Planning international travel involves more than packing your bags – it also requires understanding visa rules and insurance requirements. Depending on your destination, you may need to apply for a valid visa before traveling. Travel insurance for a visa is also required in many cases, since it provides proof that you’ll be covered in medical emergencies, accidents, or other unexpected events abroad.
This article explains when travel insurance is required for visa applications, what coverage is typically needed, and the documentation you’ll need to provide so you can complete your application successfully and travel with peace of mind.
Who Needs Travel Insurance for a Visa?
Countries have varying requirements for travel visas, and many also require travelers to provide proof of medical insurance.
This is particularly important for tourists, students, and long-term visa holders.
Travelers who may need coverage include:
Tourists visiting countries that require medical coverage
Students studying abroad
Business travelers on temporary assignments
Expatriates or long-term visitors
Families traveling with children
It’s essential to recognize that not all visas are the same. Some are issued for just a few days, while others are valid for months. Additionally, some countries, such as Afghanistan and Pakistan, require a visa regardless of the length of stay.
Some countries may also issue visas based on the purpose of the visit, such as tourist, student, or work visas (e.g., J-1 Visa). To ensure your coverage meets the requirements, you must check with the embassy of your destination before purchasing a plan.
Mandatory vs Recommended Travel Insurance Coverage
Some countries require visitors to purchase a minimum level of travel insurance to obtain a visa.
This protects travelers from unexpected, costly medical expenses that could make their trip difficult or stressful.
Mandatory coverage typically includes:
Medical emergencies and hospitalization
Repatriation for medical reasons
Emergency care for urgent conditions
On the other hand, recommended coverageis optional and extends beyond the visa minimum, providing greater peace of mind. Investing in more comprehensive insurance can protect you from situations that could disrupt your travel plans.
For instance, beyond medical emergencies, it can also cover:
Emergency evacuation
Repatriation of remains
Overseas funeral expenses
Return of a minor
Trip cancellation or interruption
Lost, stolen, or damaged luggage
Even if your visa doesn’t mandate insurance, a comprehensive plan safeguards against unforeseen expenses and gives added confidence while traveling. Read more about the benefits of international travel insurance.
Getting Travel Insurance for a Visa
In most cases, investing in quality travel medical insurance will satisfy your visa requirements.
Some travelers already have private health insurance, but verifying whether it meets the visa’s specific requirements is crucial. Always review your current plan and consult an insurance provider to ensure it meets your visa and personal travel needs.
Before purchasing additional coverage, verify whether your existing plan already includes coverage for medical emergencies abroad.
If you are unsure whether your coverage meets the requirements, contact your insurance representative – never assume your current plan is sufficient.
Sometimes, insurance must be purchased from a licensed provider accepted in the country you are traveling to, or from a local broker. If you are unsure where to find an approved provider, consult your insurance company for guidance.
Always review your policy’s restrictions and limitations to ensure it covers all your needs, including extreme sports such as downhill skiing or parasailing.
You can apply for most visas online or from the embassy of the country you will be visiting.
As with travel insurance, begin your visa research early in the trip planning process. Always ensure you have all the necessary paperwork and documents to fulfill your travel visa requirements, as this will help avoid any unnecessary surprises that could disrupt your trip.
Visa Requirements for Travel Insurance Policies
Before a visa can be issued, applicants must often provide proof of adequate health insurance coverage that meets the country’s specific requirements.
These requirements typically include:
Minimum coverage of EUR €30,000 or USD $50,000
Validity within the country or region for the whole duration of stay
Coverage for repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical care, emergency hospitalization, and death
Travelers typically require a letter from their insurance company confirming that the coverage meets these minimum requirements. The coverage period must match the dates of travel stated on the visa. Any of the travel medical plans listed here can provide this documentation.
Know Before You Go! Always check the specific insurance requirements for the country you are visiting. While the above criteria generally meet most visa requirements, rules and regulations vary worldwide and may change without notice.
Countries That Require Travel Insurance for a Visa
Some countries require travelers to have valid travel insurance for their visa application. This ensures visitors have adequate coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and other unforeseen events.
While general insurance rules cover most cases, certain countries have specific requirements that must be met for visa approval, which you should know before applying.
Bhutan: Travel medical insurance is recommended, as it should cover all medical expenses and emergencies for the entire duration of the stay.
Brunei: Minimum coverage BND 50,000 (~$37,000); must include COVID-19-related expenses.
Cuba: Travelers must have valid insurance that covers medical expenses; if needed, this can be purchased upon arrival.
Ecuador (Galápagos Islands): Travel insurance is required for all foreign visitors and must be valid for the duration of their stay.
Iran: Travel insurance is mandatory and issued electronically during the visa process.
Israel: Insurance that covers COVID-19-related expenses is required for a visa and must be valid for the entire duration of the stay.
Jordan: Travel medical insurance is mandatory; it must cover medical expenses and emergencies that may arise during your stay.
Laos: Insurance required with minimum coverage $50,000; must include COVID-19-related expenses.
Myanmar: Travel accident insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required and must be valid for the entire duration of the stay.
Nepal: Travel medical insurance is mandatory, covering both medical expenses and emergencies.
Palestine: Insurance that covers COVID-19-related expenses is required and must be valid for the entire duration of the stay.
Qatar: Visitors may be required to have visitor health insurance for their visa, which must cover emergency medical treatment and transportation.
Russia: Valid medical insurance is required; medical expenses and emergencies must be covered for the whole stay.
Saudi Arabia: The eVisa includes insurance coverage for COVID-19, which must also cover emergency medical treatment and transportation.
Schengen Area (26 countries): A minimum coverage of €30,000 is required for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Ukraine: Insurance is required for all foreigners and must cover medical expenses and emergencies; evacuation coverage is also recommended.
Upcoming Changes in 2026
Starting in 2026, several new systems and rules will affect travelers to Europe:
European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS): Travelers from visa-exempt countries must obtain an ETIAS to enter the Schengen Area. While ETIAS doesn’t mandate insurance, proof of coverage may be requested at the border.
Entry/Exit System (EES): Starting October 12, 2025, the EU will digitally record the entry and exit of non-EU travelers. Although it doesn’t directly affect insurance, it may require additional documentation and preparedness at border crossings.
These updates emphasize the importance of having valid travel insurance, even if your visa or travel authorization doesn’t explicitly require it.
Don’t Risk It, Always Check! Travel insurance requirements differ depending on your destination and nationality. To ensure your visa application is accepted, your travel insurance must meet the country’s minimum coverage, remain valid for your stay, and include all required benefits. Always verify the latest rules with the destination’s embassy before booking or applying for your visa.
Documentation Needed for Visa Application
When applying for a visa, you’ll need official documentation from your insurance provider to prove your policy meets the visa requirements. This typically includes:
A letter from the insurance company confirming your coverage.
Confirmation that the coverage period matches your travel dates.
Proof that the policy meets the minimum coverage required for the visa.
Having these documents ready ensures a smooth visa application process and avoids delays or rejections.
Insurance Plans for Your Visa Application
Our Recommended Travel Medical Insurance Plans
Single Trip Platinum Travel Insurance
For U.S. citizens and residents up to age 95
Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
The 26 Schengen countries allow travelers to enter one country in Europe and then move freely within the other 25 without showing a passport at each border (for short stays up to 90 days in 180 days).
To obtain a Schengen visa, travelers must have Schengen-compliant travel insurance that covers all 26 countries. The policy must meet minimum requirements, including €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
A common challenge is that visa applications must often be submitted 2 to 4 months before departure, but global health plans cannot be processed more than 45 days before departure. A practical workaround is to:
Apply for a short-term travel medical plan to meet visa requirements.
Once the visa is approved and you’re within 45 days of departure, apply for a Global Medical / Expat Plan.
Cancel the initial travel medical plan once your long-term plan is active.
While not a perfect solution, this approach allows travelers to secure their visa and long-term coverage without gaps.
When to Apply for an Insurance Policy
For the plans mentioned above and most travel medical policies, you can apply for insurance at any time before your trip.
The process is quick, usually taking 10 to 15 minutes. Once completed, you’ll receive all necessary documentation, including a Visa Letter, via email, often within an hour.
It’s best to apply well in advance of submitting your visa. This allows time for review, ensures the letter meets the embassy’s specific requirements, and provides flexibility to adjust coverage as needed.
Keep a copy of your Visa Letter in both digital and printed formats to streamline the submission process.
Having your insurance documentation ready ensures a smooth, stress-free visa application process.
FAQs
Yes, most insurance providers allow coverage for dependents included in visa applications. Make sure all names and travel dates match the visa documentation.
Many policies allow refunds if a visa is denied. Always check the terms before purchasing and keep proof of denial from the embassy.
Some countries still require insurance that covers COVID-19-related medical expenses. Check your destination’s embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date requirements.
Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
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