21st Century Travel Insurance Review 2024: Updated

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Nishadh Mohammed updated on 2 August 2024

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Travelling can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its own set of risks and uncertainties. 21st Century Travel Insurance offers comprehensive plans to ensure you are protected against unexpected medical emergencies, flight delays, cancellations, and more.

Whether you are a visitor to Canada, a Canadian resident travelling out of province or the country, or someone with specific medical needs or unstable pre-existing conditions, 21st Century Travel Insurance has a plan for everyone.

So, what does 21st Century Travel Insurance cover? How much does it cost? What are its pros and cons? How do you get a quote or file a claim? Find all these answers in our comprehensive 21st Century Travel Insurance review.

21st century travel insurance: Key points

  • Offers flexible plans for both Canadians and visitors
  • Up to $10 million in emergency medical benefits
  • Coverage for Canadians with pre-existing medical conditions
  • Both multi-trip and single-trip plans are available
  • Quotes require filling up a form and requesting a callback/email
  • All products are underwritten by Manulife Financial

Our 21st Century Travel Insurance Review

21st Century Travel Insurance offers a range of comprehensive plans for visitors to Canada, Canadians travelling abroad, and those with specific medical needs, with no age restrictions. Their policies are underwritten by Manulife travel insurance making them highly reliable.

For Canadians travelling outside their province or abroad, 21st century offers up to $10 million in emergency medical coverage, which is as high as reputed providers like BCAA Travel Insurance and more than the $5 million offered by Blue Cross. It offers both single and multi-trip medical insurance plans, and the all-inclusive plan covering trip cancellations (up to $3,500), baggage loss, and travel accidents. It also provides the option of a stand-alone Trip Cancellation and Interruption plan that requires no medical questionnaire and offers 24*7 assistance.

The Visitor to Canada plans include Enhanced, Standard, and Basic options, covering ages 0 to 111, with benefits up to $200,000 in coverage, AD&D, and dental accident coverage. What makes 21st Century stand apart is also the option of a Monthly Payment Plan for students, super visa and work visa holders, giving them a feasible and economic alternative.

Another standout feature is the Special Medical Underwriting plan for those with new or changed pre-existing conditions, offering up to $5 million in emergency medical coverage without a stability period.

However, policies can't be purchased online and quotes require you to fill up a form for a callback or speak to an agent over the phone. Despite these drawbacks, 21st Century Travel Insurance is a reliable travel insurance choice because of its extensive medical coverage for travelling Canadians, and diverse options for visitors including students. It is also particularly a great option for those who are otherwise not eligible for standard travel insurance due to unstable pre-existing conditions.

Expert advice

21st Century Travel Insurance is ideal for travellers seeking extensive medical coverage, particularly visitors and Canadians travelling internationally. It's also an excellent choice for individuals with pre-existing or special medical conditions who may not qualify for traditional travel insurance. With coverage extending up to 111 years of age, it is a great option for Canadian seniors travelling abroad. Additionally, the monthly payment plan makes it an economical choice for students.

Pros of 21st Century Travel Insurance Canada

  • Comprehensive plans for Canadians and visitors
  • Up to $10 million in emergency medical coverage
  • Coverage option for those with unstable pre-existing medical conditions - up to $5 million benefits
  • Monthly payment plan option for students, visitors, super visa holders
  • No age restrictions - coverage up to 111 years
  • 24-hour worldwide emergency medical assistance
  • Up to $100,000 for Flight Accident
  • Underwritten by Manulife

Cons of 21st Century Travel Insurance Canada

  • Cannot be purchased online
  • No online quotes. You must call or request a call from an agent for a quote
  • Medical questionnaire for those above 60

Before choosing 21st Century travel insurance, compare options and quotes. A little shopping around can help you to save money and find coverage that fits your needs. Use our free tool below to compare travel insurance quotes from Canada's best companies and get instant results.

Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!

Get a quote

What does 21st Century travel insurance cover?

21st Century Travel Insurance Limited offers various plans for visitors to Canada and travelling Canadians. Here's a table on the plans offered, followed by a detailed breakdown on what each plan covers.

Plan TypeAgesCoverageKey Benefits
Visitor to Canada (Basic, Standard, Enhanced)
0 to 111 years$15,000 to $200,000
  • AD&D ($25,000)
  • Dental Accident ($4,000)
  • Relief of Dental Pain ($300)
  • Extra Injury ($50,000)
  • Coverage for stable pre-existing conditions (Enhanced Plan)
  • Coverage up to $100,000 for age 86 and up (For Basic plan)
Medicare International - Emergency Medical (For travelling Canadians)
0 to 111 yearsUp to $10 million
  • Coverage for unforeseen medical emergencies
  • Single and multi-trip options
  • 24-hour worldwide emergency medical assistance
  • Emergency dental treatment
  • No medical questionnaire for those under 60
  • Companion and family rates available
Medicare International - All-Inclusive (For travelling Canadians)
0 to 111 yearsUp to $10 million
  • Single and multi-trip options
  • Trip cancellation/interruption ($3,500)
  • baggage loss ($1,000)
  • baggage delay ($500)
  • flight accident ($100,000)
  • travel accident ($50,000)
Non Medical Plan - Stand-alone Trip
Cancellation & Interruption
(For Canadians)
0 to 111 yearsUp to the covered amount for trip cancellation
  • Trip cancellation
  • Trip interruption
  • No medical questionnaire
  • 24*7 assistance
Special Medical Underwriting (For Canadians travelling)
N/AUp to $5 million
  • Coverage for pre-existing conditions with no stability period
21st Century Travel Insurance Plans

Visitor to Canada Insurance

Provides protection against unexpected emergency medical expenses for visitors, landed immigrants, returning Canadians, and those on work/student visas while in Canada. This includes coverage for:

  • Physician services
  • Hospitalization costs
  • Diagnostic testing
  • Outpatient prescription medications
  • Healthcare practitioners
  • Ambulance transportation
  • Expenses resulting from death
  • Repatriation and air ambulance

Plan Options:

  1. Enhanced Plan: Comprehensive benefits including stable pre-existing medical conditions (Ages 0-85, Coverage limits: $15,000-$200,000).
  2. Standard Plan: Comprehensive benefits excluding pre-existing medical conditions (Ages 0-85, Coverage limits: $15,000-$200,000).
  3. Basic Plan: Reduced benefits, excludes pre-existing medical conditions (Ages 0-111, Coverage limits: $15,000-$200,000, up to $100,000 for age 86+).

Here's a table comparing all three plans for visitor-to-Canada insurance from 21st Century.

PlanEnhancedStandardBasic
Age Availability
0 to 85 years0 to 85 years0 to 111 years
Pre-existing Conditions
Medical Questionnaire
Required for those aged 55 to 85Not RequiredNot Required
Coverage Limits
$15,000 to $200,000$15,000 to $200,000$15,000 to $200,000 (up to $100,000 for ages 86 and up)
Companion Rates
Family Rates
Dental Accident
Medical Coverage on Inbound & Outbound Flights
Accidental Death and Dismemberment
Extra Injury Coverage
($50,000 extra injury coverage included with the $100,000 option)
Visitors to Canada Insurance from 21st Century - comparison

Medicare International Travel Insurance (for Canadians)

For Canadian residents with provincial healthcare travelling outside their province or Canada.

Emergency Medical Plans:

  1. Single Trip Emergency Medical Plan: Coverage up to $10 million for one continuous trip. Premium discounts and top-up coverage are available. No medical questionnaire for those under 60.
  2. Multi-Trip Emergency Medical Plan: Coverage up to $10 million for multiple trips within a year, with trip duration options (4, 10, 18, 30, 60 days). No medical questionnaire for those under 60.

All-Inclusive Plans:

  1. Single Trip All-Inclusive Plan: Coverage up to $10 million for medical expenses, plus trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss/damage, and flight/travel accidents.
  2. Multi-Trip All-Inclusive Plan: Similar benefits as the single trip plan, for multiple trips within a year.

Non-Medical Plans:

  • Stand-alone Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Reimbursement for eligible expenses due to trip cancellation or interruption, available for up to 365 days. This plan does not require a medical questionnaire and all insured get 24-hour emergency assistance.

Special Medical Underwriting (for Canadians)

21st Century offers a Special Medical Underwriting insurance plan for Canadians not eligible for regular market insurance due to new or changed pre-existing medical conditions. This covers:

  • Coverage of pre-existing medical conditions with no stability period required.
  • $5 million Emergency Medical coverage.
  • Medical interview and quote completed over the phone, up to 60 days before departure.

For more information on 21st Century travel insurance, download the PDF below:

Good to know

You can also get coverage on your existing credit cards. Credit cards typically have basic to extensive travel insurance benefits based on the level i.e. visa, Mastercard, etc. Use our free tool HelloCard to find out what coverage you get with your credit card travel insurance.

Special plans offered by 21st Century Travel Insurance Limited

21st Century also provides other travel insurance plans tailored for visitors to Canada, be it on a Super Visa, Visitor Visa, or Work/Student Visa.

Monthly Payment Plan (MPP) for Visitors and Super Visa Holders

21st Century Travel Insurance's Monthly Payment Plan (MPP) provides you with flexible and comprehensive coverage options to ensure a worry-free stay as a visitor.

Key Features:

  • Coverage Limits: $100,000, $150,000, or $200,000.
  • Coverage Period: 365 days or 730 days.
  • Flexible Payments: Two-month deposit and $50 Policy Fee at application. Full deposit refund if the visa is denied (minus the Policy Fee).
  • Pending Policy: Policy remains pending while awaiting visa approval, allowing travel date flexibility.
  • Refunds: Early return refunds available, even if there was a claim.
  • Super Visa Eligibility: Meets Parent and Grandparent Super Visa insurance requirements.

Two-Year Upgrade Benefits:

  • Coverage Reset: Full coverage reset at the start of the second year.
  • Rate Lock: Today's rates locked in for two years.
  • Single Policy Fee: One $50 Policy Fee upon purchase.
  • Refunds: Pay only for the time spent in Canada, with refunds available even if a claim was made.

What does 21st Century Travel Insurance cost?

21st Century Travel Insurance doesn't offer quotes online and requires you to call an agent/request a callback. It is therefore difficult to get exact figures. However, 21st Century travel insurance policies are offered by Manulife. So here is how much travel insurance with Manulife typically costs.

Traveller ProfilePlan TypeCost of Manulife Travel Insurance
49-year-old travelling to the U.S.
All-Inclusive Plan/Single Trip$206
49-year-old travelling to the U.S.
Medical Expenses/Single Trip$51
Student in Ontario
Visitor Insurance$194.40
70-year-old travelling to Florida for 4 months
All-Inclusive Plan/Single Trip$1,759.09
Travel Insurance Cost

The cost of 21st Century travel insurance depends on several variables:

  • Your age.
  • Your desired coverage and options.
  • Your deductible.
  • Your waiting period.
  • Your destination(s).
  • The length of your trip.

Therefore, we advise you to get a customized quote for accurate rates for 21st Century travel insurance.

Before settling on 21st Century travel insurance, check out other travel insurance plans, coverages and prices using our free comparison tool below.

Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!

Get a quote

How to buy a 21st Century Travel Insurance policy?

You must fill up an online form to buy a policy from 21st Century Travel Insurance Limited. You will be asked to enter details like your name, phone number, email, province, and the coverage you're looking for. Upon submitting, an agent nearest to you will call you back.

screenshot 21st century travel insurance - how to get a quote

You could also call on the 21st Century Travel Insurance phone number: 905-372-1779.

How to file a 21st Century travel insurance claim?

Step 1: Contact Claims Assistance Centre

You must contact the Claims Assistance Centre to report the claim, and they will provide you with the appropriate forms, usually by email.

  • Visitor to Canada:
    • Toll-free (North America): 1-877-882-2957
    • Collect Call (Worldwide): 519-251-7856
  • Medicare International:
    • Toll-free (North America): 1-855-478-3484
    • Collect Call (Worldwide): 519-251-7851
  • 21st Century Travel Insurance:
    • Toll-free (North America): 1-855-478-3483
    • Collect Call (Worldwide): 519-251-7850
  • SaveAway Travel Insurance:
    • Toll-free (North America): 1-855-478-3485
    • Collect Call (Worldwide): 519-251-7857

Step 2: Receive and Submit Claim Forms

  • The Assistance Centre will email you the Claim Forms.
  • Submit the forms in one of three ways:
    • By Mail: Print, complete, and mail the forms. (instructions on the forms)
    • Online: Set up an account and submit electronically (instructions on the forms).
    • By Email: Send completed forms and documents via email. (instructions on the forms)

Step 3: Provide Required Documents

  • Include proof of travel, medical reports, and itemized bills.
  • Complete the Claim Form entirely to avoid processing delays.

Step 4: Receive Claim Decision

  • You will receive a letter notifying you of the claim decision.
  • If approved, reimbursement will be via cheque, Interac e-transfer (for payments under $5,000), or direct deposit. Indicate your preferred method on the Claim Form.

Alternative Ways to Report a Claim

You can also report a claim immediately through the TravelAid™ mobile app. The mobile app provides additional features such as Medical Facility Search, International 911 Lookup, and Travel Tips, making it a convenient option for managing your travel insurance needs.

How can I contact 21st Century travel insurance?

You can contact 21st Century Travel Insurance Limited by phone, visit their office or write to them over email. Here are the details.

Contact ModeDetails
Address
18-1040 Division St.
Cobourg, ON K9A 5Y5
Phone
Toll-Free: 1-800-567-0021
Local: 905-372-1779
Fax
1-866-285-5727
Email
[email protected]
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm ET
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Aug 2: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm ET
Civic Holiday: Closed
21st Century Travel Insurance Contact

Does 21st Century cover COVID issues while travelling?

Yes, 21st Century Travel Insurance covers COVID-19-related medical expenses under its emergency medical insurance policies. The coverage is subject to the terms and conditions of the specific policy purchased, and it is essential to review the policy details to understand the extent of the coverage.

You can explore our guide on the best COVID-19 travel insurance policies to know about the top options in the market.

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Nishadh Mohammed
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Nishadh Mohammed is a seasoned news editor and financial writer, working with HelloSafe since May 2023. Nishadh has developed expertise in financial markets, insurance, and investment products, with a deep understanding of the Canadian financial landscape. He has honed his SEO skills and content marketing strategies while writing for Canadian publishing houses. Armed with a master's in Business Analytics and extensive journalistic experience, Nishadh uniquely combines data proficiency and thorough research to deliver comprehensive and accessible information.

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1 comments
Glenn C.
on

Hey folks, can you confirm how the 21st Century Travel Medical policy responds when an Owner/Operator Truck Driver is injured in a Motor Vehicle Accident in the USA? Does the insured pay the hospital bill or is it excess coverage to the fleets auto insurance policy (SAB's)?

Also, what is the stability period for pre-existing medical conditions

Thank you,

Glenn

Bonjour Glenn,

The 21st Century Travel Medical policy typically provides excess coverage, which means it comes into play after other applicable insurance policies, such as the fleet's auto insurance (SABs), have responded to the claim. However, the specifics can vary depending on the terms of your policy.

Regarding pre-existing medical conditions, the stability period is generally 90 days, but it’s important to review your policy document for any specific conditions or exclusions that might apply.