is a comparison platform that aggregates plans from multiple providers like IMG, HCCMIS, and more.
Key Features:
Offers ExchangeGuard and other student plans
Transparent side-by-side comparison
Easy to filter by features, pricing, or coverage type
Who it’s for: Students who want to research and compare multiple policies before committing.
Insubuy is also helpful if your university gives you flexibility in selecting your own insurer.
- PSI Service
Why it’s ideal: Fast, simple, and affordable, PSI is ideal for students seeking essential coverage with 24/7 support.
Key Features:
Instant online sign-up
Emergency and outpatient care
Competitive pricing for long-term plans
Who it’s for: Students looking for straightforward coverage without overwhelming options.
If you’re in Bhutan for language studies or a cultural exchange program, PSI’s simplicity might be perfect.
- International-sante.com
Why it’s ideal: A French-based provider offering budget-friendly student plans, especially popular among EU students.
Key Features:
Plans from €33/month
Includes civil liability, hospital coverage, and repatriation
Online policy delivery and management
Who it’s for: Students looking for low-cost, high-compliance coverage that satisfies visa requirements.
Its straightforward application process is a good match for first-time international students.
- Expert Education Student Health
Why it’s ideal: Designed specifically for South Asian study destinations, including Bhutan, Nepal, and India.
Key Features:
Supports pre-existing conditions
Long-term durability and renewable coverage
Built to meet regional university and visa compliance
Who it’s for: Students enrolling in regional programs or joint degrees within South Asia.
This provider shines for those moving between multiple countries or studying at institutions across the region.
🧠 What Should Your Health Insurance Cover?
Don’t just pick the cheapest plan. Ensure it includes essential areas of coverage, such as:
Coverage Area Why It Matters
Hospitalization Covers expensive overnight or emergency stays
Emergency care Needed in case of accidents or acute illnesses
Outpatient services Doctor visits, specialist consultations, and minor treatments
Repatriation Helps return you to your home country in case of critical illness or death
Telehealth Lets you consult doctors without leaving your accommodation
Mental health Essential for emotional and psychological support while abroad
Dental care Optional but useful for unexpected dental issues
Civil liability Protects you in case of accidental injury or property damage
Not every plan will cover everything. That’s why modular plans like those from Cigna and Allianz can be so valuable.
📌 Practical Tips Before You Buy
Ask your university
Contact your admissions office or international student services team. Some universities have preferred providers or minimum coverage requirements.
Don’t wait until the last minute
Some embassies or consulates won’t issue a visa without proof of insurance. Many insurers offer instant certificates, but don’t risk it—buy early.
Check for exclusions
High-risk sports, mental health counseling, and pre-existing conditions are commonly excluded. Choose accordingly.
Prioritize digital management
If you’re in Bhutan, postal services can be slow. Pick a plan with online claims, telehealth, and mobile app access.
Review renewal and refund policies
What happens if your visa is delayed? Or if you drop out? Make sure you understand the fine print.
🧾 Quick Comparison Table
Provider Best For Highlight Features
IMG Global Tiered plans and telehealth Up to $500k coverage, mental health included
International Student Insurance (ISI) Comprehensive & budget-friendly Maternity, mental health, sports injury
April International Legal and civil protection Civil liability, repatriation, fast certificate
Allianz Care Modularity and premium service Dental, maternity, outpatient options
Cigna Global Build-your-own flexibility Vision, dental, outpatient, virtual care
Seven Corners Outdoor or field researchers Emergency evacuation, repatriation
Insubuy Comparison shoppers Filters by price, duration, and features
PSI Service Short-term students Instant online sign-up, 24/7 assistance
International-sante.com Budget-focused EU students €33/month, civil liability, instant documentation
Expert Education Student Health South Asia regional specialists Pre-existing condition coverage, durable policies
✈ Final Thoughts: Protect Your Journey in Bhutan
Bhutan is a rare destination—peaceful, pristine, and profoundly spiritual. But like any international study journey, it comes with risks. Medical emergencies, mental health needs, or even visa challenges can all arise unexpectedly.
With the right health insurance plan, you remove the guesswork. You gain peace of mind. And you fulfill both legal obligations and personal security.
Don’t leave this decision until the last minute.
Choose wisely. Buy early. And travel with the confidence that your health is covered—no matter what lies ahead on your journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
📚 References (APA 7th Edition)
Allianz Care. (2024). Student Health Plans. https://www.allianzcare.com/en/student-health-insurance.html
April International. (2024). International Student Insurance Plans. https://www.april-international.com/en/student
Cigna Global. (2024). International Student Health Insurance. https://www.cignaglobal.com/health-insurance/student
HCCMIS (Tokio Marine). (2024). StudentSecure Insurance Plans. https://www.hccmis.com/student-health-insurance/studentsecure/
IMG Global. (2024). Student Journey Health Insurance. https://www.imglobal.com/img-insurance-plans/student-health-insurance
Insubuy. (2024). ExchangeGuard and Student Plans Comparison. https://www.insubuy.com/student-health-insurance/
International Student Insurance. (2024). Compare Plans for Students. https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/student-health-insurance/
International-Sante.com. (2024). Assurance Santé pour Étudiants Internationaux. https://www.international-sante.com
PSI Services. (2024). Student Insurance. https://www.psiservice.com
