Travel insurance vs expat health insurance — what you need for a stay of more than 30 days.
Standard travel insurance from your home country covers most needs; ensure it includes medical evacuation; World Nomads, SafetyWing, Allianz all work well.
For longer stays, consider international health insurance (CIGNA, AXA, Bupa International) — more comprehensive than travel insurance, includes pre-existing conditions after waiting period.
Thai insurance companies (AXA Thailand, Krungthai-AXA) offer lower-premium plans valid only in Thailand — good if you won't need global coverage.
Bumrungrad Hospital (Sukhumvit) accepts most international insurance directly; ask your insurer for a list of direct-billing partners.
Some long-stay visa categories (notably certain retirement and long-term visa types) legally require proof of health insurance meeting a minimum coverage amount — check the specific visa's requirements before buying a policy.
Private healthcare in Bangkok is significantly cheaper than in the US or much of Europe even without insurance, which is worth factoring in when deciding how much coverage actually makes sense for the length of stay.