Mandatory $100k Medical Insurance for Foreign Workers in Brunei: A Guide for Employers
With Brunei Darussalam introducing a new mandatory medical insurance policy for foreign workers, businesses must act quickly to ensure compliance. The policy, discussed in depth on the Biz Brunei Takeaways podcast, marks a significant shift from the previous $10,000 coverage limit to a more robust **$100,000 minimum**.
Here is everything you need to know to prepare your business for January 1, 2026.
The Ministry of Health and the Department of Labour introduced this change to address rising healthcare costs. The previous $10,000 coverage was often insufficient for serious surgeries or long-term hospitalization, leaving employers with massive out-of-pocket expenses and public hospitals with unpaid debts.
The new $100,000 limit provides a financial safety net for both the worker and the employer.
Q: What is the new minimum coverage?
A: For most workers, it is now $100,000.
Q: When is the deadline for the private sector?
A: January 1, 2026. (Domestic workers and PRs started July 1, 2025).
Q: Who pays for the insurance?
A: The Employer is legally responsible.
Q: Can I deduct the premium from my worker’s salary?
A: No. It is illegal to deduct these premiums from a worker’s wages.
Q: Does every pass need $100k?
A: No. Dependent Passes require $10,000 and Student Passes require $5,000.
Q: Does it cover clinic visits?
A: No, the mandate only requires coverage for hospitalization and surgery (Inpatient).
Q: Can I use foreign insurance?
A: Only if it specifically mentions “Brunei Darussalam” and meets the $100,000 limit.
Q: What if a worker’s policy is used up?
A: The employer must “top up” the insurance back to $100,000 to remain compliant.
Direct Billing: Most local insurance providers now offer direct billing with hospitals, meaning employers don’t have to pay huge cash sums upfront.
Financial Protection: A single major operation can easily exceed $30,000. This insurance protects your business from sudden, large medical bills.
Welfare Compliance: Ensuring your staff is covered is not just a legal requirement; it’s a key part of maintaining a healthy and productive workforce.
Non-compliance is serious. If you fail to provide the required insurance or attempt to deduct the cost from your worker’s salary, you could face:
Fines of up to $3,000.
Imprisonment for up to one year.
A ban on hiring any future foreign workers.
Written by: Faisal Kv
Corporate Compliance Specialist | Mercium Sdn Bhd, Brunei Darussalam
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