Once one of the world’s poorest countries, Angola has attracted significant foreign investors thanks to the oil and diamond industries. A civil spanning three decades (1975-2002), damaged much of the once fertile countryside. Even though the government has reestablished chiefly law and order in the region –drafting a new constitution in 2010– there is still a strong separatist threat in the area.
Healthcare in Angola
Malaria and HIV are quite common in Angola, and it is important that you get the proper vaccinations if you are going to travel or live there. If you are in a remote area, air evacuation will be required as the roads and local hospitals will not be satisfactory. Unfortunately, healthcare in Angola is well below Western standards, so it is vital for expats and short-term visitors to have an Angola expat insurance plan that covers the inside and outside of the country. Generally, most of the medical facilities are often found in Luanda, but the medical staff and up to date medical equipment is lacking. Many of the clinics and hospitals have improved in the past 10 years, but poor sanitation and resources mean that most expats will want to seem medical care in South Africa or Europe. Expat Financial can source international health plans for local nationals in some circumstances.
Angola Expat Insurance Plans for Expatriates
If you reside in Angola or plan to move there, your first priority should be to buy expat insurance, such as life insurance or global healthcare. obtain adequate expatriate insurance coverage.
Angola’s rapidly growing economy, driven primarily by oil and natural resources, has made it an attractive destination for expatriates. We should note that healthcare system and infrastructure require expats to be well-prepared to navigate the risks associated with living and working in the country.
Health Risks in Angola
Angola is also a tropical country with health risks like malaria, yellow fever, and other vector-borne diseases. Travel insurance alone often falls short of covering the costs of treatment for these conditions, which can escalate quickly. Expats should consider comprehensive insurance policies that cover preventative measures, vaccinations, and emergency medical evacuation.
Key Coverage for Expat Insurance for Angola
- Medical Coverage: Ensure your policy includes coverage for hospitalization, outpatient care, specialist consultations, and prescriptions.
- Emergency Evacuation: Medical evacuation to a nearby country with advanced healthcare facilities (like South Africa) or to your home country is vital. Policies should include air ambulance services and repatriation.
- Preventative Care: Given Angola’s health risks, coverage for vaccines, malaria prophylaxis, and regular health screenings is essential.
- Maternity Care: If you’re relocating with your family or planning to start one, ensure your insurance includes maternity care, as childbirth can be costly in Angola’s private hospitals. Note that individual expat plans have a 12 month waiting period for maternity care.
- Dental and Vision Care: Comprehensive plans often include dental and vision coverage, which can be important given the limited availability of these services locally.
- Life and Disability Insurance: Angola’s road safety record and occupational risks in industries like oil and construction make life and disability insurance a prudent choice for expats.
- Third-Party Liability: Expats driving in Angola, where traffic regulations can be poorly enforced, should ensure their policies cover liability for accidents or damages caused to others.
- Kidnap & Ransom Coverage: Like most countries in the region, you should consider special risk coverage when living in Angola
Choosing the Right Provider
When selecting an insurance provider, look for companies experienced in serving expats in Angola. We have several that will meet your requirements. If your company is sending expats there, we can also discuss a global benefit plan. Note that local providers may offer competitive rates but might lack international firms’ global reach and services.
Ensure your chosen provider has a reliable customer support system, hospital direct billing access, and a straightforward claims process. You should also read reviews and speak with other expatriates to gauge the quality of service.
Tips for Managing Expat Insurance in Angola
- Carry Claims Contacts: Have a list of local emergency numbers, including your insurer’s 24/7 helpline.
- Understand Policy Limits: Familiarize yourself with your policy’s limits, exclusions, and network of providers to avoid unexpected costs.
- Stay Updated on Risks: Monitor travel advisories and updates on health and safety risks, such as disease outbreaks or vaccinations, to ensure your policy remains adequate.
If you require a quote for Angola, contact Expat Financial today for a quote.
