For the second year running, Mexico has been recognized as the top choice for ex-pats. In the Expat Insider 2023 report, expats from 177 nationalities in 181 countries and territories worldwide shared their thoughts. The report looks at 53 countries, considering factors like the quality of life, how easily people can settle in, financial matters, and more.

This is nothing new. Mexico has been a top choice for expats for a while now, with 90% of expats saying they live happy lives there. Sounds nice, right? Well, it is - but there are practical considerations to keep in mind, too. 

If you’re an employer with a Canadian employee who is considering making the move to Mexico, it’s important to look at their options surrounding public and private health insurance in Mexico. Let’s get into the nuances of healthcare in Mexico for expats. 

How Does Mexico's Healthcare System Compare to Canada's?

To start, let’s take a look at how Mexico’s healthcare system differs from Canada's. 

For employers with Canadian expats considering a move to Mexico, understanding the differences between the healthcare systems of both countries is key. These differences play a significant role in shaping your access to medical services and your overall well-being in your new home. 

Coverage and Accessibility

In Canada, healthcare services are available to everyone, while Mexico combines public programs and private health insurance. It's crucial to understand this difference, as the coverage you're used to in Canada might not apply the same way in Mexico. Getting familiar with programs like the Social Security System and Seguro Popular will be essential in navigating your healthcare choices.

Financial Considerations and Payment Structures

In Canada, healthcare is designed to minimize out-of-pocket expenses, making it affordable for everyone. However, in Mexico’s healthcare system, you might encounter costs linked to enrollment, premiums, and specific treatments. It's important to note that how you pay for healthcare and the related costs could be different from what you're used to in Canada.

Balancing Public and Private Health Insurance Options

While Canada mostly relies on public healthcare, Mexico has both public programs and private health insurance available. It's vital to understand that solely relying on public options in Mexico might not give your employee the same comprehensive coverage they’re used to. Exploring private insurance becomes important for those looking for familiar healthcare coverage.

Quality of Healthcare Services and Facilities

Keep in mind that healthcare quality and facilities can vary between the two countries. Be aware that the level of care your employee receives might be different from what you're used to, especially in specific regions of Mexico. To ensure dependable medical care, take the time to learn about trustworthy healthcare facilities and seek advice from fellow expats.

Understanding the differences between Mexico's and Canada's healthcare systems empowers Canadian expats to make well-informed choices about coverage, access, and potential costs in their new environment. Equipped with this knowledge, you can effectively address your healthcare needs and transition smoothly to Mexico's healthcare landscape.

The Importance of Having the Right Coverage

If you're an employer with a Canadian expat in Mexico, it's important to know that healthcare systems in both countries differ. 

According to the OECD, less than half of Mexico's population are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, unlike the global OECD average of 65%. This highlights the need for accessible medical services and reliable health insurance coverage.

The pandemic caused health spending to rise from 5.4% of GDP in 2019 to 6.2% in 2020. This could impact the healthcare costs and level of accessibility you come in contact within the Mexican healthcare system. Mexico also saw the highest excess mortality due to COVID-19 among OECD countries, showing challenges in managing healthcare during the pandemic.

Considering these facts, having dependable health insurance is crucial for Canadian expats in Mexico. It provides access to medical services, eases potential financial concerns, and offers peace of mind amid Mexico's unique healthcare challenges. 

IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social)

In Mexico, there's a public healthcare program that offers certain medical services to both employees and people who decide to join voluntarily. If you're a Canadian expat in Mexico, you can consider enrolling in IMSS, known as Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. While it's designed mainly for employees, expats with legal residency can also apply. 

Preexisting Conditions

Health coverage in Mexico can vary, especially for those with a preexisting condition. Some conditions, like tumors, congenital diseases, addictions, and HIV, aren't covered. Others might have waiting periods before being covered.

How Do I Enroll for IMSS?

You have two ways to become enrolled:

  • Formal Employment: If you're formally employed in Mexico, you'll automatically contribute to IMSS through payroll taxes, regardless of other insurance you have.
  • Voluntary Enrollment: If you're not employed or wish to enroll voluntarily, you can pay an annual fee. You need legal residency (Residente Temporal or Residente Permanente) to qualify.

Annual Fee for Voluntary Enrollment

For expats not employed in Mexico, you can enroll voluntarily by paying a yearly fee. The fee depends on your age and can be found on IMSS's official page. 

For instance, if you're in your 60s, you might pay around $18,350 pesos per year (approximately CAD 90 per month). A retired couple both in their 60s could pay around CAD 217 per month (about CAD 2,613.68  per year) for IMSS coverage.

How Do I Apply for IMSS? 

Applying for IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social) to access healthcare services in Mexico is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide along with the necessary documents you'll need:

Choose Your Application Method

You have the convenience of applying for IMSS either online or by visiting a local IMSS office in your community.

Gather Required Documents

Ensure you have the following documents ready before starting your IMSS application process:

  • Passports: Your current passport(s) will be required for identification purposes.
  • Residency Permits: Present your current residency permit(s) as part of your application.
  • Proof of Address: Bring along documentation like your latest electricity bill to confirm your address.
  • Marriage Certificates (if applicable): If married, you might need to provide your marriage certificate.
  • Birth Certificates: Birth certificates are important for identification purposes.
  • Application Forms: Complete the application forms provided by IMSS for enrollment.
  • Health Questionnaires: Submit the health questionnaires as part of the application process.
  • Payment Receipts: Make sure to bring your bank payment receipt for the first-year premium payment. This payment is typically made on the day of your visit to the local IMSS office.

Visit the IMSS Office or Apply Online

With your documents in hand, visit your local IMSS office to submit your application. Alternatively, if you choose to apply online, make sure to provide all necessary information and upload digital copies of the required documents.

Enrollment Confirmation

Upon successful submission of your application and verification of documents, you'll receive confirmation of your enrollment in the IMSS program.

Applying for IMSS is made convenient with clear documentation and the choice of applying online or in-person. By ensuring you have all the necessary paperwork in order, you're on your way to accessing quality healthcare services in Mexico.

Coverage Start Date and Services

Once enrolled, your health insurance coverage starts the following month after applying. You'll be assigned to a local clinic for check-ups, doctor visits, and prescriptions. Medications prescribed by your doctor can be obtained from the pharmacy, but not all medicines might be covered.

Choosing IMSS can be a solid option for Canadian expats seeking comprehensive healthcare in Mexico. Keep in mind the process, coverage details, and any preexisting conditions. Your health and peace of mind matter.

INSABI (Instituto de Salud para el Bienestar)

The second option is INSABI (Instituto de Salud para el Bienestar), which is designed for people with pre-existing conditions or financial limitations. This program is a safety net for those unemployed or dealing with chronic illnesses, ensuring medical help for those who might not qualify for IMSS.

Mexico introduced INSABI in January 2020 to elevate its healthcare system. This program, succeeding Seguro Popular, aims to provide better healthcare for everyone, including Canadian expats living in Mexico. Understanding INSABI is important for ex-pats, as it affects your healthcare options in Mexico.

From Seguro Popular to INSABI

INSABI's arrival shows Mexico wants better healthcare for all. Seguro Popular tried to help those without formal jobs or insurance, but challenges remained. INSABI aims to make healthcare easier for everyone.

INSABI's Main Goal

INSABI's core mission is simple: give medical care to every Mexican, no matter their financial situation. It helps those not formally employed (not covered by IMSS) or with financial issues. For Canadian expats, INSABI offers a chance for quality medical care.

Key Points to Know

  • Accessibility: INSABI aims to provide support to individuals who lack robust healthcare options. Its focus is on promoting fairness and achieving a sense of equity in Mexico’s healthcare system.
  • Money Doesn't Stop Care: INSABI understands the financial challenges that can arise. It provides access to medical care without the burden of IMSS subscription costs.
  • Direct Access: What sets INSABI apart is you don't have to sign up first. If you're dealing with pre-existing conditions or money struggles, you can go directly to an INSABI hospital with your ID.
  • Safety for the Vulnerable: INSABI is a safety net for those without jobs or facing ongoing illnesses. It's there to help, even if you don't qualify for IMSS.

Why It Matters

INSABI is changing the public healthcare system in Mexico, making it better for everyone. It's a way to fix past problems and ensure a healthier future. For Canadian expats, INSABI means more accessibleer access to quality healthcare.

Mexico's INSABI is a big step toward fair and accessible healthcare. For Canadian expats in Mexico, knowing about INSABI is key. By replacing Seguro Popular and supporting those in need, INSABI is making Mexico's healthcare better for everyone, expats included.

How Do I Sign up for INSABI?

If you're an expat residing in Mexico, getting enrolled with INSABI is a straightforward process that ensures access to essential healthcare. Here's what you need to know:

Qualification Requirements

To become eligible for INSABI enrollment, it's important to hold residency status in Mexico. This means that if you are a legal resident of the country, you meet the initial criteria. Having the proper documentation, including your CURP (a unique identification number given to citizens and legal residents) and your identification (ID), is vital.

Enrollment

Unlike other complex healthcare enrollment procedures, INSABI keeps it simple. There's no need to go through the hassle of signing up in advance. Instead, all you need to do is visit any INSABI hospital when you require medical attention.

What to Present

When you arrive at an INSABI hospital, you will be asked to present a few documents. These include your residence card, your CURP, and a compromante. The compromante is essentially proof of your address in Mexico, such as a utility bill. These documents serve as confirmation of your eligibility and enable you to access the benefits offered by the INSABI plan.

This user-friendly process ensures that you can receive the medical care you need without any unnecessary administrative hurdles. By focusing on simplicity and accessibility, INSABI aims to provide quality health services to all residents, including expats, in Mexico.

Quality of Care

To ensure good care, Mexico's healthcare facilities follow international standards overseen by the Consejo de Salubridad General. The Joint Commission International (JCI) also helps maintain high care standards and patient safety. You'll find JCI-accredited hospitals and other reliable private healthcare choices.

Private Health Insurance in Mexico

Besides public options, Canadian expats can get private health insurance in Mexico. This gives you more freedom to choose from both private hospitals and private doctors. Mexico has excellent private hospitals, but remember that if your health insurance is from outside Mexico, it might not cover everything. 

Here's a look at some prominent choices available for Canadian expats in Mexico.

AXA Seguros

AXA offers Seguros de Gastos Médicos Mayores (SGMM), which covers significant medical costs. These plans encompass hospital stays, surgeries, specialist consultations, and prescribed medications.

Allianz Worldwide Care

Allianz provides international health insurance tailored to expats. Coverage extends within Mexico and abroad, ensuring continuous protection wherever you go.

Grupo Nacional Provincial (GNP)

GNP caters to various needs with plans covering outpatient care, hospitalization, maternity services, and preventive health check-ups.

MetLife Mexico

MetLife offers a range of health insurance options covering hospital stays, surgeries, diagnostic tests, and medical treatments.

CIGNA Global

CIGNA offers international health insurance for expats. Access a wide healthcare network and benefit from coverage for an array of medical services.

Banorte Health Savings Account

Banorte's healthcare savings accounts help save for medical expenses not covered by insurance, a valuable supplement to comprehensive coverage.

Sanborns Seguros

Sanborns offers plans that cover hospitalization, surgeries, medical consultations, and optional dental coverage.

Insurance Brokers

Looking for more tailored options? Insurance brokers like Pacific Prime compare plans, catering to your unique needs for comprehensive healthcare.

Employer-Provided Insurance

Multinational companies often offer international health insurance as an employee benefit, safeguarding your well-being.

Professional Organizations

Some groups, such as chambers of commerce, provide group health insurance for members, presenting cost-effective choices.

When making a choice, it's important to review the nitty-gritty details like coverage specifics, exclusions, deductibles, and the healthcare provider network. If you're feeling unsure, seeking guidance from experts or insurance brokers can make the process smoother. They'll help you find the perfect plan that aligns with your health needs and budget.

Simplify Things. Choose Borderless.

When it comes to Canadian expats in Mexico, Borderless offers a crucial solution: comprehensive health insurance coverage. We understand the importance of providing your team access to quality healthcare while they work abroad. 

By partnering with us, you ensure your Canadian expatriates have the necessary health support, enhancing their experience and well-being. Our expertise in international employment simplifies the process, giving you peace of mind as you navigate the complexities of cross-border operations. Book a demo today to learn more. 

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