Some Countries Are Now Requiring Visitors To Have Travel Health Insurance

When the coronavirus hit the world last year, travel came to a halt, leaving many to be refunded or credited for their airplane and cruise tickets, hotel rooms, and more. It was a tough time for everyone around the world, with many people unable to see their friends or family, but now, with millions of people getting vaccinated, countries are opening their borders to visitors from abroad, and people are ready to travel. There is a catch though: depending on where you are going, you might have to purchase travel health insurance beforehand.

Where Will You Need Travel Health Insurance?

Some countries are currently requiring people to get travel health insurance before entering, and so far, one cruise line, Royal Caribbean International, is requiring it of all passengers. This requirement was originally only for unvaccinated Americans, but now many countries are insisting that all travelers be insured before making their journey, and are asking that the coverage be sufficient to cover Covid-19-related medical expenses, including quarantine and evacuation. 

cruise boat in the waters of aruba
Some cruise ships and countries, such as Aruba, are requiring visitors to have travel health insurance before coming.

Countries requiring travel health insurance include:

  • Anguilla
  • Aruba
  • Bahamas
  • Bermuda
  • Cambodia
  • Cayman Islands
  • Chile
  • Costa Rica
  • Cuba*
  • Dubai (United Arab Emirates)*
  • Ecuador*
  • Egypt*
  • French Polynesia
  • Israel
  • Jamaica
  • Jordan
  • Lebanon
  • Nepal
  • New Zealand*
  • Qatar*
  • Russia*
  • St. Maarten
  • Thailand
  • Turkey*
  • Turks and Caicos
  • Ukraine

*Country requires even non-Covid-19-related medical insurance for visitors.

How Much Is It?illustration of a hand with money in it handing it to another hand with a red cross in it

Fortunately, travel health insurance is not very expensive, generally costing around $30-$80 per traveler. Speak to your health insurance provider to see if they offer it, and to find out the exact cost for you. 

You should also know that some countries will require you to have a specific amount of coverage; for example, in order to visit Dubai, you will need at least $100,000 in general emergency medical coverage and $50,000 for medical evacuation. Aruba is requiring $75,000 for hospital costs, medical transportation costs, and more. For trips to Antarctica, where different nations control different areas, tour operators will most likely require at least $100,000 in both medical coverage and evacuation expenses.

The coronavirus has changed the world, and countries are trying to protect themselves by mandating that travelers get health insurance to cover their medical expenses in the event  they contract Covid-19. And this might be just the beginning when it comes to these types of requirements: many think this will remain the standard for countries from now on. 

Travel health insurance is offered by some health insurance companies, and you might be able to add it to your current policy; if not, you can always search for a plan that does offer it, with the help of an EZ agent. Our agents can compare plans for you in minutes to help you save money and time. To get free instant quotes, simply enter your zip code in the bar above, or to speak to a local licensed agent, call 888-350-1890.

Traveling Outside of the US? Consider a Medicare Supplement for Coverage

Retirement is the perfect time to begin traveling and enjoying your freedom. Original Medicare will cover your medical needs while traveling within the United States and American territories- Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. Medicare’s network of doctors and hospitals are large around the U.S. However, the moment you decide to travel internationally, Medicare will not cover you in case of an emergency or other medical needs you might have. This is when a Medicare Supplement will be useful, because it will save you money and give you the coverage you need while abroad.

What a Medicare Supplement Plan Covers

Medicare Supplement plans cover travel bills outside of the U.S.
Medicare Supplement can prepare you for any medical bills accrued while overseas.

Standard Medicare Supplement plans C, D, F, G, M, and N provide foreign coverage. These plans will cover emergency care during the first 60 days of your trip, and pays about 80% of the charges. For example, Medicare Supplement Plan F will be cover up to $50,000 in foreign medical bills. In order to begin coverage for these plans, you must meet your $250 deductible first. This coverage of $50,000 is available to you every time that you travel outside of the U.S. and its territories, it is not just a one time deal.

During your Initial Enrollment Period there is no underwriting, meaning you will not have to worry about pre-existing conditions used against you for pricing. This bonus is something to think about and consider, especially if you do have major pre-existing conditions. Having these benefits while outside of the country will protect your wallet and your health. It is always better to be safe and protected than pay thousands out of pocket later. Not to mention, Medicare Supplement plans will cover more than just international travel medical fees. These plans will help reduce costs of copayments, coinsurance and deductibles that Original Medicare does not cover.

Need help?

It is better to travel and actually have fun without this worry in the back of your mind. Accidents can happen, even if you are careful, which is the reason this coverage is essential to have when outside of the U.S. If you are considering traveling outside the U.S., interested in a Medicare Supplement plan, or just have questions regarding what is offered and the difference between all the plans, EZ.Insure can help. EZ.Insure has highly trained and knowledgeable agents in Medicare Supplement plans. An agent will be able to assess your situation and find you the most affordable Medicare Supplemental plan that suits your needs. To get a quote, you can enter your zip code in the bar above, email replies@ez.insure, and call 855-220-1144.