10 Best Insurance Companies in Austria for Expats

Moving to Austria is exciting, but handling insurance as a foreigner might not be so easy. Although Austria offers one of Europe’s most stable and high-performing insurance markets, expats often struggle to understand which companies are trusted, affordable, and expat-friendly. 

According to Statista, Austria’s insurance market generated more than €20 billion in premiums in 2024, showing how large and competitive the sector has become. Moreover, OECD data reveal that 95% of residents have health insurance, which proves how central insurance is in Austria’s daily life.

However, many expats underestimate the challenge of choosing the right provider. A recent Allianz survey found that 68% of expats in Austria consider insurance a top priority when relocating, yet many still choose providers without fully understanding coverage terms, exclusions, and pricing differences. 

Therefore, selecting the right insurer can significantly affect your long-term stability, especially regarding health, car, life, and business insurance.

In this guide, I will walk you through the 10 best insurance companies in Austria for expats based on coverage, reliability, customer service, digital experience, and international support. If you want a trusted list built on industry knowledge, this is it.

 Overview of Austria’s Insurance Industry for Foreigners

Austria’s insurance sector is one of the most organized in Europe, and expats benefit from clear regulations, predictable pricing, and strong consumer protection. Since the country operates within EU guidelines, foreigners from EU and non-EU nations receive consistent treatment, although requirements may differ depending on residency status.

The three most common types of insurance for expats include:

• Health insurance (public or private)
• Car insurance (mandatory if you own a vehicle)
• Liability insurance (highly recommended and often required in rentals)

The fact that Austria uses a mix of public and private systems, expats often ask which insurance companies provide the most transparent, English-friendly, and flexible coverage. Although the market is broad, a few insurers have developed strong reputations for catering to international residents.

Before choosing a provider, however, expats should understand that Austrian insurers follow strict guidelines under the Financial Market Authority (FMA) and must comply with EU consumer protection laws. Therefore, you can expect high standards regardless of the company you choose.

Still, the differences lie in pricing, customer support, digital tools, claims handling, and expat-friendly services. This is why selecting the right company matters a lot.

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Criteria for Selecting the Best Insurance Providers in Austria

While Austria offers many options, expats should choose insurers based on the following key factors:

1. Expat-Friendly Support

Insurance terminology can be confusing, especially in German. Therefore, companies with English-speaking customer support are easier to work with. Moreover, they simplify claims and policy renewals.

2. Comprehensive Coverage Options

The fact that expats have varying needs, the best insurers offer multiple products such as health, life, car, legal, travel, and household insurance. A one-stop solution is often more convenient. It makes it easier to bundle policies to save costs.

3. International Portability

Many foreigners move frequently within Europe. Therefore, insurers with cross-border coverage and relocation options are highly valuable. If you move from Germany to Austria or from Austria to Switzerland, you won’t need to start all over again. All you need to do is notify your insurance company.

4. Digital Access

While most Austrian insurance companies now offer apps or online portals, some excel in digital efficiency. Quick online claims can make a big difference.

5. Pricing and Transparency

Although Austria is a relatively affordable insurance market, pricing varies significantly between companies. Therefore, insurers with clear pricing structures are more reliable.

6. Reputation and Claims Handling

Fast claims processing builds trust. Expats should always choose companies with excellent service ratings, especially for liability and car insurance.

With these criteria in mind, let’s explore the top 10 insurers, each evaluated based on real-world performance and expat-friendly services.

The 10 Best Insurance Companies in Austria for Expats

Below are the most trusted and expat-friendly insurance companies in Austria, based on experience, customer satisfaction, financial stability, and coverage diversity.

1. UNIQA Insurance Group

UNIQA is one of Austria’s largest and most established insurers, serving millions across Central and Eastern Europe. Expats often choose UNIQA because its policies are comprehensive, flexible, and available in English. In addition, the company offers strong digital services and fast claims processing.

UNIQA is especially popular among foreigners seeking health insurance and household coverage. Moreover, its car insurance packages include optional add-ons like roadside assistance, legal coverage, and natural hazard protection. These features matter because Austria’s alpine climate can lead to hail and flood risks, which expats often underestimate.

The company also offers plans tailored for self-employed individuals, making it ideal for digital nomads, freelancers, and business travelers. UNIQA’s long history and extensive network ensure stability, which is a major advantage for expats who want predictable service without surprises.

2. Allianz Austria

Allianz is another major player, known globally for its outstanding coverage options. Expats trust Allianz due to its international support network and excellent English-language assistance. Moreover, a survey by Allianz showed that almost 70% of expats in Austria consider insurance essential, demonstrating how influential the company is among foreign residents.

Allianz excels in car insurance, health insurance, and life insurance, offering plans with customizable coverage levels.  Expats relocating from other EU countries find their transition smoother.because Allianz has deep experience handling international claims. In addition, Allianz offers worldwide travel and relocation insurance, which is perfect for globally mobile professionals.

Furthermore, Allianz’s digital tools are among the best in Austria, enabling quick claims submissions and policy updates online. This makes the company ideal for busy expatriates who prefer a hassle-free insurance experience.

3. Wiener Städtische Versicherung (VIG Group)

Wiener Städtische is one of Austria’s oldest and most reputable insurers. As part of the Vienna Insurance Group, it covers millions of clients across Europe. Expats appreciate its strong customer service, competitive pricing, and large branch network.

The company offers robust household, legal, health, and car insurance packages. Many foreigners choose Wiener Städtische because it provides flexible health insurance options for both employees and self-employed individuals. Moreover, their liability insurance is one of the most affordable in the market, which is especially useful for expats renting apartments.

Although digital tools are improving, the company is still known primarily for personalized in-office service. However, this traditional approach benefits expats who prefer face-to-face interactions and detailed explanations in English.

4. Generali Austria

Generali is another top-rated insurer offering an excellent mix of coverage, affordability, and expat-friendly services. Foreigners transitioning from other parts of the world find it easy to adapt because the company operates in over 50 countries.

Generali provides a wide range of insurance products, including car, household, life, business, health, and travel insurance. Moreover, their customer service is known for being efficient and friendly, which is helpful for newcomers who may not yet speak fluent German.

The company also offers innovative digital tools and mobile apps, making policy management smoother. Additionally, Generali’s strong regional presence ensures quick claims handling and easy support across Austria.

5. Helvetia Versicherung

Helvetia is a Swiss-origin insurance provider with a powerful presence in Austria. Expats love Helvetia because it offers highly customizable packages, particularly for car, home, and travel insurance.

Helvetia’s car insurance stands out for its natural hazard protection, which covers hail, storms, and floods. These policies are important for Austria’s climate conditions. Moreover, their English-language customer support is reliable, making the onboarding process easier.

The company is also known for its corporate and professional insurance solutions. Therefore, if you are an expat entrepreneur or freelancer, Helvetia is a strong choice.

6. Merkur Versicherung

Merkur is one of Austria’s top choices for private health insurance. Many expats select Merkur because it offers flexible plans, preventive care benefits, and excellent wellness programs.

Moreover, Merkur provides mental health services, fitness allowances, and rehabilitation benefits, which are rarely found in standard health insurance plans. This makes the company popular among expat families and long-term residents.

In addition, Merkur offers solid accident and life insurance packages. However, their strongest area remains health coverage, especially for foreigners looking for faster access to specialists.

7. DKV Austria (Health Insurance Specialist)

DKV specializes in health insurance and is known for its premium coverage options. Because expats often need more flexibility than Austria’s public system offers, DKV plans provide access to private hospitals and shorter waiting periods.

Moreover, DKV is part of ERGO Group, one of Europe’s most trusted insurance groups. This gives foreigners peace of mind, especially when handling cross-border medical claims.

Although DKV can be more expensive than other health insurers, its premium services justify the cost. If you want top-tier health insurance as an expat, DKV is a strong contender.

8. BAWAG Insurance

BAWAG offers straightforward insurance products that appeal to newcomers who want simple, affordable coverage. Their policies include home, liability, car, and travel insurance.

Expats who open bank accounts with BAWAG often choose their insurance packages for convenience. This is possible because they have a wide banking network. Moreover, their digital claims system is fast and user-friendly.

Although BAWAG does not offer as many premium options as others on this list, its affordability and simplicity make it ideal for young expats, students, and budget-conscious families.

9. Zürich Versicherung (Zurich Insurance Group)

Zurich Insurance is known worldwide for its financial strength and professional service. Expats trust Zurich because of its global reputation and international coverage options.

The company offers excellent car insurance policies with add-ons such as extended accident protection, natural hazard coverage, and roadside services. Moreover, Zurich’s life insurance and pension products are among the strongest in Austria.

Zurich is particularly well-suited for expat professionals, especially those relocating from Switzerland, Germany, or the UK.

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10. Mobiliar (Cross-Border Friendly)

Mobiliar is a Swiss-based insurer with a growing presence in Austria. Expats appreciate Mobiliar for its transparent pricing, easy claims handling, and expat-friendly services.

Although the company is not as large as UNIQA or Allianz, it excels in cross-border coverage options, which are highly beneficial for foreigners who travel frequently within Europe.

Mobiliar’s home, travel, and liability insurance products are especially popular among expats seeking straightforward coverage without complicated terms.

Comparison of Benefits, Pricing & Customer Service

Although each insurer on this list is excellent, they differ in pricing, scope, and expat friendliness. Here is a simplified comparison:

Most Expensive (Premium-Level Service)

• DKV
• Allianz
• Zurich

These companies offer premium health and car insurance, quick claims, and international support.

Most Affordable

• BAWAG
• Wiener Städtische

These are ideal for students, young professionals, and budget-conscious newcomers.

Best Digital Tools

• UNIQA
• Allianz
• Generali

Their mobile apps allow quick claims, policy adjustments, and easy online support.

Best for Health Insurance

• DKV
• Merkur
• UNIQA

These companies offer strong private health insurance plans with fast specialist access.

Best for Expat Support

• Allianz
• UNIQA
• General

They provide multilingual support and international relocation assistance.

7 Tips for Expats Choosing the Right Insurance Plan in Austria

Choosing insurance as an expat can be confusing. Here are practical tips to simplify the process:

1. Compare at least three providers. Even if your employer recommends a company, compare policies because pricing varies significantly.
2. Ask for English-language documentation. This prevents misunderstandings, especially regarding exclusions.
3. Understand deductibles (“Selbstbehalt”). Higher deductibles reduce premiums but increase out-of-pocket costs.
4. Consider natural hazard coverage. Austria experiences hail, floods, and storms, so add-ons matter.
5. Check international coverage. If you travel often, select insurers with EU-wide protection.
6. Confirm if you need supplementary health insurance. Public health insurance is good, but private add-ons reduce waiting times.
7. Don’t underestimate liability insurance. It is cheap but extremely valuable for apartment rentals.

5 Common Mistakes Expats Make When Buying Insurance

Many foreigners make avoidable errors. Here are the most common ones:

1. Choosing the cheapest policy. Cheap plans often miss essential protections, leading to expensive claims later.
2. Ignoring exclusions. Foreigners sometimes assume coverage applies automatically. However, exclusions can be extensive.
3. Not checking English support. Working with insurers who can’t explain policies clearly leads to misunderstandings.
4. Skipping liability insurance. This is one of Austria’s most important protections for renters.
5. Assuming health insurance is automatic. Not all expats qualify for public health insurance immediately.

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• Top 15 Fastest-Growing Insurance Companies in the United States by Premiums

Conclusion

Expat life in Austria is more secure when you choose reliable insurance. Because the country offers a robust, highly regulated insurance market, foreigners have access to excellent providers. However, the challenge is selecting a company that understands expat needs.

The insurers listed in this guide: UNIQA, Allianz, Wiener Städtische, Generali, Helvetia, Merkur, DKV, BAWAG, Zurich, and Mobiliar represent the best insurance companies in Austria for expats.

In conclusion, Austria offers one of Europe’s most reliable insurance environments. When you choose the right insurance provider, you protect your health, belongings, car, family, and long-term peace of mind.