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Benefits of Indian overseas travel insurance

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Travel Insurance

According to the UNWTO 2018 Report, 51% of Global Travellers are on their way to Europe…Europe enjoys the distinction of being the continent of choice for the global traveller for many years now. Given the many breathtakingly beautiful destinations and the moderate climate throughout the year makes Europe an attractive destination for any traveller. However from an insurance perspective, Europe remains one of the costliest geographies for medical treatment. This is because of the strong Euro currency and continuously rising medical inflation.

Is travel insurance really necessary? Don't most places not charge for emergency care?

While Travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for International travel (except to the Schengen countries in Europe), it is highly recommended that the traveller treats an insurance policy as a mandatory part of their travel documents just like the air ticket, visa or foreign exchange. It is most definitely necessary given the significantly high costs of medical treatment abroad apart from the other non medical risks like Personal Liability or Missed Flights or Baggage and Passport losses that could inadvertently happen and ruin an otherwise well planned holiday. The traveller must understand that the insurance policy is in place post completion of immigration at an Indian port/airport and hence any emergency even at an early stage of the trip is covered.

While it is true that across the world emergency medical care is provided to a patient irrespective of the status of their insurance coverage, the hospital/medical establishment does seek to recover the costs related to the emergency care from the patient post recovery. Hence the traveller could land up with a sizeable medical bill to pay irrespective of their insurance coverage and hence it is advisable to have an insurance policy in place to offer financial support at a critical time like this.

Compare the healthcare and hospitalization costs in foreign nations and other popular Indian tourist destinations across the globe. Healthcare costs are extremely high in most foreign countries and it is important to buy good overseas travel health while traveling outside India.

Healthcare cost comparison

Medical procedure USA Costa Rica India Jordan S. Korea Mexico Israel Thailand Malaysia Poland Singapore Turkey
Heart Bypass $123,000 $27,000 $7,900 $14,400 $26,000 $27,000 $28,000 $15,000 $12,100 $14,000 $17,200 $13,900
Angioplasty $28,200 $13,800 $5,700 $5,000 $17,700 $10,400 $7,500 $4,200 $8,000 $5,300 $13,400 $4,800
Heart Valve Replacement $170,000 $30,000 $9,500 $14,400 $39,900 $28,200 $28,500 $17,200 $13,500 $19,000 $16,900 $17,200
Hip Replacement $40,364 $13,600 $7,200 $8,000 $21,000 $13,500 $36,000 $17,000 $8,000 $5,500 $13,900 $13,900
Hip Resurfacing $28,000 $13,200 $9,700 $9,000 $19,500 $12,500 $20,100 $13,500 $12,500 $9,200 $16,350 $10,100
Knee Replacement $35,000 $12,500 $6,600 $9,500 $17,500 $12,900 $25,000 $14,000 $7,700 $8,200 $16,000 $10,400
Spinal Fusion $110,000 $15,700 $10,300 $10,000 $16,900 $15,400 $33,500 $9,500 $6,000 $6,200 $12,800 $16,800
Dental Treatment $2,500 $800 $900 $900 $1,350 $900 $1,200 $1,720 $1,500 $925 $2,700 $1,100
Gastric Bypass $25,000 $12,900 $7,000 $7,500 $10,900 $11,500 $24,000 $16,800 $9,900 $9,750 $13,700 $13,800
Hysterectomy $15,400 $6,900 $3,200 $6,600 $10,400 $4,500 $14,500 $3,650 $4,200 $2,200 $10,400 $7,000
Majority of Europe, which are 29 Schengen countries have a mandatory insurance policy for obtaining a visa and hence any traveller will need to first purchase an insurance policy. The Schengen visa requirements stipulate that the insurance coverage needs to be a minimum of Euros €30,000 for Accident & Sickness Expenses. It is important to note that all insurance companies should have an approval from the Schengen Committee for participating in the Schengen insurance program, only then can they underwrite a Schengen insurance program. Currently most of the leading travel insurers offer a specific plan for Schengen Travel which include Tata AIG, Bajaj Allianz, Religare, Reliance General, Royal Sundaram, Future Generali etc. As an insured, once can opt for any of them given their comprehensive coverage and competitive premium.

Similarly 16% of the world travellers are visiting Americas (out of which majority of them are going to the USA) which is one of the largest market travel and tourism markets. A whopping 53% of the Indian outbound travellers are going to the “The Americas (North & South America)” and the largest % of them are going to USA. Most Indians travel there to visit family and friends and for their higher studies. USA is probably the costliest country for medical treatment and so while it is not mandatory for a traveller to have insurance before entering USA or for obtaining a visa, it is critical that the traveller does not take the risk of going to USA without insurance cover.

Given the way the medical system operates in the USA (with repricing of medical invoices) it is important that your India travel health insurance partner along with their Assistance and Claims Management partner (normally referred to as TPA) has a large network of hospitals across the country and also is aware of the medical landscape there. Most insurance companies have their TPA arrangements in USA. The traveller should ensure sufficient coverage (atleast $250,000 sum insured for accident & sickness) and should ensure their plan has coverages like Personal Liability etc.

Also, the average Indian traveller tends to visit USA for a minimum of 60-90 days, it is strongly recommended that they do not venture out to USA without an insurance coverage which can support them financially in an unforeseen exigency. Given the significantly high cost of healthcare in USA, it is advisable for the traveller to purchase an insurance plan that has a coverage of atleast $250,000 at a bare minimum.

Also, the cost of healthcare is relatively high when compared to India and hence the traveller is advised to opt for a (A&S) coverage of atleast $250,000, but ideally $500,000 (₹INR 3.5 crores) under the plan they choose to buy. One can log onto Europe Travel insurance to compare and buy the plan most suited to the traveller’s requirements. Post choosing the plan, simply pay with your credit/debit card/internet baking and the policy schedule will reach the traveller’ email id in a couple of minutes. Just for a brief comparison of the Healthcare treatment costs in Europe as against India is in the table below:
Figs in $ USD Switzerland Spain UK India
MRI Scan 503 788 175
Day in Hospital as an Inpatient 4,781 424 200
Appendix Surgery 6,040 2,003 9,000 1,500
Cataract Surgery 2,114 1,719 3,145 300
Bypass Surgery 34,224 14,579 24,059 8,000
Knee Replacement 20,132 6,686 18,481 4,500
Source - International Federation of Health Plans / Indicure
While most travellers from India or family members in the USA who are sponsoring their family from India do acknowledge the importance of travel/health insurance, many of them opt to purchase the plan from an American Insurance partner. Please find below and illustration of the Indian insurance plans premiums when compared to the American insurance plans. It is important to note that all Indian insurance companies also have an Assistance Partner based in the USA and offer Cashless Settlement for inpatient hospital admission.
Insurance Plan Comparison** Insured's Age USA Inbound Insurer Premium in $ USD USA Inbound Insurer Premium in ₹ INR Indian Insurer Premium in ₹ INR
Plan Coverage - $500,000 + Duration is 90 days Age 46 years $367 - $396 25,690 - 27,720 10,865 - 13,004
Age 61 years $683 - $803 47,810 – 56,210 21,867 - 26,596
Please note - Deductible under USA Plan is $250 ; India Plan is $100

** - The premiums captured above are actual premiums available on the USA Visitor Insurance website…please note that the coverages apart from the Accident & Sickness cover of $500,000 needs to be reviewed before opting for your policy.

Benefits of Indian Overseas Travel Insurance

Indian overseas travel insurance provides comprehensive protection for travelers against a wide range of risks and unforeseen expenses while traveling abroad. Key benefits include:


Medical Coverage:

  • Covers emergency medical expenses, including hospitalization, outpatient care, and medical evacuation or repatriation.
  • Cashless treatment is available at network hospitals worldwide, and reimbursement is provided for outpatient treatments.
  • Some plans offer coverage for dental emergencies, accidental death, disability, and even pre-existing diseases as add-ons.

Travel-Related Protections:

  • Compensation for trip cancellation, interruption, or curtailment due to unforeseen events such as illness, injury, or emergencies.
  • Coverage for flight delays, missed connections, and hotel extensions due to contingencies.
  • Baggage and Document Loss
  • Financial assistance for lost, delayed, or stolen checked-in baggage, including reimbursement for emergency purchases.
  • Coverage for loss of passport, including costs to obtain a replacement and related expenses.

Personal Accident and Liability:

  • Personal accident cover for Accidental Death or Permanent Disability.
  • Personal Liability coverage for legal expenses arising from accidental injury or property damage to third parties.

Additional Benefits:

  • Emergency Cash Advance in case of theft or loss of money.
  • Home Burglary cover in India while you are traveling abroad.
  • 24x7 worldwide assistance and support, including helplines and mobile applications for emergencies.
  • Coverage for specific needs such as Adventure Sports, Study Interruption (for students), Compassionate visits, and Sponsor Protection.

COVID-19 Coverage:

  • Most Indian travel insurance plans now include coverage for COVID-19-related medical expenses and trip disruptions.

Ease of Purchase and Claims:

  • Policies can be bought instantly online with flexible coverage durations and options for solo travelers, families, and students.
  • Both online and offline claim procedures are available, often with paperless or smartphone-enabled settlements.

Core Benefits

Benefit Type Coverage Details
Medical Expenses Hospitalization, emergency care, dental, evacuation, repatriation
Trip Cancellation/Delay Refunds for non-refundable bookings, compensation for delays
Baggage Loss/Delay Reimbursement for lost/delayed baggage and emergency purchases
Passport Loss Financial help for replacement and related costs
Personal Accident Compensation for accidental death/disability
Personal Liability Legal expenses for injury/damage to others
Emergency Assistance 24x7 support, cash advance, home burglary cover
COVID-19 Coverage Included in most plans

Indian overseas travel insurance is an essential safeguard, ensuring financial protection and peace of mind while traveling internationally.

Overview of Medical Costs for Common Treatments Across Key Countries

Medical costs for regular ailments and emergency treatments vary significantly across countries, impacting travel insurance pricing and coverage requirements. Below is a summary of comparative data and trends from recent global reports and insurance claim analyses.


Global Medical Cost Trend

United States: Remains the most expensive country for healthcare, with median costs for procedures (e.g., coronary bypass at $89,094) far exceeding those in other developed countries.

Canada, Australia, Germany, Norway: Also report high costs, especially for non-residents or private care.

Asia (Thailand, China, Japan): While some treatments are less costly, private hospital costs for tourists can be significant, and Thailand ranks high in travel insurance claim costs.

Europe: Costs are generally lower than in North America, but private care for non-residents can still be substantial, especially in countries like Switzerland, Norway, and Germany.

Prescription Drugs: The US leads in high drug prices (e.g., insulin at $412 vs. $55 in Greece).

Overview of Medical Costs for Common Treatments Across Key Countries

Travel Insurance Claim Insights

The USA, Canada, and Peru have the highest average medical claim costs for travelers, with Greece, Indonesia, and New Zealand also ranking high. Emergency claims can reach six figures, especially for incidents requiring surgery or medical evacuation. The most frequent claims are for Accidents, Acute Illnesses, and Hospitalizations, which can quickly escalate in cost depending on the country.

Factors Driving Cost Differences

  • Cost of living and healthcare infrastructure (higher in countries like the US, Switzerland, Singapore).
  • Availability of Universal Healthcare in US (benefits residents, but tourists often pay full private rates)
  • Demand for Advanced Treatments and Skilled Professionals increases costs in developed nations.
  • Inflation and Post-pandemic demand have driven global medical cost trends into double digits in recent years, with a projected global average increase of 10.4% in 2025.

Travelers should be aware that medical costs for routine and emergency care can be extremely high in certain countries, particularly the USA, Canada, and Australia. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential to mitigate these risks, especially when visiting countries known for expensive medical care.


Why should we buy Travel Insurance from India before we travel?

Buying international travel insurance from India before you travel abroad is highly recommended for several practical and financial reasons. Here’s why:

Cost-Effective: Travel insurance plans bought in India are generally more affordable compared to buying them from foreign insurers. Indian insurance companies tailor plans to suit the needs and budget of Indian travelers.

Mandatory for Visa Applications : For many countries—especially in the Schengen zone, Russia, Turkey, and others—travel insurance is a visa requirement. Purchasing it from India ensures it meets the consular requirements (coverage limits, medical benefits, etc.).

Medical Emergency Coverage : Medical costs abroad, especially in countries like the USA or Europe, are extremely expensive. This is perhaps the most important reason for ensuring you are protected by Travel Insurance when leaving India.

Protection Against Trip Disruptions : Policies often include reimbursement for:

  • Trip cancellations or delays
  • Missed connections
  • Lost or delayed baggage
  • Passport loss

24/7 Global Assistance : Indian insurers provide 24/7 emergency assistance services globally, including help with hospital admissions, cashless treatment, or even emergency evacuation.

Avoid Foreign Exchange Costs : Paying in Indian Rupees (INR) avoids foreign transaction fees or fluctuating currency rates that you’d incur if buying from an overseas insurer.

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