8 common life insurance mistakes expats make — and how to avoid them
Getting life insurance wrong as an expat can have devastating consequences for your family. These are the most common — and most avoidable — mistakes we see.
Relying entirely on employer-provided cover
Why it's a problem
Employer life insurance typically ends the day you leave the company. Many expats assume their work cover is permanent — it's not. The moment you change jobs or your employer changes its benefits package, you may have zero protection.
The fix
Always maintain a personal life insurance policy alongside any employer cover. Your personal policy belongs to you, regardless of where you work.
Assuming they can't get cover in Thailand
Why it's a problem
A surprising number of expats believe that as a foreigner, they simply cannot get life insurance in Thailand. This is false. Most major Thai insurers welcome expats with valid visas, including retirement and work permits.
The fix
Contact a licensed broker who specialises in expat policies. In most cases, you can get covered in days, not weeks.
Underinsuring — choosing the cheapest, smallest policy
Why it's a problem
Buying a small policy when your family needs much more to maintain their lifestyle is a false economy. Many expats choose low coverage to keep premiums minimal, leaving their families dangerously exposed.
The fix
Calculate how much income your family would need for 5–10 years, add any debts or mortgages, and choose coverage accordingly. A financial advisor can help you reach the right number.
Not updating beneficiaries after major life events
Why it's a problem
Divorce, remarriage, having children, or a death in the family — any of these should trigger a review of your beneficiary designations. Outdated beneficiaries mean the payout goes to the wrong person.
The fix
Review your beneficiaries annually and after every major life event. It takes five minutes and could save enormous family conflict.
Hiding pre-existing conditions on the application
Why it's a problem
Some applicants are tempted to omit medical history to secure lower premiums. This is insurance fraud — and it means your claim will almost certainly be denied when your family needs the money most.
The fix
Always disclose your full medical history honestly. A good broker will find you the best policy that fairly accounts for your health status.
Waiting until they're older or 'more settled'
Why it's a problem
Life insurance premiums are based primarily on age and health. Every year you delay, premiums increase. A medical condition acquired while you're uninsured may result in exclusions or even denial of cover later.
The fix
Get covered as early as possible. The cost of waiting is real and compounds year on year.
Not understanding policy portability
Why it's a problem
Many expats buy a Thai policy without checking what happens if they leave Thailand. Some policies become difficult or impossible to maintain from abroad.
The fix
Before buying, always ask: 'Can I maintain this policy from overseas?' A good broker will prioritise portable or internationally-friendly policies for expat clients.
Treating it as a set-and-forget decision
Why it's a problem
Your life insurance needs change as your life changes. Having a child, a new mortgage, or a significant pay rise all change how much cover you actually need.
The fix
Review your life insurance every 2–3 years or after any major life event. Your policy should grow with your responsibilities.
Don't make these mistakes — read on
Why Expats Need Life Insurance
Understand the financial protection gap that expat life creates.
What Happens If You Move Countries?
Understanding policy portability before you buy.
How Much Cover Do You Need?
The right coverage amount avoids underinsuring.
Expat Life Insurance
Overview of all options available to expats in Thailand.
Infinity Expat Life
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