Health Insurance in China: How to Protect Your Family?

Moving to China with your family is an exciting adventure, but it can come with challenges—especially regarding healthcare. Indeed, the Chinese healthcare system is complex and differs significantly from France, making access to quality medical care difficult for expatriates.

To ensure the best medical care for your loved ones, it is essential to have an international health insurance plan tailored to your needs.

As trusted experts in expat health insurance in Asia and official CFE representative in China and Hong Kong, Alea provides all the essential information you need.

1. Understanding the Healthcare System in China

China’s healthcare system is a mix of public and private hospitals.

• Public hospitals – More affordable but often overcrowded, with variable quality of care.
• Private hospitals & international clinics – Offer higher standards and English-speaking doctors, but at very high costs.

Challenges for Expats in Public Hospitals

• Long waiting times and inconsistent service quality.
• Language barrier – Most doctors do not speak English or French.
• Need for upfront payments, as international insurance is not always accepted.

Why Private & International Clinics?

• High-quality medical care with internationally trained doctors.
• English-speaking staff for easier communication.
• Comfortable facilities similar to Western hospitals.

💡Did you know? Without expat health insurance, medical bills in private hospitals can be extremely expensive!

2. Why Do You Need Health Insurance for Your Family in China?

As an expatriate, your family’s health coverage should be a top priority to handle both routine and emergency medical needs.

• Pediatric consultations & vaccinations – China’s vaccination schedule differs from France, so it’s crucial to access high-quality vaccines.
• Dental & vision care – Often not covered by CFE and very costly in private clinics.
• Hospitalization & emergencies – International insurance ensures access to the best hospitals and avoids high medical bills.
• Maternity & childbirth – If you’re planning to grow your family, choosing a maternity-friendly insurance plan is essential.

3. How to Choose the Best Health Insurance for Your Family in China?

There are different types of health coverage for expats, and it’s crucial to compare plans carefully:

• Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE): Maintains link to the French system but does not cover all medical costs in China
• International Health Insurance: Allows access to private hospitals & emergency repatriation but has higher cost than CFE alone

💡 Did you know? Combining CFE with a top-up international plan can provide comprehensive coverage at a lower cost.

Check out our full guide on choosing the best insurance plan for expats in China here!

4. How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in China?

The cost of expat health insurance depends on several factors:

• Age & health condition of each family member.
• Coverage level (hospitalization only vs. full coverage).
• Inclusion of maternity benefits (for families planning a pregnancy).

The estimated cost of international health insurance in China is around 2,000 – 10,000 Euros per year for a family, depending on the plan and benefits.

5. Our Recommendations for Optimal Protection

• Get insured before moving – This avoids any coverage gaps.
• Choose a plan with a large healthcare network – Easier access to top hospitals.
• Check exclusions & waiting periods – Some treatments may not be covered immediately.
• Anticipate your family’s needs – If you have young children, ensure maternity and pediatric care are included.

As a leading insurance broker for expats and official CFE partner in China, Alea assists the French and expat community in finding the best health insurance solutions.

With China's complex healthcare system and the high cost of private care, we compare top-tier health insurers—including APRIL, Henner, and MSH—to secure the best coverage at the best price for you and your family!