Travel insurance is more than just a safety net—it’s a must-have for international travelers. It helps cover unexpected situations like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel delays. While many countries simply recommend travel insurance, some have made it mandatory for entry.
Why? These countries want to ensure that visitors can cover potential medical expenses or emergencies without overburdening their healthcare system or facing high out-of-pocket costs.
In this guide, we’ll break down which countries require travel insurance for entry, what coverage you need, and how to make sure you’re fully prepared before your trip.
- Countries That Require Travel Insurance for Entry
- What Happens If You Don’t Have Travel Insurance?
- Do I Need Travel Insurance to Enter the USA?
- Choosing the Right Travel Insurance
- Best Travel Insurance Plans for Mandatory Coverage
- Final Considerations Before Your Trip
- Frequently Asked Questions About Mandatory Travel Insurance
- Conclusion: Stay Protected When Traveling
Countries That Require Travel Insurance for Entry
Some countries have made travel insurance a mandatory requirement for entry to ensure that visitors can cover potential medical expenses and emergencies.
These rules help protect both travelers and local healthcare systems from unexpected costs.
Below, we’ll explore the countries where travel insurance is required and outline the specific requirements for each.
- Estonia
- Lithuania
- Latvia
- Czech Republic
- Bulgaria
- Hungary
- Poland
- Ecuador
- Cuba
- Iran
If you’re traveling to any of these destinations, make sure to check the latest entry requirements and purchase the appropriate travel insurance before departure.
1. Estonia
Estonia may require travelers to present proof of travel insurance upon entry, so it’s important to have an insurance certificate in English.
While the Estonian government has not specified the exact coverage amounts, travelers are strongly advised to have insurance that includes:
- Medical expenses
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation coverage
2. Lithuania
Lithuania requires travelers to have travel insurance that includes:
- Medical costs
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation
While there is no specific insurance amount required, Schengen visa applicants must have at least €30,000 in medical coverage. The insurance certificate must be in English or Lithuanian.
3. Latvia
To enter Latvia, travelers must show proof of health insurance covering their entire stay. If you do not have valid coverage, you may be required to purchase insurance from a Latvian insurance provider upon arrival.
4. Czech Republic
Travelers entering the Czech Republic must present valid travel insurance that covers:
- Medical expenses
- Emergency medical evacuation
If you do not have valid insurance upon arrival, you may be required to purchase insurance from a local provider before being allowed entry.
5. Bulgaria
To enter Bulgaria, visitors must provide proof of valid health insurance covering:
- Medical expenses
- Emergency medical evacuation
Without proper insurance, travelers may be required to purchase a policy from a Bulgarian insurer upon arrival.
6. Hungary
Visitors to Hungary must have travel insurance that includes:
- Medical expenses
- Hospitalization
- Emergency medical evacuation
The insurance must be valid in all Schengen countries and meet the minimum required coverage. If travelers fail to present proof of insurance at the border, they may be denied entry or required to purchase a local policy.
7. Poland
Travelers visiting Poland must have valid travel insurance that covers:
- Medical expenses
- Hospital treatment
- Emergency medical evacuation
The insurance must be accepted in the Schengen Area. Without proof of insurance, travelers may be denied entry or required to obtain a local policy.
8. Ecuador
Ecuador requires all visitors to have travel insurance covering:
- Medical expenses
- Hospitalization
- Emergency evacuation
Travelers unable to provide proof of insurance may face entry restrictions or be required to purchase coverage upon arrival.
9. Cuba
All travelers entering Cuba must have health insurance covering:
- Medical expenses
- Hospitalization
- Emergency services
Proof of insurance must be presented upon arrival. If a traveler does not have a valid policy, they must purchase insurance from a Cuban provider at the airport before being allowed entry.
10. Iran
Travelers visiting Iran must have travel medical insurance that includes:
- Medical expenses
- Hospitalization
- Emergency care
Immigration authorities will check for proof of insurance upon arrival. Those without an approved policy must purchase insurance from a local provider at the airport before being allowed to enter the country.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Travel Insurance?
For countries where travel insurance is mandatory, failing to provide proof of coverage can lead to serious consequences.
Here’s what you might face if you arrive without the required insurance:
- Risk of Entry Denial at Border Control
- Requirement to Purchase Insurance on Arrival (Often Expensive & Limited)
- Potential Fines or Deportation for Non-Compliance
Understanding these risks highlights the importance of ensuring proper travel coverage before departure.
1. Risk of Entry Denial at Border Control
Many countries strictly enforce travel insurance requirements.
If you fail to present valid proof of insurance, you could be denied entry and sent back to your home country or forced to make alternative travel arrangements.
This can lead to unexpected expenses and travel disruptions.
2. Requirement to Purchase Insurance on Arrival (Often Expensive & Limited)
Some countries allow travelers to buy insurance upon arrival if they do not have valid coverage. However, this option can be:
- More expensive than purchasing insurance in advance
- Limited in coverage, potentially excluding important benefits like emergency evacuation
- Less flexible, with fewer customization options compared to international policies
3. Potential Fines or Deportation for Non-Compliance
In certain cases, failure to comply with travel insurance regulations could result in:
- Fines for non-compliance
- Immediate deportation at your own expense
- Legal consequences, depending on the country’s immigration policies
To avoid these risks, it’s essential to check the entry requirements for your destination and ensure you have the right coverage before you travel.
Having comprehensive travel insurance not only ensures a hassle-free entry but also provides financial protection in case of emergencies.
Do I Need Travel Insurance to Enter the USA?
The United States immigration does not ask travelers to provide proof of coverage at the border. However, while it’s not legally required, having travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for long-term visitors or those with specific medical needs.
Why You Should Still Get Travel Insurance for the USA
- Expensive Healthcare Costs – Medical treatment in the U.S. can be extremely costly, and most foreign health insurance plans do not provide coverage.
- Trip Cancellations & Delays – Travel insurance can help recover costs from unexpected trip disruptions, including flight cancellations or long delays.
- Medical Emergencies & Natural Disasters – In case of a medical emergency or evacuation due to a natural disaster, insurance can cover hefty expenses.
- Lost or Stolen Luggage – If your baggage goes missing or is stolen, insurance helps cover replacement costs and reduces stress.
While travel insurance isn’t required for entry into the U.S., it’s a crucial safety net.
The financial risk of traveling without coverage can be overwhelming, particularly due to high medical expenses.
To enjoy a hassle-free and secure trip, investing in comprehensive travel insurance is highly advisable.
Choosing the Right Travel Insurance
Selecting the best travel insurance depends on your trip duration, budget, and required coverage level. Here’s what to consider when choosing a policy:
Trip Duration
- Short trips: Basic coverage may be sufficient.
- Long-term travelers & digital nomads: More comprehensive plans are recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and evacuation.
Budget Considerations
- Basic coverage starts at $56.28 per month for essential medical and travel coverage.
- Comprehensive plans, such as World Nomads, offer extensive protection but come at a higher cost.
Coverage Requirements
- Travelers applying for a Schengen Visa must have at least €30,000 in medical coverage to meet visa requirements.
- Essential coverage should include emergency medical treatment, evacuation, and trip interruption protection.
Choosing the right insurance ensures you meet visa requirements, stay financially protected, and travel with peace of mind.
Best Travel Insurance Plans for Mandatory Coverage
If you’re traveling to the Schengen Area, selecting an insurance plan that meets the €30,000 medical coverage requirement is essential. This ensures coverage for:
✔️ Medical emergencies
✔️ Hospital treatment
✔️ Emergency evacuation
To help you choose the right insurance, we’ve compared three top travel insurance providers that meet these requirements.
| SafetyWing | Heymond | World Nomads | |
| Insurance fee (4 weeks) | ・$56.28 (not including the US) ・$104.44 (including the US) | ・$113.05 (not including the US) ・$130.16 (including the US) | ・$220.43 (not including the US) ・$265.07 (including US) |
| Medical Compensation | $250,000 | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Emergency Transportation (Medical Return/Death Transport) | $20,000 | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Minimum subscription period | 5 days | 1 day | 1 day |
This comparison makes it easy to find a travel insurance plan that suits your trip length, budget, and coverage needs.
Before purchasing, always check the specific benefits and exclusions to ensure you get the best protection for your travels.
1, SafetyWings
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is a reliable and cost-effective choice for digital nomads, remote workers, and frequent travelers looking for flexible health insurance.
With worldwide coverage and customizable policy options, it provides a convenient solution for staying protected while traveling—without the burden of long-term commitments.
Key Features of SafetyWing
- Affordable Monthly Premium: Starting at $56.28 per month
- Flexible Coverage Duration: Policies available from as little as 5 days
(For example, a 5-day policy costs just $10.05) - No Waiting Period: Immediate coverage when enrolling from abroad
- 24/7 Live Chat Support: Assistance available anytime, anywhere
- Comprehensive Travel Protection: Includes coverage for flight delays and lost baggage
- Hassle-Free Application: Quick and easy online quote and membership process
For more information, please refer to the following page.
» SafetyWing Nomad Insurance Reviews: Pricing Coverage and Benefits
2. Heymondo
Hemondo presents sizeable tour insurance that is good for passengers seeking out excessive coverage at affordable charges.
With plans designed for both quick -term and long-lasting, Hemondo offers a flexible opportunity for people who get dependable safety even as visiting abroad.
Key Features of Heymondo
- Affordable Premiums: Starting at $104.44 for a 4-week policy, including coverage in the U.S.
- High Medical Coverage: Up to $5,000,000 in medical expenses for unexpected injuries or illnesses.
- Emergency Transportation: Includes up to $500,000 for medical repatriation and transportation in case of death.
- Quick Policy Activation: Instant activation of coverage, making it easy to travel without waiting periods.
- 24/7 Assistance: Round-the-clock support available to assist with emergencies during your travels.
- Customizable Plans: Choose from different levels of coverage based on the type and length of your trip.
For more information, please refer to the following page.
» Heymondo Insurance Reviews: Comprehensive Travel Coverage Explained
3. World Nomads
World Nomads is a well-known insurance option for digital nomads and freelancers working abroad.
While its premiums are higher than other providers, it offers comprehensive coverage with extensive protection, making it a solid choice for those seeking robust travel insurance.
Key Features of World Nomads
- Competitive Premiums: Starting at $113.05 for a 4-week policy, excluding coverage in the U.S.
- Extensive Medical Coverage: Up to $5,000,000 for medical expenses in case of sickness or injury.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation: Includes up to $500,000 for transportation in case of serious health issues or emergencies.
- Adventure Travel Coverage: Includes coverage for more than 200 activities, such as hiking, skiing, and scuba diving.
- No Age Limit: Available for travelers of all ages, offering flexibility for a wide range of clients.
- 24/7 Global Assistance: Access to emergency support any time of day, no matter where you are.
For more information, please refer to the following page.
» World Nomads: Explanation of the price plan and coverage contents of insurance
Final Considerations Before Your Trip
Before traveling, keep these key points in mind to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience:
Check official travel insurance requirements
- Some countries mandate emergency medical coverage or repatriation insurance.
- Schengen Area requires a minimum of €30,000 in coverage.
- U.S. travelers can check the State Department website for health coverage guidelines.
- Requirements may change, so confirm details close to your departure date.
Choose a policy that includes
- Medical expenses – Covers hospital stays, treatments, and unexpected medical costs.
- Emergency evacuation & repatriation – Ensures you can return home in case of serious illness or injury.
- Trip cancellation & interruption – Provides financial protection if your plans change due to unforeseen events.
Always carry proof of insurance
- Keep a digital or printed copy accessible.
- Some immigration authorities may require proof upon entry.
- Having it on hand ensures quick assistance in case of an emergency.
Staying informed and well-prepared will help you travel with confidence and avoid unnecessary complications.
Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions About Mandatory Travel Insurance
If your plan simplest includes medical insurance, you may nonetheless need extra insurance for other aspects of your ride, inclusive of cancellation, lost items or emergency. It is crucial to evaluate the overall scope of your necessities and select a comprehensive coverage that only covers potential travel disease past clinical costs.
The proof of insurance is a document or certificate confirming that travel for your lifetime is insurance. This usually includes insurance policy numbers, coverage details and coverage dates. You can present it as a printed certificate or digital version (on the phone or tablet), when the destination is asked by immigration officers.
Although the destination does not require travel insurance, it is still strongly recommended. Travel insurance can save you from unexpected conditions, such as medical emergency, cancellation, lost goods or delay in flying. Having coverage gives you security and financial security, which is worth considering for any journey.
Conclusion: Stay Protected When Traveling
Many countries have made travel insurance a mandatory requirement to ensure that visitors can cover unexpected costs without burdening local healthcare systems.
This is especially common for travelers requiring specific visas, such as the Schengen Visa, which mandates a minimum level of medical coverage.
Travel insurance provides a safety net including
- Medical emergencies that require hospitalization or urgent care
- Trip cancellations or delays due to unexpected events
- Lost or stolen baggage
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation
Having the right travel insurance policy not only helps you meet entry requirements but also ensures peace of mind throughout your journey.
To avoid last-minute complications, plan ahead and secure proper coverage before your trip. With the right insurance in place, you can focus on enjoying your travels stress-free, knowing you’re financially protected no matter what comes your way.
Safe travels!
» The Best Nomad Insurance; We highly recommend SafetyWing [$56/month]
