San Marino may be tiny, but its impact is mighty. This microstate, surrounded by Italy, boasts a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and an impressively structured educational system that draws students worldwide. Yet, if you’re an international student eyeing San Marino for your studies, securing health insurance is a non-negotiable necessity.
Discover what you need, why it’s essential, and which insurance providers excel in meeting San Marino’s stringent standards. This is your definitive guide to health insurance for international students in San Marino.
Legal Requirements: No Insurance, No Entry
To study in San Marino, having valid private health insurance is mandatory, regardless of whether you’re from Spain, Sri Lanka, or anywhere else. It’s a legal requirement for securing a residence permit for study. The government insists that international students, whether from the Schengen Area or not, must provide proof of private health insurance with at least €30,000 annual coverage. This insurance must be acknowledged by the Ufficio Prestazioni Economiche, San Marino’s economic benefits office.
Here’s what your insurance must include:
- Doctor visits (general and specialists)
- Hospitalization and surgeries
- Emergency treatment
- Medications and prescriptions
- Medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
If your plan doesn’t meet those criteria, it won’t be approved.
And if you’re holding on to an EHIC or GHIC card (from the EU or UK)? Sorry, those won’t work in San Marino.
COVID-19 Coverage Is Still a Requirement
While many countries have scaled back pandemic-related regulations, San Marino still requires proof of insurance that includes COVID-19. That means your policy should clearly state that it covers:
- Testing
- Treatment
- Hospitalization
- Quarantine-related costs (if needed)
Always check the fine print, and if in doubt, request a confirmation letter from the insurer.
Top Health Insurance Options for International Students in San Marino
Now that you know what’s required, let’s look at your best options. Below is a curated list of global health insurance providers that offer plans compliant with San Marino’s standards. These companies are trusted worldwide and offer flexible, student-friendly options.
1. Cigna Global
Cigna is one of the most popular choices among international students, and for good reason. Their plans are highly customizable.
You can choose your level—Silver, Gold, or Platinum—and tailor your plan to include just what you need.
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Key Benefits:
- In-patient and out-patient care
- Dental and vision options
- Mental health services
- Evacuation and repatriation
- 24/7 multilingual support
- Huge international provider network
Cigna is reliable, fast with claims, and ticks all the boxes San Marino requires.
2. GeoBlue
If you’re a U.S. citizen or based in the U.S., GeoBlue is a fantastic option. It’s powered by Blue Cross Blue Shield and has a strong international presence.
Highlights:
- Broad global coverage
- Elite plans available with or without U.S. access
- Mental health and chronic condition support
- Direct billing in many countries
- COVID-19 covered
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GeoBlue makes international healthcare simple—especially if you’re navigating it from a U.S. standpoint.
3. Bupa Global
Bupa is synonymous with premium coverage. Their plans are often more expensive but come with some of the most extensive benefits available.
What You Get:
- In-patient, out-patient, dental, vision
- Emergency evacuation
- Mental health therapy
- Chronic illness management
- Large direct-bill network in Europe
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For students who want peace of mind and can afford a higher premium, Bupa is a solid investment.
4. Now Health International
Affordable and modern, Now Health is perfect for international students who want comprehensive coverage without breaking the bank.
Core Features:
- Emergency and hospital coverage
- Dental and outpatient add-ons
- App-based claims
- Medical evacuation
- Sports injury coverage
- Excellent for those studying across multiple countries
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Now Health also offers plans specifically tailored for students and short-term residents.
5. Integra Global
This lesser-known provider is highly rated for unique expat needs. Their plans are ideal for students with special health considerations.
What Sets Them Apart:
- Chronic care support
- Family and maternity coverage options
- Telehealth
- Custom modules based on your academic journey
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It’s particularly great for students who might need ongoing treatments or therapy while studying abroad.
6. April International
April is well-loved for its intuitive platform and strong support. They offer fully digital signup and claims processes—ideal if you’re buying from abroad.
Key Benefits:
- 24/7 assistance
- Outpatient and hospital cover
- Dental and vision
- Direct billing network
- Solid mental health support
- San Marino “Zone 2” coverage confirmed
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April is also one of the few providers with truly seamless mobile claims management.
7. IMG (International Medical Group)
IMG’s Student Secure plan is designed just for people like you—international students needing affordable, flexible coverage that meets visa and residence permit requirements.
Standout Points:
- Several tiered plans (Smart, Select, Elite)
- Medical, emergency, and evacuation included
- Mental health care
- 24/7 support
- Meets all San Marino student visa health requirements
This is one of the most cost-effective yet compliant options available.
8. International Student Insurance (ISI)
Another student-centric company, ISI offers simple, understandable, and low-barrier plans that are perfect for younger travelers.
Best For:
- Budget-conscious students
- Monthly plans
- Easy renewals
- Telehealth included
- Visa compliance guaranteed
It’s an ideal backup or alternative to IMG.
9. Indigo Expat
Indigo offers regional plans and categorizes San Marino as part of Zone 2, making it a focused and economical choice for EU-bound students.
What You’ll Find:
- “Top-Up” or comprehensive private options
- Excellent for EU/Schengen mobility
- Personal liability insurance often included
- Good evacuation benefits
- Expat youth focus
It’s tailor-made for students moving between countries in Europe.
10. William Russell
A classic expat insurer, William Russell is widely trusted and known for consistent customer service.
Core Benefits:
- Modular plans
- Worldwide medical and mental health coverage
- Evacuation and repatriation
- Good for long-term study
- English-language documentation for easy application submission
A strong choice for students who want high-end, all-inclusive protection.
Things You Need to Double-Check
Not all insurance policies are created equal. Even if a plan looks good, it must meet San Marino’s legal standards.
Here’s a quick checklist:
✅ Minimum Coverage of €30,000/year
✅ Covers Doctor Visits, Hospitals, Medication, Evacuation, and Repatriation
✅ COVID-19 Treatment and Quarantine Included
✅ Zone 2 (Europe) Coverage Confirmed
✅ Proof of Insurance in Italian or with Certified Translation (if required)
✅ Direct Billing Preferred (for ease with local clinics)
✅ Recognized by Ufficio Prestazioni Economiche
And finally—always read the exclusions. If you’re planning to hike, ski, or participate in sports, make sure your policy explicitly covers these activities.
Summary Table: Insurance Providers at a Glance
| Provider | Inpatient | Outpatient | Dental | Evacuation | Mental Health | COVID-19 | €30K+ Coverage | EU/Schengen Compliant |
| Cigna Global | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| GeoBlue | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bupa Global | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Now Health Intl. | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Integra Global | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| April International | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IMG Student Secure | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ISI Student Insurance | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Indigo Expat | Yes | Yes | Option | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| William Russell | Yes | Yes | Option | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Final Thoughts
San Marino, though small, prioritizes student health. No EHIC or GHIC is accepted—no exceptions. To study here, you must have private international health insurance that meets required standards. Our covered providers offer flexible, compliant options for every budget.
Evaluate options thoroughly. Verify coverage areas. Always confirm compliance with embassy or Ufficio Prestazioni Economiche. Once health is assured, prioritize what truly counts: learning, exploring, and creating memories in Europe’s captivating locales.
✅ List of Insurance Companies Mentioned
- Cigna Global
- GeoBlue
- Bupa Global
- Now Health International
- Integra Global
- April International
- IMG (International Medical Group)
- International Student Insurance (ISI)
- Indigo Expat
- William Russell
📚 References:
- April International. (2025). Health insurance for international students. Retrieved from https://www.april-international.com
- Bupa Global. (2025). International health insurance for students and expats. Retrieved from https://www.bupaglobal.com
- Cigna Global. (2025). International student health insurance plans. Retrieved from https://www.cignaglobal.com
- GeoBlue. (2025). Global medical insurance plans for U.S. citizens abroad. Retrieved from https://www.geobluetravelinsurance.com
- IMG Global. (2025). Student health insurance plans. Retrieved from https://www.imglobal.com
- Indigo Expat. (2025). Health insurance for expatriates and students in Europe. Retrieved from https://www.indigo-expat.com
- Integra Global. (2025). Tailored international health insurance. Retrieved from https://www.integraglobal.com
- International Student Insurance. (2025). Affordable insurance for international students. Retrieved from https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com
- Now Health International. (2025). Health insurance for students and global citizens. Retrieved from https://www.now-health.com
- William Russell. (2025). Student and expat international health insurance. Retrieved from https://www.william-russell.com
- Government of San Marino. (2024). Residency and healthcare regulations for foreign students. Retrieved from https://www.sanmarino.sm
- European Commission. (2024). Guide to EHIC and healthcare access in non-EU states. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/social
