Planning an overseas trip can become challenging when you organise flights, visas, travel insurance, stays, etc., on your own. While many countries mandate proof of travel insurance when applying for a visa, others simply advise tourists to purchase one.
Still, if you are unsure whether buying international travel health insurance is necessary, consider that it is often required, such as when travelling to Schengen countries. Even if it is not mandated, obtaining travel insurance can offer you protection from medical emergencies and unexpected costs while you are far from home.
Which Countries Should You Visit with Travel Health Insurance?
1. Schengen Visa Countries
While you are applying for a Schengen visa (offering entry to 29 different European nations), you should upload proof of travel medical insurance for an international trip to proceed with your application.
Your medical insurance should cover you throughout your entire stay in countries like Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and more. Additionally, you need to get a minimum coverage of €30,000 that will pay for your medical emergencies and repatriation.
2. Other Countries With Mandatory Travel Insurance
Other than Schengen countries, some other countries around the world also require visitors to hold health insurance to enter. For instance, if you are travelling to Dubai or Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, you must have international travel insurance for visa approval.
The same applies to tourists planning to visit Russia, Ecuador, or Turkey. Whereas, in Qatar, most travellers are mandated to have health insurance as a requirement for their whole stay.
3. High Medical Cost Countries
In various countries like Canada, the United States, Australia and Japan, the costs for medical treatments are extremely high. Thus, although these countries do not mandate international travel health insurance for Indians, it is highly recommended to get one from a recognised insurance provider to avoid hefty out-of-pocket expenses.
How Travelling Without International Health Insurance Can Lead to Problems?
Even though some countries do not require their visitors to hold an insurance plan, skipping it can actually put you at risk. Here’s why:
Healthcare Services are Expensive in Many Countries
While in the United States, if you require access to an emergency room, it can cost you around $1,700. This highlights the hefty expenses that may arise suddenly if you or a loved one faces issues such as bodily injuries, chest pain, or shortness of breath during your visit.
Your Domestic Health Insurance May Not Be Useful
Most local health insurance plans (those available in India, Australia or the UK) do not cover medical expenses incurred outside the country. Thus, you must get travel insurance separately to encounter unforeseen situations.
Medical Evacuation Costs are Unbelievably High
Suppose you visit St. Kilda, a group of islands in Scotland, for a vacation. While exploring, if you face a serious health emergency that demands urgent evacuation to India for full-scale treatment, the cost of an air ambulance is generally between ₹20-30 lakh, which varies with the type of aircraft and your location.
Situations Like Lost Luggage and Trip Delays are Common
A genuine travel insurance covers you from trip delays, flight cancellations, lost luggage and also helps you with emergency medical evacuations. Therefore, you can enjoy your trip peacefully, knowing that your prepaid expenses will be fairly reimbursed if the trip is cancelled or interrupted due to any covered reasons.
Conclusion
Today, an international travel health insurance plan is more than mere paperwork. It works like a meaningful investment, providing security throughout your tour abroad. You can secure coverage conveniently for everyone travelling together by following a few simple steps, even before boarding the flight.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.
