NomadShield verdict — June 2026
Cigna Global is the best full expat health insurance for nomads with chronic conditions, families, or those settling in one country long-term. Not the right choice for budget-conscious country-hoppers.
✦ Best for
- Chronic illness / pre-existing conditions
- Families needing full health coverage
- Nomads settling in one country 1+ years
- Those needing routine care worldwide
- Spain Digital Nomad Visa applicants
✦ Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious nomads under 40
- Short-term travel (under 6 months)
- Country-hoppers wanting flexibility
- Adventure sports focus
- Trip cancellation needs
What is Cigna Global?
How we score nomad insurance providers — the criteria that matter most
Cigna Global is full international private medical insurance (IPMI) — not travel insurance. The distinction matters enormously: Cigna's international plans are designed for "globally mobile individuals" who need genuine long-term health coverage, not just emergency protection. This means routine check-ups, specialist visits, prescription refills, chronic condition management, dental, and vision — all included or available as add-ons.
Cigna Global has partnered with 1.65 million doctors and hospitals across 200 countries, making it the most comprehensive health insurance solution available for digital nomads who need more than emergency coverage. For most nomads, SafetyWing or Genki are the right choice. But for nomads with serious health needs or families wanting full coverage, Cigna is in a different league.
Plans overview
| Plan | Annual limit | Starting price* | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Close Care | $500,000 | ~$224/mo | Regional — one country base |
| Silver | $1,000,000 | ~$280/mo | International nomads, most popular |
| Gold | $2,000,000 | ~$340/mo | High-spend countries, families |
| Platinum | Unlimited | ~$450+/mo | US coverage included, comprehensive |
*Ages 18–39. Prices vary significantly by age, health history, and deductible selection. Always get a personalised quote.
What Cigna covers that nomad insurance doesn't
✓ Pre-existing conditions (with underwriting)
Key differentiatorCigna offers full medical underwriting for pre-existing conditions. For policies which were fully medically underwritten, pre-existing conditions are generally covered unless Cigna says otherwise in your policy documents. This is fundamentally different from SafetyWing and Genki Traveler which exclude pre-existing conditions entirely.
✓ Routine and preventive care
Annual check-ups, GP visits, blood panels, cancer screenings — all covered. SafetyWing Essential covers only emergencies. Genki Traveler covers some routine care. Cigna covers the full spectrum of healthcare, including preventive medicine.
✓ Direct billing at 1.65M providers
Key differentiatorCigna's massive provider network means direct billing at most top hospitals globally — Bumrungrad in Bangkok, Hospital Ángeles in Mexico City, Bumrungrad in Bangkok, and private hospitals across Europe and North America. You don't pay upfront and claim back — the hospital bills Cigna directly.
✓ Dental and vision
Dental and vision care are available as add-ons (Silver and above). Cigna's dental coverage includes routine cleanings, fillings, and emergency treatment — not just emergency dental as with most nomad plans.
✓ Mental health — full coverage
Comprehensive mental health coverage including therapy, psychiatry, and inpatient psychiatric care. No 6-month waiting period (unlike Genki Traveler). For nomads managing ongoing mental health conditions, Cigna is the most complete option available.
Pros and cons
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
Who should choose Cigna Global?
You have a pre-existing condition
Cigna's underwriting is the gold standard for nomads with diabetes, hypertension, cardiac conditions, or chronic illness who need genuine coverage for ongoing treatment.
You're traveling with family
Family plans with pediatric coverage, maternity, and full routine care make Cigna the most comprehensive option for nomadic families.
You're applying for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa
Spain's DNV requires insurance from a carrier authorized to operate in Spain with no co-payments. Cigna meets this standard — most nomad plans do not.
You DON'T need Cigna if…
You're healthy, under 40, country-hopping on a budget without chronic conditions. SafetyWing Essential at $68/month covers 95% of what you actually need at one-quarter the price.
Get a Cigna Global quote
Cigna requires a personalised quote — pricing varies significantly by age, health history, and the deductible you choose. Use our link to get a quote with no obligation.
Get Cigna Global quote ↗FAQ
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Affiliate disclosure: NomadShield earns a commission when you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Pricing as of June 2026 — always get a personalised quote as prices vary by age and health history.