What You Need To Know (2023)

Some countries require foreign visitors to show proof of travel insurance for a variety of reasons, including unstable diplomatic relations or visa requirements. For example, you must purchase travel insurance to obtain a long-term travel visa for the Schengen area.

The following countries require travel insurance as of June 2023:

  • Bermudas
  • Bhutan
  • Try
  • The Galapagos Islands
  • Myanmar
  • Qatar
  • Russia*
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Schengen Visa countries*
  • Sri Lanka
  • Ukrainian

*Requires travel insurance or can request proof of insurance to issue a visa. Note that the above list is not exhaustive.

Many countries introduced pandemic-related entry requirements, including vaccination and travel medical insurance, which are now being revoked. But even if travel insurance is not required, the US Department of State highly recommends purchasing a policy to cover unexpected medical expenses while you’re overseas.

Whether you want to travel to Turkey, Thailand, Jamaica or the Bahamas, entry rules change frequently. Below are some examples of countries and situations that require proof of travel insurance (as of June 2023).

Bhutan

All visitors, including US citizens, must obtain a visa to visit Bhutan. You must have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the duration of your trip in order to apply for a visa. Visas are issued after tourists complete an application or apply through a valid travel and tour operator.

Try

Travel medical insurance is required to visit Cuba. Since coverage is mandatory, insurance is typically included in airline ticket prices purchased in the US. You can also buy medical travel insurance on arrival at the airport.

While this type of insurance covers emergency medical evacuation and medical treatment, you can purchase a policy through a travel insurance company for comprehensive coverage that includes trip cancellations and interruptions.

Myanmar

According to the State Department’s current travel advisory, you may need COVID-19 medical coverage to travel to Myanmar. Health screening procedures are in place at ports of entry, and US citizens who produce positive test results are subject to isolation or quarantine.

Schengen Countries

There are 27 countries in Europe’s Schengen area, a region that allows free movement between borders. US passport holders can travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a Schengen visa. To stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a visa at the embassy of the Schengen country you wish to reside in.

Whether it’s for business, study or long-term travel, you may choose to stay in Europe for an extended period. Most countries require travel insurance to issue visas. Insurance requirements typically include coverage for medical emergencies and medical repatriation, and health insurance plans may need to comply with minimum coverage limits.