List of Countries Require Health Insurance for Entry

These Countries Require Health Insurance for Entry

The recent pandemic has made traveling to another country a lot more difficult. With many countries closing their borders and adopting strict guidelines, people found new ways to live and work. Now, the second wave of COVID-19 is crashing the shores of many countries around the world. Despite that, some borders are still open to visitors, but not without international health insurance for entry.

Many countries are worried about travelers and visitors contracting the COVID-19 virus. What’s more concerning is having to pay the medical bill out of their pockets. If you are traveling to another country with just your traveler’s health policies, it is imperative to know that it just won’t cut it. Local health plans may not be available for desirable for many expatriates. Travel insurance only pays for emergencies and usually only up to a set period of time – generally 1 year. Therefore, countries are now making it mandatory for visitors to show proof of international health insurance or at least some travel medical coverage to enter the country.

Partial List of Countries Requiring Global Healthcare Coverage Before Arrival

Cuba

It is mandatory to have international health insurance for all visitors, expats, digital nomads, and global citizens when entering the country. This also applies to all Cubans who are living abroad. If you arrive in Cuba without health insurance or travel medical insurance, you may be forced to get local health insurance from a local insurance provider at the airport. However, local insurance is not comprehensive enough and maybe more expensive. To know about healthcare system in Cuba check out our healthcare region page.

Aruba

Aruba opened its borders in July, and before doing so, implemented one of the tightest insurance requirements for COVID-19. If you are visiting Aruba, you must purchase health insurance from the Aruban government, which covers several hospital expenses. It includes initial tests for suspected covid cases and four other covid tests as part of outpatient retests. To know about healthcare system in Aruba check out our healthcare region page.

United Arab Emirates

You can visit the UAE if you have proof of international health insurance coverage. You must also take a COVID test no more than 96 hours before departure and show a negative test result. Note that children under the age of 12 and those with disabilities are exempt.

Tahiti

On July 15, Tahiti and French Polynesia opened its borders to visitors. The requirement to enter the country is to present negative COVID-19 PCR test results. Everyone above six years of age arriving by air must take this test 72 hours before departure. Adults are required to fill a digital entry form to confirm they have proper insurance. Although the form only indicates travel insurance, it is safe to say it’s best to get comprehensive global healthcare when traveling to this country.

Turks and Caicos

For this Caribbean island, visitors must go through a multi-step process. Turks and Caicos reopened their borders for tourists on July 22, and travelers must submit a travel pre-authorization application through the TCI Assured Portal. The steps include applicants to complete an online health screening questionnaire, upload proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken five days before arrival, and provide proof of insurance. The insurance must cover COVID-19 medical costs, full hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription, and evacuation coverage.

Costa Rica

In August, Costa Rica allowed Canadian, UK, and European Union residents to enter the country. However, these expats must provide negative COVID-19 test results. Plus, this test must be taken 48 hours before departure. Most importantly, those entering the country must also have proof of international health insurance. It should cover things like lodging during the quarantine period and medical expenses.

Antarctica

It is important to have comprehensive global healthcare when visiting Antarctica. Even cruises and Antarctic operators require proof of insurance coverage before issuing your tickets. Moreover, since it is a remote destination, your health insurance should cover emergency evacuation and repatriation. Ensure you know what’s covered in your insurance policy, especially if you’re planning on activities such as kayaking, camping, etc.

Qatar

It’s mandatory to have international health insurance when visiting Qatar even before COVID-19. It is one way to balance the increasing health care costs of visitors relying on state care. Private companies have been legally obligated to pay premiums for their expat employees since 2015.

St. Maarten

American travelers could visit this Caribbean island on August 1st with proof of negative COVID-19 test results. It also applies to those arriving from moderate to high-risk countries. Visitors must go through the covid test 72 hours before their departure to St. Maarten. Most importantly, visitors must also have appropriate health insurance coverage that covers expenses related to COVID-19.

Barbados

Barbados has been in the news recently with their Welcome Stamp, which is a very attractive option for people who want to work remotely on the island for up to a year at a time. The country introduced this system as a way for people to live and work in a beautiful part of the world with lots of sand, sun and beaches. The county is very welcoming, safe and stable.