The best insurance in Ireland

Discover the best insurance in Ireland with our comprehensive guide. From health to car insurance, explore top providers like Vhi, Laya, Irish Life Health, First Ireland, AXA, and Aviva. Make informed decisions to safeguard your family and assets.

Por: Talita Melz em March 18, 2024 Última atualização em: April 19, 2024

Do you know about insurance?

Insurance is a contract between an individual or an entity and an insurance company. It is designed to provide financial protection and reimbursement against losses and unexpected events. In exchange for payment of a premium, the insurance company agrees to compensate the insured for specified losses or damages as outlined in the policy.

How many types of insurance?

There are various types of insurance, including:

Life insurance: Provides a payout to beneficiaries upon the insured individual’s death.
Health insurance: Covers medical and surgical expenses incurred by the insured, helping to manage healthcare costs.
Property insurance: Protects against damage to or loss of property, such as home or car insurance.
Auto insurance: Provides financial protection against physical damage or bodily injury resulting from traffic collisions.
Disability insurance: Replaces a portion of the insured individual’s income if they are unable to work due to illness or injury.

Insurance is essential because it helps individuals and businesses manage risks and provides financial security. It serves as a crucial tool in safeguarding against unexpected events and ensuring peace of mind.

Do you need private health insurance in Ireland?

You can choose between the public and private healthcare systems in Ireland. It is free to use public hospital in-patient and out-patient services, but not all outpatient services are free. A Medical Card will allow you to access most health services for free if your income is low. The hospital will treat you for free, but you may have to pay for charges and GP visits if you do not qualify.

Health insurance providers in Ireland

We examined the basic plans of major health insurance providers in Ireland, including Vhi, Laya, and Irish Life Health.

Vhi

Vhi Healthcare is one of the leading health insurance providers in Ireland with a rich history dating back to 1957. As Ireland’s largest health insurance company, Vhi offers a wide range of health insurance plans tailored to individuals, families, and corporate clients. The company is known for its extensive network of healthcare providers, including hospitals and clinics, providing its members with access to quality medical services.

Vhi’s health insurance plans encompass various levels of coverage, from essential healthcare to comprehensive medical benefits, ensuring that members can find a plan that suits their specific needs. The company also strives to innovate by introducing new services and digital solutions to enhance the overall healthcare experience for its customers.

With a strong focus on customer service and a commitment to promoting health and wellness, Vhi Healthcare continues to be a trusted partner in providing reliable and comprehensive health insurance coverage for the people of Ireland.

Pros

An adult’s basic health plan at an affordable price.
Cover in a wide range of private and public hospitals with semi-private room accommodation.
Health and wellbeing services delivered by a multidisciplinary team.
Emergency treatment abroad is included in the basic plan (Urgent care clinic for minor injuries and illnesses).
Medical costs of in-patient diagnosis and tests covered.

Cons

The basic plan does not cover cancer accommodation.

Laya

Laya Healthcare is a prominent health insurance provider in Ireland, known for its innovative approach to healthcare solutions and commitment to customer satisfaction. With a focus on personalized care and flexibility, Laya Healthcare offers a diverse range of health insurance plans designed to meet the unique needs of individuals, families, and corporate clients.

The company’s emphasis on customer-centric services is evident in its extensive network of healthcare providers, ensuring that members have access to quality medical facilities and professionals. Laya Healthcare is also dedicated to promoting health and wellness, offering programs and initiatives to support its members’ overall well-being.

Laya Healthcare’s reputation for exceptional customer service, coupled with its comprehensive range of health insurance plans and a dynamic approach to healthcare, has established it as a trusted and reliable health insurance provider in Ireland.

Pros

Cancer accommodation is included in the basic plan.
The basic plan has a high outpatient policy limit.
Outpatient mental health care is included in the basic plan.
Several urgent care centers and clinics.

Cons

Minor injury and illness facilities may charge more for consultations.

Irish Life Health

Irish Life Health is a prominent health insurance provider in Ireland, known for its comprehensive range of health insurance plans and a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. As part of the Irish Life Group, a leading financial services and insurance company in Ireland, Irish Life Health is committed to providing innovative and flexible healthcare solutions to meet the diverse needs of individuals, families, and corporate clients.

The company’s health insurance plans are designed to offer a range of coverage options, from essential healthcare to comprehensive medical benefits, ensuring that members have access to high-quality care when needed. Irish Life Health also focuses on promoting health and wellness, offering a variety of programs and initiatives to support its members’ overall well-being.

With a reputation for exceptional customer service, a wide network of healthcare providers, and a commitment to enhancing the healthcare experience for its members, Irish Life Health has become a trusted and reliable health insurance provider in Ireland.

Pros

Some plans offer discounts and free travel insurance.
Emergency dental care is included in the basic plan.
The plan covers HPV vaccines.
Emergency treatment abroad is included in some plans.
Home care services.

Cons

Other insurers offer cheaper basic plans.

Car insurance providers in Ireland

First Ireland

First Ireland is a well-established insurance broker based in Ireland, offering a wide range of insurance services, including car insurance. As a leading provider in the insurance industry, First Ireland is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction and its ability to tailor insurance solutions to meet the individual needs of its clients.

The company works with a panel of reputable insurance underwriters to offer comprehensive coverage options for car insurance, providing customers with choices to suit their specific requirements and budgets. First Ireland’s expertise, personalized service, and competitive offerings have contributed to its strong reputation in the market.

With a focus on professionalism and integrity, First Ireland’s dedication to assisting customers in finding the right car insurance coverage has made it a trusted and reliable partner for individuals and businesses seeking quality insurance solutions in Ireland.

Pros

Reasonable rates.
Bonus protection for no-claims.
Insurance for disabled drivers and road rescue.
“Riding other cars” coverage protects you when driving another person’s car.
A monthly payment plan is available.

Cons

Discount only for those without a claim up to 9 years old.

AXA Insurance

AXA is a prominent insurance provider in Ireland, offering a comprehensive range of insurance products, including car insurance. With a strong presence and reputation in the insurance industry, AXA is known for its commitment to customer service, innovative products, and reliable coverage options.

As a leading car insurance provider in Ireland, AXA offers a variety of car insurance plans designed to cater to the diverse needs of drivers. These may include options such as comprehensive coverage, third-party, fire and theft, and third-party-only policies. AXA’s car insurance policies often include benefits such as breakdown assistance, legal protection, and optional extras to customize coverage according to individual requirements.

With a focus on quality service, efficient claims processing, and a solid network of support, AXA has established itself as a trusted choice for individuals and families seeking reliable car insurance coverage in Ireland.

Pros

75% no claims discount.
10% online discount.
“Drive other cars” covers you if you drive another person’s vehicle.
“Travel Europe” offers three months of protection when you drive across the continent, and it resets every year.
Comprehensive, fire, and theft coverage only for child car seats.

Cons

Insurers with higher rates

Aviva Insurance Ireland

Aviva Insurance is a leading provider of car insurance in Ireland, known for its comprehensive coverage, innovative products, and commitment to customer satisfaction. The company offers a range of car insurance policies designed to cater to the diverse needs of drivers, including options such as comprehensive coverage, third-party, fire and theft, and third-party only policies.

Aviva’s car insurance plans often include additional benefits such as roadside assistance, breakdown coverage, and legal protection, providing customers with peace of mind and support in various situations. The company’s focus on quality service, transparent policies, and efficient claims processing has earned it a strong reputation as a trusted and reliable car insurance provider in Ireland.

With a solid track record of delivering on its promises and a commitment to providing tailored solutions for its customers, Aviva Insurance has cemented its position as a leading choice for individuals and families seeking quality car insurance coverage in Ireland.

Pros

15% discount for new policies bought online.
Policyholders with a second or subsequent policy will receive a 10% discount.
Drivers with no driving penalties can receive a maximum 20% discount.
Advanced Drivers receive a 20% discount.
Unless you make claims within five years, you’ll receive a 50% discount.
Car in for repairs and get a free courtesy car for a week.
When you use their affiliated repairers, you get unlimited window and windscreen coverage.

Cons