Many expatriates living abroad do not have international private health insurance; instead, they rely on local health coverage. The quality and sufficiency of this coverage can vary greatly from one country to another. Which countries are known for having the best healthcare systems?
Methodology
Ranking healthcare systems involves evaluating multiple factors, including accessibility of care, the competence of healthcare professionals, coverage, infrastructure, costs, and medicine availability.
We based our analysis on three authoritative studies: the , the , and the , which draws from global organizations such as , , and . By synthesizing findings from these reports, we identified the top five healthcare systems with the highest overall scores.
Taiwan's healthcare system
Taiwan is often at the top in various healthcare rankings. Its system stands out due to comprehensive coverage, high-quality care, easy accessibility, and modern services.
How it works
ensures access to a broad array of services, including primary and specialist care, hospitalization, prescriptions, dental services, and traditional Chinese medicine. The program invests in new medical technologies, enhancing care quality. Notably, is advanced, and the "My Health Bank" app effectively manages and recommends treatments based on patients' health records.
For expats in Taiwan
Foreigners with regular residence status are eligible for the 罢补颈飞补苍'蝉听狈贬滨, which becomes mandatory after residing in the country聽for over six months.
Costs
are income-based and shared among employers, employees, and the government. The premium rate is 5.17% of an individual's salary. Employed individuals pay 30% of this rate, with employers covering 60% and the government 10%. This is relatively low compared to other countries. Moreover, an interest-free loan system supports low-income individuals who cannot afford their premiums.
Australia's healthcare system
How it works
Australia's healthcare system is renowned for its high-quality care, provided by skilled health professionals and supported by advanced medical technology. , Australia's public health insurance scheme, ensures universal access to essential healthcare services. This includes consultations with general practitioners or specialists, diagnostic tests such as X-rays, most surgical procedures, and eye exams by optometrists.
Patients have the option to choose between public and private healthcare providers. Opting for private insurance can offer quicker access to certain procedures and additional services, such as dental care.
For expats in Australia
Expatriates must reside in Australia and possess a valid passport or Immicard, along with a valid visa, to qualify for health insurance under Medicare.
Costs
The healthcare system is funded by a "Medicare tax," which is of taxable income. Individuals earning below a specified income threshold are either exempt from this tax or pay a reduced rate.
Canada's healthcare system
How it works
Canada's healthcare system is admired for its equity and the high quality of its coverage, consisting of . It provides essential health services such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and diagnostic tests at no direct charge to patients.
However, prescription drugs, dental and eye care, ambulance services, and home support are not included in basic coverage. Many provinces offer subsidies or additional insurance plans to cover these services.
It's important to note that there are significant variations in services and coverage across different provinces and territories.
For expats in Canada
Expatriates must meet specific eligibility criteria in their province or territory of residence to qualify for public healthcare. In , for instance, permanent residents, temporary workers, some international students, and their dependents can receive health insurance. A common requirement across Canada is a 3-month waiting period during which private insurance is necessary.
Costs
Basic coverage under the Canadian healthcare system is funded by taxes. In some provinces, additional fees may be required to maintain this coverage.
The Netherlands' healthcare system
How it works
The is celebrated for its accessibility, preventative care quality, and fairness. It features state-regulated coverage, where the government sets premium levels, but private insurance companies administer the policies. These companies must accept all applicants, regardless of health status.
All insurers provide a that covers general practitioner services, specialist medical care, hospital care, dental services for children up to 18, and maternity care.
For expats in the Netherlands
Expatriates need a valid residence permit to qualify for Dutch health insurance; a temporary residence permit does not suffice. Once eligible, expatriates must register for health insurance within four months of their arrival.
Costs
The standard health insurance package involves a fixed monthly premium, which for 2025 averages about 158.72 euros. Additionally, an income-based contribution must be paid alongside the premium.
Sweden's healthcare system
How it works
known for its high quality and comprehensive access for all residents. The system is particularly strong in preventive care and seamlessly integrates healthcare with social services, benefiting the elderly and those with chronic conditions.
Essential medical services provided include basic care, hospital treatments, and specialist consultations.
For expats in Sweden
Foreign nationals who hold a permanent residence permit or a long-term work permit are eligible for the same healthcare services as Swedish citizens. To access these services, expatriates must first obtain a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer) by registering with the Swedish Tax Agency ().
Costs
The Swedish healthcare system is primarily funded through taxation and does not require fixed monthly premiums. Instead, fees are charged at the point of service. To maintain affordability, Sweden has a high-cost protection scheme that caps annual healthcare expenditures. Once an individual reaches this cap, further costs are subsidized by the state.
