Health Insurance in China — What Au Pairs & Students Need
Whether you’re an au pair or a student in China, having the right health insurance matters. It helps you access quality care, manage unexpected costs, and focus on study, work, and cultural life—without stress. This guide explains coverage types, how hospitals work, what to check before you buy, and how to make a claim.
Why You Need Health Insurance in China
- Access to care: International clinics and private hospitals can be expensive without coverage.
- Cashless options: Some policies support direct billing (no upfront payment) at partner clinics.
- Emergencies: Coverage for ambulance, ER, and medical evacuation gives peace of mind.
- Visa & school requirements: Many programs request proof of insurance for the duration of your stay.
Coverage Types (Pick What Fits Your Stay)
Travel Insurance (Short Stays)
- Good for trips up to a few months.
- Focus on emergencies, ER, evacuation, and basic outpatient.
- Usually not ideal for ongoing treatment or check-ups.
Student/Exchange Plans
- Offered by some schools; may be required for enrollment.
- Balanced coverage for clinic visits, tests, and accidents.
- Check language support and claim process.
International Health Insurance
- Comprehensive; valid in China and often worldwide.
- Higher limits, optional dental/vision/mental health.
- Look for direct billing in Chengdu/major cities.
Employer/Host Benefits
- Some placements include basic accident or health cover.
- Confirm scope, limits, and if you need a top-up policy.
Stays over 6 months? Consider a student plan or international health policy with outpatient + emergency coverage.
Key Things to Check Before You Buy
- Coverage limits: ER, inpatient, outpatient, prescriptions, diagnostics, rehab.
- Direct billing network: Clinics/hospitals in Chengdu or your city; language support.
- Medical evacuation & repatriation: For serious emergencies or remote travel.
- Pre-existing conditions: Waiting periods, exclusions, and documentation needed.
- Mental health & counseling: Sessions included? Telehealth availability?
- Dental/vision: Optional add-ons; useful for longer stays.
- Sports & activities: Are hiking, cycling, or martial arts covered?
- Claims process: App upload, WeChat support, currency, reimbursement time.
- Excess/deductible & co-pay: Know what you pay per visit and the out-of-pocket max.
Hospitals & Clinics in China — How It Works
- Public hospitals: Broad services, busy, Chinese-first. Lower cost; bring a translator app or local friend.
- International clinics: English-speaking staff, appointment-based, higher cost; great if your plan has direct billing.
- What to bring: Passport, insurance card/policy PDF, payment method, and contact for your insurer.
- Receipts & paperwork: Ask for detailed invoices and medical reports for claims (keep originals).
How to Make a Claim (Simple Flow)
- Before the visit: Check your insurer’s network or call for a guarantee of payment if available.
- At the clinic: Show passport + policy; confirm direct billing or pay and claim later.
- Collect documents: Itemized invoice, diagnosis/treatment notes, prescriptions, payment proof.
- Submit: Use the insurer’s app/portal; upload scans within the time limit (often 30–90 days).
- Track: Keep copies; note claim number and expected reimbursement date.
FAQ — Health Insurance in China
Do I need insurance for a student visa?
Many schools require proof of coverage for enrollment and on-arrival registration.
Will my plan cover international clinics?
Yes if your policy includes those networks; check direct billing lists for your city.
What about prescriptions?
Most comprehensive plans cover doctor-prescribed meds bought at clinics/pharmacies—keep receipts.
Is mental health covered?
Increasingly yes, but limits vary. Look for counseling/therapy sessions and telehealth.
Do I need evacuation coverage?
Recommended, especially for travel to remote areas or adventure activities.
Quick Checklist — Set Up Your Coverage
- Choose plan type (travel / student / international health) to match your stay length.
- Confirm direct billing clinics in Chengdu and save their contacts.
- Store policy PDF, emergency numbers, and claim steps in your phone (and the cloud).
- Carry your passport (or high-quality copy) for clinic registration.
- Keep all receipts and medical notes for any reimbursements.
Get Covered with Masons Au Pair
We help you choose the right health insurance for your stay, share city-specific clinic options, and walk you through claims so you can focus on learning, caring, and exploring China with confidence.
Join Our Au Pair Program