Countries where travel insurance is mandatory

Traveling, learning about new cultures and discovering interesting places, is one of the most diverse experiences of your life. The reason for this is that along with broadening your world view and getting to know new things, you become a participant of unforgettable moments. However, traveling also involves certain risks that may affect your health and safety. That is why some countries ask tourists to consider travel insurance when planning their visit.

Travel insurance covers such risks as the need for emergency medical care, flight delay or cancellation, compensation for lost, damaged or stolen luggage, etc.

Therefore, before you decide on your next travel route, it is important to know about the countries in which it will be difficult for you to enter without travel insurance.

Countries where insurance is mandatory

There are various reasons why countries require mandatory travel insurance. This could be protecting the public health system, ensuring the safety of visitors and supporting the tourism industry. Let's take a closer look at some of the countries where travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for a visit.

Cuba was the first country to make travel insurance mandatory for all visitors. This decision was made in 2010. Travel insurance, on the one hand, provides medical services, and on the other hand, protects you from the risks that exist in this country. For example, Cuba has a high crime rate, which means that thefts are common when traveling, especially during the holidays. And with the right policy, your probable loss will be compensated. The minimum amount of travel insurance coverage for Cuba is set at $50,000.

Ecuador requires that those wishing to enter the territory have adequate travel insurance, which covers the costs of emergency medical care and repatriation in the event of death. This rule is defined in the country's migration law and aims to protect both visitors and Ecuador's public health system. The immigration officer can check if you have insurance when you enter Ecuador, and if you don't have it, you won't be allowed into the country. The minimum amount of travel insurance coverage is not defined by law here. However, it is a general recommendation that travelers have a policy that provides at least $50,000 in medical expense coverage.

Travel insurance is also compulsory for visitors to the United Arab Emirates. This rule has been in force since 2018 and it applies to all tourists and transit passengers, regardless of citizenship or age. Visitors are required to present proof of travel insurance upon obtaining a visa or upon arrival in the Emirates. It is mandatory that the minimum amount of insurance is 150,000 dirhams (about $40,000). The insurance should cover the entire visit period and include: emergency medical expenses, accidental death or disability, repatriation of the body in case of death. The purpose of the mandatory travel insurance initiative is to protect visitors and comply with international standards.

In Singapore, a new rule came into effect from January 2023 requiring all foreign visitors arriving on any type of visa to provide active travel insurance. It is mandatory that the insurance cover at least S$30,000 (about US$22,000) for medical expenses.

In the United States, although travel insurance is not legally required, the US Department of State and Immigration Services (USCIS) strongly recommends that all visitors purchase adequate travel insurance. Medical costs in the US are very high, and an unexpected illness or accident can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, which is a big loss for many visitors. There is no minimum amount of insurance coverage when traveling to the US, as travel insurance is not regulated in the country.

Like the US, travel insurance is optional in Israel, although the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly advise all visitors to purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

How to choose the right travel insurance for different countries?

Choosing the right policy can be difficult, especially when you have to consider the specific requirements and characteristics of a particular country. Here are some important factors to consider to help you find the right package for your trip.

First, find out if the country has mandatory travel insurance requirements. After that, carefully consider the coverage components. Pay special attention to medical coverage, including emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, medical evacuation and repatriation. Consider your destination's health care system and medical care costs to determine an adequate level of coverage.

Consider any specific activities or circumstances associated with your destination. For example, if you plan to engage in extreme sports such as rock climbing or skiing, make sure your policy covers these activities as well.

Find out in advance whether the insurance package includes coverage for chronic and/or pre-travel complications.

Finally, always read the policy terms and conditions carefully. Read the exclusions, limitations and deductibles to know exactly what is and is not covered by the policy.

FAQ

how do I buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance can be purchased online, on the "Aldagi" website, by phone or at any branch of Aldagi.

What is the scope of travel insurance?

The scope of travel insurance covers all countries of the world, except Georgia.

What circumstances does "Aldagi" travel insurance apply to?

Travel insurance covers a variety of circumstances, including accident, illness, medical expenses, lost luggage, flight cancellation, and more.

What should I do in the event of an insurance accident?

In the event of an insured event, you must be contacted. You will receive help from any country 24/7.