Countries where Travel Insurance is Mandatory Requirement

Why is International Travel Insurance mandatory for some countries?

Some countries make travel insurance mandatory to protect visitors and their own healthcare systems. If a traveler faces a medical emergency, accident, or unexpected travel issue, insurance ensures the costs are covered without burdening the country’s resources.

• High Medical Costs: Countries want to avoid unpaid hospital bills from foreign travelers.
• Emergency Care Needs: Insurance guarantees visitors can access treatment, evacuation, or hospitalization if needed
• Visa Requirement: Many countries require travel insurance as part of the visa process to ensure travelers are financially prepared.
• Protection Against Trip Disruptions: It helps travelers handle delays, cancellations, or lost baggage without relying on local support.
• Government Regulations: Some destinations have strict rules to ensure safety and financial security for visitors.

What are the Travel Insurance Requirements for International Travel?

When traveling abroad, certain countries require your travel insurance to meet specific conditions:

• Minimum Coverage: Most countries, like the Schengen area, require at least €30,000 for medical emergencies.
• Medical Treatment & Hospitalization: Must cover illness, accidents, and hospital care.
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: Covers transport to your home country if needed.
• Trip Duration Validity: Insurance must be valid for the entire stay.
• Geographical Coverage: Must cover the country or region you are visiting.
• Recognized Providers: Policy should be from an approved or reliable insurer.
• Proof of Insurance: A certificate or document may be required for visa or entry.

What to Do About the New Travel Insurance Requirements?

• Check Entry Rules for Your Destination : Visit the embassy or official government website of the country you’re traveling to and confirm any mandatory insurance requirements.
• Buy the Right Travel Insurance : Ensure your policy covers at least $50,000 for medical expenses, including evacuation and repatriation available through American Visitor Insurance.
• Choose a Recognized Provider : Pick an insurance company that’s accepted by visa authorities and local regulations. Using trusted providers, such as American Visitor Insurance, can help ensure your policy is valid.
• Keep Proof of Travel Insurance Ready : Save or print your insurance certificate with trip dates, coverage details, and provider information. You’ll likely need it during visa applications or at the airport.
• Re-evaluate When Plans Change : If your trip is extended, route changes, or visa type changes, revisit your insurance policy to make sure it’s still valid.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Schengen Countries?

Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for anyone applying for a Schengen visa. Travelers must provide proof of travel medical insurance that meets the official Schengen requirements. With American Visitor Insurance, you can easily compare and purchase Schengen-approved plans that include:

• Minimum €30,000 medical coverage
• Coverage for all 29 Schengen countries
• Emergency medical treatment
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Validity for the entire duration of your stay

Which countries require travel insurance for entry?

Popular Destinations That Require Travel Insurance :

• Schengen Area (29 European countries): All travelers applying for a Schengen visa must have travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage, valid across all 27 countries.
• Cuba: Visitors must have travel insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation, proof may be required at arrival.
• Russia: Many visa applicants need proof of valid medical insurance for the duration of their stay.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE): Certain visa types require health insurance covering emergency treatment and evacuation.
• Qatar: Travel insurance is required for some visa categories to ensure access to medical care.
• Israel & Jordan: Travel medical insurance is often mandatory for international visitors.
• Nepal: Travelers, especially those trekking or engaging in adventure activities, must have insurance including emergency evacuation.
• Bhutan: Travel medical insurance is required to process visa applications
• Tanzania (Zanzibar): All visitors are required to have travel insurance covering health emergencies and evacuation
• Sri Lanka: All visitors, regardless of vaccination status, are required to purchase COVID-19 travel insurance

Visitors Travel insurance Requirement - FAQs