When is it possible not to take out insurance when travelling abroad?

Insurance abroad is often a prerequisite for travel, but there are exceptions when you can do without a policy. Find out when you can travel abroad without insurance, what risks you face without a policy, and why it is worth taking care of protection in advance

An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay outside of Ukraine

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Travel insurance is an important aspect of preparing for a trip, providing protection against unforeseen circumstances. In most cases, insurance is a mandatory requirement for crossing the border or obtaining a visa. However, there are some cases where you do not need to take out an insurance policy. We explain in which situations you can do without insurance and why it is still better to take care of your safety even in such cases.

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When insurance is not mandatory

In some situations, tourists really do not need to take out an insurance policy. For example, some countries do not require an insurance policy for entry. This is the case when travelling to a number of countries in Latin America, Southeast Asia or the Caribbean, where travel insurance is not required by law.

Refugees or persons travelling as part of humanitarian missions or temporary protection programmes are also sometimes exempt from the requirement to provide an insurance policy, especially when crossing the border in an emergency.

There are also simply exceptional cases. For example, for short trips to border areas under local agreements or where special visa regimes do not require medical insurance.

However, even if insurance is not mandatory, its absence can lead to serious risks. Therefore, we recommend that you take out an insurance policy before any trip to ensure a peaceful journey. You can find affordable insurance prices at Visit Ukraine.

Risks and consequences of not having insurance

Refusal to take out an insurance policy can cause the following problems:

1. High medical costs. Medical care abroad often costs tens of thousands of dollars. Even a routine visit to the doctor can be expensive without insurance.

2. Lack of access to necessary care. In some cases, private or public clinics refuse to accept patients without insurance or require immediate payment.

3. Problems when crossing the border or obtaining a visa. Some border services may refuse entry if you do not have insurance, even if it is not formally required by visa regulations.

4. Financial and legal risks. Being involved in a traffic accident, hospitalisation or emergency evacuation without insurance can result in significant debts and legal complications.

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Why you should take out insurance in any case

Even if insurance is not mandatory, taking out a policy is a wise move. First and foremost, insurance covers emergency medical care, hospitalisation, surgery and other expenses.

In case of unforeseen situations, the policy will help you avoid having to pay huge sums in the event of accidents, illnesses or other unforeseen circumstances. At the same time, you will know that you will receive support and assistance in any situation.

It is also important to note that modern insurance policies often include not only medical insurance, but also legal assistance, compensation for lost luggage, flight cancellations and much more.

Getting travel and medical insurance through Visit Ukraine

If you want to get reliable insurance quickly and without any hassle, use the Visit Ukraine service:

❗️ Visit Ukraine offers only verified insurance companies, a convenient selection of packages and favourable terms with no hidden fees.

❗️ You can choose the right policy, fill in your details and pay for your insurance online in a few minutes. The policy is sent immediately to your email.

❗️ Visit Ukraine offers various options: for tourists, students, employees, as well as special packages to cover a range of relevant risks.

Reminder! It is possible to travel safely in Ukraine even during the war — you just need to prepare properly. Find out how to make your trip comfortable and safe.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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