As you plan your next international trip, you may be wondering which countries have a mandatory travel insurance requirement. Countries may require travel insurance for different reasons. One of the most common reasons is that the country is part of the Schengen zone. Schengen countries generally will not grant travel visas if specific travel insurance requirements are not met.
Another reason some destinations have a travel insurance requirement is due to diplomatic relations. For example, the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba had historically been strained, so when both countries agreed to allow travel for limited reasons, Cuba’s government stipulated that travel insurance including medical coverage would be required for U.S. travelers.
Many countries are also requiring travel insurance is in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Though we are past the height of the pandemic, some international destinations still require that travelers arrive with specific travel medical insurance that covers COVID-19.
Which Countries Require Travel Insurance?
Antarctica
Antarctica is a unique destination, with many travel variables that could threaten a traveler’s significant investment in their trip. It is for this reason travel insurance is considered a necessity, in addition to the actual requirements for entry into the country. Required medical coverage varies based on a traveler’s itinerary and the tour operator they are traveling with. However, based on the nature of a trip to Antarctica, it is recommended to also consider at least comprehensive plans that include Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, and Medical Evacuation.
Belarus
Belarus requires travelers to provide proof of medical insurance valid in Belarus with a minimum coverage of €10,000 (approx. $10,800 USD). This applies even to transit passengers. Documentation is checked at the border. Source: Belarus Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Chile
Visitors to Chile are not required to show proof of travel insurance, but Chile does require travelers to fill out an online “Traveler’s Affidavit” less than 48 hours before departure for Chile.
Cuba
Travelers entering Cuba are required to present proof of travel insurance that includes medical coverage. If no policy is presented, travelers must purchase a Cuban insurance plan upon arrival. Coverage must be active for the duration of the trip and include hospitalization and emergency treatment. Official source: Cuba Ministry of Tourism.
Ecuador
While it is not necessary to obtain medical or travel insurance to visit Ecuador, coverage is required to visit the Galapagos.
Egypt
Egypt requires travel medical insurance for certain visa types and tour entries, particularly for stays exceeding 30 days. Policies should cover emergency hospitalization and repatriation. Though no strict minimum is published, most agencies recommend coverage of at least $30,000 USD. Reference: Egypt Tourism Authority.
Iran
Travel insurance is mandatory for visitors to Iran looking to obtain a travel visa.
Jordan
All international visitors to Jordan must have travel medical insurance to enter the country.
Laos
After first reopening borders to U.S. tourists in 2022, Laos now requires visitors to have travel medical insurance that includes coverage for a minimum of $50,000.
Nepal
The government of Nepal has made travel medical insurance mandatory for all visitors to the country. There are some exceptions, so please refer to the Nepal Governement website for the latest information.
Qatar
It is mandatory for all international travelers to Qatar to have travel insurance.
Russia
International visitors to Russia are required to apply for a Visa to enter the country. During this application process, the Consular Division of the Embassy maintains the right to request “medical insurance valid in the country to be visited and fully covering the period of the first trip,” according to the Embassy of the Russian Federation.
Rwanda
Rwandan law requires that any person visiting Rwandan territory must possess health insurance. Any visitors who attempt to enter the country without it may be required to purchase a health insurance plan upon arrival.
Saudi Arabia
All travelers to the Kingdom are required to obtain insurance that covers the cost of treatment from COVID-19 infection.
Schengen Countries
Visitors applying for a Schengen Visa must show proof of medical coverage with a minimum benefit of €30,000 (approx. $32,500 USD). This policy must be valid in all 29 Schengen countries and cover the entire duration of the stay, including medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. Coverage must also have a zero-deductible clause and be from an insurer recognized in the EU.
The Schengen countries include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Seychelles
As part of the Health Travel Authorization process, Seychelles requires all visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical treatment, quarantine-related expenses, and trip interruptions. Minimum coverage amounts are not specified, but the policy must remain valid for the full duration of the visit. Details: Seychelles Health Portal.
Thailand
As of June 2025, Thailand no longer requires travelers to show proof of travel insurance for entry. The previous mandate—linked to COVID-19 coverage—has been lifted. However, the Thai government still recommends that foreign visitors carry medical travel insurance to protect against unexpected costs. Official guidance: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Turkey
Turkey requires medical travel insurance for individuals applying for certain visa types, including e-Visas. While no specific limit is imposed, recommended coverage includes emergency treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation. A policy with coverage of at least €30,000 ($32,500 USD) is advised. Visa guidance: Turkey eVisa portal.
United Arab Emirates
Tourists from many countries must show proof of medical travel insurance when applying for a UAE visa. The policy should include coverage for emergency treatment and hospitalization. While no fixed minimum is stated, coverage of at least $50,000 USD is commonly recommended. Official info: Dubai Tourism Visa Info.
Ukraine
Ukraine mandates all foreign visitors to carry health insurance that includes emergency care and COVID-19 treatment. The policy must be issued by an insurer registered in Ukraine or accepted by Ukrainian authorities. Coverage must extend through the entire period of stay. Reference: Visit Ukraine.
Note for All Travelers
Even in countries where travel insurance is not mandated, it’s strongly advised to carry a policy that includes emergency medical care, evacuation, and trip cancellation. Requirements can change without notice, so travelers should consult each country’s official government or tourism site before departure.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article serves as a general overview and should only be used for informational purposes. While this information is updated regularly, travelers should visit the government website for their intended travel destination for the latest requirements.
