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Can I Get Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?

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Table of Contents

What is considered a pre-existing condition?

How to qualify for a pre-existing medical conditions waiver, where to find coverage for pre-existing conditions, travel insurance for pre-existing conditions, recapped.

Although trip delay and baggage loss insurance are good to have, purchasing a medical insurance policy before hitting the road can be the difference between an expensive vacation and a really expensive vacation. Those with pre-existing conditions may be wondering if they can still get travel insurance. Luckily, the answer is yes.

Here’s where to look for and how to get travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

A pre-existing condition is an illness, injury or medical concern that has included exams, treatments or a change in prescribed medication within 60 to 180 days of purchasing a travel insurance policy. The condition doesn’t have to be diagnosed formally to be considered a pre-existing condition.

For example, say you go on a bike tour of Amsterdam and suffer a mild heart attack. If a doctor had diagnosed hypertension (high blood pressure) a few weeks before your trip, this is considered a pre-existing condition.

So, what does a pre-existing medical condition mean for travel insurance? The good news is that having a pre-existing condition doesn’t preclude you from traveling or being eligible for medical coverage. Many comprehensive plans cover pre-existing conditions and can help you recoup your money if you require medical treatment during your trip or have to cancel a trip altogether because of a medical issue.

To avoid being on the hook for medical bills abroad or losing a deposit before you even pack your bags, look for a policy that includes a pre-existing condition waiver. Read the fine print on the insurance provider’s website; there shouldn’t be an age limit on most plans, and the premium shouldn’t cost more than it would for people without pre-existing medical conditions.

As long as you’re medically fit to travel, you can qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver if you meet the following criteria and apply within the eligible timeframe:

A pre-existing condition must be stable.

You must buy coverage at the time of your first trip deposit or shortly thereafter (time frame varies by company).

Amount of coverage must be equal to all pre-paid, non-refundable costs.

For example, if you put down a 50% deposit on a safari in South Africa, you must buy travel insurance within the time specified by the insurance provider to be eligible for a pre-existing medical conditions waiver. If you wait too long to purchase coverage, you'll have missed the coverage purchasing window and the waiver won’t be applicable to your trip.

We recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy as soon as you make the first deposit on a trip.

If you don’t qualify for a waiver, then a travel insurance company has a right to look back at the traveler’s medical records for the last 60 to 180 days (varies by plan), which is called a look-back period. This is done to determine whether you’re filing a claim for an incident related to a pre-existing condition, which then determines whether it’s going to be covered or not.

The pre-existing medical conditions waiver may also provide coverage in the case of a non-traveling family member having a medical problem mid-trip. This varies by plan.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

With so many providers to choose from, it’s hard to make the right choice. So, which travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions is best?

You can turn to travel insurance companies such as Allianz , Travel Guard by AIG or RoamRight to locate the right plan for your trip.

Instead of getting quotes from every travel insurance company under the sun, we recommend InsureMyTrip, which is a free comparison site that allows you to get quotes from multiple providers at once.

To start a quote, you must:

Select your travel destination.

Provide travel dates.

Disclose your citizenship and the state where you live.

Select the number of travelers and their ages.

The website will ask you additional questions, such as:

Whether you’re taking a flight, going on a cruise or renting a vacation home.

The total cost of nonrefundable expenses, such as flight costs, hotel bookings and tours.

The date you made the first payment toward the trip and viewed your coverage options.

You can sort and filter your results in multiple ways. Compare the plans offered and make a selection based on price, insurance provider reviews or the included coverage.

Keep in mind that it’s not possible to find annual travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions. Comprehensive plans that include coverage for pre-existing conditions can only be purchased for every trip separately.

Yes, it is possible to find travel insurance coverage suitable for trip takers with qualifying pre-existing conditions.

The best travel insurance options for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions include Travel Guard by AIG and Allianz .

Unless you purchase a plan with explicit coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you can generally expect that costs related to these conditions pre- or mid-trip are excluded from a travel insurance policy. For plans with the option to cover pre-existing medical conditions, qualified travelers can select a Waiver of Pre-Existing Medical Conditions.

Example eligible conditions include illnesses, injuries or medical concerns that have included exams, treatments or a change in prescribed medication within 2-6 months of purchasing a travel insurance policy (depending on the provider).

The best travel insurance options for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions include

Travel Guard by AIG

Optional travel insurance certainly can protect you from the unexpected. To obtain coverage for a pre-existing condition, make sure to follow all the rules of the policy you’re about to purchase. Buy a policy within the specified time frame and declare all nonrefundable expenses accurately.

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• Travel Insurance

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How To Get Pre-Existing Conditions Covered By Travel Insurance

Updated: Oct 4, 2023, 7:04am

Table of Contents

What is a pre-existing condition for travel insurance, how to get coverage for a pre-existing condition, which travel insurance companies offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, pre-existing conditions not eligible for a coverage.

You’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Europe with your parents to celebrate their 40th anniversary. You know that travel insurance is important in case of a medical emergency, but you’re worried about getting coverage for your father because of his diabetes. You’ve been told that most standard travel insurance policies won’t offer coverage for this and other pre-existing medical conditions unless he meets certain requirements.

While your father’s diabetes is controlled, you know it’s risky to purchase a policy knowing his diabetes might not be covered if he requires treatment while travelling and you need to file a claim.

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Rest assured, there are options for travellers with pre-existing conditions to ensure they are eligible for reimbursement if they encounter health issues during your trip.

In general, a pre-existing condition is defined as any sickness, injury or medical condition that existed before the start of your coverage, whether or not diagnosed by a physician, that you showed signs or symptoms of or received medical attention for.

Each insurance company will have its own requirements, typically of seven, 30, 80, 180 or 365 days, that your condition must remain “stable” or unchanged before your coverage takes effect. This is either the day you leave on your trip (for emergency medical or trip interruption) or the day your policy takes effect (for travel coverage, such as trip cancellation).

While each insurer has its own definition, essentially a medical condition or injury is considered “stable” when all of the following are true:

• There has been no deterioration of the medical condition.
• There have been no new symptoms or more frequent symptoms.
• There has been no change in treatment or alteration of medication.
• There has been no treatment received, prescribed or recommended by a physician or other registered medical practitioner.
• There is no pending lab results or diagnostics.
• There has been no hospitalization or referral to a specialist.

Travel insurance companies normally exclude pre-existing conditions from coverage, which ranks among the most frequent reasons for denial of travel insurance claims. What’s more, you don’t need an official diagnosis from a health care professional to have something designated a pre-existing condition for travel insurance purposes. If your medical record reveals you reported symptoms of a condition that was later diagnosed, that is enough to have that condition deemed ineligible for coverage.

To determine what qualifies as a pre-existing condition, a travel insurance company can review your medical records for the stipulated number of days before the day the policy was purchased. If you had any changes in your medical status during that period, such as a new diagnosis, a decline in health or the addition of new prescription medication, the condition will be considered pre-existing.

For example, say you were diagnosed with and prescribed medication for high blood pressure on January 15 and you plan to take a trip to Mexico on March 19, or 63 days later. Based on your age, your travel insurance provider requires a 30-day stability period before you leave on your trip for your condition to be covered for emergency medical insurance. As long as your symptoms and treatment of your high blood pressure do not change during that time, it should be covered by your medical insurance.

However, if, for example,  you receive a change of dosage of medication, either an increase or decrease, during those 30 days, your condition is now not considered stable and will be ineligible for reimbursement without additional coverage. Keep in mind that you are still eligible for medical treatment if something else happens on your trip even with a medical exclusion. For example, if you fall down some stairs and break your wrist, those medical expenses are covered.

Without pre-existing condition coverage, a travel insurance company won’t pay for medical bills or claims related to your recent medical history if you require emergency treatment due to that condition.

But don’t panic. If you’re looking for travel insurance that offers comprehensive coverage regardless of your medical history, there are several coverage options for travellers with a pre-existing conditions. Keep in mind that not all insurers offer these options.

Pre-existing medical condition waiver : If you purchase your policy within a set timeframe, you insure the full nonrefundable costs of the trip and you’re able to travel on the date of purchase, this waives any pre-existing condition exclusions. There is typically no extra cost for the waiver.

Individual underwriting: Some insurance companies offer a separate and personalized individual underwriting application option where you complete a more detailed medical questionnaire and then the medical underwriter reviews your responses and, if approved, you are provided with  customized travel insurance coverage.

Reduction of stability period: Typically sold as an add-on (also known as an endorsement or rider), this option reduces the amount of time that your pre-existing condition needs to be considered stable before being eligible for coverage. There is typically a maximum benefit amount that is lower than the emergency medical benefit payout. For example, AMA Travel Insurance offers $5 million in emergency medical, but a maximum of $200,000 in coverage for the pre-existing conditions rider.

Pre-existing condition exclusion: A pre-existing condition can push up the price of your insurance significantly. In addition to a reduction of stability period option, Tour+Med offers an innovative Optional Exclusion option where you can  exclude an organ or complete system that’s affected by the pre-existing condition in return for a lower premium. For example, if you have asthma that does not meet the “stable and controlled” conditions, you can choose to have your asthma excluded, which would also exclude the entire respiratory system. So if you were to get sick with bronchitis, that also would not be covered.

Personalized pre-existing conditions packages : Some insurers feature customized packages for travellers (often over a certain age) with coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. Rather than purchase this as an add-on to an existing insurance policy, this is a separate policy, such as Manulife’s TravelEase insurance coverage or RBC Insurance’s TravelCare package.

While pre-existing conditions are an exclusion for all standard travel insurance policies, these travel insurance companies offer the following coverage options:

• AMA Travel Insurance : Pre-Existing Condition Rider that offers up to $200,000 in emergency medical coverage and reduces the stability period to seven days.
• BCAA Travel Insurance : Optional Pre-Existing Condition coverage that offers up to $300,00 in emergency medical coverage and reduces the stability period to seven days.
• Pacific Blue Cross : Optional Pre-Existing Condition Benefit offers coverage for pre-existing conditions and reduces the stability period to seven days.
• CAA Travel Insurance: Pre-Existing Condition Rider that offers up to $200,000 in emergency medical coverage and reduces the stability period to seven days.
• Desjardins Travel Insurance : Stable for 3 Months add-on reduces your stability period from 182 days to 90 days.
• Goose Travel Insurance : Unstable Pre-Existing Medical Condition endorsement shortens your stability period to seven days.
• Manulife Financial: TravelEase insurance package covers many fully disclosed pre-existing medical conditions with up to $5 million in benefits.
• Medipac Travel Insurance : Individual Underwritten Application for travellers who do not otherwise qualify for standard coverage.
• RBC Travel Insurance : For travellers over age 75, the TravelCare package may cover pre-existing conditions, depending on your answers to a medical questionnaire.
• Scotiabank Travel Insurance : Individual Medical Underwriting Plan for travellers of any age who would like their pre-existing medical conditions covered with no stability requirements.
• Tour+Med : For travellers under 86 years old, a Reduced Stability Period option reduces the stability period from three months to 30 days before departure (for travellers under age 69) and from six months to 30 days (for travellers 70 to 85 years old). There’s also an Optional Exclusion option to remove an organ or complete system from coverage.
• Travel Guard : Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver that waives any pre-existing medical condition exclusion if the policy is purchased within 15 days of the initial trip payment, any additional payments are insured within 15 days of purchase and you are medically able to travel when you pay your premium.
• TravelSafe : Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion waiver that waives any pre-existing medical condition exclusion if the policy is purchased within 21 days of the initial trip payment, all prepaid costs are insured and any additional payments are insured within 21 days of purchase and you are medically able to travel when you pay your premium.
• TuGo : Unstable Pre-Existing Medical Condition add-on that can be purchased in addition to the emergency medical insurance plan that provides coverage for a pre-existing medical condition that was not stable up to seven days before your departure date.

The terms and conditions vary by company, so be sure to read your policy carefully. Most insurers offer a minimum 10-day right to examine period where you can review your policy to ensure it meets your needs and cancel for a full refund if you’re not completely happy.

Even with a waiver or optional endorsement, some conditions likely won’t be covered by travel insurance, such as:

• Alzheimer’s disease or dementia
• Anxiety, depression or other mental health disorders
• Complication-free pregnancy or childbirth
• Illness or injury related to alcohol or drug abuse
• Heart conditions treated with nitroglycerin
• Lung conditions treated with prednisone or prednisolone

In addition, some insurance companies have a list of medical conditions that make you ineligible for coverage, especially over a certain age. For example, travellers over age 55 hoping to get Blue Cross Travel Insurance are ineligible for coverage if they:

• Have received medical advice not to travel
• Suffer from a medical condition in a terminal stage
• Suffer from kidney failure treated with dialysis
• Have been diagnosed with or treated for metastatic cancer in the last five years
• Have been prescribed or treated with home oxygen in the past 12 months

The Bottom Line

Be sure to carefully read the fine print of your travel insurance policy (especially the exclusions section) to see what’s covered and what’s not when it comes to pre-existing conditions, or ask your travel insurance agent or broker for help. Also, be aware of the policy’s limits for travel medical insurance and medical evacuation coverage, to avoid any surprises.

Also, even if you’re worried about not being offered coverage due to a pre-existing condition, be sure to answer the medical or health questionnaire completely, honestly and accurately. Most travel insurance companies reserve the right to deny or limit your coverage reimbursement if you are found to have lied or omitted information on your questionnaire.

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Understanding pre-existing conditions and travel insurance

Choosing the right insurance policy for pre-existing conditions, purchasing travel insurance with pre-existing conditions, pre-existing conditions and travel insurance faq, how to get travel insurance with pre-existing condition coverage.

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• Most travel insurance companies offer waivers for pre-existing stable medical conditions.
• To qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver, you must buy insurance within a certain timeframe.
• Keep in mind that not all policies cover pre-existing conditions, so always double-check your policy.

Medical travel insurance is a great way to protect your health and finances when traveling. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you might assume you can't get coverage. Luckily, many travel insurance companies offer pre-existing condition coverage in the form of a pre-existing condition waiver.

Here's everything you need to know about pre-existing conditions and travel insurance, including how to find coverage options if you have a pre-existing condition.

Most travel insurance companies define pre-existing conditions as a change in your medical record that includes tests, examinations, treatment, or changes in medication. The changes in your medical record usually result in a diagnosis, which becomes a pre-existing condition. But you do not have to receive a formal diagnosis for it to be considered a pre-existing condition.

Travel insurance companies consider medical conditions within a specified look-back period, or length of time. The medical condition must be stable to qualify for a claim. Conditions are stable if you do not need additional treatment, medication, or diagnoses.

But even if your medical condition is stable, you likely need a pre-existing condition waiver to get coverage if it suddenly worsens while you're traveling. 

Travel insurance look-back periods for pre-existing conditions

If you file a claim, the insurance company has a right to review your medical record and ensure that you did not have a condition related to the claim. This process is known as a "look-back" period since the insurance looks back through your records. 

The look-back period usually includes 60 to 180 days before you buy the policy. Before approving your claim, the insurance company wants to determine if the condition already existed.

The insurance company may approve or deny your claim based on what it discovers. To avoid dealing with the risk of denial, you can qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver instead. 

Many travel insurance companies offer coverage for travelers with pre-existing conditions. For example, Tin Leg Travel insurance , listed in our guide on the best travel insurance for best pre-existing conditions coverage, offers pre-existing condition waivers for all its plans except Tin Leg Economy. 

While there are many options for pre-existing condition coverage, the challenge is finding the right one for you. 

Comparing policy terms and benefits

When comparing insurance policies, you should pay attention to the coverage limits for emergency medical and acute onset of a pre-existing condition. You should also assess the time window in which you must purchase insurance to receive coverage for pre-existing conditions. If you've already waited a week before purchasing, you may already be ineligible for a waiver with certain companies. 

You can contact individual companies for quotes or work with a travel insurance comparison site like TravelInsurance.com, SquareMouth, or InsureMyTrip . Comparison sites allow you to review multiple quotes at once. You can usually filter results based on companies that offer pre-existing medical condition waivers. 

Regardless of which company you choose, it's important to understand the policies regarding pre-existing conditions and adhere to the requirements.

With a pre-existing medical condition waiver, you disclose your medical conditions to your insurance provider and ensure that the condition does not impact your ability to file a claim. If you have a waiver, you can even bypass the look-back period.

The waivers are set up through the travel insurance company and should not impact the cost of your policy.

Application process and documentation

You must meet the following criteria to qualify for a pre-existing medical condition waiver:

• Stable medical condition: Conditions are stable if you do not need additional treatment, medication, or diagnoses. You also need a letter from your doctor tho confirm that you are medically fit to travel on the day of your trip.
• Get coverage within a certain timeframe: You typically need to establish coverage shortly after you make your first payment towards the trip, but timelines vary by provider. 
• Coverage must equal nonrefundable costs: If there are nonrefundable parts of your trip, your travel insurance coverage must equal or exceed that amount. 

For example, if you were diagnosed with high blood pressure a few years ago, but the condition has been stable since — your medication manages the symptoms, and you have not needed additional medical support — then you likely qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver. 

Some companies do not provide coverage if you have certain health conditions, such as depression, dementia, or Alzheimer's disease, but it varies based on the provider. The coverage details of your policy depend on the plan you select. But comprehensive travel insurance usually covers baggage delays, trip cancellations, and emergency medical care. 

No, many of the best travel insurance companies offer pre-existing condition waivers, so you can get coverage with a pre-existing condition as long as you buy ahead of time. 

A company can deny your travel insurance claim based on what it discovers in the look-back period if you do not have a pre-existing condition waiver.

Obtaining travel insurance for a pre-existing condition at the last minute is unlikely, as most insurers require purchasing the policy within a set time frame from your initial trip deposit.

Disclose your pre-existing condition during the application process by providing detailed and accurate medical information as required by the insurer.

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How to Buy Travel Insurance When You Have a Pre-Existing Condition

A nationally recognized reporter, writer, and consumer advocate, Ed Perkins focuses on how travelers can find the best deals and avoid scams.

He is the author of "Online Travel" (2000) and "Business Travel: When It's Your Money" (2004), the first step-by-step guide specifically written for small business and self-employed professional travelers. He was also the co-author of the annual "Best Travel Deals" series from Consumers Union.

Perkins' advice for business travelers is featured on MyBusinessTravel.com , a website devoted to helping small business and self-employed professional travelers find the best value for their travel dollars.

Perkins was founding editor of Consumer Reports Travel Letter, one of the country's most influential travel publications, from which he retired in 1998. He has also written for Business Traveller magazine (London).

Perkins' travel expertise has led to frequent television appearances, including ABC's "Good Morning America" and "This Week with David Brinkley," "The CBS Evening News with Dan Rather," CNN, and numerous local TV and radio stations.

Before editing Consumer Reports Travel Letter, Perkins spent 25 years in travel research and consulting with assignments ranging from national tourism development strategies to the design of computer-based tourism models.

Born in Evanston, Illinois, Perkins lives in Ashland, Oregon with his wife.

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Whether—and how—travel insurance covers pre-existing medical conditions remains a source of uncertainty among many travelers. This question I once received from a reader is a case in point:

“My husband and I will fly to Venice on October 6, where we will stay two weeks. I bought our airline tickets last February. My husband is diabetic, managing it with medication, and he just had surgery, after which he is doing well. Can we still purchase trip-cancellation insurance including medical evacuation?”

The short answer: You can buy TCI and medical evacuation (medevac) insurance that will cover cancellation or an evacuation required by your husband’s diabetes—as long as you can show it was totally controlled up to the time of departure. But probably not for potential complications following the surgery. It would cover both of you for any other health problems that arise during your trip.

Sound confusing? The jargon around travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions is. Here are the pertinent details that travelers with one should know about buying travel health insurance, up to and including medevac insurance.

What Is a “Pre-Existing Condition”?

Most travel insurance, including medical evacuation and trip cancellation, excludes pre-existing medical conditions as a “covered reason” for paying on a claim. Here’s how one insurance company defines that exclusion:

“‘Pre-existing condition’ means any injury, sickness or condition for which medical advice, diagnosis, care or treatment was recommended or received within the 180-day period ending on your date of departure. Conditions are not considered pre-existing if the condition for which prescribed drugs or medicine is taken remains controlled without any change in the required prescription.”

Another company says it this way:

“An illness or injury that you, a traveling companion or family member were seeking or receiving treatment for or had symptoms of on the day you purchased your plan, or at any time in the 120 days before you purchased it. You, a traveling companion or family member are considered to have an existing medical condition if you, a traveling companion or family member:

• Saw or were advised to see a doctor
• Had symptoms that would cause a prudent person to see a doctor
• Were taking prescribed medication for the condition or the symptoms, unless the condition or symptoms are effectively controlled by the prescription, and the prescription hasn’t changed.”

Some policies do not even include the allowance for conditions controlled by medication, but many do. The typical exclusion period ranges from 90 days to 180 days. In my reader’s case, as I noted, a typical policy would cover her husband’s controlled diabetes but not complications from his recent surgery.

Insurance companies are serious about the definition of the “medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment” limitation. If you so much as called a doctor about a possible problem, the insurance bean counters could deny a claim.

Waiving Pre-Existing Conditions

The good news about exceptions for pre-existing conditions is that many travel insurance companies waive that exception if you buy the insurance shortly after making your initial travel arrangements. Here’s how one company puts it:

“If your plan includes this coverage, you, a traveling companion or family member can have an existing medical condition and you will still be eligible for all coverage and assistance services, as long as:

• You purchased your plan within 14 days of making your first trip payment or first trip deposit
• You purchased trip cancellation coverage that covers the full cost of all your nonrefundable trip arrangements
• You were a U.S. resident and medically able to travel on the day you purchased the plan, and
• The total cost of your trip is $20,000 per person or less.”

Depending on the company, the purchase deadline for buying the insurance ranges from seven to 14 days. As far as I can tell, you don’t have to pay anything extra to get pre-existing conditions waived: Just buy the insurance on time.

Health Problems Must Be Unforeseen

Even when they waive the exception for pre-existing medical conditions, almost all policies limit coverage to “unforeseen” medical problems. If you can foresee a problem at the time of buying, insurance is void. As a corollary, you must be fully capable of traveling at the time you buy the insurance.

Buyer’s Guide

Pre-existing conditions are apparently the biggest source of problems between insurance companies and travelers. Given how easy it is to have the whole problem waived, it seems to me to be a no-brainer that anyone interested in medevac or trip-cancellation insurance should buy the insurance within the specified seven- or 14-day period after making the first trip payment.

Beyond that, I continue to recommend that travelers check one or more of these travel insurance agencies’ comparison sites, enter their trip details and coverage requirements, and select the least expensive policy that meets their needs:

• SquareMouth
• Global Travel Insurance
• QuoteWright
• InsureMyTrip.com
• TravelersMed.com

These independent agencies sell policies written by all the major insurance underwriters. Price comparison and policy selection is a snap: The site displays a long list of policies and their detailed terms.

More from SmarterTravel:

• How Annual Travel Insurance Could Save You Money
• The 8 Worst Travel Decisions You Can Make on Vacation
• Cruise Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2009. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Does Travel Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Conditions? (2024)

If you have certain types of pre-existing medical conditions and need travel insurance, you may still be able to get coverage. but first, you’ll have to qualify for a waiver..

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Updated September 20, 2023

Table of contents

• What’s covered
• Eligibility for waiver
• Insurance companies
• How to buy insurance

If you’re planning to take a trip, you need to plan for every eventuality, especially because your health insurance likely won’t cover illness, injury, or emergency medical transport when you’re abroad. [1]

Fortunately, purchasing travel medical and medical evacuation insurance policies can help you (and your traveling companions) get the care you need if you get sick or hurt or experience other types of medical emergencies while traveling.

However, it’s important to note that if you have a pre-existing medical condition, you could be denied coverage unless you qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver. Here’s what you need to know about travel insurance with pre-existing conditions.

Does travel insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people with pre-existing health conditions get travel medical insurance if they plan to travel abroad, live overseas for more than six months, or participate in dangerous activities, like scuba diving. [2]

However, getting travel medical insurance with a pre-existing medical condition can be tricky. Insurance companies may be more reluctant to offer you coverage since your risk of getting sick or having a flare-up overseas may be higher.

If you have a pre-existing condition and need travel insurance, it’s important to understand what types of coverage may be available and what special terms, if any, may apply. While some plans make exceptions for certain types of pre-existing conditions, you may have to first qualify for a special waiver.

Pre-existing conditions explained

When it comes to travel medical insurance, a pre-existing condition may be defined as an existing health issue or diagnosis, which can include a recent injury or illness or a long-term disease for which you’re receiving medical treatment. [3] It may also be defined as a long-term condition, such as high blood pressure, dementia, or even pregnancy.

In the U.S., under the Affordable Care Act, people with pre-existing conditions can’t be excluded from most types of standard health coverage. However, these same rules don’t apply to travel insurance. [4]

Factors that determine your eligibility for a pre-existing condition waiver

If you have a pre-existing condition, you can benefit from travel medical insurance in the event of an emergency, but you must obtain a pre-existing conditions medical waiver in advance. Without a waiver in place, any claim you file for medical coverage could be denied. This would put you on the hook for costly medical care, treatments, and expenses.

To get a waiver for a pre-existing condition, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility requirements, including:

Being medically cleared to travel

Most travel insurers that offer exclusion waivers require you to be physically able to travel, with no changes to your medical condition for a set amount of time (usually 60 to 180 days). Some travel insurance policies may require medical records, copies of your medical history, or a sign-off by a physician.

Buying your policy within a specific time frame

You must purchase a pre-existing condition waiver within a certain window (typically 14 to 21 days after you’ve made an initial trip deposit or first payment on your trip). Most waivers are good only for the first — and only for one — booking, meaning you can’t reschedule the trip.

Insuring the full cost of your trip

You’ll also likely need to purchase an amount of coverage that’s equivalent to 100% of the non-refundable cost of your trip, including airfare, hotels, and other travel arrangements.

Covered pre-existing conditions

Travel insurance doesn’t typically cover medical treatment for pre-existing conditions without a waiver. But if you qualify for a waiver, any illnesses or injuries that occur during your trip will likely be covered. However, since policies can vary on a case-by-case basis and between travel insurance companies, it’s a good idea to check the fine print of your plan before your trip.

Pre-existing conditions that aren’t typically covered

While many types of pre-existing conditions are eligible for a waiver, most travel insurance companies won’t cover certain medical conditions, including:

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia

Anxiety and depression

Normal pregnancy and childbirth

Conditions related to alcohol and drug abuse

In addition, other circumstances may not be covered, even if they’re medical in nature. For example, a pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver may not cover a situation such as an accident or illness caused by risky activities, like extreme sports. You also may not be able to get a pre-existing exclusion waiver for trips that are deemed expensive.

Waivers are also only typically available as single-trip policies — meaning you can’t purchase annual travel insurance coverage or multi-trip plans. Your coverage may also have limits. When in doubt, be sure to check with your travel insurance company and review your trip insurance policy’s fine print.

Travel insurance companies that offer pre-existing medical condition waivers

If you have a pre-existing medical condition and need travel insurance, you may be able to qualify for a pre-existing waiver. When comparing options, check the fine print about each travel insurance plan’s waiver requirements, as they can vary widely between companies.

While not all travel insurance companies offer pre-existing medical condition waivers, here are a few to consider:

Seven Corners

Travel Guard by AIG

How to buy travel insurance with a pre-existing condition

If you have a pre-existing condition, here’s how to buy travel insurance:

Gather your options. Shopping around is important. You can check insurance companies’ websites directly or consider using an insurance comparison site to make searching easier.

Review your policy options. Compare each policy’s requirements for waiver eligibility information to find the best travel insurance plan for your needs.

Compare costs from top insurers. Costs can vary between travel insurance plans, so carefully consider the best plan for your budget.

Buy your coverage. Once you find a travel insurance policy that’s a good fit for your pre-existing condition, budget, and travel plans, you’ll need to buy your policy. Most waivers require plans to be purchased within a specific time frame to ensure coverage, so be sure to read the fine print.

Travel insurance pre-existing conditions FAQS

If you have a pre-existing condition, getting travel insurance is still possible. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions that can help guide you in your search for the best travel policy when you have a pre-existing medical condition.

Can you get travel insurance with pre-existing conditions?

Yes. You can get travel insurance with pre-existing conditions. But you may be required to get a special waiver, and some exclusions and special conditions may apply. That’s why it’s important to check the fine print before purchasing a travel policy to ensure coverage.

What is a pre-existing look-back period for travel insurance?

Pre-existing look-back periods are the length of time a travel insurance company may require you to have your pre-existing condition treated or controlled before your travel medical insurance plan’s effective date. Look-back periods are typically about 60 to 180 days, depending on the travel insurance plan.

Does it cost more to purchase travel insurance with pre-existing coverage?

No. Generally, purchasing travel insurance with pre-existing coverage has no extra cost. But to get a pre-existing medical condition waiver, you may have to purchase insurance that covers 100% of your trip.

How do travel insurance companies determine what qualifies as a pre-existing condition?

Travel insurance companies may have different criteria for determining what qualifies as a pre-existing condition, and it’s generally tied to how long you’ve been sick or injured with a condition. But some conditions are generally never exempt, even with a waiver, such as depression or complication-free pregnancies.

Related articles

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• NAIC . " Travel Insurance ."
• CDC . " Travel Insurance ."
• Insurance Business Mag . " What are travel insurance pre existing conditions? ."
• Department of Health and Human Services . " Can I get coverage if I have a pre-existing condition? ."

Sarah Archambault enjoys helping people figure out smarter ways to use their money. She covers auto financing, banking, credit cards, credit health, insurance, and personal loans. She’s created and edited content for Credit Karma, Experian and Sound Dollar, along with banks, financial institutions, and insurance companies.

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What's the Best Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?

You may think that a pre-existing condition means anything you’re being treated for at the time you purchase your travel insurance. The definition is actually broader than that. Allianz Global Assistance defines a pre-existing medical condition as:

An injury, illness, or medical condition that, within the 120 days prior to and including the purchase date of your policy:

• Caused a person to seek medical examination, diagnosis, care, or treatment by a doctor;
• Presented symptoms; or
• Required a person to take medication prescribed by a doctor (unless the condition or symptoms are controlled by that prescription, and the prescription has not changed).

It’s important to know that the illness, injury, or medical condition does not need to be formally diagnosed in order to be considered a pre-existing medical condition.

Let’s consider a few scenarios:

• Sudden, debilitating pain in an arthritic knee forces you to cancel your planned trekking tour of Iceland. Because you consulted your doctor about knee twinges three months ago, it’s considered a pre-existing condition.
• While sightseeing in Shanghai, you suffer a mild heart attack. Because you were diagnosed with coronary heart disease three weeks before purchasing travel insurance, this is considered a pre-existing condition.
• You were diagnosed with lupus many years ago, but it’s been in remission. You feel pretty good when you book your cruise to Bermuda, except for some fatigue and a rash. Then the Caribbean sun triggers a serious lupus flare, sending you to the hospital. Because you had symptoms when you booked your trip, this is considered a pre-existing condition.

2. Travel insurance requirements for covering pre-existing medical conditions 

If you’re dealing with a pre-existing medical condition, that does not mean you can’t get travel insurance, or that you shouldn’t travel at all. You just have to read the insurance policy documents very carefully to make sure you meet all the requirements. As Conde Nast Traveler puts it , “it’s best not to make assumptions. Returning home in pain is bad enough. Don’t intensify it by unnecessarily paying thousands of dollars you could use on your next trip.”

Certain Allianz Global Assistance plans can include pre-existing medical condition coverage as long as you:

• Your policy was purchased within the time frame specified in your plan (usually 14 days of the date of the first trip payment or deposit.) In other words, don’t dawdle! Buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, so you don’t forget.
• Are a U.S. resident.
• Make sure you’re medically able to travel on the day you purchase the plan. Don’t assume you’re cleared to travel just because you feel OK that day. If you’re living with a chronic condition, or if you’ve recently had surgery or cancer treatment, it’s wise to get written approval to travel from your doctor.
• On the policy purchase date, insure the full non-refundable cost of your trip with Allianz Global Assistance — including trip arrangements that will become non-refundable or subject to cancellation penalties between the policy purchase date and the departure date. Make sure you include your airfare, hotel reservations, tour bookings and any other nonrefundable costs when you’re insuring your trip. If you incur additional non-refundable trip expenses after you purchase your policy, you must insure them with us within 14 days of their purchase. If you do not, those expenses will still be subject to the pre-existing medical condition exclusion.

3. What’s excluded from travel insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions

While most pre-existing conditions are covered by Allianz Global Assistance travel insurance, there are a few exceptions. Mental and nervous health disorders and normal pregnancy aren’t covered, for instance. If you want to make sure your particular condition is covered, speak with an insurance specialist before you buy.

Also, check the cap on trip costs. For the OneTrip Prime Plan , for instance, the total cost of your trip must be no more than $50,000 per person.

Why Allianz Global Assistance offers the best travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions 

If you have any kind of chronic health problem, travel insurance can save your vacation — or even your life. The best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions is the OneTrip Prime Plan from Allianz Global Assistance, which includes abundant coverage for covered emergency medical expenses overseas (up to $50,000). You also get emergency medical transportation benefits up to $500,000 to travel to the nearest appropriate medical facility or to return home. This is huge, especially if you suffer from a serious condition that might require advanced treatment. The OneTrip Premier Plan doubles these amounts.

Travel insurance from Allianz Global Assistance also can include trip cancellation and interruption benefits to reimburse you for non-refundable trip payments, in case you have to cancel your travel because of your covered pre-existing medical condition or another covered reason. You also get personalized, one-on-one help in emergencies from our hotline staff. Every day they help travelers who are suffering medical emergencies, lost documents, travel delays and other crises, all around the globe. But, our hotline experts say, the toughest thing they deal with is having to tell a customer who’s seriously ill that their pre-existing medical condition's not covered. That’s why it’s so important to follow the rules and meet the requirements.

Have questions about how to choose the best travel insurance for your covered pre-existing medical condition? Call our travel insurance advisers anytime at 1-866-884-3556. Travel happy!

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Travel Insurance Guide For Pre-Existing Condition Medical Coverage (2024)

Planning to travel but have a pre-existing condition? Get travel medical coverage with a top provider below.

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Traveling with a pre-existing medical condition can add stress to the trip-planning process, especially if you suffer from a chronic condition that affects your daily life or have symptoms that can influence your plans. While most travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions from medical expenses and evacuation coverage, you may be able to obtain coverage with a pre-existing conditions waiver.

A pre-existing conditions waiver extends your travel medical insurance to include conditions and illnesses present when you enrolled in coverage. This type of coverage is a bit more expensive but can provide you with peace of mind when traveling. Read on to learn more about pre-existing medical conditions travel insurance and which top providers offer coverage.

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What Is a Pre-Existing Condition for Travel Insurance?

Although each travel insurance company has its own definition, a pre-existing condition refers to a medical condition you have before leaving for a trip. Your malady may not have to be formally diagnosed to qualify as pre-existing. You may have a pre-existing condition if you’ve sought treatment, had symptoms or taken medication within a few months before your trip for an injury, illness or medical situation.

For example, say you see your doctor for an annual physical two months before your trip to Spain . At your appointment, the doctor checks your blood pressure and diagnoses you with hypertension. Your doctor prescribes medication to lower your blood pressure. Most travel medical insurance companies consider high blood pressure a pre-existing condition.

Other common pre-existing conditions include:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Chronic illnesses, such as lupus

Medical travel insurance can be an important protection if you or a loved one plan to travel with one of these conditions — or some other pre-existing medical condition. A pre-existing condition could put you at higher risk of other medical issues. For example, if you have an autoimmune disorder, you’re likely at higher risk of contracting diseases while traveling.

How To Get a Waiver for Pre-Existing Conditions

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s important to purchase travel insurance shortly after making your initial trip payment. Based on our quote collection process, we found that you usually need to be within 10 to 21 days of your first trip payment to qualify for a pre-existing conditions waiver. If you buy your travel insurance after this point, you usually will not qualify for pre-existing conditions coverage.

Depending on the insurance provider, you may need to meet additional conditions beyond your purchase date for pre-existing medical conditions coverage. Additional stipulations you may need to meet include:

• Trip coverage: In most cases, you’ll need to insure 100% of your trip cost and add medical coverage to your policy to receive a pre-existing condition waiver. This means that policies that offer pre-existing conditions waivers are usually more expensive. However, these policies also include more extensive coverage, which can be helpful in the event of an emergency.
• Health status: While most travel insurance companies do not require you to undergo a medical exam before buying coverage like with life insurance, your health condition can still play a role in your ability to qualify for a waiver. You might need to answer a health questionnaire before purchasing coverage, or you may need to list any medical diagnoses within the previous 60 to 90 days. If you have a major medical condition with active symptoms, like cancer or Alzheimer’s disease, you may be denied coverage.

If you qualify for coverage, your insurance provider will include the waiver with your coverage at no additional cost. Be sure to review the details of your coverage after you’re approved so you fully understand the terms and conditions.

How To Qualify for a Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver

To qualify to get a pre-existing conditions waiver, you’ll need to meet a few conditions related to the policy-buying process and determine the right coverage for your health.

You cannot purchase travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions at any time — most policy providers require you to be within 14 to 21 days of your initial trip deposit to qualify. For this reason, we suggest you consider travel insurance as you’re comparing other travel bookings like hotels, airfare and event tickets. This will allow you to purchase insurance shortly after booking, giving you access to more policies with coverage for pre-existing conditions.

Choose the Right Plan

Next, compare the coverages included with each policy offered by your preferred travel insurance provider and identify those that include pre-existing conditions waivers. Most travel insurance companies limit waivers to policies with more inclusive coverage terms and 100% cancellation insurance. If a provider does not offer pre-existing conditions coverage, request quotes from a different company.

Review Coverage Limitations

If you qualify for a pre-existing conditions waiver, your insurance provider will include it under your coverage terms. Review your coverage and any excluded conditions. Contact a representative from the insurance company if you have questions about coverages and limitations.

Documentation Needed for a Pre-Existing Conditions Waiver

Depending on your coverage provider, you may need to submit a letter from your doctor confirming you’re medically fit to travel. This is especially true if you need coverage for a chronic condition under control by medication or if you’ve recently had corrective surgery. Documentation requirements vary by provider, so be sure to review your specific coverage terms to learn more.

Travel Insurance Companies That Cover Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Not every travel insurance provider offers pre-existing conditions waivers and those that do have varying policies regarding the timeline for enrollment in order to qualify. The following are a few of our recommended travel insurance providers covering pre-existing conditions and how you can qualify for coverage.

• Nationwide: Nationwide offers customers an option to qualify for pre-existing conditions coverage across multiple plans. While many insurance providers limit pre-existing conditions waivers to only the most expensive policy, Nationwide allows you to qualify for pre-existing conditions coverage 10 days from your initial purchase with the Essential Policy. You may also qualify up to 21 days after your initial trip payment with the Prime Plan. Read our full review of Nationwide travel insurance .
• Trawick: Trawick offers six unique policies with the option to include coverage for pre-existing conditions, which is more than most other providers. This range of options can make Trawick a strong choice for customers looking to customize their coverage. You must add coverage no more than 14 to 21 days after your initial trip payment, depending on your selected plan. Read our full review of Trawick travel insurance. 
• Seven Corners: To qualify for pre-existing coverage with Seven Corners, you’ll need to opt for the Trip Protection Choice, which includes benefits like 150% trip interruption coverag e and up to $2,000 in trip delay benefits. You must buy this coverage no less than 20 days after your initial trip payment. Read our full review of Seven Corners travel insurance .
• Generali Travel Insurance: While Generali does not offer the longest purchase period for pre-existing conditions, travelers looking for concierge-level benefits may want to consider the company. To qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver, you must be within 24 hours of your initial trip payment, which means most shoppers will need to consider insurance as they’re actively planning a vacation to qualify. Read our full review of Generali travel insurance .

Types of Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions

There are four main types of travel insurance:

• Trip cancellation
• Baggage coverage
• Medical travel insurance
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage

Trip Cancellation Insurance

Trip cancellation insurance is a type of travel insurance that helps cover nonrefundable costs if your trip gets canceled due to an unexpected or uncontrollable event. For example, a trip cancellation policy might cover nonrefundable costs if you find out right before your trip you’ve been summoned for jury duty. Or, say you have to cancel a trip due to an unexpected storm that interrupts your flight. Travel insurance will reimburse you for the flight and any corresponding lodging costs.

Trip cancellation insurance usually does not cover changes in pre-existing medical conditions. If your arthritic knees cause pain that makes you cancel your trip two weeks out, the insurance company may deny your claim. However, you may qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver to use for trip cancellation coverage.

Baggage Coverage

Baggage insurance generally covers the loss, theft, delay, or damage to baggage and personal belongings while traveling. For instance, your luggage is stolen from your hotel room while you’re at dinner. Depending on your policy, your baggage insurance could help pay to replace necessary items, like clothing and shoes. Other policies will ensure the full value of items in your bags, with certain restrictions.

Baggage insurance can offer peace of mind that you can replace your belongings if they’re lost, stolen, or damaged. Pre-existing conditions don’t affect baggage insurance coverage.

Medical Travel Insurance

Medical travel insurance is one of the most common types of travel insurance. A medical travel policy helps pay for emergency medical care when traveling. Say you fall ill with a fever and need to go to the emergency room while abroad. Your medical travel insurance generally covers the cost of treatment up to your plan’s limits.

If you’re considering travel health insurance plans and have a pre-existing condition, you’ll want to carefully read the fine print of your policy. In most cases, you’ll need to obtain a pre-existing conditions waiver before traveling. Without a waiver, your policy may not cover medical expenses you incur while traveling.

Cancel for Any Reason Insurance (CFAR) Coverage

With a few exceptions, CFAR travel insurance lets you cancel a trip for a partial refund of prepaid, nonrefundable expenses outside the reasons listed in your policy. Common reasons to use a CFAR policy include a family member getting sick, fear of illness at your destination or your new passport doesn’t arrive in time to travel. Unlike regular trip cancellation or medical travel insurance, CFAR coverage does not require a pre-existing conditions waiver for coverage. That means if your chronic condition flares up before your trip and you decide to cancel within the effective date of coverage, you could get a partial refund (typically between 50%-75%) of your nonrefundable trip expenses.

Although CFAR coverage is a good way to secure pre-existing medical insurance for travel cancellation or interruption, it’s not usually offered as a stand-alone policy. You typically have to add CFAR coverage to your standard travel insurance policy for an extra cost.

How Much Does Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions Cost?

Generally, adding pre-existing conditions coverage will not increase your policy cost if you qualify for a waiver. Based on our research, a travel insurance policy costs between $160 to $300 , depending on your chosen coverage and provider. In our review, we found that the average couple will pay about $221 for a travel insurance policy from one of our recommended travel insurance providers.

How To File a Pre-Existing Medical Condition Travel Insurance Claim

If you have to file a travel insurance claim for a pre-existing condition that your policy covers, you can improve your chances for reimbursement with strong documentation. Whether you must cancel your trip at the last minute or you need coverage for an emergency room visit while on vacation, the process of filing a travel insurance claim is generally the same. The claims process typically looks like this:

• File your claims form, which will commonly ask for your name, policy number, the reason for the claim and other important details.
• Submit your claims form with all necessary documentation, such as a doctor’s note, flight delay or baggage notices, police reports, and any other related documents.
• Your travel insurance company reviews your claim and supporting documentation. The insurance company may request more details or documents supporting your claim.
• If the company approves your claim, you’ll receive reimbursement, up to your policy limits.

The claims process is straightforward, but missing documents or lack of evidence could lead to the insurer denying your claim. Having the right documentation is more important if you’re filing a medical claim and have a pre-existing condition. The insurance company will want to confirm you have a pre-existing condition waiver on file before approving a claim. The company likely will ask for specific written documentation relating to your claim from a doctor.

For example, say you have a respiratory disorder managed by daily medication and receive a pre-existing condition waiver for a trip. While traveling, you get into an accident requiring emergency medical care. When you file a claim for medical travel insurance, you’ll want to make sure you have the right documents, including:

• Proof of your trip and insurance
• Written documentation from your attending physician
• Copies of your medical file and bill from the emergency care

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions

Can you get travel insurance with pre-existing conditions.

Yes, you can get travel insurance with pre-existing conditions. The key to getting travel insurance coverage with a pre-existing condition is to apply for a pre-existing conditions waiver or exclusion waiver. This waiver includes notice from your doctor that you’re fit to travel and prevents the travel insurance company from using your pre-existing condition to exclude you from coverage.

What is a waiver of lookback in travel insurance?

A waiver of lookback is another name for a pre-existing conditions waiver for travel insurance. The lookback period of a travel insurance policy refers to the time before the trip in which the insurance company might look back at your medical history if you file a claim.

For example, say you have an unexpected medical condition that forces you to cancel your trip. You file a claim for trip cancellation insurance and your insurance company can review your past medical records (usually up to 60 to 180 days, depending on the policy). If the company finds a record of your pre-existing condition, such as a doctor’s visit to change medications, it could deny your claim. A waiver of lookback prevents the insurance company from doing this.

What counts as a pre-existing condition?

Every travel insurance company defines pre-existing conditions differently, but there are a few common factors. A pre-existing condition for travel insurance usually refers to any medical condition, illness or injury that you have before your trip. You may not have to be diagnosed for the condition for it to be considered pre-existing. But if you seek treatment for a condition, take medications or suffer symptoms, then it’s usually considered pre-existing.

What is the difference between a pre-existing condition and a chronic condition?

Pre-existing conditions are any injury, illness, or medical condition that existed before you sought insurance. A chronic condition is different. Chronic conditions are ongoing health conditions or illnesses that are long-term. Doctors manage chronic conditions with medication or regular treatments, but these conditions aren’t curable. For travel insurance, almost all chronic conditions are considered pre-existing conditions.

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Help protect your next trip with the TD Insurance Single-Trip Medical Plan

Up to $5 million in emergency travel medical coverage for your covered trip.

TD Insurance Single-Trip Medical Plan

This plan could be right for you if you're looking to apply for coverage for one trip with up to $5 million for eligible emergency medical expenses while travelling outside of your province or territory of residence.

Coverage Highlights

Eligibility

You must meet the following conditions to be eligible to apply for this insurance:

• You are a Canadian resident.
• You are covered by the government health insurance plan of your province or territory of residence for the entire duration of your trip and at the time a claim is incurred.
• The minimum age of coverage for anyone on your policy, including a spouse or dependent child(ren), 1  is 15 days old. There is no maximum age limit for you or your spouse.
• Applicants 60 years of age and older will need to fill out a medical questionnaire.
• There are medical conditions that could make you ineligible for coverage under this plan 2 .

Exclusions and Limitations

It’s important to know that benefits will only be paid for eligible expenses and only up to the maximum amount. A complete list of exclusions that apply to your plan will appear in your policy, but here are some examples.

• Pre-existing medical conditions. 3
• Travelling against the advice of a physician.
• Expenses not pre-approved by our administrator may be limited or excluded.
• Abuse of alcohol, drug or toxic substances.
• Self-inflicted injuries
• Travel to destinations under a travel advisory by the Canadian government.
• Noncompliance with any medically prescribed medical therapy or treatment.
• The birth of any child during your trip.

Refer to the  Sample Policy  for a full description of eligibility requirements, defined terms, benefits, limitations and exclusions.

This plan can provide you with a lot of value

The Single-Trip Medical Plan provides coverage if you are an occasional traveler looking to apply for insurance for a single trip. If you decide to purchase this plan with your travelling companion, under our couple coverage 4 , or with your spouse and dependent children, under our family coverage 1 , it could be a cost-effective option.

Submit a travel insurance claim

Start the claims process by visiting our  Online Claims Portal.

Let’s connect

Our administrator is ready to answer your questions and help you on your way.

• For 24/7 emergency assistance:  1-833-962-1140  (Canada and the U.S., toll free) or  +1-519-988-7629  (worldwide, collect)
• For quotes, to purchase a policy or any general inquiries:  1-833-962-1143 Mon-Fri 8am-9pm ET Sat 9am-5pm ET
• For claims:  1-833-962-1140

Explore more TD Insurance Travel Insurance plans

Looking for more options? We offer a range of travel insurance plans.

TD Insurance Single-Trip Medical Plan is administered by Global Excel Management Inc. and its subsidiary, CanAm Insurance Services (2018) Ltd. TD Insurance Single-Trip Medical Plan is an individual plan underwritten by TD Life Insurance Company. Medical and claims assistance, claims payment and administrative services are provided by the administrator described in the insurance policies. Coverages and benefits are subject to eligibility conditions, limitations, and exclusions, including pre-existing medical condition exclusions. Please refer to the Sample Policy for full details. 1. Family Coverage is available on the TD Insurance Single-Trip Medical Plan for you, your Spouse and unmarried Dependent Child(ren) if you name them in your application. Spouse means the person to whom you are legally married to; or the person you have lived for at least 1 year and publicly refers to as your domestic partner. Dependent Child(ren) means your natural, adopted, or step-children who are: a) unmarried; and b) dependent on you for financial maintenance and support; and i. under 22 years of age, or ii. under 26 years of age and attending an institution of higher learning, full-time, in Canada; or iii. mentally or physically handicapped. Your Dependent Child(ren) must be travelling with you or your spouse. Family Coverage is not available when a medical questionnaire is required for any of the travellers. If any of the travellers do not meet these criteria, that traveller will need to complete a separate application for their own policy. Up to 6 travellers including yourself are permitted to be under a policy through our online application. To purchase additional coverage for groups of more than 6 people, please call our administrator at  1-833-962-1143 . 2. You must NOT be travelling against the advice of a physician or have been diagnosed with a terminal illness or metastatic cancer; you must NOT have a kidney disease requiring dialysis; and you must NOT have been prescribed or used home oxygen during the 12 months prior to your date of application. 3. This insurance may not cover claims related to Pre-existing medical conditions. Pre-existing medical condition means any sickness, injury or medical condition (other than a minor ailment) that was not stable during the time period specified in the policy. Refer to the Sample Policy to determine how this exclusion may affect your coverage. 4. Couple Coverage is available on the TD Insurance Single-Trip Medical Plan for you and your Travelling Companion if you name them in your application. A maximum of 2 travellers including yourself can be under a policy with Couple Coverage. Travelling Companion means any person who travels with you during the Covered Trip and who is sharing transportation and/or accommodation with you. Couple Coverage is not available when a medical questionnaire is required for any of the travellers. If any of the travellers do not meet these criteria, that traveller will need to complete a separate application for their own policy by calling our administrator at  1-833-962-1143 . Mailing Address: TD Life Insurance Company P.O. Box 1 TD Centre Toronto, Ontario M5K 1A2

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