- The best long term travel insurance plans
- What is long term travel insurance?
- What is the price of long term travel insurance?
- What does long term travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of long term travel insurance
- Why take out long term travel insurance?
- How to Choose the Right long term Travel Insurance
- Do my current insurance policies cover long term travel insurance?
- FAQ
long term travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Long-term travel insurance covers extended trips abroad, typically for study, work, or gap years over 90 days.
2. Price: A six-month policy for a student in Europe can range from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, depending on coverage.
3. Coverage: It typically covers medical emergencies and repatriation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards and Indian health plans like ESIC/CGHS offer very limited or no long-term international medical cover.
5. Tips: Always declare pre-existing medical conditions and ensure your policy meets your destination country's specific visa requirements.
6. Other useful info: Many policies allow you to extend your coverage from abroad without needing to return first to India.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in India, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best long-term travel insurance.
The best long term travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best long term travel insurance plans available for residents of India in 2025.
These policies stand out for their high medical limits, low deductibles and flexible terms, providing optimal protection for extended travel abroad.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | ₹1,50,00,000 | ₹0 | • Worldwide coverage for up to 24 months. • Academic interruption and family visit included. • Telemedicine and psychological support. • Direct billing with hospitals. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹0 | • No deductible for medical expenses. • 24/7 multilingual assistance. • App-based claim management. • Flexible contract extensions abroad. |
| Tourist Card | ₹75,00,000 | ₹5,000 | • Academic fee coverage. • Mental health and sports injuries included. • Fast digital claim process. • Student-specific benefits. |
| World Travel | ₹1,50,00,000 | ₹0 | • Flexible for gap year travellers and digital nomads. • Telemedicine and COVID-19 coverage. • Family visit and loss of passport support. • No age limit for coverage. |
| Globe Partner | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹3,000 | • Sponsor protection for working holiday. • Direct online claim submission. • Maternity coverage option. • 24/7 assistance. |
| Globe Traveller | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹3,000 | • Longer stays up to two years. • Academic interruption option. • Support in English and local languages. • Claim extensions possible while travelling. |
• Academic interruption and family visit included.
• Telemedicine and psychological support.
• Direct billing with hospitals.
• 24/7 multilingual assistance.
• App-based claim management.
• Flexible contract extensions abroad.
• Mental health and sports injuries included.
• Fast digital claim process.
• Student-specific benefits.
• Telemedicine and COVID-19 coverage.
• Family visit and loss of passport support.
• No age limit for coverage.
• Direct online claim submission.
• Maternity coverage option.
• 24/7 assistance.
• Academic interruption option.
• Support in English and local languages.
• Claim extensions possible while travelling.
The best long term travel insurance may vary depending on your needs. We invite you to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find the one that suits you and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance plans for freeI compareWhat is long term travel insurance?
Long term travel insurance is coverage meant for trips lasting more than 90 days, often extending up to a year or more.
It is designed for Indian travelers who go abroad for study, work, gap years, or extended leisure, protecting against costly overseas medical emergencies, accident, loss of baggage, and travel interruptions.
This type of insurance is essential when staying in countries where healthcare is expensive or where visas require proof of comprehensive coverage for the entire period of the stay.
It is different from short-term travel insurance, which only covers trips of up to 90 days.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out long term travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in India:
- For studying abroad or taking a gap year.
- When on a long-term work assignment or deputation overseas.
- If your visa requires mandatory health insurance for long stays.
- For travel in countries with expensive healthcare like the USA.
- When living as a digital nomad or long-term backpacker.
- If your Indian health policy does not cover you abroad.
- For long visits to family living in another country.
What is the price of long term travel insurance?
On average, long term travel insurance costs between 2% and 4% of the total trip cost.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Semester exchange in France (6 months) | ₹1,50,000 | ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 |
| Gap year volunteering in Australia (12 months) | ₹4,00,000 | ₹8,000 to ₹16,000 |
| Working holiday in Canada (1 year) | ₹6,00,000 | ₹12,000 to ₹24,000 |
| Multi-country round-the-world trip (9 months) | ₹9,00,000 | ₹18,000 to ₹32,000 |
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 long term travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer the stay, the higher the price.
- destination: certain countries such as USA or Switzerland have higher healthcare costs, increasing premium.
- traveller’s age: insurance for older travellers costs more.
- level of coverage: higher benefit limits, no deductible, or comprehensive add-ons increase the price.
- pre-existing medical conditions: coverage for existing health issues raises the premium.
- planned activities: adventure sports, working, or studying can require specialized and more expensive cover.
What does long term travel insurance cover?
Long term travel insurance is designed for people staying abroad for several months or more.
It is suitable for extended studies, work, or long holidays outside India.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 📝 Trip cancellation | Refund if the trip is cancelled due to a covered event before departure. | Choose at least ₹1 lakh cover and a maximum ₹1,000 deductible. Change of mind, pre-existing events, and incomplete documents are excluded. |
| ✈️ Missed departure | Covers transport and accommodation costs after missing a flight for valid reasons. | A minimum of ₹40,000 is recommended, with no deductible. Exclusions: late arrival, insufficient documentation, or ineligible reasons. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation for loss, damaged, or stolen baggage during your trip. | Select ₹90,000 minimum cover and do not accept a deductible higher than ₹2,000. Unattended bags or cash losses are usually excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Compensation for lengthy flight or train delays. | Aim for ₹3,000+ after a 4-hour delay, with no deductible. Delays under 4 hours and those without proof are not covered. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Covers urgent medical care, hospitalization, and prescriptions abroad. | Minimum ₹50 lakh, no deductible or max ₹5,000 advised. Routine care, pre-existing illness, and elective procedures are not covered. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation | Key guarantee. Arranges and pays for return to India or transfer to proper care. | Unlimited cover is best, but at least ₹15 lakh. Deductibles should not exceed ₹5,000. Refused repatriation and family visit costs excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers expenses for sudden, painful dental issues during your trip. | We suggest ₹30,000 minimum cover and a ₹750 deductible or less. Cosmetic or planned dental treatments are not included. |
| 🪪 Personal liability abroad | Covers costs if you cause injury or property damage to others while abroad. | Minimum ₹20 lakh cover, deductible below ₹5,000. Claims from family, intentional acts, and work damages are excluded. |
| 👨🎓 Study interruption | Reimburses tuition if forced to interrupt studies for a covered reason. | Minimum ₹5 lakh coverage, no deductible above ₹1,000. Voluntary withdrawals, poor grades, or expulsion are not covered. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Pays lawyer fees and legal support after incidents while abroad. | Minimum ₹1 lakh cover, ₹2,000 max deductible. Excludes incidents related to alcohol, drugs, or illegal activities. |
Change of mind, pre-existing events, and incomplete documents are excluded.
Exclusions: late arrival, insufficient documentation, or ineligible reasons.
Unattended bags or cash losses are usually excluded.
Delays under 4 hours and those without proof are not covered.
Routine care, pre-existing illness, and elective procedures are not covered.
Refused repatriation and family visit costs excluded.
Cosmetic or planned dental treatments are not included.
Claims from family, intentional acts, and work damages are excluded.
Voluntary withdrawals, poor grades, or expulsion are not covered.
Excludes incidents related to alcohol, drugs, or illegal activities.
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 long term travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of long term travel insurance
To benefit from long term travel insurance in India, certain essential conditions must be satisfied. The following are among the main requirements:
- Residency in India: you must be a resident of India when purchasing the insurance policy.
- Timely application: you must subscribe to the policy before leaving India, not while abroad.
- Trip duration compliance: your trip must fall within the minimum and maximum duration stated in the contract.
- No already-ongoing travel: you cannot activate coverage if your trip has already started.
- Eligible destinations: your travel destinations must not be restricted or under travel advisories from Indian authorities.
- Premium payment: you must have paid the premium as required by the insurer before coverage begins.
- Accurate declarations: you must provide accurate medical and travel disclosures at the time of purchase.
- Claim notification: you must inform the insurer promptly when an incident or medical event happens during travel.
Watch out!
A critical misunderstanding for long-term travel: many policies are voided if you return to India, even for a short visit. Unlike short trips, you can't just pop back home for a festival. Check your policy's 'return home' clause to avoid losing your entire coverage.
Why take out long term travel insurance?
While travelling, even a minor health issue can quickly become expensive, especially outside India. High healthcare costs abroad are your responsibility if uninsured.
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 percent, subject to policy limit |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Usually 100 percent, excluding deductible |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Partial reimbursement, often up to policy limit |
| Repatriation for medical reasons to India |
| Up to 100 percent, if medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to 100 percent, depending on policy limit |
- Europe: ₹15,000 to ₹25,000
- North America: ₹35,000 to ₹60,000
- Asia: ₹8,000 to ₹20,000
- Europe: ₹12,000 to ₹20,000
- North America: ₹25,000 to ₹50,000
- Asia: ₹6,000 to ₹12,000
- Europe: ₹20,000 to ₹30,000
- North America: ₹45,000 to ₹80,000
- Asia: ₹12,000 to ₹18,000
- Europe: ₹15,00,000 to ₹25,00,000
- North America: ₹20,00,000 to ₹30,00,000
- Asia: ₹8,00,000 to ₹15,00,000
- Europe: ₹8,00,000 to ₹12,00,000
- North America: ₹25,00,000 to ₹40,00,000
- Asia: ₹4,00,000 to ₹8,00,000
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, long term travel insurance may include trip cancellation, lost or stolen baggage, personal liability abroad, repatriation assistance, and telemedicine services, all of which are very useful when travelling.
Good to know
Overseas medical emergencies can cost lakhs (₹25 lakh for surgery in the USA!). Your Indian policy won't cover it. Protect your savings and ensure visa compliance with a long-term plan. Some, like Chapka, even pay hospitals directly, so you don't have to.
How to Choose the Right long term Travel Insurance
Coverage and reimbursement limits can differ greatly between long term travel insurance plans. It is essential to compare key features to ensure the policy matches your needs for your entire journey.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Low limits could expose you to high costs in countries with expensive healthcare | Always select a policy with at least ₹50 lakh coverage, or more for destinations like the USA and Canada. |
| 📉 Deductible | Deductibles determine what you must pay yourself before insurance starts | Look for insurers with a low or zero deductible, especially for medical or hospitalisation expenses. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Some protections require specific actions, like buying insurance before departure | Review the policy for clauses about buying coverage, trip start dates, and exact period of cover. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Higher age often leads to higher premiums or restricted coverage | Verify the age limits and extra fees. Check if renewal is allowed if you have a birthday during your trip. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Coverage options vary for solo travellers, families, students, or professionals | Choose family policies for groups or check for study interruption coverage when going abroad to study. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Many standard plans restrict coverage to 90 days | Only compare policies approved for continuous stays of 6 months or more for long term travel. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Healthcare costs and risks differ by country or region | Ensure your plan covers all intended destinations and includes globally valid medical evacuation. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Credit card or home insurance might have limited overseas protection | Examine your current cover. Avoid double insurance and confirm limitations for trips over three months. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Adventure sports, volunteering, or work may be excluded | State your planned activities clearly. Seek options with activity upgrades if you intend risky or unique tasks. |
Do my current insurance policies cover long term travel insurance?
It is reasonable to wonder if your existing insurances, such as credit card insurance or national health coverage, can provide you with long term travel insurance, but unfortunately they are almost always insufficient.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Long term travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (ESIC/CGHS) | Never | Coverage applies only inside India, ₹0 for foreign medical bills or repatriation. No support for medical costs, return tickets, study interruption, or liability abroad. | Travel insurance covers medical up to ₹2 crore including repatriation, study interruption and legal protection overseas. |
| Private health insurance (Star Health, Max Bupa) | Almost Never | Some emergency overseas coverage in top plans, typically limited to ₹1 lakh–₹5 lakh. No trip interruption, academic fees, or continuous multi-country coverage. | Travel insurance provides coverage up to ₹2 crore, plus direct payment, academic fees, and worldwide assistance for a year or more. |
| Classic credit card (HDFC Regalia, SBI Elite) | Never | Only medical emergency or accident, maximum ₹2 lakh–₹5 lakh, capped to 60–90 days coverage. No coverage beyond 90 days, no direct bill, no long-term assistance. | Travel insurance includes up to ₹2 crore medical for 6–24 months, study cover, and professional support. Credit cards never do. |
| Premium credit card (ICICI Sapphiro, Axis Bank Magnus) | Limited Coverage | Best cards offer accident and medical up to ₹10 lakh–₹20 lakh for under 90 days. No evacuation after 3 months, no coverage for academic interruption, or trip extension. | Travel insurance gives coverage up to ₹2 crore for year-long trips, study and gap year protection, and unlimited extensions. |
No support for medical costs, return tickets, study interruption, or liability abroad.
No trip interruption, academic fees, or continuous multi-country coverage.
No coverage beyond 90 days, no direct bill, no long-term assistance.
No evacuation after 3 months, no coverage for academic interruption, or trip extension.
Expert advice
Bank card and health insurance often exclude key situations like trip interruption for a relative's illness or death. Read your policy terms carefully to avoid costly surprises abroad. For complete peace of mind, it is always safer to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance plan tailored for your trip.
FAQ
Is long term travel insurance mandatory?
Long term travel insurance is mandatory when required by the visa regulations of certain countries, such as Schengen states for students and workers, or Australia and Canada for working holiday and study permits. In other cases, it is not legally required but highly recommended. For example, if you are traveling for a year as a digital nomad, an unexpected hospitalization abroad could cost lakhs of rupees, making insurance crucial for both your safety and financial protection.
When is it recommended to purchase long term travel insurance?
It is recommended to purchase long term travel insurance as soon as your travel plans are confirmed and before you depart from India. Buying early ensures that you are protected against cancellations or disruptions even before your journey begins. This way, you maximize your period of coverage and can secure better rates compared to last-minute purchases.
How do I purchase long term travel insurance?
To purchase long term travel insurance, first compare available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best value for your needs. Next, carefully check the guarantees and exclusions, focusing on provisions that apply to extended stays. Once satisfied, purchase the policy online by providing your details and payment. Finally, you will receive your insurance certificate by email, which can be used for visa applications and proof of coverage abroad.
Can I purchase long term travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase long term travel insurance even after booking your flights and accommodations, but it is best to do so before you travel. Some insurers may restrict certain benefits, such as trip cancellation or pre-departure coverage, if you wait too long after your booking date. Always read the policy terms to understand timing requirements.
How do I make a claim under a long term travel insurance policy?
To make a claim, contact your insurer as soon as an incident occurs and follow their claim instructions, usually available online or via their helpline. You will need to provide documents such as medical reports, bills, police reports for theft, or proof of purchase for lost items. Keep all original receipts and fill out the claim form accurately to avoid delays. Claims are typically processed within a few weeks, depending on complexity.
Is long term travel insurance valid for multiple countries?
Most long term travel insurance plans for Indian travelers offer worldwide coverage, though some have region-specific terms. Always check if your policy covers all the countries you plan to visit, including short layovers. For trips involving several continents or regions, it is best to select a global or multi-trip policy to avoid any gaps in protection.
Does long term travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions varies between insurers. Some policies may exclude them, others offer coverage after a waiting period or for an additional premium. It is important to declare any existing conditions during application so your insurer can advise on the best options and possible exclusions. Not disclosing medical history can result in denied claims.
Is long term travel insurance mandatory?
Long term travel insurance is mandatory when required by the visa regulations of certain countries, such as Schengen states for students and workers, or Australia and Canada for working holiday and study permits. In other cases, it is not legally required but highly recommended. For example, if you are traveling for a year as a digital nomad, an unexpected hospitalization abroad could cost lakhs of rupees, making insurance crucial for both your safety and financial protection.
When is it recommended to purchase long term travel insurance?
It is recommended to purchase long term travel insurance as soon as your travel plans are confirmed and before you depart from India. Buying early ensures that you are protected against cancellations or disruptions even before your journey begins. This way, you maximize your period of coverage and can secure better rates compared to last-minute purchases.
How do I purchase long term travel insurance?
To purchase long term travel insurance, first compare available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best value for your needs. Next, carefully check the guarantees and exclusions, focusing on provisions that apply to extended stays. Once satisfied, purchase the policy online by providing your details and payment. Finally, you will receive your insurance certificate by email, which can be used for visa applications and proof of coverage abroad.
Can I purchase long term travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase long term travel insurance even after booking your flights and accommodations, but it is best to do so before you travel. Some insurers may restrict certain benefits, such as trip cancellation or pre-departure coverage, if you wait too long after your booking date. Always read the policy terms to understand timing requirements.
How do I make a claim under a long term travel insurance policy?
To make a claim, contact your insurer as soon as an incident occurs and follow their claim instructions, usually available online or via their helpline. You will need to provide documents such as medical reports, bills, police reports for theft, or proof of purchase for lost items. Keep all original receipts and fill out the claim form accurately to avoid delays. Claims are typically processed within a few weeks, depending on complexity.
Is long term travel insurance valid for multiple countries?
Most long term travel insurance plans for Indian travelers offer worldwide coverage, though some have region-specific terms. Always check if your policy covers all the countries you plan to visit, including short layovers. For trips involving several continents or regions, it is best to select a global or multi-trip policy to avoid any gaps in protection.
Does long term travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions varies between insurers. Some policies may exclude them, others offer coverage after a waiting period or for an additional premium. It is important to declare any existing conditions during application so your insurer can advise on the best options and possible exclusions. Not disclosing medical history can result in denied claims.
