British expats even more concerned over healthcare as no deal draws closer

Concerns over property, pension and taxes are causing fear and trepidation amongst British would-be expats as well as those already overseas, but where does healthcare feature in the law as well as in expats’ minds?

In the midst of the endless waffle about rights to remain, backstops, freedom to travel, economic downturns, recessions and more, British expats and those in the UK still dreaming of an escape from uncertainty are growing even more concerned about their futures. Many are retirees who’d long planned and saved for a new start overseas and can’t understand how it can all just be taken away. Healthcare for elderly expats is an urgent concern, with just over two months to go before the disaster of a no-deal Brexit, should Boris Johnson have his way.

According to experts, the situation as it now stands makes it difficult if not impossible for British expat retirees in the EU to plan ahead and secure healthcare coverage. The cost can be prohibitive, especially should there be pre-existing conditions and advancing age. Of the two alternatives of acceptance of the already proposed deal or a no-deal crash out of the EU, the latter is a worst case scenario on steroids, especially for those without current private health cover. Brexit itself cannot invalidate cover already in place, although it’s bad news as it means UK expats in EU countries will be treated as non-EU citizens by UK insurers, but there’s also the possibility of policy cancellations on a risk basis by providers.

For would-be expats, checking healthcare provisions in various countries before deciding where to settle is the best idea, as qualifications for state healthcare vary widely. For example, Portugal only requires a residency permit, whilst the French scheme also states various financial requirements. The deal already rejected by parliament ensured healthcare provision in Europe wouldn’t change for UK expats legally resident at the end of the transition period, but that’s now ancient history. It remains to be seen how the frantic rush by EU member states to prepare for a no-deal Brexit deals with the absolute priority of healthcare for British retirees unable to afford private cover.