Скинути 
Eng
Українська
Русский
Is insurance mandatory for travelling abroad?
With the introduction of the visa-free regime, Ukrainians have expanded their opportunities for travelling abroad. A single biometric passport replaces the package of documents for travelling abroad. Nowadays, a travel insurance policy is not included in the official list of documents required for crossing the border, but this does not mean that it does not need to be issued.
Why insurance is mandatory
Ukraine has a law on the procedure for the entry and exit of citizens, according to which every person leaving the country must have at least health insurance, as foreign countries do not provide free medical treatment. An insurance policy is mandatory for travellers with children when visiting countries with a high risk of insured events and when planning an extreme holiday.
To visit countries that have not introduced a visa-free regime (the UK, Switzerland, Ireland), a policy is a prerequisite for entry.
When changing climatic zones, a common cold can cause a lot of trouble, so purchasing a policy is the choice of sensible people for whom travelling is not associated with the above circumstances.
Medical services in European countries are very expensive. The costs that will arise as a result of an insured event cannot be compared with the cost of insurance. They are ten times higher. Approximate cost of services:
- Consultation with a therapist in France, Germany - from 30 euros;
- a visit to a specialist in Israel - from 60 euros;
- an ambulance visit in the EU countries - from 600 euros.
A quick analysis of the prices convinces us that travelling without financial protection is irrational. In this case, a citizen undertakes to pay for medical or other assistance that may be required in a foreign country. The policy is not only a pass, but also a guarantee of personal peace of mind.
If for some reason you decide not to conclude an insurance contract when travelling abroad, you should find out the prices for medical care in the country of destination before you go.
People who travel frequently buy insurance for one year and use it an unlimited number of times. In this case, the cost is cheaper than if you take out insurance for each trip.
What does travel insurance provide?
Each insurance company can offer a package of programmes for different purposes. Basic travel insurance covers:
- urgent outpatient and inpatient medical care;
- transport costs for delivering the victim to the nearest medical facility;
- evacuation to the home country, if it is appropriate for treatment;
- expenses for medicines;
- payment for emergency dental care.
The extended package includes legal support, the risk of luggage loss, compensation in case of flight delays or loss of personal documents, early return home due to the death of close relatives, and inability to travel due to unforeseen events.
The policy does not cover injuries caused by alcohol or drugs, expenses related to the treatment of chronic diseases, cosmetic and plastic surgeries. If climbing, diving, or extreme sports are planned, the relevant clauses are included in the contract.
In the event of an insured event, you need to call the assistance company, whose phone number is in the contract. They will give you a clear algorithm for further action.
The insurance policy includes the types of insurance required for travellers, as stipulated in the Law "On Tourism", and additional types that provide protection during the trip. If it is available, the policyholder is guaranteed to receive free medical care during the trip under the chosen insurance programme.
How insurance is checked
The existence of a policy is rarely checked by customs authorities. However, the fact that you do not have an insurance contract may result in a refusal to cross the border. In some countries, coverage of up to €35,000 is a prerequisite for entry. The likelihood that you will be asked to show your policy at passport control is many times higher if you are travelling with children.
When crossing the border of Ukraine, customs officers may ask about the policy, but will let you out of the country after explaining the consequences.
Despite the simplified conditions for entering the European Union, it is better to purchase a policy. It is not only a guarantee of security, but also a pass for customs control.
You can present an electronic or paper travel insurance contract, and the documents have the same legal force.
