The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Argentina in 2025
- The best travel insurance plans for Argentina
- Is it currently safe to travel to Argentina?
- Travel Insurance Requirements for Argentina
- Why take out travel insurance for Argentina?
- What should travel insurance for Argentina cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Argentina
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Argentina
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Argentina?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Argentina: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Argentina covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unexpected travel-related costs.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is now mandatory for all Canadian citizens to enter and stay in Argentina.
3. Required Coverage: Your policy must cover hospitalization, medical evacuation, and repatriation for health reasons.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Argentina costs approximately $30 to $70 CAD.
5. Good to know: Proof of compliant insurance may be requested by immigration authorities upon your arrival.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Argentina.
The best travel insurance plans for Argentina
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | CA$1.5M | Robust protection for Argentina. Fulfills new legal requirements. - high medical coverage - repatriation - emergency evacuation |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | CA$1.5M | Strong policy for travelers seeking comprehensive and compliant coverage. - 24/7 multilingual helpline - hospitalization - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | CA$770k | Good primary choice for tourism. - essential hospital care - medical transport - affordable |
| Travel Pass Monde | CA$1.1M | Suitable for extended visits and meets Argentina’s new standards. - medical support - repatriation - accident cover |
| Globe Partner | CA$465k | Practical option for standard trips. - outpatient and inpatient care - personal liability - evacuation |
| Globe Traveller | CA$770k | Meets entry regulations for basic and low-risk trips. - medical emergencies - hospitalisation - rapid refund |
- high medical coverage
- repatriation
- emergency evacuation
- 24/7 multilingual helpline
- hospitalization
- no deductible
- essential hospital care
- medical transport
- affordable
- medical support
- repatriation
- accident cover
- outpatient and inpatient care
- personal liability
- evacuation
- medical emergencies
- hospitalisation
- rapid refund
Is it currently safe to travel to Argentina?
As of June 2025, the Government of Canada advises travellers to exercise normal security precautions when visiting Argentina, but highlights specific regional risks and new legal requirements. Travel insurance is legally mandatory to enter Argentina for all Canadian visitors as of July 2025.
- Security risks: crime is a significant risk, especially in the Greater Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires and in Rosario where organized crime has led to increased homicides. Tourist sites such as La Boca and Plaza de Mayo are particularly targeted by pickpockets and muggers.
- Health risks: mosquito-borne diseases including dengue and chikungunya are present, particularly in northern provinces. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended if traveling to Misiones or Corrientes, and health care is limited outside major cities.
- Legal constraints: entry is strictly controlled with biometric checks and a requirement to show proof of sufficient funds, onward tickets, and now, valid travel health insurance on arrival.
- Environmental hazards: demonstrations occur regularly in central Buenos Aires and Valparaíso, and can become violent unexpectedly, disrupting transport and public services.
Travel insurance is legally mandatory to enter Argentina. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Travel Insurance Requirements for Argentina
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Canadian nationals to enter Argentina as of July 1, 2025.
All travellers must show a valid health insurance certificate covering the full duration of their stay in Argentina. The insurance policy must include medical expenses, hospitalization, 24/7 assistance, medical transport, repatriation, and COVID-19 treatment. The certificate must be compliant with Argentine authorities’ requirements. Travellers without recognized coverage may be refused entry.
Why take out travel insurance for Argentina?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement for visiting Argentina.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Argentina.
In Argentina, foreign travellers are generally directed to private clinics such as Hospital Alemán or Hospital Británico in Buenos Aires, where costs are significantly higher than in public hospitals. Outside major cities, access to advanced care can be limited and fees are payable upfront.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Canada in case of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Argentina.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Hospital Alemán | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | ARS 500,000 (CA$750) | up to CA$1,500,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | ARS 350,000 (CA$525) | up to CA$1,500,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | ARS 8,000,000 (CA$12,000) | up to CA$1,500,000 |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | ARS 1,600,000 (CA$2,400) | up to CA$1,500,000 |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Argentina cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Legally required |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers doctor visits, treatment, and diagnostics for illness or accidents. Minimum recommended: CA$150,000 | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚑 Hospitalization | Inpatient care at private clinics and hospitals. Minimum recommended: CA$300,000 | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 💊 Medications | Reimbursement for prescription drugs during your stay. Minimum recommended: CA$5,000 | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚓 Emergency medical evacuation | Covers medical transport to a suitable facility when needed. Minimum recommended: CA$150,000 | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Covers return to Canada due to serious illness, injury or death. Minimum recommended: CA$150,000 | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 📞 24/7 Assistance | Round-the-clock hotline for emergencies (English/French/Spanish service). Always include this service in your policy. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 😷 COVID-19 expenses | Medical costs or quarantine if you contract COVID-19 in Argentina. Minimum recommended: CA$35,000 | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🧳 Baggage and personal effects | Protection for lost or stolen luggage. Minimum recommended: CA$2,500 | 🟡 Optional |
Minimum recommended: CA$150,000
Minimum recommended: CA$300,000
Minimum recommended: CA$5,000
Minimum recommended: CA$150,000
Minimum recommended: CA$150,000
Always include this service in your policy.
Minimum recommended: CA$35,000
Minimum recommended: CA$2,500
Important information
Travel insurance is legally required for Canadian citizens travelling to Argentina as of July 1, 2025. The policy must cover medical expenses, hospitalization, emergency evacuation, repatriation, COVID-19 treatment, and 24/7 assistance for the entire period of stay. The certificate must be issued in English or Spanish and specifically reference coverage details for Argentina. Travelers without such proof may be denied entry.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers limited coverage with low reimbursement limits and many exclusions. It is safer to select a trusted insurer with full protection. Compare leading options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Argentina
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$28 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$40 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$62 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$112 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance is influenced by several key elements: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the level of coverage you select, and any add-ons like trip cancellation. Considering these factors is crucial for finding a policy that fits your needs and budget, ensuring you're properly protected without overpaying.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Argentina
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Argentina while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🛡️ Level of coverage | Health care in Argentina is private for foreigners, and repatriation can be costly. | Choose essential medical and evacuation cover only for the most efficient price. |
| 👤 Traveller's age | Age affects premiums, especially for longer trips. | Some insurers including Heymondo do not raise prices for travelers over 62, so compare. |
| ⏳ Trip duration | Premiums rise with longer stays, required for your entire visit. | Select the exact dates needed and avoid round-up coverage to reduce your costs. |
| 🏥 Deductible/Excess | Choosing a higher deductible reduces your premium for Argentina trips. | Pick the highest deductible you can afford for meaningful savings. |
| 🧑🤝🧑 Policy for groups | Family or group insurance can be more cost-effective than individual plans. | Purchase as a group to benefit from volume pricing on multi-person plans. |
| 🌍 Annual/multi-trip | Multiple trips a year make annual insurance preferable. | Opt for an annual policy if traveling abroad more than twice a year. |
| 🛩️ Activities covered | Adventure or sport activities increase costs, not always needed for Argentina city or leisure trips. | Limit your plan to the activities you really need and avoid paying unnecessary extras. |
Important
Travel insurance is legally required for travelers from Canada to enter Argentina. The policy must include medical consultations, hospitalization, evacuation, repatriation, 24/7 assistance, and COVID-19 care, valid for your entire stay. Ensure medical coverage limit is sufficient and the certificate is in English or Spanish.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Argentina?
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your current insurances, such as Canadian public health insurance or credit card insurance, can cover you during a trip to Argentina. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Since travel insurance is now mandatory for entry into Argentina, only travel insurance fully meets embassy requirements.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Argentina? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (provincial health plan) | Never | No direct coverage in Argentina, no repatriation, only possible reimbursements after return, and strict limits. | Travel insurance covers up to CA$1,000,000+ for medical care, hospitalization, repatriation, and on-site support in Argentina. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life, Blue Cross) | Limited coverage | Some reimbursement after return, possible cap from CA$10,000–CA$100,000. Often excludes repatriation and 24/7 assistance. | Travel insurance offers CA$1,000,000–CA$5,000,000 plus 24/7 multilingual assistance and upfront payment for foreign hospitals. |
| Classic credit card (TD Classic, Scotia Value, RBC Classic) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical up to CA$25,000–CA$50,000, no pre-existing conditions, no repatriation, no cancellation, no COVID-19. | Travel insurance provides at least CA$1,000,000, includes pandemic coverage, trip disruption, and repatriation, as required. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, Amex Gold, World Elite MC) | Limited coverage | Medical cover up to CA$500,000, limits on cancellation/interruption, may exclude pandemics, age restrictions, or risky activities. | Travel insurance covers CA$1,000,000+, fulfills legal requirements, covers pre-existing medical, COVID-19, and most activities. |
Example
While trekking in Patagonia, Maya suffered a complex leg fracture. The helicopter rescue and surgery in Buenos Aires totalled CA$35,000. Her CIBC Aventura card's insurance only covered CA$5,000, and her provincial plan was negligible. Without comprehensive travel insurance, she faced a staggering CA$30,000 bill for her mountain adventure.
Expert advice
Essential coverage like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness is often excluded from credit cards and provincial health plans. Carefully check your existing policies to avoid surprises. In any case, buying travel insurance tailored to your trip is safer and more reassuring.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Argentina?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa to visit Argentina for up to 90 days for tourism purposes. You must carry a valid passport covering the entire period of your stay. On arrival, you may be asked for proof of onward travel, adequate funds, and accommodation details.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Argentina?
To arrange travel insurance for Argentina, start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review each policy’s coverage and exclusions, paying attention to requirements specific to Argentina. Complete your purchase online. Your certificate of insurance will be issued immediately, which you must present at border control in Argentina.
What happens if I arrive in Argentina without travel insurance?
From July 1, 2025, all visitors must have travel insurance covering the entire duration of their stay. If you arrive without valid insurance, you risk being denied entry by immigration authorities. The policy must cover medical expenses, hospitalization, evacuation, repatriation, and COVID-19-related costs.
What should my travel insurance cover for Argentina?
Your policy must include coverage for medical treatment, hospitalization, 24/7 assistance, evacuation or medical transport, and repatriation for health reasons or death. COVID-19-related medical care is also compulsory. Check that your policy satisfies the minimum requirements to avoid problems at the border.
Are medical services expensive for Canadians in Argentina?
While public care is often free for residents, foreigners typically pay the full rate at private hospitals or clinics, which are preferred for better standards. Costs for emergency treatment, hospitalization, or evacuation can easily amount to several thousand Canadian dollars, so proof of insurance is required and strongly recommended for financial protection.
Do I need a visa to travel to Argentina?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa to visit Argentina for up to 90 days for tourism purposes. You must carry a valid passport covering the entire period of your stay. On arrival, you may be asked for proof of onward travel, adequate funds, and accommodation details.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Argentina?
To arrange travel insurance for Argentina, start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review each policy’s coverage and exclusions, paying attention to requirements specific to Argentina. Complete your purchase online. Your certificate of insurance will be issued immediately, which you must present at border control in Argentina.
What happens if I arrive in Argentina without travel insurance?
From July 1, 2025, all visitors must have travel insurance covering the entire duration of their stay. If you arrive without valid insurance, you risk being denied entry by immigration authorities. The policy must cover medical expenses, hospitalization, evacuation, repatriation, and COVID-19-related costs.
What should my travel insurance cover for Argentina?
Your policy must include coverage for medical treatment, hospitalization, 24/7 assistance, evacuation or medical transport, and repatriation for health reasons or death. COVID-19-related medical care is also compulsory. Check that your policy satisfies the minimum requirements to avoid problems at the border.
Are medical services expensive for Canadians in Argentina?
While public care is often free for residents, foreigners typically pay the full rate at private hospitals or clinics, which are preferred for better standards. Costs for emergency treatment, hospitalization, or evacuation can easily amount to several thousand Canadian dollars, so proof of insurance is required and strongly recommended for financial protection.
