Relaxed coronavirus restrictions across the globe may have you itching to hop on a flight somewhere new — but you might want to double-check that your travel insurance covers you for the virus.
Numerous countries have dropped mandatory pre-entry testing and quarantine requirements; some of them have even stopped requiring travellers to be vaccinated.
But multiple countries still require you to carry health insurance for COVID-19.
A study compiled by HelloSafe, an online insurance comparison platform, finds that dozens of countries around the world require compulsory travel insurance covering the virus.
As of June 2022, 43 countries and territories around the world continue to require COVID-19 travel insurance when entering their borders.
In fact, some countries have only recently begun to require coverage for the virus; the number of countries making travel insurance compulsory increased by over a quarter (almost 26.5%) in six months, note the report's authors.
Travellers may be denied entry to countries including Argentina, China, Saudi Arabi, and many others if they do not carry this specific coverage.
"Before the pandemic, it was possible to travel without travel insurance in the majority of countries around the world," notes the study.
Now, nearly 22 per cent of countries in the world require proof of travel insurance when entering their territory."
Have a look at the interactive travel map with data from the study to find out if you need insurance for your trip.
Note: This map should only be used as the first point of reference. Always use Canada's official travel advice as well as information from your destination(s).
Metro Vancouver residents: What to know about travel right now
Canada dropped its coronavirus testing requirement to enter the country but many health restrictions remain in place following the federal government's announcement.
- Find out everything you need to know about international travel with our comprehensive travel guide for Canadians.
- Discover a tutorial on how to use the ArriveCAN app.
- Have a look at Canada's new cruising rules.
- Find out the best way to get a refund on your flight and not get taken advantage of by the airline with V.I.A.'s air passenger guide.
- Find out everything you need to consider as a B.C. resident booking travel in 2022, including important insurance considerations.
