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• Travel insurance for Canada

Canada is a vast country of diverse delights – everything from bustling cities to snow-capped mountains, deep forests and crystal clear lakes. If you're thinking of experiencing them, it's time to consider your travel insurance.

The call of Canada

As the world’s second-largest country, it’s only right to expect Canada to be a land of diversity. This is cultural as well as geographical, with its rich mix of indigenous cultures and Scottish, French and English heritages. But its more famous residents are those who have less respect for national borders: grizzly bears, polar bears, wolves, beavers and moose all call Canada home.

It’s got vistas of forest, miles of tundra, glinting glaciers and some of the world’s most impressive mountains. But it also has some of the world’s most sophisticated cities, with fine food, high culture, vibrant nightlife and spectacular architecture.

Protect what matters when you go with good travel insurance

Healthcare for brits in canada.

Travel insurance is a necessary contingency for getting sick or injured in Canada. Unlike other Commonwealth countries such as Australia, there isn’t a reciprocal health agreement between Canada and the UK, so while healthcare is readily available, it could be very expensive.

The emergency services number is 911 or 0. It’s imperative that you have travel insurance and contact your provider as soon as you have covered the most urgent needs of your medical care. It is also advisable to have some extra funds available for any costs that you may need to pay up-front like taxis to and from the hospital. These can be claimed for on your travel insurance policy. Canada has walk-in clinics where you can go without an appointment if your condition isn’t serious enough to warrant a trip to hospital.

Travel risks in Canada

Crime in Canada is uncommon. However, it’s always important to take precautions against theft and danger, such as never leaving bags unattended, not walking alone at night in unfamiliar places and avoiding the use of drugs or becoming too drunk. Always make sure your travel documents are safe and well looked after .

Most of Canada’s travel risks are associated with its notorious weather. Whether its heaps of snow in the winter or wild fires in summer, Canada’s raw landscape makes it prone to some heavy weather. It’s always important to keep on top of local weather reports and plan ahead. If your onward journey involves travel through an area that could soon be affected by hurricanes or heavy snow, you might want to amend your travel plans.

Make sure you understand what the local laws are surrounding winter travel. In some areas, winter tyres are a legal requirement while in others, roads are closed during the winter due to being impassable. Unlike the UK, Canadian rail networks are equipped to deal with heavy snowfall and this shouldn’t affect your travel plans, however it’s always a good idea to check the schedule if there is a dump.

Canadian culture

Canada is famous as a liberal, accepting and multicultural place with progressive politics. It is a mistake to think that Canadian and American cultures are the same or even broadly similar, however there has been a significant amount of US influence on things like architecture. There is an emphasis on the importance of immigration in Canada, especially considering that much of its infrastructural, culinary and high culture comes from European sources.

While it’s impossible to make total generalisations, Canadians are thought of as kind, hospitable and friendly. Arts and culture are an important part of the Canadian lifestyle, with several enormous festivals across artistic disciplines including theatre, dance, art, literature and, of course, music. The great outdoors is readily accessible and something that the Canadians are proud of, in particular their national park system.

The currency of Canada is the Canadian dollar , so make sure you have enough notes for your trip or have loaded the currency onto a secure prepaid travel money card before you go to easily access your holiday cash while you're there.

Getting around

The Trans-Canada Highway stretches, as one might imagine, across Canada, covering some 4,860 miles and a fair few time zones. It largely sticks to a route that tracks the US border as this is where the majority of Canada’s biggest cities are located (though it does not intersect the border at any point), and is a great route for a road trip.

Long-distance bus travel is more popular than in other countries and if you don’t mind the length of time it can take to get between places is a cost-effective way of getting between major cities.

Air travel is the speediest way of covering long distances, however it is not as cheap as American domestic air travel and it can sometimes be cheaper to transit into the US and out again. However, if that’s something you’re planning on doing, it’s crucial to make sure you have the necessary visas.

A fascinating way to see the entire country is to take the Canadian – that is to say a passenger train that traverses Canada. It can also be a way of getting from two major cities and seeing some of Canada’s amazing scenery at the same time. Unfortunately, for many people, it is more expensive than flying. Visit the VIA Rail Canada website to find out if you qualify for any of their discount schemes.

Driving across the country, or between places you want to visit, offers the freedom of being able to stop and change your destination on a whim, as well as giving you views of the country. It’s very important to make sure you know what the weather is going to be (as accurately as possible) as becoming stuck somewhere remote, especially in winter, can rapidly become very serious. Take all the local safety advice, as laws and regulations change between provinces and territories.

You do not need an International Driving Permit to drive in Canada – a full, valid UK driver’s licence is enough.

An important hazard on roads, particular outside of cities, is wild animals wandering out in front of you. Always be cautious when driving at night and reduce your speed if you are in an area of wilderness.

Wherever you are driving, make sure to have checked the latest travel news for that area and make sure your car has the necessary safety precautions (for instance, snow tyres or two, rather than one, spare tyres).

Do I need travel insurance for Canada?

Travel insurance is essential if you want health cover in Canada. While the health system there is well-respected, the costs of being treated – even for non-life-threatening conditions – can quickly escalate. Make sure the policy you choose has the level of Covid-19 cover you need. You may be able to add additional coronavirus cover for an extra premium with some insurers.

A good-quality travel insurance policy should cover you for damage to, loss or theft of your belongings, like passports and luggage. It should also safeguard against and reimburse you for cancellation, delay to or cutting short your trip – check the policy wording for the circumstances when it will.

Regardless of when you’re going to Canada – whether to hit the slopes of Whistler or do some hiking in the summer greenery – make sure your travel insurance covers you for the activities you want to do and that you’ve bought any add-ons you might need, like ski insurance or cruise cover. Take your policy document with you so you can check your cover for any activities you want to do spontaneously.

Remember that travel insurance doesn’t cover car insurance on rental vehicles, so this is something you will need to arrange separately if you intend on renting a car. Make sure that whatever car insurance you get, it is as comprehensive as possible. Always make sure that you have good breakdown cover if this doesn’t come as part of a rental agreement or your car insurance.

Always check the latest travel advice

Before you travel, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice  for your destination, as travelling against this advice may invalidate your travel insurance.

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Travel Insurance Canada

Enjoy all canada has to offer.

Whether you're hiking in the Rocky Mountains or exploring Montreal, we've got you covered.

What comes to mind when you think of Canada? Glaciers and mountains? Grizzly bears and moose?

The great outdoors isn’t all Canada has to offer. If you’re as much a fan of vibrant cities and delicious food as you are of getting back to nature, Canada could be the perfect destination for you.

Covid-19 - what our travel insurance covers

Our travel insurance now covers you for certain events related to Coronavirus (COVID-19), provided you have proof of a positive Covid-19 test and your cover is active at the time of the event.

What we cover

We provide cover for some costs related to Covid-19: please see Section 1 'emergency medical costs and repatriation' and Section 2 'cancelling or cutting short your trip' in your policy book for full details on what's covered.

We'll cover you if:

• you were diagnosed with Covid-19 before your trip was due to start
• a close relative died or became seriously ill as a result of Covid-19 before your trip was due to start
• you weren't allowed to board your pre-booked outbound travel due to symptoms of Covid-19
• an insured person or a close relative died during the trip because of Covid-19
• you couldn't take part in an excursion due to you self-isolating after getting Covid-19

What we don’t cover

You won't be covered if:

• you had reason to believe your trip may be cancelled, postponed or cut short when you booked it, purchased your policy or started your trip
• any government or public authority imposes travel restrictions or quarantine on a community, location, or vessel because of Covid-19 (this includes, but is not limited to, local lockdowns, entry requirements, being denied entry and airspace closures)
• you have to quarantine after arriving in the UK or abroad
• the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) change their advice to avoid ‘all travel’ or ‘all but essential travel’ to your destination because of Covid-19

For more information about how Coronavirus (COVID-19) affects your travel cover, see our FAQ page . And remember to check the policy booklet carefully before you buy to make sure our cover meets your needs.

If you’re taking a trip to Canada, it’s a good idea to go prepared with travel insurance . It isn’t compulsory, but it protects you if the worst were to happen such as:

• Having to cancel or cut short your trip
• Theft of personal belongings
• The airline losing your luggage

Medical treatment in Canada can be very expensive. As there are no special arrangements for travellers from the UK, Canada travel insurance is vital to make sure you’re not hit by high treatment costs.

Our basic level of travel insurance gives you up to £10 million of cover for emergency medical treatment and repatriation, and this rises to up to £20 million with our Platinum level.

Choose from three levels of cover

Read the full list of benefits in the policy summary booklet .

Holiday insurance Canada: what cover do I need?

Travel cover is divided up into different geographical areas. We use three zones:

• Worldwide excluding USA, Canada, Caribbean and Mexico

For trips to Canada, you’ll need the third option – worldwide travel insurance . Make sure you don’t choose the second option, worldwide excluding USA, Canada, Caribbean and Mexico, as you won’t be covered.

Canada travel tips

To make life easier when travelling in Canada, there are a couple of things you should bear in mind:

• One parent travelling with children must carry a letter of consent from the parent who isn’t travelling. Immigration officers can question children if there’s any concern around child abduction.
• If you’re travelling on to the United States, you should check the entry requirements of the US to make sure you won’t be denied entry.

Driving in Canada

If you’re planning to drive when you’re in Canada, you can usually do so as long as you have a full UK driving licence. Make sure you always carry it with you.

Some car hire companies may need you to have an International Driving Permit, though, so make sure you check before you travel so you don’t get caught out. The FCDO recommends you take out full insurance when hiring a car.

If you’re planning on driving during the winter, be aware that conditions can be extreme. Roads in some provinces, such as Alberta and British Columbia, can be closed due to avalanches and snow storms.

Follow the weather forecast and make sure you’re prepared – that includes checking if you need snow tyres for the province you’re in.

Skiing and snowboarding

If you’re heading to Canada to hit the slopes at one of the many legendary ski resorts, you’ll need our Winter Sports upgrade to be covered for the trip. This makes sure you’re covered should the worst happen and you’re injured or your equipment is lost or damaged.

We cover a range of popular winter sports:

• Piste skiing
• Snowboarding
• Glacier skiing
• Big foot skiing
• Tobogganing

There’s a full list of all the activities we cover in the policy document .

Hiking and camping

If you’re intending to go hiking or camping while travelling in Canada, take care and be considerate. Follow any park rules and regulations, take your rubbish with you and don’t feed any animals you see.

Be wary of animals with young as they’ll be more likely to act aggressively to protect them. Research how to deal with any animals you might encounter, and make sure you know if you’re going to be in an area where you might see bears.

Do you need a visa for Canada?

Canada visa requirements for British citizens are straightforward – if you’re travelling to Canada for a short period of time you don’t usually need a visa. If you’re travelling to Canada for a longer period of time – to work or study, for example – you should check if you need a visa with the Canadian High Commission.

If you’re flying into the country, as many British travellers do, you’ll need an electronic travel authorisation (eTA). You won’t be able to board your flight without one. Any travellers entering Canada by land or sea don’t need an eTA, but they’ll still need the usual valid travel documents.

For more information about the eTA and to apply online, visit the official Canadian government website.

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

A pre-existing condition is a short or long term illness or injury you have or have had before you buy travel insurance. This includes having symptoms, tests, diagnosis or medical treatment for a condition.

You can declare your pre-existing conditions during the quote process to see if we can offer cover. If you’re unsure what needs to be declared or if you're unable to find your condition on the medical conditions list, please contact us on 0333 234 9913 .

Your pre-existing conditions won’t be covered unless you’ve:

• Declared them all on your policy
• Received written confirmation that we’ll cover your medical condition
• Paid any additional premium in full

Policy terms and conditions apply. Please note, if you’ve had a positive diagnosis of Covid-19 and been prescribed medication, received treatment, or had a consultation with a doctor or hospital specialist for any medical condition in the past two years, this needs to be declared on your policy.

If you don’t tell us about your pre-existing conditions or give us incorrect information, your policy may be invalid, and we may refuse all or part of any claim you submit.

For a quote with us, click the green button above.

The MoneyHelper directory

If you require cover for more serious medical conditions, MoneyHelper may be able to help you find specialist travel insurance through their medical directory.

If you wish to get in touch with them you can call them on 0800 138 7777 or find them online . (Monday to Friday 8:00-18:00, closed on Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays.)

Your questions answered

Do i need a visa for canada.

British citizens don’t usually need a visa for short term travel in Canada, but you may need one if you’re staying for a longer period for study or work. Find out if you need a visa by checking the Canadian High Commission website.

If you’re flying into Canada, you’ll need an electronic travel authorisation (eTA), and you won’t be allowed on your flight without one. Find out more about the eTA and apply online by visiting the official Canadian government website .

Do I need travel insurance for Canada?

It’s not compulsory to have travel insurance when travelling in Canada, but it’s definitely worth having. Could you afford to pay for medical treatment or replace lost luggage out of your own pocket if the worst were to happen?

How much time do I need on my passport to visit Canada?

As long as you have enough time to cover the duration of your stay, you’ll be fine. You don’t need any additional time on your passport when travelling in Canada.

Does my travel insurance cover me to drive in Canada with a UK licence?

You can drive a car in Canada if you have a full UK licence, but you should always carry your licence with you. Some car hire companies require you to have an International Driving Permit, so check with your car hire company before you travel. You should also take out full insurance to make sure you’re covered, as your travel insurance won’t cover you.

What are the requirements to enter Canada?

British citizens don’t usually need a visa for short visits to Canada – you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), which you must apply for before you travel. To find about more about the eTA and apply online, visit the  official Canadian government website .

Do I need any vaccinations for travel to Canada from the UK?

If your routine vaccinations as recommended in the UK are up to date, you don’t currently need any other vaccinations when travelling to Canada – although you should check if you need a rabies booster.

For more information on where, when and how to get vaccines, take a look at our guide to travel vaccinations .

Is travel insurance mandatory for Canada?

You don’t have to have travel insurance for Canada but it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered if you fall ill or have an accident when travelling there. Medical care in Canada can be expensive, and the average cost of medical procedures is £14,615 – find out more in the cost of getting ill abroad .

Can I travel to Canada if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can travel to Canada if you have a pre-existing condition as long as you declare it when you’re buying your cover. Read more about travelling with medical conditions .

Getting the most out of your trip

Going anywhere nice.

Off to one of the destinations below? Take a look at our guides for some hints and tips on what you need to remember.

Travel insurance that suits you

Whether you're travelling solo, with your family, or with a little one on the way, read our guides to make sure our cover is right for you.

Family Travel Insurance

Student travel insurance, travelling while pregnant, travel insurance over 65, travelling with medical conditions, travel insurance upgrades.

Whether you want the adrenaline rush of a skiing holiday, or fancy taking to the seas on a cruise, you'll need to add extra cover to your policy.

Cruise Travel Insurance

Ski travel insurance, gadget travel insurance, adventurous sports insurance, single trip insurance, annual trip insurance.

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Canadian travel insurance for British travellers to Canada

Updated on December 21, 2023

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 If you’re considering travelling to Canada from the United Kingdom, it’s important to understand your Canadian travel insurance needs. 

Canada and the United Kingdom have always enjoyed a close relationship — after all, they’re both commonwealth countries. British citizens have been coming to Canada for centuries, and the drive to explore our beautiful country remains strong. An average of 724,000 British nationals visit Canada every year.

As a UK resident planning travel to Canada, you should take the time to consider your Canadian travel insurance and health insurance plans in advance. Today, we’ll help you determine which types of travel insurance for Canada are ideal for your next trip.

Why Do British Citizens Need Travel Insurance for Canada?

Whether you’re planning to move, looking for a new job, or just booking your next vacation, you should always ensure that you have health and travel insurance before you arrive in Canada. Even though both Canada and the United Kingdom enjoy similar types of publicly funded universal healthcare , the two systems do not overlap.

Regardless of whether you have private insurance in addition to your regular NHS coverage, this typically won’t cover you in a foreign country. It’s up to you to arrange for the necessary insurance to ensure your trip goes off without a hitch.

Many Brits who are tempted to take a trip to Canada without Canadian travel insurance can easily find themselves out thousands of dollars or even more if they miss their flight, or if they find themselves sick or injured with no way to pay for treatment.

To help protect yourself against these unexpected expenses, make sure you purchase insurance before you leave the United Kingdom. Moving2Canada’s partner Cigna offers fast and affordable travel insurance plans. Find out if Cigna could be an option for you by getting a free quote — it only takes a minute!

As a traveller from the United Kingdom, what should my Canadian travel insurance cover?

As a traveller from the United Kingdom, when you’re buying Canadian travel insurance, it’s hard not to get overwhelmed. However, learning more about the coverage options can help you make the right decision.

Here are some types of coverage you should know about before purchasing traveller’s insurance for Canada.

• Emergency medical & hospitalization: Having coverage for unexpected medical expenses is one of the most important elements of any travel insurance plan. In order to avoid extremely costly medical bills, ensure your Canadian travel insurance and/or international health insurance covers emergency medical expenses like ambulance services, medical bills, and hospitalization.
• Medical evacuation : Unlike the United Kingdom, Canada is huge! If you’re away from medical facilities and get ill or injured, you may need to be airlifted to the nearest or most appropriate medical facility. A great travel health insurance plan should offer some coverage for medical evacuation.
• Pre-existing conditions : Anyone with a pre-existing condition should make sure that any travel insurance they purchase offers pre-existing condition coverage. When in doubt, call the insurance provider and ask whether your specific condition is covered.
• Repatriation : If you were to die while in Canada, bringing your remains home is an incredible expense. This coverage offers a set amount of money towards the repatriation of your remains if the worst were to occur while you were away from the UK.
• Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption : No one wants to pay out of pocket if their trip was cancelled, delayed, or interrupted. Purchasing trip cancellation or trip interruption insurance helps to offset these sometimes unavoidable costs.
• Baggage Loss/Delay : Hate dealing with lost or delayed luggage? This type of coverage makes it simple. If your baggage is lost or delayed on your flight, you’ll get a set amount of money to cover the cost of new clothes and other necessary items.

Canadian Travel Insurance Considerations for Different Types of British Travellers

When you travel to Canada from the United Kingdom, your insurance needs will change depending on the length of your visit and your immigration status in Canada. Here are some considerations you should keep in mind depending on your situation.

If you enter Canada from the UK as a tourist or visitor , typically you are eligible to stay for a maximum of 6 months. Regardless of whether your visit will last for months or just days, you should plan to be protected by travel and health insurance for the duration.

Travel insurance protects against loss, delays, and other unavoidable situations that can occur when you’re dealing with things like car rentals, airlines, and more. Travel or international health insurance can reimburse you for unexpected medical expenses that may come up during your trip.

Even though the premiums are minimal, the reassurance they offer is priceless. Start exploring your travel insurance and health insurance options by getting a free quote from Cigna !

Depending on where you’re studying, some provinces (like British Columbia and Alberta) will cover international students under their provincial healthcare plans. Generally, you must intend to be in the province for at least six months and must apply for coverage as soon as you arrive.

However, most of the time applications for provincial health insurance take weeks to process, at which time you are not covered. It’s always recommended that students purchase private health insurance that can cover them in the interim. Oftentimes, your college or university will offer some type of insurance plan for international students, so it’s best to check with your school first!

IEC Working Holiday Participants

Going on an International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday is a great opportunity for young British citizens aged 18 to 30 to explore Canada while gaining valuable employment experience. Thousands of Brits travel to Canada each year through this popular program.

These short-term Working Holiday visas are easy to apply for, but require any participants coming into Canada to have travel insurance that covers them for their entire stay. This insurance must cover medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation.

Moving2Canada’s partner BestQuote helps to compare different IEC travel insurance options available on the market so you can make the best decision for your needs. Check out BestQuote’s travel insurance comparison tool here .

Temporary Workers

If you’re entering Canada on a work permit , you may be eligible for provincial health care depending on the length of your contract. In most provinces, workers present in Canada for 6 months or more are eligible — but the exact requirements vary by province.

However, depending on your province of residence, there may be a wait time of 3 months where you will be without health insurance. During this time, it’s wise to have a private alternative that can cover you until you receive your health card. We recommend getting started with a free quote from Cigna to explore their Canadian travel insurance options.

Permanent Residents

In every province, legal permanent residents of Canada are eligible to receive health coverage under their new province’s healthcare system. However, it can still take anywhere from a week up to a few months to collect all the documentation you need to fill out your application.

Before you arrive in Canada, we always recommend that newcomers to Canada from the United Kingdom purchase private health insurance that can cover them while they’re settling in and completing their provincial healthcare application. You can start exploring your insurance options by getting a free quote from Cigna .

Finding the Best Travel Insurance in Canada as a British Traveller

Whether you arrive in Canada as a visitor, student, or temporary or permanent resident, there are lots of things to see and do during your trip. Worrying about trip cancellations, illness, or injuries shouldn’t be on your list.

To protect yourself, we always recommend purchasing both health and travel insurance that’s valid for the entire length of your trip.

Looking for an easy, responsive, and convenient insurance provider? Check out Cigna, a trusted partner of Moving2Canada, who provides simple, fast estimates in just a few moments. Get started with a free quote today !

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Canada Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for canada: a guide for us travelers .

From exploring Banff National Park's breathtaking landscapes to experiencing Toronto's vibrant culture or the historic sites of Quebec City, Canada offers a wide range of popular locations and activities. However, before you dive into your adventure, there's a crucial detail to address: securing your travel insurance. 

Discover all the ins and outs of travel insurance for Canada in this guide.   We've got you covered with details on costs, requirements, essential coverage, COVID-19 restrictions, and some handy tips for your trip. 

What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Canada? 

How does travel insurance work for canada, do i need travel insurance for canada , how much does travel insurance cost for canada .

• Travel Insurance Requirements for Canada 

Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for US Visitors? 

Are there any required travel vaccinations for canada , traveling with pre-existing medical conditions , our suggested axa travel protection plan .

At a minimum, your travel insurance to Canada should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. Regarding international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.   AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.    

• Medical Coverage – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Canada.

Let’s say you’re exploring Ottawa's stunning architecture or skiing down Banff's slopes with AXA Travel Protection. If you were to fall ill or face an unexpected travel hiccup, AXA Travel Protection steps in to help support you. Whether assisting in medical transportation or finding the best alternative for a trip delay, AXA Travel Protection ensures you’re supported in your time of need.  

How AXA Travel Protection Can Benefit Visitors to Canada 

Here’s the entire list of benefits travelers can have access to with an AXA Travel Protection Plan: 

Medical Benefits: 

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms.   

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings.   

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations.   

Additional Optional Travel Benefits:

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures.   

Americans aren't required to purchase domestic or international travel insurance to visit Canada. But it’s still highly recommended to have a travel insurance plan before embarking on your next trip.  

Why? There are several reasons: 

• Medical Emergencies: Your health is a top priority. If you face a sudden illness or injury in Canada, travel insurance offers the means to receive prompt and quality medical care.    
• Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.   
• Flight Delays: Travel disruptions like flight delays can happen. If you miss a connecting flight or incur additional expenses due to delays, travel insurance can help cover the costs. 

In general, travel insurance to Canada costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans: 

• Total Trip cost: The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc.   
• Age: Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Canada will be offered three tiers of insurance: Silver, Gold , and Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

Travel Insurance requirements for Canada 

Travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers coming to Canada, but having coverage for medical emergencies is a smart move. It's also worth checking if your visa, entry requirements, or tour operator call for extra coverage.   

As of October 2023, Canada has eliminated all COVID-19 entry requirements. However, it's crucial to be mindful of your health. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms before your trip, consider postponing your travel plans to Canada. Having Cancel for Any Reason as part of your travel insurance plan becomes invaluable in such a scenario. This optional benefit provides the flexibility to cancel your trip, even for a reason beyond standard coverage.   

Canada does not have specific vaccine requirements for travelers. However, due to COVID-19, travel requirements may change from time to time. Stay up-to-date on vaccine requirements and recommendations by consulting official sources such as the Government of Canada's website.   

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.   Our Gold and Platinum  plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.  The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons, 

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plans with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation.   

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the Silver Plan , Gold Plan , and Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Canadian hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.  

The Platinum Plan is your go-to choice if you're looking for extra coverage aligned with the Canadian experience. " Cancel for Any Reason " offers greater flexibility for those unexpected twists in your travel plans and the " Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver) " offers assistance when you're out exploring Canada's stunning landscapes in a rental car. 

Additionally, part of the Platinum Plan is the " Lost Skier Days " benefit, offering potential reimbursement if ski resorts unexpectedly close due to ever-changing snow conditions. These perks make the Platinum Plan an excellent option for anyone seeking comprehensive protection during their exciting Canadian adventures. 

FAQs about Canada Travel Insurance   

1. can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight .

Absolutely, travelers have the option to purchase travel insurance for Canada after they've booked their flights.  

It's advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.)   AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip.   Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit. 

2. Do US citizens need travel insurance to Canada? 

Travel insurance to Canada from the USA is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. While Canada’s healthcare system is fantastic, it might not cover all your medical expenses as a non-resident and medical bills can add up fast.  

3. What type of medical conditions does AXA Travel Protection cover?  AXA covers three types of medical expenses: 

• Emergency medical expenses 
• Emergency evacuation & repatriation 
• Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation 

Emergency medical expenses are unexpected incidents that arise, such as broken bones, burns, unexpected illnesses, and allergic reactions.  Emergency evacuation and repatriation can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness.     Non-medical emergency evacuation and repatriation can cover evacuation assistance when you immediately leave a destination for non-medical-related events. These could be things like natural disasters or civil unrest.   

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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Travel Insurance for Canada 

Canada is the world’s second largest country and, as a result, it’s a place of great diversity. Home to vast mountains, craggy coastlines, awe-inspiring cities and beautiful fjords, it boasts striking natural landscapes and the best of modern life too.

Canada has a mixed culture and heritage which is best experienced in the cuisine of its major cities. You can sample a macaron in the distinctly French Montreal, wander around the Asian night markets in Vancouver or sample the best of everything in Toronto, which is regularly voted as the most cosmopolitan city in the world. Just make sure you travel with plenty of Canadian dollars so you can grab food as you go.

Away from the city, Canada gives holiday-makers the chance to reconnect with nature. Tourists flock to the Canadian Rockies, where snow-capped mountains draw Winter Sports and Ski enthusiasts every year. If you’re looking for something more laid back, you’ll have the opportunity to explore one of Canada’s 46 incredible national parks. 

Whatever you plan on doing, it's important that you get travel insurance for Canada to help protect yourself against any unforeseen eventualities.

Below is some more information about our products, for which Terms and Conditions apply. Please visit the policy information hub for full details.

What does our travel insurance for Canada cover? 

If you fall ill or get injured in Canada, travel insurance can help cover the cost of your care. Unlike many Commonwealth countries such as Australia, the UK and Canada don’t have a reciprocal health agreement, so although healthcare is still available for tourists, it can be incredibly expensive if you travel without insurance.

Similarly, if your journey is disrupted due to one of Canada’s infamous snowstorms, your travel insurance for Canada can help cover you if you are delayed because your airport is snowbound, or if you miss your flight. It can also provide you with cover if any of your personal possessions are lost, stolen or damaged.

At Allianz Assistance, we can provide you with a Single Trip , Annual or Backpacker travel insurance policy. We also offer three different levels of cover across our Single Trip and Annual policies: Bronze, Silver and Gold. They can protect you against: 

• Cancelling or curtailing your trip
• Emergency medical and associated expenses
• Loss of passport*
• Delayed personal possessions
• Lost, stolen or damaged personal possessions*
• Loss of personal money*
• Personal accident cover
• Missed departures
• Delayed departures
• Personal liability
• Legal expenses
• End-supplier failure**
• *Not available with Bronze level cover
• **Only available with Gold  level cover
• Terms and Conditions apply.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on how often you travel, you may find that Single Trip or multi-trip travel insurance for Canada is best suited to your needs.

If you’re only making one trip this year, then Single Trip travel insurance for Canada is the best option for you. But, if you’re planning multiple trips, then Annual travel insurance to include Canada may prove to be more cost effective than buying several Single Trip policies.

Similarly, if you’re travelling the world on a backpacking holiday and are stopping off in Canada, then you may find that our Backpacker travel insurance is right for you. 

The cost of travel insurance for Canada will vary depending on a number of factors, including:

• The number of people travelling
• The age of the people travelling
• The length of your holiday
• Whether you have any medical conditions to declare, as this will affect your eligibility
• Whether you need any additional cover

The best way to find out how much your travel insurance for Canada will cost is to get a quote online. By supplying us with a few basic details about you and your trip, we’ll be able to provide you with a quote.

From 5th May 2021 we will no longer be offering travel insurance policies to cover people’s pre-existing medical conditions. This is only a temporary measure while we make improvements to our online booking engine. Please keep an eye on the Allianz Assistance website in the future so you are aware when we are able to offer this additional cover again.  Policies purchased before 5th May 2021 aren't affected and your cover won't change.

Once the updates have been made, and we're able to offer travel insurance to cover pre-existing medical conditions again, before you buy your Canada travel insurance policy, you should make sure that you declare any pre-existing medical conditions you have through our medical screening process. If you fail to declare your conditions, they won’t be covered by your policy.

You will be able to see if we can cover your conditions, simply click ‘Get a Quote’ and select your policy type before providing us with some basic information about your trip. If you have any questions about the medical screening process, or you’re unsure what pre-existing conditions are not covered, please call us on 0371 200 0428 (from 9am to 5pm - Monday to Friday).

One of the impreovments we are making is to extend the offer of pre-existing medical condition cover onto our Annual travel insurance policy. 

If you’re a British citizen, you won’t need a visa to visit Canada if you’re only staying for a short period. But you will need to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) if you’re travelling by air. You can apply for an eTA online via the official Canadian government website .

If you’re travelling by land or sea, you won’t need an eTA when you enter Canada. However, you must travel with acceptable travel documents and identification .

Almost 750,000 Brits visit Canada every year and, even though Canada is considered to be a relatively safe country to visit, there are a number of things that you should be aware of before you travel to Canada.

Firstly, you should visit your healthcare practitioner 6-8 weeks before you travel, to check whether you require any vaccinations for your trip. Generally speaking, you’ll need to ensure all of your primary courses and boosters are up to date, and you may need diphtheria and tetanus vaccinations (these are recommended for most travellers). If your healthcare practitioner believes you’re at an increased risk, then they may also recommend hepatitis A, hepatitis B and rabies vaccinations. 1

You should also be wary of heavy snowfall in the winter months. During this time, highways are often closed in British Columbia and other Provinces because of snowstorms and avalanches. To understand conditions, you should check local news and weather reports and visit Environment Canada before you make a journey. You should also be aware that, because Canada is so vast, journeys often take longer than they do in the UK.

Although crime rates in Canada are relatively low, you should be wary of pickpockets. Many pickpockets can target tourists in busy areas, particularly around monuments and popular photo spots. Never leave your valuables on show and ensure they’re always stored away safely when not in use.

When browsing shops or looking at menus in restaurants, you should also be aware that the price of an item may not be the final price you pay. This is because a Goods and Service Tax is added to the bill. In addition to this, tipping is preferred in bars, restaurants and hotels.

1 Source: TravelHealthPro

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Best travel insurance in Canada for 2024

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Travel, whether for leisure, business, or work, has become integral to our modern lives. While it opens doors to diverse experiences, travel insurance is crucial in providing peace of mind against unforeseen expenses like medical emergencies and trip disruptions, particularly during unpredictable events.

But choosing the right travel insurance can be a challenge and demands careful consideration of factors like coverage, individual needs, exceptions, and more. We've got you covered.

In this guide, we take you through everything from coverage types and costs to the best plans and how to find cheap travel insurance. You can use our comparator at the top of this page to compare plans, get free quotes , and find a policy that truly fits your needs.

Top 10 travel insurance Canada plans

• soNomad travel insurance: Straightforward and affordable
• Allianz travel insurance: Affordable Plans Starting At $27
• Tugo travel insurance: Tailored solutions
• Destination travel insurance: Specialized coverage
• Manulife travel insurance: Flexible policies
• Blue Cross Travel Insurance Canada: Flexible plans for every need
• CAA travel insurance: Best for CAA members
• RBC travel insurance: Coverage from a reputed bank
• TD travel insurance: High coverage limits
• BCAA travel insurance: Budget-friendly options

Before we explore the best plans in the market, let's look at the basics of this coverage first.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a policy that protects your investment in a trip. It reimburses for financial losses of a canceled or interrupted trip, as well as emergency medical care during travel, emergency evacuation, damage to a rental car, lost luggage, and more. The medical care component is critical in a country like Canada. Out-of-province care costs more and offers less than in patients' home province.

It takes different forms. You can purchase it as an individual policy or as an add-on to a travel purchase like a flight. It may even be included as a credit card benefit when you use yours to make a travel purchase.

What is international travel insurance?

International travel insurance is a subset of travel insurance, specifically tailored for trips abroad, while the latter can cover domestic and international trips. The key difference is that international coverage is designed to address the unique challenges and risks associated with international journeys, such as medical emergencies, visa issues, and currency exchange, in addition to covering the same aspects as standard travel coverage, like trip cancellations and lost baggage.

How does travel insurance work?

Here's how it typically works:

• Purchase a Policy: Before your trip, you buy a policy, specifying the coverage, trip duration, and other relevant details.
• Traveling: During your trip, if you encounter covered events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, or other unexpected issues, you can contact your insurance provider or its 24/7 assistance line.
• Claim Submission: Submit a claim with the required documentation, such as medical bills or receipts for lost items, to your insurer for reimbursement.
• Reimbursement: If your claim is approved, the insurance provider reimburses you for eligible expenses, helping you manage unexpected costs and disruptions during your travels.

What does travel insurance cover?

What is covered depends on the insurer and the level of coverage you choose. It commonly covers emergency medical care, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and lost or damaged baggage.

Travel insurance is customized based on the needs of your specific trip. A basic plan covering just flight cancellation may be fine if you already have supplemental individual medical coverage and are traveling within Canada. On the other hand, if you are planning a ski trip to the French Alps, a comprehensive plan with emergency medical care and evacuation back home could help set your mind at ease if you experience a bad fall on the slopes.

Manulife’s CoverMe is one of the most popular providers in Canada, and here is what their Single Trip All-inclusive plan offers:

What does it not cover?

Common exclusions typically include:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Coverage may not extend to pre-existing medical conditions without a specific waiver or rider.
• High-Risk Activities: Activities like extreme sports or dangerous hobbies may require additional coverage or be excluded.
• Traveling Against Advisories: Trips to countries under travel advisories or travel restrictions may not be covered, depending on the policy.

What are the different types of travel insurance?

The most common categories are:

• Baggage insurance - Did you make it to that Caribbean island or European capital, but your luggage did not? It does not have to ruin your trip. This insurance will give you some spending money to get essentials due to a delay or replace it in case it is lost.
• Emergency medical insurance - You cannot put a price on your health. This protects you if you get injured or sick while away.
• Trip cancellation - Have an emergency back home before your trip? If you are unable to travel, this coverage will reimburse what you spent on nonrefundable travel.
• Trip interruption - Miss a connection flight? Maybe you need to return home early? That is okay, you are covered. This is similar to trip cancellation insurance but covers you during a trip rather than before it.
• All-inclusive policies - Want to be prepared for anything? These policies include all of the above insurance types.

Finally, consider how much you will be traveling in the year. Single-trip and annual coverage options exist. Annual plans may save you money if you intend to travel two or more times per year.

What is travel medical insurance?

Travel medical insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies during your trip, including doctor's visits, hospitalization, and emergency medical evacuation. It is a subset of travel insurance, which covers a wider range of risks such as trip cancellations, lost baggage, and non-medical aspects of travel. You can often purchase stand-alone medical coverage if you primarily need health-related coverage for your trip.

How much is travel insurance?

A basic plan for a 30-year-old single traveler could be as little as $26 for a week, while a comprehensive plan could cost that same traveler $125.

How much travel insurance costs depends on the length of your trip, the destination, the desired coverage, and your age. We recommend plans that include emergency medical coverage.

How much is travel insurance in Canada?

On average, a basic single-trip policy for a one-week trip may cost around $25 to $50 CAD for an individual, while an annual multi-trip policy can range from $100 to $300 CAD. More comprehensive coverage or longer trips can increase the cost. Seniors and individuals with pre-existing conditions may pay higher premiums.

It's essential to compare quotes from different providers to find a policy that suits your needs and budget. Try our comparison tool below to get free personalized travel insurance quotes for your upcoming trip. Compare rates, explore options, and find the best policy for you in just seconds.

Prepare for your trip Compare. Choose. Save.

What does travel insurance for seniors cover?

Travel insurance for seniors offers increased medical coverage over other plans and coverage for stable pre-existing conditions. It works like any other emergency medical insurance plan but is adapted to the needs of senior travelers.

Leading plans medical travel insurance for seniors Canada plans offer:

You can use our comparator at the top of this page to find the best Canadian travel insurance for seniors based on their unique needs. It only takes a few steps and you have free quotes in seconds.

How much is travel insurance for Canadian seniors?

The cost of travel insurance for Canadian seniors can vary based on factors like age, health, destination, and trip duration. On average, a comprehensive single-trip policy for a senior traveler may range from $50 to $200 or more, while an annual multi-trip plan could cost approximately $300 to $1,000 or higher, depending on coverage limits and individual circumstances. Pre-existing conditions may also alter the coverage you can access.

What is the best travel insurance for visitors to Canada?

Leading Canadian travel insurance companies offer medical travel insurance to visitors. These can be perfect for non-residents in the country on vacation, business, or visiting family. These plans can be a lifeline for people living in Canada who have not yet qualified for public healthcare.

The best travel insurance for visitors to Canada depends on the traveler’s needs. Additionally, plans may be available to them from their home country.

Is it mandatory to have travel insurance to visit Canada?

No, you do not need private travel coverage to visit Canada. It is not mandatory for all visitors to Canada, but it is highly recommended. Canada's public healthcare system does not cover visitors, and some provinces may require health insurance for entry. Having travel coverage provides financial protection and peace of mind for medical emergencies and unexpected events. Policies and requirements can change, so check with Canadian authorities for the latest information.

Good to know

If you are sponsoring a parent or grandparent to visit you in Canada, did you know that you are required to purchase super visa insurance? Learn more and compare the best super visa insurance plan in Canada in our super visa guide .

How to get the cheapest travel insurance Canada plans?

So how to get travel insurance? Most importantly, how to get the most affordable plans? Follow these 5 steps to get the best deals.

• Compare Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from various insurance providers to find the best price for your desired coverage.
• Choose Essential Coverage: Select coverage that matches your specific travel needs, avoiding unnecessary add-ons.
• Consider Annual Policies: If you travel frequently, annual policies often offer more value than single-trip coverage.
• Review Deductibles: Higher deductibles can lower your premium, but be prepared to pay more in case of a claim.
• Utilize Membership Discounts: Check if your memberships or affiliations offer discounted coverage options.

While finding the cheapest travel insurance Canada plan or to other regions may seem like a daunting process, we've got you covered. You can simply use our free comparator below to compare plans, and coverage, check on discounts, and get free quotes in no time.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance can be purchased anytime between booking and departure, but we recommend buying a plan at the same time that you book your trip.

Booking as soon as possible ensures greater protection. The ideal time to purchase is right after making your initial trip payment, typically within 10-21 days. Buying it early allows you to access coverage for pre-existing medical conditions and other benefits . You can often obtain last-minute insurance up to the day before departure, but some coverages may be limited.

But when is it too late to buy travel insurance? Once you've begun your trip or used any part of it, you generally cannot purchase coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions. However, annual multi-trip policies can be purchased at any time, with coverage beginning from the policy's start date.

What are the best travel insurance plans in 2024?

Please note that the specific coverage, terms, and pricing may vary based on individual circumstances and plan options. It's essential to review the policies in detail and obtain personalized quotes to make an informed decision for your needs. You can do that using our comparator below. Compare multiple plans and get free quotes in no time right here.

Other popular companies include the following :

You can find more on these options by clicking on them:

• AMA travel insurance
• CIBC travel insurance
• Costco travel insurance Canada
• BMO travel insurance (also includes BMO World Elite Mastercard travel insurance)
• Medipac travel insurance
• Medoc travel insurance
• World nomads travel insurance
• Scotiabank travel insurance

What are the FAQs on travel insurance Canada plans?

How does credit card travel insurance work.

Travel coverage is a benefit on many credit cards. It is worth checking what your card includes before purchasing a separate policy. You may already have sufficient coverage.

Credit cards with travel insurance usually only cover expenses purchased on that card. Buy your plane tickets on one card, but the hotel on another? The first company will not reimburse you for a hotel issue. Additionally, terms and exclusions may be more restrictive than a standalone plane. Credit card travel insurance is a wonderful benefit, but weigh whether its coverage is sufficient for you and your trip.

The best travel insurance credit cards have offerings like this:

Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

Many plans now specifically cover COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses or offer stand-alone COVID travel insurance. They may reimburse costs incurred from a mandatory quarantine, COVID-19 medical expenses, and trip interruption and cancellation . Some specific COVID plans only cover COVID-19 expenses and do not automatically include coverage for other medical needs.

It is worth verifying details carefully before deciding on a Covid-19 travel insurance policy. Covid-19 coverage and news change frequently, so check with your service providers for the latest information.

There are a few important points to consider:

• Coverage may be explicitly excluded in your policy if the destination countries or regions are under an “avoid non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel” advisory at the time of purchase.
• Your Covid-19 vaccination status may affect your coverage. If you are unvaccinated by choice, your insurer may declare your claims ineligible.

Do I need private health care coverage when traveling outside Canada?

Yes, we always recommend travel medical insurance when traveling abroad. Healthcare prices and standards can be very different while traveling. Some public provincial plans offer some coverage, but it may be insufficient. Your provincial plan covers may only pay what the cost would be back at home, not the actual price at your destination. Even then, you likely have to pay out-of-pocket and request reimbursement later.

In some countries, healthcare facilities may request treatment upfront. They may refuse treatment if you are unable to pay. This alone makes emergency medical insurance extremely valuable.

Do I need travel insurance to USA from Canada?

Getting a private travel protection plan is highly recommended when traveling from Canada to the USA, as it provides essential medical coverage. Medical expenses in the USA can be exorbitant, and without insurance, a simple hospital visit can lead to substantial bills, potentially running into thousands of dollars.

For example, a basic emergency room visit for minor treatment might cost around $1,000 to $2,000 , while more serious medical procedures or surgeries can lead to bills that range from $10,000 to tens of thousands of dollars, or even more for complex surgeries or prolonged hospital stays.

Do I need travel insurance within Canada?

We recommend getting medical travel insurance Canada plans while traveling within the country. Specific plans are available for domestic travelers. While Canadian citizens and residents are guaranteed basic emergency care by the Canada Health Act, this does not include prescription drugs and ambulance services. Your OHIP coverage from Ontario will not cover you for a private hospital, laboratory, or paramedic services while visiting British Columbia.

Additionally, payment for medical services may be required upfront, leaving you responsible for seeking reimbursement from your home province upon your return. Canadian residents traveling within Canada may qualify for a discount on their medical travel insurance.

When traveling outside of your province or territory without adequate coverage, you assume risk. Note that you may already have sufficient coverage if you have a supplemental individual or group private health insurance policy.

Want to protect yourself while traveling in Canada? Compare the best travel insurance medical plans anonymously today using our comparator at the top of this page.

What does travel insurance for snowbirds cover?

Travel medical insurance for snowbirds commonly covers the following medical expenses:

• Medical treatments
• Prescription medications
• Paramedics and ambulance rides
• Repatriation to Canada
• Emergency dental care

Snowbird insurance policies do not usually cover elective treatments. Those should wait until you have returned to Canada.

But who are Snowbirds? Snowbirds are people who travel to warmer climates during the cold Canadian winter. They are usually retirees. Therefore, getting adequate protection for their travels is particularly important for these groups. Many of them go to warm parts of the United States, the country with the world’s highest medical care costs.

Snowbirds may be more at risk for a medical emergency while away due to the length of their trips and underlying health conditions.

To learn more, see our guide to snowbird travel insurance.

How do I buy travel insurance online?

The easiest way to purchase a travel plan is by using an online comparison tool like ours. See rates and coverage options quickly without giving up personal data. Alternatively, you may purchase it through an agent, a broker, your private individual or group health insurer, or a travel credit card.

How much travel insurance do I need?

The amount of coverage you need depends on various factors, including the destination, duration, and activities of your trip. As a general guideline, consider coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.

Aim for a coverage amount that provides financial protection for potential unexpected costs while keeping your budget and specific travel plans in mind. It's essential to balance adequate protection with affordability.

What is the best travel insurance for cancer patients?

The best protection plan for cancer patients depends on individual circumstances, including the stage of cancer and current health. It's advisable to look for insurance providers that specialize in covering pre-existing medical conditions, offer comprehensive coverage, and have experience handling cancer-related claims.

Companies like Allianz and IMG Global among others often provide options for travelers with pre-existing conditions, including cancer*. However, it's essential for cancer patients to compare policies, disclose their medical history accurately, and consider consulting their healthcare providers when selecting the most suitable coverage.

Does travel insurance cover cruises?

Yes, travel coverage plans frequently cover cruises. When shopping for a plan, be sure to verify that yours offers cruise coverage. To give an example, RBC offers two popular examples, their Deluxe and TravelCare (for seniors) packages.

They cover:

• Cruise cancellation or interruption due to mechanical failure or weather
• Catch-up costs for a missed departure due to a canceled flight
• Unused shore excursion tickets (due to illness or injury)
• Last-minute cancellations due to a covered reason
• Lost luggage, passports, and medications
• Eligible emergency medical expenses
• 24-hour worldwide emergency medical and travel assistance
• Repatriation costs

See our guides on travel insurance in Canada:

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This message is a response to . Cancel

I have had BCAA travel insurance in the past and nothing has changed regarding my medical needs. Am I able to apply for insurance without having to go through all the questions again?

Hi Marylou, Thank you for reaching out to us. You should be able to renew your policy without having to go through the whole process again. Here is a link to help you with the same. https://www.bcaa.com/Apps/Travel/FullTravelMedical/Renewal Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any further doubts. Thank you!

I am wanting a quote for travel/medical insurance

Hi Patricia, You can use the comparator tool at the top of the page to find the perfect insurance policy for you. You can then contact the company of your choice directly to get a quote.

Have a nice day, The HelloSafe team

If we go to Portugal for one week and France for another, do we buy separate insurance?

Hi Julie, It depends. Some insurances contracts cover any trips in a given period, while others are meant to cover a specific destination. You can use the comparison tool at the top of the page to find the perfect contract for you and ask for a quote.

Hello, how are you? Does travel insuance covering breast biospys overseas?

Hi Nour, Each travel insurance covers different medical services. Please contact the insurer of your choice for more detail about a potential contract.

Does anybody ever answer the phone at caa Ins. Tried several times and waited half hr or more with no response. I am member but find this very irritating.

Hi Brian, We are not related to CAA Insurance and therefore we cannot help you.

Travel Insurance For UK From India

Travel insurance for united kingdom (uk).

Situated off the North-West coast of mainland Europe, The United Kingdom (UK) consists of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The UK also includes several small islands of the British Isles and is home to historic and modern landmarks alike. From the iconic Tower Bridge in London to the modern marvel that is the London Eye, from the picturesque towns and lakes of the British countryside to the cosmopolitan diversity of London, the UK has a plethora of tourist attractions that are visited by global travellers every year.

Whether you are a mountain lover or a history enthusiast, visiting the United Kingdom ought to be on your bucket list. And, it is important to secure your journey with travel insurance for the UK.

A UK Travel Insurance is an insurance policy designed for travellers visiting the United Kingdom, it serves to offer financial protection to a traveller during their trip.

The key benefits of a travel insurance UK plan

• Travel assistance
• Cover for accident and sickness
• Passport & Baggage Loss Benefit
• Automatic extension of your travel insurance UK plan for 60 days in the event of hospitalisation in the UK
• Cover against personal liability
• COVID-19 Covered

Travel Insurance for UK from India

To ensure that your journey to the United Kingdom is safe, secure, and hassle-free, it is important to have adequate planning. You must make all the travel arrangements and bookings in time and prepare for your trip well in advance, including getting a travel insurance UK plan from India. However, despite thorough planning, you may still face unanticipated circumstances capable of ruining your plans. For instance, the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has brought international travel to a halt. There are strict travel and entry restrictions in place in most countries, with only essential travel being allowed.

Therefore, it is critical to purchase travel insurance for your UK trip and financially safeguard yourself against any untoward incidents during the trip. Your UK travel insurance can prove to be handy in the wake of any untoward incidents during your trip.

Why Do You Need Travel Insurance from India to the UK?

Life is filled with uncertainties that can derail even the most well-thought-out plans. Therefore, you must consider buying travel health insurance for your UK trip. If you happen to face any unanticipated events prior to or during the course of your stay to and from the UK, having valid medical travel insurance to the UK can prove to be extremely beneficial. For instance, if you fall ill before or during the trip or lose your baggage at any of the airports you traverse on your journey, your UK travel insurance policy can help you escape any financial losses.

Therefore, it is advisable to buy travel insurance for non-UK residents so as to ensure that your trip is financially secured, particularly in the wake of any adverse events. At Tata AIG, we offer a wide range of travel insurance UK plans for you to choose from.

Some of the benefits included in our travel insurance UK plan have been discussed below.

Journey Cover Cover for flight delays and cancellations, hotel booking cancellations, and loss of passport

Baggage Cover Compensation on the loss or delay of check-in baggage

Medical Coverage a. Covid-19 cover for the costs associated with testing COVID-19 positive during the trip b. Travel Health Insurance to the UK to provide financial assistance if you fall ill or get involved in an accident during the trip

Other benefits a. Affordable travel insurance UK policies with a premium as low as ₹40.82 per day b. Instant purchase of online UK travel insurance without needing to undergo extensive health check-ups c. The option to pay in Indian Rupees and get coverage in United States Dollars

For Additional Information If you are a Student Traveling to the UK for your Studies, check our Student Travel Insurance If you are traveling for a Leisure or Business Trip, check our International Travel Insurance

Visa Information for the UK

Along with medical travel insurance to the UK, it is critical to be aware about the UK Visa requirements.

Standard Visitor Visa Indian nationals travelling to the UK can apply for a Standard Visitor Visa that is valid for a stay of up to 6 months. The aforementioned visa can be requested for one of the following reasons.

• Academic pursuits
• Medical reasons
• Visiting friends and relatives
• Getting married, engaged, or entering into a civil partnership
• Joining one's partner or family for an extended stay
• Diplomatic visits

A Standard Visitor Visa can be extended for visits that involve medical or academic purposes, albeit with the payment of an additional fee.

Long-term Standard Visitor Visa For long-term visits to the UK, there are Long-term Standard Visitor Visas available for two, five, or ten years. However, the duration of each visit under a Long-term Standard Visitor Visa cannot exceed six months.

In addition to the visas mentioned above, you can also apply for certain other categories of visas to the UK, including the following.

• Marriage Visitor Visa
• Tier 4 (General) Student Visa
• Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa
• Permitted Paid Engagement Visa
• Tier 2 - Sportsperson Visa
• PBS Dependent - Partner Visa
• PBS Dependent - Child Visa

Documents required for the UK visit visa application

Here are the documents required for applying for a visit visa to the United Kingdom.

• Salary and financial particulars
• Travel itinerary
• Personal information
• Travel history
• Proof of your capability to finance your stay in the UK
• Proof of your ability to pay for air travel to enter and exit the UK
• Proof of your intent to leave the country at the end of your visit

Since the visa application process usually takes three to four weeks, it is advisable to apply for the UK visit visa at least three months before the intended date of travel.

Entry Information for Indian citizens to the UK

Indian nationals travelling to the UK can apply for a visa here.

Here is the process of the UK visa application 1. Apply for the appropriate category of UK visa here. 2. Pay your visa fee online. 3. Schedule a visa appointment 4. Carry the required documents for your scheduled visa appointment.

Documents required for the UK visa interview You should ensure that the following documents are handy whilst attending your UK visa interview appointment. 1. Confirmation of the visa appointment 2. Receipt of the visa application fee payment 3. Valid passport and tickets (if available) 4. A passport-sized photograph 5. Duly signed Print-out of the visa appointment form 6. Duly signed self-assessment form 7. Other visa-category specific documents as applicable

International travel between India and the United Kingdom has now reopened, albeit with restrictions.

Covid Guidelines for Travelling to the UK Here are the present travel guidelines for Indians travelling to the United Kingdom.

• A negative Covid-19 RT-PCR test report not older than 72 hours from the time of arrival in the UK
• A mandatory 10-days quarantine in the UK upon arrival
• A 14-days quarantine in the UK for visitors who test positive for Covid-19 upon arrival in the country

Travel Documents Required while Travelling from India to the UK

There are certain important travel documents that you must carry whilst travelling to the United Kingdom from India. The aforementioned documents are as follows.

• A valid Indian passport
• A pre-approved visa to the UK
• A negative RT-PCR test report not older than 72 hours from the time of arrival in the UK
• Your passenger locator form
• Your confirmed travel tickets
• Prescription for specific medications, if necessary
• Valid travel health insurance for the UK, including Covid-19 coverage.

UK Travel: Safety and Precautionary Measures to be Undertaken

• Keep your passport safe at all times.
• Use official commercial means of transport and avoid seeking private help.
• Respect the country’s laws and regulations.
• Avoid travelling to unfamiliar or remote areas, particularly during the night.
• Do not participate in any unlawful activities.
• Do not violate public decorum through your words, actions, or a combination of the two.
• Protect your belongings, especially when you are in crowded places and tourist hotspots.
• Choose the best travel insurance for the UK to financially secure yourself against any untoward incidents.

Covid-19 specific guidelines:

• Wear a mask over your nose and mouth, particularly while using public transport.
• Practise social distancing.
• Cooperate with the local government and designated authorities by following the Covid-19 guidelines.
• Monitor yourself for Covid-19 symptoms and self-isolate and get tested if you develop any of the symptoms.

The Indian Embassy in the UK

The Indian Embassy in the United Kingdom is located at the following address.

High Commission of India, India House, Aldwych, London, WC2B 4NA, United Kingdom

Contact details of the High Commission :

Website : High Commission of India, London, United Kingdom

Email : [email protected] ;

[email protected]

Telephone number : 00-44 (0) 020 - 78369147

Fax number : 020 - 78364331

Working hours : Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM GMT

Nearest London Underground Stations : Holborn, Covent Garden, Temple, and Charing Cross

International airports in the UK

There are several major international airports in the United Kingdom, some of which have been listed below.

• Heathrow Airport, London (LHR)
• Gatwick Airport, London (LGW)
• Glasgow International Airport, Glasgow
• Manchester Airport, Manchester
• Edinburgh Airport, Edinburgh

Currency and Foreign Exchange

The currency of the United Kingdom is the Pound Sterling (£), which is commonly referred to as pound, sterling, or quid. It is advisable to carry a sufficient amount of the aforementioned currency before travelling to the UK.

The exchange rate of the Pound Sterling (£) with respect to the Indian National Rupee (₹) keeps fluctuating on a daily basis. Therefore, you must monitor the applicable exchange rate before your visit to the UK.

UK Tourist Places

With a rich history and varied landscapes, the United Kingdom has always fascinated tourists. From the magical castles of Edinburgh to the museums and palaces of London, from the serene mountains and lakes of the British countryside to the Scottish Highlands, there is an abundance of bucket-list-worthy destinations in the beautiful archipelago. And, you can enjoy these places without a hint of worry if you have a comprehensive travel insurance plan for the UK!

Here are some of the places you must visit during your trip to the UK.

London : With one arm nestled deep into history and another welcoming the present and the future, London is at once an architectural relic and a true modern marvel. Home to the iconic Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, the Millennium Bridge, London Eye, Big Ben, the British Parliament, the Natural History Museum, and Trafalgar Square, the city is revered as much for its global landmarks as its cobbled streets and quaint cafes.

Edinburgh : The picturesque capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is a city adorned with historical landmarks and natural wonders alike. Overlooking the city is the ethereal Edinburgh Castle, a living postcard from the thirteenth century. Other notable tourist attractions in Edinburgh include the Royal Mile, the Scottish National War Museum, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Stonehenge : Spread across twenty square kilometres, Stonehenge is a 4,500-year-old World Heritage Site. Revered as an ancient place of worship, the structure is one of the most recognised identifiers of the United Kingdom across the globe. While visiting Stonehenge, you can also go to Salisbury which is home to some beautiful cathedrals and the original Magna Carta.

The Lake District : A visit to Cotswolds and the serene lake district of the British countryside is akin to taking a dive into a sixteenth-century novel set in the region. Home to the counties of Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire, the area is adorned with idyllic valleys, mountains, lakes, villages, and pastures. North of the region is the beautiful Lake District National Park which has some of the nation's largest lakes.

Loch Ness : No trip to the United Kingdom can be complete without visiting the mythical Loch Ness in Scotland. Anecdotes about the mythical Loch Ness Monster have long captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike. Although you may not find the legendary beast at the serene lake, there is plenty to see in the area, including the ruins of Urquhart Castle, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, and Inverness Castle.

Best Time to Visit the UK

The best time to visit the United Kingdom is either March to May (spring) or September to November (autumn). During spring, most regions in the UK have mild temperatures which are ideal for vacations. Since the summer months of June to August are the busiest from a tourism perspective, it is recommended to plan your visit to the country during spring or autumn.

Visit the UK today and financially secure your international journey with online travel insurance for the UK from TATA AIG Insurance. With our wide selection of travel insurance plans, you can opt for the best travel insurance for the UK for yourself. We offer travel insurance UK plans at a cost as low as ₹40.82 per day. Visit our website to know more about travel insurance for UK visitors and our plans for annual travel insurance for the UK.

Information last updated Jan 21. While this information is sourced reliably, visa requirements can change. For the most current visa details, visit the official Consulate/Embassy website.

Other Destinations

Disclaimer / tnc.

Your policy is subjected to terms and conditions & inclusions and exclusions mentioned in your policy wording. Please go through the documents carefully.

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How can i get a travel insurance uk plan.

In order to get travel insurance for the UK, you can visit our website and choose international travel insurance. Then you need to enter the necessary personal information and select the extent of the coverage you want. You can add the following features to a basic travel insurance UK plan.

• Medical coverage
• Baggage coverage

After adding the required features to your travel insurance for the UK plan, you must make the payment and complete the purchase. Your travel insurance UK policy will be issued immediately and you can access it through your email inbox.

How much should I pay for a travel insurance UK plan?

The cost of your travel insurance to the UK would vary depending on how long your planned stay in the country is. Several other factors also have a bearing on the aforementioned amount. If you are travelling to the UK with your family, you should select an adequate sum assured in your travel insurance UK plan to ensure that all of you have sufficient coverage during the trip.

Is it mandatory to buy a medical travel insurance UK plan?

Yes, it is mandatory to have valid medical travel insurance to the UK. By purchasing the aforementioned plan, you can ensure that your trip is financially secured.

Insurance is the subject matter of the solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms and conditions, please read sales brochure / policy wording carefully before concluding a sale. Trade logo displayed above belongs to TATA Sons Private Limited and AIG and used by TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited under License. 2008, TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited, all rights reserved. Registered Office : Peninsula Business Park, Tower A, 15th Floor, G.K.Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai - 400 013, Maharashtra, India. CIN: U85110MH2000PLC128425. IRDA of India Regn. No. 108. Toll Free Number : 1800 266 7780 / 1800 22 9966 (only for senior citizen policy holders). Email Id – [email protected] . Category of Certificate of Registration: General Insurance.

2008, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited, all rights reserved. Registered Office : Peninsula Business Park, Tower A, 15th Floor, G.K.Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai - 400 013, Maharashtra, India. CINNumber : U85110MH2000PLC128425. Registered with IRDA of India Regn. No. 108. Insurance is the subject matter of the solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms and conditions, please read sales brochure / policy wording carefully before concluding a sale. Trade logo displayed above belongs to Tata Sons Private Limited and AIG and used by TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited under License. Toll Free Number : 1800 266 7780 / 1800 22 9966 (only for senior citizen policy holders). Email Id – [email protected] .

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Canada’s High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK Health Security Agency) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Travel to Canada

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for passengers entering Canada. Avoid travelling if you have symptoms of COVID-19. See the Government of Canada’s website for more information on COVID-19 and travel.

Public spaces and services

The Government of Canada recommends that all travellers wear a face mask on public transport.

You may be asked to wear a face mask indoors, such as in hospitals or on public transport. You may need proof of vaccination to visit settings such as care homes.

Local authorities in Canada can introduce restrictions or measures at short notice. Comply with the rules and advice of the local authorities. Check the COVID-19 guidance for each province and territory .

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Visa requirements

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada – not both.

You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to six months). You will need an eTA instead. Check entry requirements and find out if you need a visa or an eTA for your visit using this tool.

You may need to provide fingerprints and photos at a visa application centre to apply for permanent residence or a study or work permit. Find out if you need to give biometrics. If you do need to give biometrics, see the list of biometrics collection points .

When you arrive, you must show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.

Contact Canada’s High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

You must get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter or transit Canada by air, unless you’re exempt. Read the list of exemptions on the ETA website . If you enter Canada by land or sea, you don’t need an eTA. However, you must travel with acceptable travel documents and identification .

If you have British-Canadian dual nationality, you cannot apply for an eTA. You need a valid Canadian passport instead.

The eTA website has information about the eTA system and how to apply .

Visa and eTA scams

Some  unauthorised websites  charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Government of Canada.

If you think you may have been a victim of a scam, use the eTA Check Status tool to confirm if your eTA is valid. If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received a confirmation of your application, complete this enquiry form .

Transiting through Canada

You must have a valid Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to transit Canada, unless you are exempt.

If you have questions, contact:

• your airline
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• your nearest Canadian high commission, embassy or consulate

Find out more about transiting Canada .

Travelling with children

If only one parent is present, carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.

For further information, check with Canada’s High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be taken into - and out - of Canada . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Banned food products will be confiscated and you could be fined. Check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website for more information.

If you visited a farm, or had contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and intend to visit a farm during your stay, you must complete the relevant section in your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see the Government of Canada’s website on biosecurity .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

United Kingdom travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 10, 2024 08:40 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, united kingdom - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the United Kingdom due to the threat of terrorism.

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There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

In the United Kingdom, previous incidents have resulted in casualties. They include random violent incidents in public areas, such as knife and vehicle attacks as well as explosions.

These incidents have occurred mainly in the London area but have also happened elsewhere.

Further attacks in the United Kingdom are likely. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media.

National threat level - British Home Office

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. Cellphone theft is rampant in certain tourist areas of London. Vehicle theft and theft from parked vehicles also occurs, particularly in tourist areas and roadside stops.

Thieves work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings.

They are especially active in crowded areas, such as:

• tourist attractions and areas, including Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square
• airports and public transportation
• restaurants, pubs and bars
• patios and outdoor cafés
• hotel lobbies
• underground pedestrian walkways
• roadside stops

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as mugging, knife crime and sexual assault occurs, particularly in larger cities. There have been incidents of passengers being sexually assaulted and robbed when using unlicensed taxis.

If you have been the victim of a crime on the transportation system, including in a taxi, consult Transport for London to learn how to report it.

Report a crime or incident on the transportation system - Transport for London

During your trip:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers
• be vigilant in urban areas, particularly after dark
• never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Fraud can range from simple to sophisticated, and sometimes involve hidden electronic devices that obtain account information and personal identification numbers.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unsecured websites
• Use judgment when posting information on social media
• Be especially careful if you are meeting people you have met online
• Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

Useful links

• More about overseas fraud
• Cybercrime - National Crime Agency

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations take place regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Strikes and pressure tactics occur from time to time, in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, Protestant parades through predominantly Catholic neighbourhoods may occur from April to August, during the Orange Order summer marching season, particularly during the weeks leading up to July 12.

During the summer marching season:

• expect possible delays and disruptions in some areas
• exercise caution
• follow the advice of local authorities

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, may lead to safety concerns if they are not well-organized. Weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go walking, biking or hiking in remote areas:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• Weather conditions - Met Office

Avalanche Forecasts - Scottish Avalanche Information Service

Road safety

Roads are excellent but are often narrow and congested, especially in urban areas. Use caution when entering a traffic circle (roundabout). Rural roads may become hazardous during severe weather conditions.

Pedestrians should use caution when crossing streets and be mindful that traffic is coming from the opposite direction than what they may be used to.

Public transportation

Public transportation is excellent and extensive. Trains and buses services connect most cities and areas of the country.

Taxis are generally safe. Only use officially licensed marked taxis.

• Getting around Britain - Visit Britain
• Train schedules and service alerts - National Rail

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the British authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least the expected duration of your stay in the United Kingdom. This requirement may also apply when travelling to Northern Ireland from other parts of the United Kingdom, and vice versa.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 6 months Business visa or work permit: required Student visa: required

You may need a work permit or visa even if you plan to do:

• unpaid work
• volunteer work
• part-time work
• temporary work

A marriage visitor visa is also required if you plan to get married or register a civil partnership in the United Kingdom.

You should obtain your visa from the UK Visas and Immigration or the closest British High Commission in Canada before your departure.

The High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom, in London, cannot assist you in your visa application process. Consult the UK Visas and Immigration authorities or the British High Commission in Canada to:

• make sure you apply for the proper visa you need according to the purpose of your visit (marriage, employment, study)
• find out which documents you need to obtain your visa
• obtain any status updates
• check if you will be required to pay a health-care surcharge
• Check if you need a UK visa  - UK Government
• UK Visas and Immigration  - UK Government
• Pay for UK healthcare as part of your immigration application  - UK Government

Other entry requirements

UK Border officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay.

If you are unable to do so, or if you seek entry as a visitor but are found with items indicating that you intend to seek any type of employment (such as curriculum vitae or educational certificates), you may be denied entry and expelled from the country.

Similarly, if you seek entry as a visitor and are suspected of planning to reside in the UK for any reason, including having a UK-based partner, you may be denied entry.

If you have previously been refused entry, contact the British High Commission in Ottawa to enquire about entry clearance before making plans to visit the UK, even if a visa is normally not required.

Transiting through a United Kingdom airport

If you plan to transit through a United Kingdom airport, make sure you comply with the entry requirements of your final destination. If you don’t meet the entry requirements of your final destination, you may be denied boarding.

Unplanned layovers could lead to substantial travel costs and delays. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country.

You must pay for medical services provided by the National Health Service (NHS) unless:

• you are an ordinarily resident of the United Kingdom
• you are accessing emergency services exempted from fees.

You may be required to pay the medical fees in advance.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

• Accessing NHS services as a visitor - National Health Service (NHS)
• Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and the United Kingdom are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in the United Kingdom to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and the United Kingdom authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Laws on knives

It is illegal to carry, purchase, sell or enter the country with certain types of knives. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and jail sentences.

Selling, buying and carrying knives - UK Government

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the United Kingdom.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the United Kingdom, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the United Kingdom.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the United Kingdom, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the British court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the United Kingdom to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Traffic drives on the left.

International driving permit

You can drive with a valid Canadian licence for up to 12 months from your date of entry. Certain car rental companies may require an international driving permit. You should carry an international driving permit.

Congestion Charge

If you drive into central London between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., you will be required to pay a daily congestion charge. The Congestion Charge zone is indicated by a large “C” painted on the roads and by signs.

You can pay the fee by phone, online or at selected shops and gas stations. Parking in London is limited and charges are high.

• More about the International Driving Permit
• Congestion Charge  - Transport of London

The currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling (GBP).

If you are carrying £10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the United Kingdom.

It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer bonds
• travellers’ cheques
• cheques that are signed but not made out to a person or organization
• money orders (Northern Ireland only)
• gold coins, bullion or nuggets (Northern Ireland only)
• prepaid cards (Northern Ireland only)

Take cash in and out of the UK - Government of the United Kingdom

Severe weather

England, Scotland and Wales are subject to wind storms that can cause death and injury and severely damage commercial, residential and natural areas.

Fog, and snow can also have widespread impacts, including transportation disruptions.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts
• Stay away from disaster areas
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Storm forecast - Met Office

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause severe flooding, mudslides and landslides, particularly in certain coastal and riverside areas. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in coastal areas and around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Flooding risks in England - UK Government
• Flood forecasting - Scottish Environment Protection Agency

Forest fires may occur, particularly during summer months.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• England and Wales Fire Severity Index - Met Office
• Wildfires - Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous regions, especially following heavy snowfalls. Some may be fatal.

Monitor the avalanche forecasts if you plan on practicing mountain activities.

Local services

Dial 999 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

The Falkland Islands and Gibraltar

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom, in London, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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On This Page

• Key takeaways

Does US health insurance work in Canada?

Our best travel insurance for visitors to canada, canada entry requirements & travel information, why should i get travel insurance for my trip to canada, what types of travel insurance do i need for canada, what doesn’t travel insurance for a trip to canada cover, how much does travel insurance for canada cost, tips for choosing the best travel insurance for canada, canada travel insurance faqs, related topics.

Travel Insurance to Canada: Tips & Quotes for US Visitors

• Based on our research, our top picks for Canada travel insurance come from Tin Leg, Seven Corners, Generali Global Assistance, Travel Insured International, and IMG . ( skip ahead to view these insurance plans )
• It is a good idea to purchase Canada travel insurance because US private insurance and Medicare will not work in Canada .
• Despite having a robust public health system, there is no free health insurance in Canada for visitors.
• If you are without a travel insurance policy, any medical treatment you receive while in Canada will leave you out of pocket .
• The most basic policy you should acquire is one that covers both travel medical insurance and medical evacuation coverage.
• To help you find the right travel insurance for your trip to Canada, try using an online comparison tool . This way you can get multiple quotes and compare your options easily in one place.

Whether you’re planning to visit Niagara Falls, hike through Banff National Park, or show off your French accent outside of France in Montreal, Canada is an ideal travel destination.

You don’t even need a visa for trips lasting less than 180 days , so it’s also relatively easy to plan a Canadian vacation. That said, it’s important to plan for emergencies.

When travelling to Canada insurance reimburses some of your expenses if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. It may also cover losses associated with delays, rental car damage, rental car theft, or problems with your baggage.

To help you plan a hassle-free trip, we researched the requirements for traveling from the United States to Canada. Find out why we recommend comprehensive travel insurance for your trip.

Our top picks for the best canada travel insurance

• Tin Leg: Best for High Medical Coverage
• Seven Corners: Best Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
• Generali Global Assistance: Best Basic Coverage
• Travel Insured International: Best for Medical Evacuation Coverage
• IMG: Best for Travelers Aged 80+

Our top picks for the best travel insurance for Canada

Seven Corners

Generali global assistance.

US government health plans such as Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program will not pay for health care while in Canada . This includes treatment such as hospital visits and the supply of prescription drugs.

The only exceptions to these rules are where you require emergency medical treatment within the US and the closest hospital is across the Canadian border. Also, if you are passing through Canada between Alaska and a US state and a medical emergency arises.

Best for High Medical Coverage

Why we like it.

Editor's take

Tin Leg’s Gold policy is renowned for offering top-quality travel insurance at reasonable prices and at a competitive rate.

AM Best rates all of Tin Leg’s policies at A- or higher when it comes to their financial strength and Tin Leg’s Gold plan is no different. What makes this policy stand out is its great medical and evacuation coverage limits, all offered at an affordable price.

With both trip cancellation and interruption coverage offered for numerous instances, including COVID-19, you will covered should the worst happen while visiting Canada. The high coverage of $500,000 for emergency medical expenses and up to $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage both make the Tin Leg Gold policy a popular travel insurance choice.

Read our full review

• Excellent primary coverage for medical expenses
• High limit for emergency evacuation coverage
• Optional cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage available
• Comes with coverage for hurricanes and inclement weather
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions is available if purchased within 14 days of the trip deposit
• Baggage delay coverage requires a 24-hour waiting period
• Low coverage limits for baggage and personal effects

Best Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions

This Trip Protection Choice plan from Seven Corners offers great all-around coverage at a competitive price. Although at the lower end of the price spectrum, Trip Protection Choice provides travelers to Canada with a reassuring $500,000 in primary medical coverage. To match this high level of coverage, this plan from Seven Corners also offers $1 million in medevac and repatriation coverage, which is some of the highest around.

Further popular additions include trip cancellation, interruption, and delay coverage, accidental death & dismemberment coverage, baggage damage and loss coverage, and a 14-day money-back guarantee.

Trip Protection Choice is a great choice for those with pre-existing conditions. The pre-existing conditions waiver stipulates you can be covered if:

• The policy payment & enrollment form is received within 20 days of the initial trip payments/deposits and within 15 days of payment for any subsequent travel arrangements added to your trip
• You or your traveling companion are medically able to travel and at the time your premium is paid based on the assessment of a physician.
• Offers coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Money-back guarantee
• Cancellation & Interruption coverage standard
• Covers action sports & equipment
• Cancel for any reason not included standard
• Must meet waiver for pre-existing conditions to be covered

Best Basic Coverage

Generali Global Assistance offers high coverage limits for medical expenses, emergency dental expenses, emergency medical evacuation coverage, and so much more for your visit to Canada. With an A rating from AM Best, it is no wonder that Generali Global Assistance is one of the more popular choices when it comes to travel insurance.

Generali Global Assistance’s Standard plan is fantastic for those who are looking for basic coverage at an affordable price. Offering both trip cancellation and interruption, this standard plan is perfect for countering those unforeseen circumstances.

Other Standard plan perks include $1,000 per person in baggage coverage, up to $50,000 in medical coverage, and $250,000 in medical evacuation coverage.

• Lowest cost of all Generali Global Assistance plans
• 24/7 emergency travel assistance included
• Telemedicine included
• Lower coverage than other Generali plans
• Pre-existing conditions are not covered by the Standard plan
• No coverage for accidental death and dismemberment during on-land travel

Best for Medical Evacuation Coverage

Travel insured international.

Travel Insured International’s Worldwide Trip Protector offers superior coverage and is ideal for those looking to take a trip over the border to Canada. This plan covers 100% of the insured trip cost due to cancellation, 150% of the insured trip cost due to interruption, and $1,500 for trip delays.

A popular perk is the Worldwide Trip Protector $500 coverage for baggage delays after only 3 hours. When it comes to medical coverage, Worldwide Trip Protector provides $100,000 of secondary medical coverage and $1 million of evacuation coverage - ideal if the worst should happen in the Canadian wilderness.

• Travel delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Generous $150,000 non-medical evacuation coverage
• CFAR and IFAR coverage not included
• Baggage delay coverage only kicks in after 12 hours
• No rental car coverage

Best for Travelers Aged 80+

IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel LX Basic is a great plan for travelers of all ages and offers fantastic coverage for surprisingly low prices. For example, with this plan, you will be covered for up to $500,000 of primary emergency medical coverage - meaning you won’t be out of pocket and waiting for a reimbursement while traveling.

This plan also comes with travel cancellation, interruption, and travel delay coverage as well as $40,000 in rental car damage protection included. Protection for baggage delays and baggage loss also comes standard.

Elderly travelers to Canada will also see the appeal of the iTravelInsured Travel LX Basic’s ‘look-back period of 60 days’ This means it only considers pre-existing conditions as “an illness, disease, or other condition during the 60-day period immediately prior to the date your coverage begins.”

• 10-day money back guarantee
• Generous limits for trip delays, emergency evacuation, and more
• Coronavirus-related medical expenses covered
• Rental car coverage included
• Recently developed pre-existing conditions may not be covered
• CFAR and IFAR coverage only available as an add-on with premium plans

The table below provides an overview of entry requirements and travel information for your trip to Canada from the United States, according to the US Department of State .

Do I need a passport to visit Canada?

Yes. Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , all U.S. citizens must present a valid passport when crossing the US-Canada border.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to Canada?

No. Canada travel restrictions don’t include any vaccine-related requirements for American citizens .

Do Americans need travel insurance in Canada?

You may not have to use your travel insurance in Canada, but, it’s worth bearing in mind that you won’t be financially covered for medical expenses if you require emergency care.

That means that the Canadian government will charge you for any treatment received and you could be left out of pocket should anything unexpected happen. This is also the case even if the services or medications provided would normally be covered in the United States.

When planning your visit to Canada, insurance may not be top of mind. However, an emergency can happen at any time, making travel insurance helpful in the following situations:

• Accidents: If you’re in a car accident, fall down the stairs at your hotel, or injure yourself while sightseeing, travel medical insurance will cover the cost of diagnosing and treating your injuries.
• Illnesses: Even if you’re healthy, there’s a chance you could come down with food poisoning, develop appendicitis, or display symptoms of another serious illness while you’re in Canada. If this happens, your American health insurance won’t foot the bill, nor will Canada’s publicly funded health care system. Travel insurance will cover your medical expenses, including X-rays, blood tests, CT scans, physical exams, and medications.
• Cancellations : No matter how much planning you do, there’s always a chance that you’ll have to cancel your trip due to an emergency. If you don’t have travel insurance, you may not be able to get any of your money back.
• Medical evacuation : If your travel plans include rural areas with limited access to health care services, you may need to be evacuated to another area. Travel insurance often includes coverage for medical evacuations.

Hazards in Canada’s national parks

Canada is home to 38 national parks. These great expanses of wilderness are incredible places to explore and are populated with wildlife of all kinds. These parks offer great opportunities to hike, ski, climb, and camp. As we can see from the official Canadian National Park website , they are also volatile regions, susceptible to extreme weather fronts and close encounters with potentially dangerous animals.

Travel insurance for emergency medical evacuation, medical coverage, and adventure sports coverage are a must while exploring the vastness of the Canadian wilderness. However, not all plans automatically cover adventure activities, so it is important to compare plans before purchasing.

Wildfire season

Wildfire season in Canada typically runs from May through to October. In recent years, particularly in the west of the country, Canada has begun to experience far more extreme and prolonged wildfires. While predicting the movement of wildfires and their effects can be difficult, downloading local alert apps and keeping yourself updated via government websites all help avoid any disastrous situations.

Ensure your travel insurance policy has high-quality emergency evacuation and trip cancellation insurance. This will allow you to be far more prepared and flexible should wildfires affect your vacation plans.

Winter weather

Canada’s winter weather can be some of the most extreme in all of North America and the beginning of 2024 brought one of the worst snow storms of recent years . Having high-quality emergency evacuation and trip cancellation insurance will ensure you are covered should your trip be hit by heavy snow storms and adverse weather conditions.

Winter sports

Canada is famous the world over for its winter sports. Numerous tourists come to Canada every year to experience the thrill of skiing, snowboarding, and riding snowmobiles on its many trails. As highlighted in Canada’s official government website on the issue, you should take extreme caution by avoiding closed trails and keeping up-to-date with local weather reports, especially where there is a risk of avalanches and winter storms.

Similarly to those exploring Canada’s grand national parks, it’s advisable to ensure your policy offers adventure sports coverage and emergency medical evacuation coverage, should the worst happen during your trip.

Travel insurance plans are typically divided into two distinct categories:

Medical-based travel insurance

• Comprehensive travel insurance

What is included in your overall coverage depends on the type of policy you purchase.

The most basic level of travel insurance for Canada visits should be a policy that is medical-based. Medical insurance for Canada is often the cheapest level of insurance you can buy. Medical insurance will cover you should you experience any illness or accidents during your vacation.

As noted above, Medicare and other US private insurers won’t cover you while you are in Canada, so those without medical-based travel insurance will be left out of pocket should the worst happen. Therefore, when visiting Canada, health insurance should be at the top of your travel checklist.

Medical-based travel insurance policies usually cover two separate coverage limits for medical emergencies and emergency medical evacuations:

• Emergency medical insurance : At a minimum, we recommend getting a plan that provides health insurance for visitors to Canada. Travel medical insurance covers a wide range of health care expenses. For example, if you develop a health condition after eating contaminated food, travel medical insurance should cover the cost of blood tests, IV fluids, and other types of medical care.
• Medevac insurance: You may be used to having a hospital within just a few miles of your home. When you’re traveling, that’s not always the case, especially if you plan to spend time in a national park or hunt in the Canadian wilderness. Medical evacuation insurance , or medevac, pays to transport you to the nearest suitable medical facility if you develop a serious illness or injury during your trip.

Medical plans will not include far more in-depth travel insurance add-ons such as trip cancellations or trip cost reimbursement. If you require this additional coverage, you will need to purchase a more comprehensive travel insurance plan.

Comprehensive travel coverage

When selecting a travel insurance policy, you have the option of purchasing plans that reimburse you for non-refundable prepaid trip expenses and plans that don’t. You may want to be insured for things such as trip cancellations, trip interruptions, travel delays, and the loss of personal items. If this is the case, you will need to select an insurance policy that covers you for trip cost reimbursement.

Some medical-based plans may reimburse you for a canceled or interrupted trip if it is the result of a pre-covered illness or injury. However, your trip may be interrupted or canceled based on unforeseen events such as a terrorist attack or natural disaster. In this case, you will need to purchase a policy that covers cancellation and interruption coverage for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses to make a claim.

Further below , you will see a cost example that shows the difference in prices of medical-based plans versus comprehensive travel insurance coverage.

Optional Add-ons

Some travel insurance for Canada vacations will also offer cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance . With this type of coverage, you can cancel your travel plans for any reason at all and still get back around 50% to 75% of your prepaid travel expenses. Including this will allow you far more flexibility should you change your Canadian vacation plans.

Generally speaking, most travel insurance policies exclude coverage for the following scenarios:

• Claims resulting from illegal activities
• Claims related to medical tourism
• Injuries resulting from intoxication from drugs or alcohol
• Cancellations due to fear COVID-19 (See COVID-19 travel plans)

Aside from the highly obvious reasons, some travel insurance providers will also include restrictions are the following situations :

• Pre-existing medical conditions: Unless you have a waiver, most travel insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions . To qualify for a waiver, you typically must purchase your travel insurance plan within 14 to 15 days of making your initial trip deposit.
• Adventure sports : Standard travel insurance plans won’t usually cover injuries associated with skiing, rock climbing, and other adventure activities you may do on your Canadian vacation. If you plan to do these types of activities, make sure to purchase coverage that includes these types of sports.
• Pregnancy-related care: Regular wellness care and normal delivery are not covered by travel insurance. However, emergency care that you require while traveling while pregnant may still be covered.
• Non-emergency medical care :Non-emergency procedures that can wait until you return home are not covered by travel insurance.

Travel Insurance for a trip to Canada can cost as little as around $1 per day for the cheapest, most basic coverage . For more comprehensive plans, you can expect to pay around $8 to $10 per day.

To compare the cost of travel insurance , we got price quotes from a few popular companies.

We used the following details to obtain quotes:

• Destination: Canada
• Age: 35 years old
• Trip length: 7 days
• Trip cost: $2,000
• Date September, 2024

The table below shows quotes for basic travel insurance plans.

Cost Example Where Travel Insurance Plan Doesn’t Reimburse the Full Trip Cost

While searching for a travel insurance plan, you may wish to have more comprehensive protection for your trip to Canada. To give you an idea of how much this costs, we compared quotes for plans that reimburse the full cost of a trip for the table below.

Cost Example Where Travel Insurance Plan Reimburses the Full Trip Cost

When searching for travel insurance, keep in mind that several factors impact how much you’ll pay.

Factors that influence the cost of travel insurance include:

• Your age: Even if you’re in good health, your risk of developing medical problems increases as you age. Insurance companies charge higher premiums for travel insurance for seniors to account for their increased risk.
• The cost of your trip: The more you spend on your trip, the more an insurance company is likely to owe you if you have to file a claim. Therefore, insurers charge more to cover expensive trips.
• The length of your trip: The longer you plan to travel, the more you can expect to pay for travel insurance.
• Your destination: Your insurance company may charge more for some destinations than others, increasing your cost of coverage.

Before you purchase travel insurance for your trip to Canada, follow these tips to find the best plan :

Shop around and compare

Just because a plan has the highest premium doesn’t mean it offers the best coverage. Use the LA Times Comparison Tool to determine which company offers the most benefits at the lowest price.

Think about additional coverages you may need

Travel insurance doesn’t usually cover injuries associated with skiing, rock climbing, and other adventure activities. If you plan to do one of these activities, look for a plan that includes extra coverage.

Adjust your transportation plans

Travel insurance doesn’t cover trip delays unless you’re traveling via a common carrier. You may want to adjust your transportation plans to ensure that you’re eligible for this type of coverage.

Purchase a policy early

You may be able to get a better deal on travel insurance if you purchase a plan as soon as you make your initial trip deposit.

Do I need travel insurance to visit Canada?

You are not legally required to buy travel insurance to visit Canada, but it should be a top priority. You should always purchase travel insurance before you travel outside the United States. This type of insurance reimburses you for expenses associated with trip cancellation, trip delays, and other travel issues, limiting your losses.

Can I use my US health insurance in Canada?

No. Both private and government-sponsored health insurance plans only cover expenses incurred in the United States.

Do I need travel health insurance for Canada?

It’s a good idea to purchase travel medical insurance before you go abroad. This type of insurance covers emergency transportation, physical exams, diagnostic tests, medications, surgical procedures, and other health expenses. Most travel insurance plans will also include coverage for COVID-19 as standard.

Can Americans travel to Canada without a COVID-19 test?

No. Canada no longer requires tourists from the United States to take a COVID-19 test or quarantine before entering the country.

What happens if I get sick in Canada?

If you get sick in Canada and don’t have travel medical insurance, you will have to pay for your own hospital or medical services. This is why it’s so important to purchase travel insurance with medical coverage before you embark on your trip.

Sarah Stasik is well versed in personal finance thanks to her previous role as a Revenue Cycle Manager for a Fortune 500 healthcare company. Using her inside knowledge and expertise, Sarah often covers topics ranging from insurance and the economics of private healthcare to personal finance and small business management.

Over the past 12 years, Sarah has contributed to numerous publications in the personal and small business finance sector, including content on budgeting, bankruptcy, small business accounting, and financial tech. Her writing focuses on making complex or seemingly daunting financial topics more accessible and providing helpful, relevant resources for readers.

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