Hospital & Surgical Explained

Expats choosing health insurance in Singapore should assess the following points:

1. Coverage scope: Does the plan cover inpatient hospitalisation, outpatient visits, specialist consultations, and emergency treatment?
2. Hospital network: Are your preferred hospitals and clinics on the plan’s panel?
3. Annual coverage limit: Is the limit high enough to cover serious illness or long hospital stays in Singapore’s private healthcare system?
4. Portability: If you may relocate, does the plan follow you to other countries?
5. Integrated Shield Plans: If you hold a Dependant Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass, you may qualify for a local Integrated Shield Plan, which is often more affordable for Singapore-based care.

Working with a licensed insurance broker gives you access to plans from multiple insurers rather than being presented with a single provider’s options.

Local health insurance plans in Singapore are generally more affordable and aligned with the local healthcare system. They work well for long-term residents who receive most of their care in Singapore. International health insurance plans offer broader coverage across multiple countries. They suit expats who travel frequently, plan to receive treatment in their home country, or are based in Singapore for a short period. Consulting a licensed insurance broker, like David Ho, helps you compare across plans from multiple providers rather than being limited to one insurer’s options.

The employer pays the full cost of medical insurance for Work Permit and S Pass holders. Under MOM rules, the premium cannot be deducted from the worker’s salary or wages. For Employment Pass holders, health insurance is commonly employer-provided but is not mandated under MOM’s foreign worker medical insurance requirements.

Yes. Employment Pass holders are not covered under mandatory employer schemes, but they can purchase local health insurance plans or international plans from licensed insurers in Singapore. Dependant Pass and Long-Term Visit Pass holders are also eligible for Integrated Shield Plans from local insurers.

From 1 July 2025, the minimum annual coverage is S$60,000 per worker. The first S$15,000 of medical bills is fully covered by the insurer. For bills above S$15,000, the insurer covers 75% and the employer pays 25%, up to the S$60,000 annual limit. Employers cannot pass this cost to the worker.

Yes. Employers in Singapore must provide medical insurance for all Work Permit and S Pass holders. The MOM sets a minimum annual coverage of S$60,000 per worker, effective from 1 July 2025. This requirement applies across all sectors including construction, marine, manufacturing, services, and domestic work. Employment Pass holders are not covered under this mandate.