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Travel Insurance for International Trips from India
International travel from India has grown rapidly in the last few years. Indians are travelling abroad for vacations, studies, work assignments, business meetings, and family visits more than ever before. While booking flights and hotels is exciting, one critical component often gets ignored until the last moment — travel insurance.
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| Travel Insurance for International Trips from India |
Travel insurance is not just an optional add-on. In many cases, it is a visa requirement, and in all cases, it is a financial safety net against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and unexpected disruptions.
This detailed 2025 guide explains everything Indian travellers need to know about international travel insurance — what it covers, what it does not, how much it costs, how to choose the right plan, claim process, comparisons, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is International Travel Insurance?
International travel insurance is a short-term insurance policy designed to cover financial risks that may arise during a trip outside India. It typically starts from the day you leave India and ends when you return.
The core objective is simple — to protect you from unexpected expenses abroad, especially medical costs, which can be extremely high in countries like the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Japan.
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Why Is Travel Insurance Important for Indians Going Abroad?
Many Indian travellers underestimate international risks because healthcare in India is relatively affordable. However, overseas medical costs can be shocking.
Realistic examples:
- Emergency hospital visit in the USA: ₹2–5 lakh per day
- Minor surgery in Europe: ₹5–10 lakh
- Medical evacuation by air ambulance: ₹30–60 lakh
Without travel insurance, such expenses can wipe out years of savings.
Other key reasons:
- Mandatory for Schengen and some other visas
- Flight delays and cancellations are common
- Baggage loss or delay can disrupt entire trips
- Accidents and illnesses are unpredictable
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Visa?
Yes, for many destinations, travel insurance is mandatory.
Countries where insurance is mandatory:
- Schengen countries (minimum €30,000 medical cover)
- UAE (for certain visa categories)
- Some student and work visas
For other countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, it may not be mandatory but is strongly recommended.
What Does International Travel Insurance Cover?
Coverage differs by insurer, but most standard plans include the following:
Medical & Health Coverage:
- Emergency hospitalisation
- Doctor consultations
- Emergency surgeries
- Prescription medicines
- Emergency dental treatment
Travel-Related Coverage:
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Flight delays
- Baggage loss, theft, or delay
- Passport loss assistance
Emergency Assistance:
- 24x7 global assistance helpline
- Medical evacuation
- Repatriation of mortal remains
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What Is NOT Covered by Travel Insurance?
Knowing exclusions is critical to avoid claim rejection.
Common exclusions:
- Pre-existing medical conditions (unless add-on taken)
- Adventure sports (unless covered separately)
- Alcohol- or drug-related incidents
- Self-inflicted injuries
- Cosmetic treatments
Always read the policy wording carefully before buying.
Types of International Travel Insurance Plans
1) Single Trip Travel Insurance
Ideal for one-time trips. Coverage lasts for a specific travel duration.
2) Multi-Trip Travel Insurance
Best for frequent travellers. Covers multiple trips within a year.
3) Student Travel Insurance
Designed for students studying abroad. Covers medical, study interruption, and sponsor protection.
4) Senior Citizen Travel Insurance
For travellers aged 60+. Premium is higher, coverage conditions stricter.
Travel Insurance Cost from India (2025)
The premium depends on several factors:
- Destination country
- Trip duration
- Age of traveller
- Sum insured
- Plan type
Approximate Cost:
- Asia (7–10 days): ₹800 – ₹1,500
- Europe (10–15 days): ₹1,200 – ₹3,000
- USA/Canada (10–15 days): ₹2,500 – ₹6,000
Considering the coverage, travel insurance is extremely cost-effective.
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Travel Insurance vs Credit Card Insurance
| Feature | Travel Insurance Policy | Credit Card Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Cover | High & comprehensive | Very limited |
| Validity | Full trip duration | Only if ticket booked via card |
| Reliability | High | Conditional |
| Best For | International travel | Supplementary protection |