Europe is home to some of the world’s most powerful insurance companies. With a history of financial stability, innovation, and global reach, European insurers provide services that go beyond local markets. From health and life insurance to property, travel, and corporate coverage, these companies cater to both residents and foreigners living or doing business in Europe.
If you’re relocating, investing, or just seeking secure coverage, choosing the right insurer is essential. Below, we list the top 10 insurance companies in Europe, selected for their size, reputation, and trustworthiness.
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1. Allianz SE (Germany)
Headquartered in Munich, Allianz is one of the largest insurance and asset management companies in the world. It operates in more than 70 countries, with a strong presence across Europe. Allianz provides health, life, property, casualty, and travel insurance. It’s particularly popular among foreigners in Europe for its international health insurance plans, excellent customer service, and financial strength.
Why it stands out:
Global reputation with strong European roots
International health and travel coverage
Widely accepted by hospitals and institutions
2. AXA Group (France)
Based in Paris, AXA is a global leader in insurance and asset management. It offers life, health, property, casualty, and retirement insurance products. For foreigners living in Europe, AXA is a top choice due to its worldwide presence, multilingual services, and international coverage plans.
Why it stands out:
Operates in over 50 countries
Excellent expat-focused products
High trust level and global recognition
3. Generali Group (Italy)
Founded in 1831 in Trieste, Generali is one of Europe’s oldest and most respected insurance groups. It offers life, health, and non-life insurance to millions of customers worldwide. Generali has strong operations in Italy, France, Germany, and Central/Eastern Europe, making it a convenient choice for both locals and expatriates.
Why it stands out:
Long history and financial stability
Wide European coverage
Strong life and health insurance portfolio
4. Zurich Insurance Group (Switzerland)
Although headquartered in Switzerland, Zurich is a major player in European and global insurance markets. It offers life and non-life insurance, with a strong focus on corporate and individual coverage. Zurich’s travel and expat health insurance products are particularly attractive for foreigners living or moving across Europe.
Why it stands out:
International insurance solutions for expats
Strong presence in over 210 countries
Financially robust and globally recognized
5. Aviva plc (United Kingdom)
Aviva, based in London, is one of the UK’s leading insurers and a major player in Europe. It specializes in life, pensions, savings, and general insurance. Foreigners in the UK and across Europe often choose Aviva for its retirement and investment products, as well as its reliable travel and health insurance.
Why it stands out:
Strong pension and life insurance products
Leading brand in the UK
Reliable coverage for expats and residents
6. Mapfre (Spain)
Mapfre is Spain’s largest insurance company and one of the most important in Europe. It offers health, auto, travel, and business insurance, and is also known for its operations in Latin America. Mapfre’s wide network makes it a good choice for foreigners, especially Spanish-speaking expats living in Europe.
Why it stands out:
Strong presence in Spain and Latin America
Affordable health and travel insurance
International network with bilingual services
7. Munich Re (Germany)
Munich Re is one of the world’s leading reinsurance companies but also offers direct insurance through its subsidiary, ERGO Group. It provides life, health, and property insurance across Europe. For foreign investors and businesses, Munich Re is highly trusted due to its financial power and risk management expertise.
Why it stands out:
Global reinsurance leader
Reliable and financially secure
Strong corporate and business solutions
8. Swiss Re (Switzerland)
Like Munich Re, Swiss Re is a global leader in reinsurance, headquartered in Zurich. It supports insurance companies worldwide and offers specialized solutions for large corporations. While it’s less focused on retail clients, expats working in business and finance often deal with Swiss Re through corporate insurance packages.
Why it stands out:
One of the world’s strongest reinsurance companies
Excellent for corporate coverage
Financially powerful and globally respected
9. CNP Assurances (France)
CNP Assurances is a leading French insurer, specializing in life, pensions, and personal risk insurance. It has a strong presence in France, Italy, Spain, and other European countries. Foreigners seeking long-term life or retirement plans often choose CNP for its stability and extensive offerings.
Why it stands out:
Focused on life and pension products
Major presence in Southern Europe
Trusted for retirement and investment insurance
10. Talanx Group (Germany)
Based in Hanover, Talanx is one of the largest insurance groups in Germany and Europe. It owns multiple brands, including HDI and Hannover Re. Talanx provides both retail and corporate insurance, making it a strong choice for businesses and individuals alike. Foreigners benefit from its broad product range and European-wide reach.
Why it stands out:
Large network with multiple subsidiaries
Provides both retail and reinsurance services
Strong presence across Europe
Why Choose European Insurance Companies?
European insurers are known for their financial security, international coverage, and consumer protection standards. For foreigners, choosing one of these companies ensures access to multilingual services, global health networks, and reliable claims support. Whether you’re an expat relocating to Europe, a business owner investing in the EU, or a traveler exploring multiple countries, these insurers offer peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Europe’s insurance industry is home to some of the world’s most influential players. Companies like Allianz, AXA, and Generali dominate with their global reach, while others like Mapfre and CNP Assurances provide strong regional services. For foreigners and residents alike, these top 10 companies stand out for their trustworthiness, financial strength, and ability to adapt to diverse customer needs.
By selecting a reliable insurer from this list, you can enjoy the security and support needed to thrive in Europe—whether for health, travel, business, or personal protection.
