- What are the best international travel insurance plans?
- What exactly is international travel insurance?
- The price of international travel insurance
- International travel insurance coverage
- The Conditions of International Travel Insurance
- Why take out international travel insurance?
- How to Choose the Right International Travel Insurance
- international Travel Insurance and Your Current Policies
- FAQ
international travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: International travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage when you are travelling abroad.
2. Price: A one-week policy for Europe typically costs between ₹1,200 and ₹2,500, depending on your chosen coverage.
3. Coverage: It covers medical emergencies and trip disruptions but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Your bank card or domestic health plans like ESIC/CGHS offer very limited or no overseas medical cover.
5. Tips: Check that medical coverage meets visa norms, like the minimum ₹30 lakh required for Schengen countries.
6. Other useful info: Always choose an insurer with a good claim settlement ratio and a 24/7 international assistance network.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in India, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best international travel insurance.
What are the best international travel insurance plans?
Here is a selection of the best international travel insurance plans available for residents of India in 2025. These options stand out for their high medical coverage limits, low deductibles and flexible terms, ensuring strong protection for journeys across the globe.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹0 | • 24/7 global multilingual support. • Includes adventure sports. • Digital emergency card. • Fast, paperless claims system. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹0 | • No deductible applies. • COVID-19 coverage as standard. • Direct access to medical networks. • Family and group coverage available. |
| Tourist Card | ₹50,00,000 | ₹2,500 | • Pre-trip medical screening included. • Trip interruption and cancellation. • Discounted family plans. • Cashless hospitalization. |
| World Travel | ₹75,00,000 | ₹1,000 | • Claims support via WhatsApp. • Fast claim processing. • High-risk country coverage. • Telemedicine available. |
| Globe Partner | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹0 | • Upfront payment for hospitals abroad. • Student and long-stay options. • Direct evacuation coverage. • Comprehensive list of covered risks. |
| Globe Traveller | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹0 | • Long-term travel coverage. • Flexibility for multi-country trips. • 24/7 assistance hotline. • Student-specific plans. |
• Includes adventure sports.
• Digital emergency card.
• Fast, paperless claims system.
• COVID-19 coverage as standard.
• Direct access to medical networks.
• Family and group coverage available.
• Trip interruption and cancellation.
• Discounted family plans.
• Cashless hospitalization.
• Fast claim processing.
• High-risk country coverage.
• Telemedicine available.
• Student and long-stay options.
• Direct evacuation coverage.
• Comprehensive list of covered risks.
• Flexibility for multi-country trips.
• 24/7 assistance hotline.
• Student-specific plans.
The best international travel insurance may vary by individual needs. We invite you to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find the plan that suits you and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance plans for freeI compareWhat exactly is international travel insurance?
International travel insurance is a policy that provides financial protection for Indian travelers during trips outside India.
It covers emergencies such as medical expenses, hospitalization, evacuation, loss of luggage, trip cancellation, and personal liability in foreign countries.
This type of insurance is essential because healthcare costs and support systems abroad are different and often more expensive than in India.
International travel insurance is sometimes confused with domestic travel insurance, but it specifically addresses cross-border risks, visa requirements, and higher overseas healthcare costs.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out international travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in India:
- When a visa application requires mandatory insurance like the Schengen visa.
- If visiting countries with high medical costs like the USA.
- For expensive trips with non-refundable flights or hotel bookings.
- If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, even minor ones.
- When participating in adventure sports like skiing or scuba diving.
- If you are carrying valuable items like a laptop or camera.
- To cover costly emergency medical evacuation back to India.
The price of international travel insurance
On average, international travel insurance costs between 2% and 5% of your total trip cost.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 5 days in Dubai | ₹65,000 | ₹1,200 to ₹2,800 |
| 2 weeks in France and Switzerland | ₹1,40,000 | ₹3,000 to ₹6,200 |
| 3 weeks tour across the United States | ₹2,50,000 | ₹6,000 to ₹11,500 |
| 1 week group trip in Japan | ₹1,10,000 | ₹2,200 to ₹4,400 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your international travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: a longer trip leads to a higher insurance premium.
- destination: countries with expensive healthcare (such as the USA, Canada, Japan, Europe) increase the price.
- traveller’s age: seniors or very young travelers usually pay higher premiums.
- level of coverage: opting for higher coverage limits and lower deductibles raises the cost.
- selected options: added coverage for adventure sports, valuables, or trip cancellation means a higher price.
International travel insurance coverage
International travel insurance is a contract that protects Indian travellers against unforeseen risks and emergencies abroad.
It offers financial support if problems occur before, during, or after a journey outside India.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip cancellation | Important guarantee. Covers non-refundable expenses if you have to cancel before departure. | Aim for a minimum cover of ₹1 lakh and accept a deductible below ₹2,000. Losses due to change of mind or visa refusal are excluded. |
| ✈️ Missed departure | Pays extra costs if you miss a flight due to covered reasons. | Minimum cover should be ₹20,000. No deductible preferred. Late arrival or missed connections due to your own error are not covered. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or theft | Compensates for lost or stolen baggage during transport or stay. | Choose at least ₹50,000 cover and a deductible under ₹1,000. Unattended or delayed baggage, valuables and electronics are often excluded. |
| ⏰ Travel delay | Gives fixed payment for long delay during transport. | At least ₹5,000 after delays of 6 hours, no deductible recommended. Delays under the minimum or without proof are excluded. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical care and hospital stays abroad. | Cover must be ₹30 lakhs+ for Schengen, higher for USA. Accept deductibles under ₹2,500. Pre-existing conditions and routine check-ups are excluded. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation and repatriation | Key guarantee. Pays costs to return you to India or nearest safe hospital. | Minimum cover of ₹10 lakhs and avoid high deductibles. Elective repatriation, refusal by emergency team, or transport for non-medical reasons are excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental treatment | Pays for urgent dental treatment during your trip. | Ensure at least ₹20,000 cover, preferably no deductible. Cosmetic dental procedures and ongoing dental care are not covered. |
| 🙍♂️ Personal accident | Pays compensation for death or permanent disability abroad. | Minimum ₹5 lakhs recommended, with no deductible. Risks from professional sports, intoxication, or suicide are excluded. |
| 🪪 Personal liability | Covers claims for accidental injury or property damage you cause abroad. | Look for ₹20 lakhs minimum. Deductible below ₹1,000 advised. Intentional damage, motor vehicle accidents, or injury to family members are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Pays for lawyer fees or bail if you face proceedings abroad. | Minimum ₹2 lakhs per claim is advised, deductible below ₹1,000. Acts under alcohol, intentional offences, or protest participation are not covered. |
Losses due to change of mind or visa refusal are excluded.
Late arrival or missed connections due to your own error are not covered.
Unattended or delayed baggage, valuables and electronics are often excluded.
Delays under the minimum or without proof are excluded.
Pre-existing conditions and routine check-ups are excluded.
Elective repatriation, refusal by emergency team, or transport for non-medical reasons are excluded.
Cosmetic dental procedures and ongoing dental care are not covered.
Risks from professional sports, intoxication, or suicide are excluded.
Intentional damage, motor vehicle accidents, or injury to family members are excluded.
Acts under alcohol, intentional offences, or protest participation are not covered.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the international travel insurance that best matches your needs and your journey, compare options easily on HelloSafe.
The Conditions of International Travel Insurance
To benefit from international travel insurance as an Indian resident, some key conditions must be fulfilled. The most important requirements are as follows:
- Policy purchase timing: you must buy the policy before leaving India, not after starting your journey.
- Residency status: you must be an Indian resident when purchasing the insurance.
- Trip duration compliance: your trip must not exceed the maximum period allowed by the policy, usually 90 or 180 days.
- Covered destinations: some countries or regions may be excluded; check advisories and insurer exclusions for high-risk areas.
- No ongoing travel: you cannot already be abroad when taking out your international policy.
- Incident reporting: you need to notify the insurer promptly in the event of illness, accident, or loss.
- Valid documentation: all claims require submission of supporting documents such as receipts, medical and police reports.
- Premium payment completion: the full premium must be paid before your policy is activated.
Watch out!
A dangerous misunderstanding is relying solely on free credit card travel insurance. These policies often have very low medical coverage (under ₹5 Lakhs) and may exclude emergency evacuation. This is insufficient for countries like the USA or Europe, leaving you exposed to massive medical bills.
Why take out international travel insurance?
While international travel insurance is not always mandatory, it is often required for certain visas such as Schengen, Russia, or China.
Even a minor health problem abroad can quickly result in significant expenses, often much higher than in India.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, usually up to ₹50,00,000 |
| Medical repatriation |
| Up to 100%, often to ₹50,00,000 or more |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to 100%, typically ₹1,00,00,000 limit |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Normally 100%, subject to chosen policy limit |
| Consultation and treatment for an intestinal infection |
| Typically 100%, within selected sum insured |
- Europe: ₹15,000 to ₹18,000
- North America: ₹25,000 to ₹30,000
- Asia: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000
- Europe: ₹8,00,000 to ₹15,00,000
- North America: ₹12,00,000 to ₹25,00,000
- Asia: ₹4,00,000 to ₹8,00,000
- Europe: ₹8,00,000 to ₹10,00,000
- North America: ₹15,00,000 to ₹20,00,000
- Asia: ₹4,00,000 to ₹7,00,000
- Europe: ₹12,000 to ₹15,000
- North America: ₹20,000 to ₹25,000
- Asia: ₹6,000 to ₹10,000
- Europe: ₹18,000 to ₹22,000
- North America: ₹30,000 to ₹32,000
- Asia: ₹10,000 to ₹15,000
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
In addition to medical expenses, international travel insurance may also cover trip cancellation, baggage loss or delay, personal liability abroad, repatriation assistance, and additional services such as emergency cash advances and teleconsultation.
Good to know
Medical emergencies abroad can be financially devastating. An appendicitis surgery in the USA can cost over ₹15 lakh. Protect your savings from unforeseen medical bills. A policy from a specialist like ACS ensures you have comprehensive coverage, letting you travel with complete peace of mind.
How to Choose the Right International Travel Insurance
Coverage levels, reimbursement ceilings and conditions can differ considerably between international travel insurance plans. It is critical to compare insurers based on well-chosen criteria to ensure you buy the right protection.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Low limits may leave you exposed to major medical bills overseas. | Always look for at least ₹30 lakh in Schengen, ₹50 lakh for North America trips. |
| 📉 Deductible | High deductibles mean greater personal out-of-pocket cost at claim time. | Choose plans with a minimal or zero deductible for major medical claims. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Exclusions or waiting periods may limit your ability to claim. | Read policy documents and clarify special clauses before making your decision. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Senior travelers may face limits or pay higher premiums. | Confirm age limits for both single and annual multi-trip coverage. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Needs differ for families, couples, solo or business travelers. | Select family plans or professional trip cover for better value and relevant options. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Some plans cover only short trips, not extended or multiple journeys. | For stay beyond 90 days, ensure the policy covers extended or multiple trips. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Coverage and premium cost depend on where you are going. | If heading to the USA or Canada, select global or U.S.-inclusive coverage. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Overlapping benefits waste money and create claim complications. | Check your bank card, health insurance and home policy before purchasing. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Sporting or adventure activities are often excluded or require add-ons. | Disclose all activities such as trekking, skiing or diving to avoid exclusions. |
international Travel Insurance and Your Current Policies
It is legitimate to wonder whether your current insurances, such as credit card insurance or public health coverage, can offer international travel insurance. Unfortunately, these existing options are often not enough.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | International travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (ESIC/CGHS) | Never | Covers only domestic treatment under ESIC/CGHS. Maximum of ₹0 for overseas treatments, hospitalisation abroad or emergency evacuation. No coverage for hospitalisation, repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability or assistance abroad. | Travel insurance covers up to ₹1,00,00,000 for medical, evacuation, trip cancellation and assistance. Public health insurance covers none of these abroad. |
| Private health insurance (Star Health, Max Bupa) | Almost Never | May cover emergency treatment abroad for up to ₹5,00,000, often requires separate add-on. Offers basic hospitalisation and medical only. No reimbursement for trip loss, repatriation, missed flights, personal liability, or property damage. | Travel insurance provides higher limits of ₹1,00,00,000 and covers risks such as baggage loss, trip delay, and repatriation not included in private health plans. |
| Classic credit card (SBI Elite, HDFC Regalia) | Almost Never | Limited health, accident or baggage coverage, usually below ₹2,00,000. Some emergency medical or accident insurance included if ticket is purchased with the card. No evacuation, repatriation, trip cancellation, or high medical expenses abroad. | Travel insurance reimburses up to ₹1,00,00,000, including evacuation, trip cancellation, and liabilities. Card limits and guarantees are far lower. |
| Premium credit card (AmEx Platinum, ICICI Emeralde) | Limited Coverage | Some cards include higher limits (up to ₹5,00,000) for medical/emergency, accident, or baggage. Still major exclusions for trip cancellation, dental, adventure activities. No guaranteed evacuation, limited to emergencies only and strict conditions for medical services abroad. | Travel insurance covers much higher sums and offers comprehensive evacuation, accident, legal, personal liability and adventure cover not available with premium credit cards. |
No coverage for hospitalisation, repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability or assistance abroad.
No reimbursement for trip loss, repatriation, missed flights, personal liability, or property damage.
No evacuation, repatriation, trip cancellation, or high medical expenses abroad.
No guaranteed evacuation, limited to emergencies only and strict conditions for medical services abroad.
Expert advice
Be aware! Bank cards and health insurance often exclude trip interruptions due to a relative's illness or death. Read your policy carefully to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is international travel insurance mandatory?
International travel insurance is mandatory for Indian citizens visiting countries like the Schengen area, UAE, Russia, and Turkey. For most other destinations, it is not legally required but is strongly recommended. For example, even a short US trip could leave you with huge hospital bills in case of an emergency.
When is it recommended to purchase international travel insurance?
The best time to purchase international travel insurance is as soon as you book your trip, ideally before making any payments that could be non-refundable. Early purchase ensures trip cancellation, medical expenses, and other benefits are in effect from the outset and can save you costs in case your plans change unexpectedly.
How do I purchase international travel insurance?
Start by comparing policies using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform. Check the coverage details and exclusions for international travel, including medical, trip, and baggage protection. Purchase your preferred plan online. You will receive your insurance certificate instantly by email.
Can I purchase international travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can buy international travel insurance even after booking your tickets or accommodation. However, some benefits such as trip cancellation may only apply if the insurance is purchased before any covered event occurs. It is always better to buy insurance as early as possible.
How do I make a claim on my international travel insurance?
In case of an incident, notify your insurer’s helpline immediately and gather supporting documents like medical bills or police reports. Complete the claim form and submit all documents online or through the insurer’s app. Most insurers process claims digitally, but keep all original receipts until your claim is settled.
Is coverage for pre-existing medical conditions included?
Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies by insurer and policy. Many plans exclude these conditions, while others may provide limited coverage after a waiting period or additional premium. Always disclose your health history to ensure you choose a policy that meets your needs abroad.
Does international travel insurance cover COVID-19?
Most international travel insurance plans now include COVID-19 coverage for medical treatment, quarantine expenses, or trip cancellations due to infection. Check your policy to confirm which COVID-19-related events are covered, as inclusions, limits, and exclusions differ among insurers.
Is international travel insurance mandatory?
International travel insurance is mandatory for Indian citizens visiting countries like the Schengen area, UAE, Russia, and Turkey. For most other destinations, it is not legally required but is strongly recommended. For example, even a short US trip could leave you with huge hospital bills in case of an emergency.
When is it recommended to purchase international travel insurance?
The best time to purchase international travel insurance is as soon as you book your trip, ideally before making any payments that could be non-refundable. Early purchase ensures trip cancellation, medical expenses, and other benefits are in effect from the outset and can save you costs in case your plans change unexpectedly.
How do I purchase international travel insurance?
Start by comparing policies using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform. Check the coverage details and exclusions for international travel, including medical, trip, and baggage protection. Purchase your preferred plan online. You will receive your insurance certificate instantly by email.
Can I purchase international travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can buy international travel insurance even after booking your tickets or accommodation. However, some benefits such as trip cancellation may only apply if the insurance is purchased before any covered event occurs. It is always better to buy insurance as early as possible.
How do I make a claim on my international travel insurance?
In case of an incident, notify your insurer’s helpline immediately and gather supporting documents like medical bills or police reports. Complete the claim form and submit all documents online or through the insurer’s app. Most insurers process claims digitally, but keep all original receipts until your claim is settled.
Is coverage for pre-existing medical conditions included?
Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies by insurer and policy. Many plans exclude these conditions, while others may provide limited coverage after a waiting period or additional premium. Always disclose your health history to ensure you choose a policy that meets your needs abroad.
Does international travel insurance cover COVID-19?
Most international travel insurance plans now include COVID-19 coverage for medical treatment, quarantine expenses, or trip cancellations due to infection. Check your policy to confirm which COVID-19-related events are covered, as inclusions, limits, and exclusions differ among insurers.
