8 Countries That Require Health Insurance for Visas: A Traveler’s Essential Guide

Traveling abroad opens doors to new experiences, cultures, and memories that last a lifetime. However, among the excitement of planning your international journey, there’s one crucial requirement that many travelers overlook until it’s almost too late: health insurance for visa applications.

While the idea of purchasing additional insurance might seem like just another hurdle in your travel planning, understanding these requirements can save you from unexpected complications at borders or embassy offices. More importantly, having proper health coverage ensures you’re protected should an emergency arise during your travels.

Let’s explore eight countries and regions where health insurance isn’t just recommended—it’s mandatory for obtaining a visa or entry.

1. The Schengen Area (26 European Countries)

Perhaps the most well-known health insurance requirement comes from the Schengen Area, which encompasses 26 European countries including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. If you’re planning a European getaway, then chances are your destination is one of Europe’s dozens of Schengen countries. In which case, you’ll likely need a Schengen visa first.

Requirements:

• Minimum coverage of €30,000 in medical expenses (such as hospitalization, emergency treatment, and repatriation — including in case of death)
• Coverage valid for the entire duration of your stay
• Policy must cover all Schengen countries, even if you don’t plan to visit all of them
• be purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries

The Schengen visa requirement ensures that travelers won’t burden the healthcare systems of member countries and can receive proper medical care if needed. Without meeting these insurance requirements, your visa application will be denied.

2. Cuba

Health insurance is mandatory for all visitors heading to the island nation of Cuba. This requirement reflects Cuba’s commitment to ensuring all visitors have access to medical care during their stay.

Requirements:

• Proof of health insurance that covers medical expenses in Cuba
• You will need a visa to enter Cuba, even as a tourist, but you won’t need to show proof of medical insurance until you arrive
• If you are unable to show proof of health insurance, either in the form of travel insurance or international private medical insurance at the border, you may be turned away or made to purchase one of the government’s own ‘Asistur’ health insurance policies

It’s worth noting that some airlines include Cuba-specific insurance in their ticket prices, but it’s always wise to verify this beforehand and have documentation ready.

3. Thailand (One-Year Non-Immigrant Visa)

Since October 2021, it has been mandatory to have health insurance cover for Thailand’s One-Year Non-Immigrant visa. This visa is particularly popular among long-term visitors and retirees.

Requirements:

• Your health insurance should have a minimum level of cover of €100,000 USD and be valid for the duration of your time in Thailand
• This visa can be extended by a further three months, and allows the holder to re-enter the country freely without applying for a permit every time
• Must be over 50 years old to be eligible for this particular visa
• You are restricted from working in Thailand under this visa

This requirement ensures that long-term visitors have adequate medical coverage during their extended stays in Thailand.

4. Germany

Germany takes health insurance seriously for all residents and long-term visitors. Foreign nationals who want to live or work in Germany must have health insurance.

Requirements:

• When submitting your visa application, your employer must note whether you will be covered under the statutory healthcare system
• If not covered by an employer (such as freelancers or self-employed individuals), private healthcare equivalent to Germany’s statutory system is required
• Coverage must include outpatient care, hospitalization, maternity care, and prescriptions

Germany’s requirement reflects its comprehensive healthcare system and ensures that all residents contribute to and benefit from medical coverage.

5. Malta

Malta updated its health insurance requirements in 2024, making coverage more comprehensive for non-EU/EEA nationals. If you’re a non-EU/EEA national wanting to live, work or study in Malta, with some exceptions, you will need to obtain health insurance cover as part of your visa application.

Requirements:

• New rules came into force in August 2024 which state that the health insurance should have a minimum coverage of €100,000, cover you in other European countries as well as Malta, and be active for at least a year
• Must cover medical expenses throughout Europe, not just Malta
• Policy must remain active for at least one year

Malta’s requirements ensure that residents have comprehensive coverage that extends beyond the island nation’s borders.

6. Georgia

From June 2024, anyone coming to Georgia with a passport that requires them to apply for a Georgian visa or eVisa will need to prove at the time of applying that they have a valid health insurance policy covering at least €30,000 worth of medical and funeral expenses.

Requirements:

• Minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical and funeral expenses
• The policy must also last for the entire duration of your stay, and must be valid throughout the entire country
• Anyone who arrives in Georgia without a valid health insurance policy may be subject to a fine of 300 Lari/US$110

Georgia’s recent implementation of this requirement demonstrates the growing global trend toward mandatory travel health insurance.

7. Iran

Iran has specific requirements for health insurance that emphasize the importance of clear policy wording. Medical insurance is mandatory for all visitors to Iran, regardless of their visa status.

Requirements:

• Your policy must specifically state that it includes cover for Iran, and you may be turned away by border officials if they cannot find policy wording that specifically mentions Iran
• While there are no rules regarding the extent of the policy, it’s advisable to choose one that includes medical evacuations

The specificity of Iran’s requirements highlights the importance of reading policy details carefully and ensuring your coverage explicitly mentions the country you’re visiting.

8. Russia

Russia requires health insurance as part of its visa application process, with specific documentation requirements. All visitors to Russia are required to apply for a visa to be allowed to enter the country. Upon application, the Consular Division of the Embassy has the right to request “medical insurance valid in the country to be visited and fully covering the period of the first trip”

Requirements:

• Contain the date, stamp, signature of the insurer, policy number, full name of the insured person, address and contact details for insurer, and the list of medical services and medical transportation included
• Insurance must be valid for the entire duration of the trip
• Must cover medical services and transportation within Russia

Russia’s detailed documentation requirements underscore the importance of having comprehensive policy documentation when applying for a visa.

Planning Ahead: Key Considerations

Understanding these requirements is just the first step. Here are some practical tips for securing the right health insurance for your visa application:

Start Early: Insurance requirements can add time to your visa application process. Begin researching and purchasing coverage well in advance of your travel dates.

Read the Fine Print: Different countries have varying minimum coverage amounts, geographical requirements, and documentation needs. Ensure your policy meets all specific requirements for your destination.

Keep Documentation Handy: You may need to show evidence of your insurance policy, either when you apply for a visa, or when you turn up at the border, so make sure you choose a reputable provider and arrange your insurance policy ahead of your visit.

Consider Comprehensive Coverage: While you might be tempted to purchase the minimum required coverage, consider policies that offer broader protection, including trip cancellation, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation.

Verify Acceptance: Some countries only accept insurance from specific providers or those with offices in certain regions. Check with your destination’s embassy or consulate if you’re unsure about your policy’s acceptability.

The Bigger Picture

The trend toward mandatory health insurance for visas reflects a broader shift in international travel. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many new countries have started to mandate that visitors have health insurance when they visit. This evolution prioritizes traveler safety while protecting destination countries’ healthcare systems from unexpected costs.

Rather than viewing these requirements as obstacles, consider them as safeguards that protect both you and your destination. Quality health insurance provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered should unexpected medical situations arise during your travels.

Before You Go

Therefore, you should always check the entry requirements of your destination country before you depart. Requirements can change, and staying informed ensures your travel plans proceed smoothly.

Remember that travel insurance extends beyond just meeting visa requirements—it’s an investment in your safety, health, and financial security while exploring the world. With proper preparation and the right coverage, you can focus on what truly matters: creating unforgettable memories during your international adventures.

Safe travels, and may your journeys be filled with wonder, discovery, and—most importantly—peace of mind.