Do I need Insurance when working abroad?

If you’re planning to take a gap year, switch careers or just experience life in a new country while working abroad, getting a job abroad is an incredible way to do it. You’ll gain international work experience, meet people from all over the world and discover what life looks like beyond your home country.

But in the middle of all the planning, there’s one thing many people forget: Do you need insurance when getting a job abroad?

The short answer is yes. And here’s why it matters more than you might think.

Why Insurance when working abroad is so important

Once you leave your home country, things change. Whether you’re working abroad as a content moderator in Greece, a game presenter in Cyprus or a customer support agent in Portugal, you are no longer covered by your national healthcare system in the same way as you are at home.

Without proper insurance when working abroad, unexpected problems can quickly turn into major expenses. Here are just a few situations where insurance is essential:

• You get sick and need medical care
• You’re in an accident, either on the job or in your free time
• You lose your luggage or have valuables stolen while travelling
• You need to return home suddenly due to a family emergency
• You require legal help while abroad

Having the right insurance means you can focus on enjoying your job abroad and making the most of your experience, without worrying about “what if”. The European Consumer Centre’s guide to health and travel insurance explains what to look for when moving across borders.

What kind of Insurance do I need when working abroad?

The type of insurance you need depends on the country, the length of your stay and the type of work you’ll be doing. But here are some basics you should always look into:

Travel insurance
This covers medical treatment, accidents, theft and emergency repatriation. It’s essential for anyone living or working abroad, especially during a gap year or temporary contract.

Workplace insurance
Some employers offer coverage for workplace injuries or accidents, but not all. Always read your contract and ask your recruiter for details before you sign anything.

Liability insurance
If you accidentally cause damage or harm to someone else or their property, this kind of insurance protects you legally and financially.

Health insurance abroad
Some countries require proof of health insurance as part of your visa application or residence permit. In some cases, it must meet specific local requirements.

Insurance Checklist before starting a job abroad

Before you pack your bag and fly off, take a moment to go through this checklist. It can save you time, money and stress down the line:

• Are you fully covered by travel insurance for your entire stay abroad?
• Have you checked whether your employer provides any kind of insurance?
• Have you read the fine print of your policy?
• Will your insurance still be valid if you change jobs while abroad?
• Are you covered for sports or higher-risk activities?

Talking to both your recruiter and an insurance provider before departure can make a big difference. At Job Squad, we recommend doing this early in your planning process.

Job Squad can help you work abroad with peace of mind

At Job Squad, we support people from across Europe in finding their next job abroad and that includes helping you prepare for the practical stuff, like housing, visas and insurance. We believe you should feel safe while working abroad so you can focus on what really matters: growing as a person, exploring new places and making memories you’ll never forget.

Looking for destinations with simple visa processes? Read our guide to choosing the right country for your next job abroad

Final Tip: Don’t skip the Insurance

Getting a job abroad is exciting, but it’s still real life and real life sometimes throws curveballs. Insurance might not be the most exciting thing to plan, but it’s one of the most important.

Make sure you’re covered, ask questions, read the fine print and start your adventure knowing you’re protected.

Want help finding your next role abroad? Check out our latest job offers here.