In modern times, traveling abroad has become an essential part for everyone, whether for holiday pleasure, study, or even work-related travel. While organizing a trip involves buying tickets and booking a hotel, many people forget to purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance is often not always a suggestion but a must. Several countries require it if you would like to get your visa, which includes the fact that travelers are insured for such unexpected events as medical emergencies or trip delays.
In this article, we will reveal a list of the countries where travel insurance is imposed for Indian passport holders, accompanied by the reasons for enforcing this rule and the profits it has in the long run.
Why Do Countries Mandate Travel Insurance?
The main aim of enforcing travel obligations in most countries is to avoid burdening their healthcare systems with the costs of foreigners seeking healthcare. Travel insurance allows tourists to cover unexpected medical expenses, repatriation, or other travel-related problems alone. Therefore, insurance also brings tranquility to both the traveler and the host country, paving the way for a safer and smoother travel experience.
Schengen Countries
One of the most well-known areas where travel insurance is obligatory is the 27 European countries zone called Schengen, which includes 27 European countries. Indian citizens who want Schengen visas must display insurance covering €30,000 in medical expenses.
Countries in the Schengen Area include:
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- Switzerland
- Netherlands
- Belgium
- Austria
- Greece
For visa applications, the insurance should also handle emergencies such as evacuation or repatriation because of illness or death. Without it, visa applications will be rejected based on the principle of a visa that does not have insurance.
- United States of America (USA)
Although the USA has not made travel insurance compulsory for Indian travelers, it will be a safety recommendation. Nevertheless, it is obligatory for travelers of some visa categories, such as J-1 visas for exchange programs, if they are to be insured by health insurance. Getting treatment even for common ailments can have a cost that is skyrocketing in the USA, and this makes the travel insurance policy in the absence of any legal scrutiny to be chosen in any case.
- Canada
As for Canada, tourists do not have to buy travel insurance to get a visa. However, it is the other way round when travelers apply for a Super Visa, usually given to grandparents or parents visiting their family in Canada. Health care should include the cost of at least CAD 100,000. Given the cost of health care, even tourists are recommended to buy comprehensive travel insurance.
- Australia and New Zealand
Australia has no such rules that all tourists must bring travel insurance. Instead, students and some visa holders are required to have health insurance coverage. On the contrary, New Zealand demands that every tourist have travel insurance for a few specific visa categories, such as work and student visas.
Asian Countries Requiring Travel Insurance
- Thailand
Thailand emphasizes the need for travel insurance to obtain a visa of the proper type. The policy should include USD 50,000 of medical coverage and COVID-19 treatment costs. Thus, tourists can receive high-quality healthcare while away.
- Singapore
Even though Singapore isn’t strict about travel insurance for all visitors, it’s still wise for those on a specific visa to get one, especially during a health emergency like when COVID-19 is rampant.
- UAE (United Arab Emirates)
To be entitled to a UAE visa, an Indian citizen with a valid passport must be able to buy a travel insurance policy. The policy must cover medical, repatriation, and COVID-19-related expenses the traveler will face during the trip.
- Malaysia
Malaysia has established a travel insurance requirement for long-term visa holders and some tourist visa categories. This policy can cover medical costs and hospitalization.
Other Countries with Mandatory Travel Insurance
- Russia
Indian tourists who want a visa to Russia must have travel insurance. One must avail of policies that encompass medical help and repatriation in Russia.
- Cuba
Cuba obliges travel insurance for every visitor, including Indian passport holders. Travelers are supposed to show the insurance still in effect when they arrive, or else they might need to get one at the nearest airport.
- Turkey
Indian visitors to Turkey must have travel insurance, which is required as part of their visa application process. The insurance should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and repatriation.
- Israel
Visitors to Israel must show proof of travel insurance, mainly if they apply for a long-term or work visa. Healthcare services are an integral part of this regulation.
- Argentina
Indian travelers should take out a policy that covers COVID-19 before entering Argentina. This was an absolute requirement during the pandemic, and the practice continues this year.
Benefits of Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not just a formality; it brings along practical benefits such as:
- Medical Emergencies: Hospital bills, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation are the leading causes of insurance costs.
- Trip Cancellations or Delays: In circumstances like weather, air traffic restrictions, etc., they may reimburse non-refundable fees.
- Loss of Baggage or Passport: In case of lost belongings or essential documents, individuals get financial assistance to cover their losses.
- Accidental Death or Disability: It provides compensation for tragic accidents in which people are hurt or lose their lives.
The insurance company takes care of the passengers and protects them from financial and logistical problems that can distort their entire journey.
Choosing the Right Travel Insurance
Selecting the right travel insurance is crucial to ensure a safe and hassle-free trip. Keep these key factors in mind when choosing your policy:
- Coverage Area: Confirm the policy is valid for your destination. Visa-compliant policies that cover specific countries can save you from unexpected restrictions.
- Medical Coverage: Look for a plan that includes hospitalisation, treatment for illnesses like COVID-19, and coverage for accidents or emergencies. Some plans even offer extended hospitalisation coverage of up to 60 days.
- Trip Cancellations: Ensure the policy covers trip cancellations to protect you from financial losses due to unforeseen events.
- Loss of Baggage and Belongings: Opt for a policy that provides compensation for lost luggage or personal items to avoid inconvenience during your travels.
- 24/7 Assistance: A reliable insurance policy should include round-the-clock customer support, ensuring you get help no matter where you are or when you need it.
- Affordable Options: Choose plans with competitive daily premiums that fit your budget while providing comprehensive benefits.
By focusing on these features, you can ensure your travel insurance meets your needs and enhances your travel experience.
Conclusion
Travel insurance is necessary for Indian passport holders when crossing borders, especially when it is obligatory. From the Schengen Area to Thailand and Cuba, purchasing the right policy is like getting yourself insurance from overlooking the cancellation of your entire trip without prior notice. Although compulsory in most countries, travel insurance is not only about the obligation of the legal, but it also has other benefits. It is a protection and peace of mind to have throughout your trip. Be safe, get your insurance well before you set off, and then you can explore in complete comfort.
