Top Countries Where Travel Insurance is Mandatory in 2025

Top Countries Where Travel Insurance is Mandatory in 2025 – A Guide for Indian Travelers

For Indian travelers, exploring international destinations is an exciting experience. However, many countries now require visitors to have travel insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, or emergencies. As we enter 2025, several countries have enforced mandatory travel insurance policies to ensure the safety of tourists and ease the burden on local healthcare systems. This guide explores the top destinations where travel insurance is a must in 2025 and what Indian travelers need to know before planning their trips.

Why Do Some Countries Require Travel Insurance?

Many nations now mandate travel insurance for various reasons, including:

• Avoiding unexpected medical expenses abroad, especially in countries where healthcare is expensive for non-residents.

• Protecting travelers from sudden costs due to medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage.

• Meeting visa requirements, as several nations demand proof of travel insurance before granting a visa.

For Indian travelers, having a comprehensive travel insurance policy ensures that they can navigate unforeseen situations without financial stress.

1. Schengen Zone (Europe)

If you’re an Indian passport holder planning to visit France, Germany, Spain, Italy, or any other Schengen country, you must have Schengen travel insurance that meets these criteria:

• Minimum coverage of €30,000 (approx. ₹28 lakhs) for medical emergencies.

• Coverage for medical repatriation and evacuation.

• Policy validity throughout the Schengen Zone for the entire trip duration.

Lack of travel insurance can result in a visa rejection, making it crucial for Indian travelers to choose a policy that meets these requirements.

2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE, a favorite destination for Indian tourists and business travelers, mandates travel insurance for all visitors. The coverage must include:

• Medical expenses for hospitalization and treatment.

• COVID-19-related medical costs.

• Repatriation in case of emergencies.

While some UAE visas include insurance, travelers must check if additional coverage is required.

3. Thailand

For Indian travelers heading to Bangkok, Phuket, or Pattaya, Thailand has made travel insurance compulsory, especially for long-term visa holders. The policy should:

• Cover at least $50,000 (approx. ₹41 lakhs) for medical emergencies.

• Include COVID-19 medical expenses.

• Cover hospitalization and emergency evacuations.

Travelers must show proof of insurance upon arrival.

4. Turkey

Turkey is a popular destination for Indian travelers, and having travel insurance is a requirement, especially for those applying for a visa. The policy should include:

• Medical coverage for hospitalization and treatment.

• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.

• Coverage for trip cancellations and disruptions.

5. Cuba

Cuba requires all international visitors, including Indians, to have travel insurance covering:

• Medical emergencies and hospitalization.

• Emergency repatriation.

• COVID-19 medical costs.

Travelers without insurance must buy a local Cuban policy upon arrival.

6. Ecuador (Including the Galápagos Islands)

Ecuador, home to the Galápagos Islands, has strict insurance rules for visitors. Indian travelers must ensure their policy includes:

• Medical emergencies and hospitalization.

• Evacuation and repatriation.

• Validity for the entire trip.

Lack of insurance may result in denied entry.

7. Egypt

For Indians planning a visit to Cairo or the Pyramids, Egypt now requires travel insurance with:

• Emergency medical treatment coverage.

• COVID-19-related expenses.

• Repatriation coverage.

This is mandatory for visa applicants and strongly recommended for all travelers.

8. Argentina

Argentina, an emerging tourist spot for Indian travelers, has mandatory travel insurance policies that include:

• At least $50,000 (approx. ₹41 lakhs) for medical expenses.

• Quarantine cost coverage for COVID-19.

• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Proof of insurance is needed before boarding the flight.

9. Saudi Arabia

Indian visitors to Saudi Arabia, whether for business, tourism, or religious purposes, must have mandatory health insurance that covers:

• Medical treatment and hospitalization.

• COVID-19-related expenses.

• Emergency evacuations.

Without this, entry may be denied.

10. Russia

Russia enforces strict travel insurance rules for visa applicants, requiring:

• Minimum coverage of $35,000 (approx. ₹28 lakhs) for medical emergencies.

• Coverage for hospitalization, repatriation, and accidents.

• Validity for the entire stay.

Travelers without proof of insurance may face visa delays or denials.

Best Travel Insurance Plans for Indian Travelers

When purchasing travel insurance for these mandatory destinations, Indian travelers should ensure their policy includes:

• Medical coverage: Minimum of $30,000 to $50,000 (₹25–41 lakhs).

• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.

• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage.

• COVID-19-related medical expenses.

• 24/7 emergency assistance services.

Several Indian insurance providers, such as Tata AIG, HDFC Ergo, ICICI Lombard, and Bajaj Allianz, offer travel insurance that meets these international requirements.

For Indian travelers, mandatory travel insurance is a growing reality in 2025. Ensuring you have the right coverage not only helps you comply with visa and entry requirements but also protects you from unexpected medical and travel expenses. Before embarking on your journey, check the latest travel advisories and insurance regulations to avoid last-minute hassles.

By choosing a reliable travel insurance policy from a trusted Indian provider, you can explore the world with confidence, knowing that you’re financially protected against unforeseen circumstances.