MSH International Travel Insurance: 2025 Review
Our expert’s opinion on MSH International
MSHInternational offers a broad portfolio of travel insurance solutions in Canada, including comprehensive emergency medical coverage up to $7,000,000 and special risk policies suitable for complex itineraries and high-risk activities. The available plans feature generous coverage ceilings, some with low or no deductibles, and modular components for medical and non-medical risks, placing MSH International among the most versatile options compared to local competitors; however, its pricing strategy and guarantees may not always offset administrative constraints. MSH International is best suited to expats, travellers needing high-risk or adventure sports coverage, and visitors to Canada (including Super Visa applicants). With substantial resources as part of the Siaci Saint Honoré group and operations spanning 60 countries, MSH International demonstrates international financial stability but publicly available ratings (S&P, Moody’s) specific to this division are not disclosed. Service is available 24/7 and members have access to digital portals, yet public customer satisfaction is low, at 1.5/5 on Trustpilot from 186 reviews, citing slow claims and inconsistent support; average claim times are unreported, but complaints mention waits lasting months or more.
- ✅Coverage up to $7,000,000 for medical emergencies
- ✅Special risk insurance for high-risk activities and destinations
- ✅No age limit for visitor plans (Super Visa eligibility)
- ✅Modular coverage options including non-medical protections
- ✅24/7 global specialist assistance in multiple languages
- ✅Dedicated digital portals for claims and plan management
- ✅Accessible by phone and email for support across time zones
- ❌Very low Trustpilot score (1.5/5 from 186 reviews)
- ❌Long claims processing, sometimes several months or more
- ❌Frequent reports of lost documents and administrative errors
- ❌Requirement to pay medical expenses upfront in many cases
- ❌No disclosed S&P or Moody’s rating for the Canadian division
- ✅Coverage up to $7,000,000 for medical emergencies
- ✅Special risk insurance for high-risk activities and destinations
- ✅No age limit for visitor plans (Super Visa eligibility)
- ✅Modular coverage options including non-medical protections
- ✅24/7 global specialist assistance in multiple languages
- ✅Dedicated digital portals for claims and plan management
- ✅Accessible by phone and email for support across time zones
Our expert’s opinion on MSH International
- ✅Coverage up to $7,000,000 for medical emergencies
- ✅Special risk insurance for high-risk activities and destinations
- ✅No age limit for visitor plans (Super Visa eligibility)
- ✅Modular coverage options including non-medical protections
- ✅24/7 global specialist assistance in multiple languages
- ✅Dedicated digital portals for claims and plan management
- ✅Accessible by phone and email for support across time zones
- ❌Very low Trustpilot score (1.5/5 from 186 reviews)
- ❌Long claims processing, sometimes several months or more
- ❌Frequent reports of lost documents and administrative errors
- ❌Requirement to pay medical expenses upfront in many cases
- ❌No disclosed S&P or Moody’s rating for the Canadian division
- ✅Coverage up to $7,000,000 for medical emergencies
- ✅Special risk insurance for high-risk activities and destinations
- ✅No age limit for visitor plans (Super Visa eligibility)
- ✅Modular coverage options including non-medical protections
- ✅24/7 global specialist assistance in multiple languages
- ✅Dedicated digital portals for claims and plan management
- ✅Accessible by phone and email for support across time zones
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, a travel insurance expert reviews each year the general terms and pricing of 42 travel insurance providers operating in Canada, to deliver an analysis that is both reliable and impartial. Thanks to this rigor, more than one million users trust HelloSafe every month to insure their trip, and more broadly to support them in making important financial decisions.
MSH International Coverages
MSH International offers several key insurance products for travelers: the Travel Insurance, Non-medical Travel Insurance, Special risk Insurance, Visitors to Canada and Super-visa travellers, and Worldwide emergency medical coverage plans.
The Travel Insurance plan centers on medical emergencies, hospitalization, ambulance and repatriation, with very high limits. Non-medical Travel Insurance specifically targets trip cancellation, interruption, loss or theft of baggage, and accidental death. Special risk Insurance is designed for travelers facing exceptional risks or seeking coverage for extreme sports, evacuation, or trips to high-risk destinations.
The main difference among these options is their focus: health, non-medical incidents, or special risk.
MSH International distinguishes itself with industry-leading medical limits (up to $7,000,000 CAD), recognized assistance services, and the availability of risk coverage for high-exposure situations, such as extreme sports and hostile zones.
These strengths stand out for high medical ceilings, risk-specific options, and broad eligibility, but the lack of complete transparency regarding some coverage ceilings and administrative or claims-handling issues remain notable drawbacks.
Coverage / Plan | Travel Plan | Non-Medical Travel Plan | Special Risk Plan | Visitors to Canada & Super Visa Travelers Plan | Worldwide Emergency Medical Plan |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Plan positioning | Medical emergencies, hospital, repatriation | Cancellation, baggage, death | Extreme risks, evacuation, sports | Medical for Canada visitors, super visa | Medical emergencies, hospital, worldwide |
✈️ Transport delay (flight, train) | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
? Theft, loss or destruction of luggage | Not covered | Covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
⏱️ Luggage delay | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
? Medical and hospitalization expenses abroad | Up to $7,000,000 CAD | Not covered | Covered (limit not specified) Extreme situations, hostilities, sports | Up to $1,000,000 CAD | Up to $1,000,000 CAD |
? Medical evacuation (to hospital) | Covered | Not covered | Covered | Covered | Covered |
? Extended stay expenses ( accident or illness) | Not specified | Not covered | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
? Repatriation assistance | Covered | Not covered | Covered | Covered | Covered |
❌ Trip cancellation insurance | Not covered | Covered (limit not specified) Trip cancellation + interruption | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
⛔ Trip interruption (illness, accident or death) | Not covered | Covered (limit not specified) | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
? Early return (death/hospitalization of a relative) | Not specified | Not covered | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
⚖️ Civil liability abroad | Not specified | Not covered | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
? Emergency funds advance | Not specified | Not covered | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
?⚖️ Legal assistance and bail bond | Not specified | Not covered | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
?♂️ Coverage of risky sports and activities | Not covered | Not covered | Covered (limit not specified) Extreme/hostile activities | Not covered | Not covered |
Extreme situations, hostilities, sports
Trip cancellation + interruption
Extreme/hostile activities
There are other more specific benefits. Of particular interest is the availability of special risk coverage, which can include protection for kidnapping, ransom demands, and extortion — rare benefits for personal travelers.
In addition to these plans, MSH International also offers standalone insurance for expatriates, international students, and group solutions for organizations sending teams abroad. These cater to longer stays, specialized visas, or high-risk travel situations.
Take a few minutes to compare travel insurance plans, so you can secure either the lowest price or the most comprehensive coverage that fits your unique travel needs.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareMSH International Exclusions
MSH International applies a standard set of exclusions, mainly around pre-existing conditions that are not stable, trips taken against medical advice, and certain high-risk activities.
Like many insurers, claims related to war, terrorism, drug or alcohol misuse, or administrative errors such as missing documentation are not covered.
Their approach is in line with typical market practice, though the exclusion of certain extreme sports and unstable conditions merits careful review for more adventurous or medically complex travelers.
Categories of exclusions | Exclusions |
---|---|
? Medical exclusions |
|
? Behavioral exclusions |
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? Sports/activity exclusions |
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?️ Geographical exclusions |
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? Administrative exclusions |
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❌ Cancellation-specific exclusions |
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- Unstable pre-existing conditions
- Non-emergency treatment
- Treatments without prior approval
- Elective procedures
- Claims after travel against medical advice
- Alcohol or non-prescription drug use
- Suicide or self-inflicted injury
- Claims related to criminal acts
- Dangerous or reckless behavior
- Professional/competitive sports
- Extreme or risk sports (high altitude, deep diving)
- Accidents in war zones
- High-risk locations (embargoed/unsafe countries)
- Countries under war or civil unrest
- Official travel advisories
- Embargoed or sanctioned regions
- Missing or false documents
- Late claims
- Non-compliance with procedures
- Fraudulent claims
- Cancellation for change of mind
- Known events at time of booking
- Lack of required vaccinations
- Incomplete documentation, etc.
MSH International Prices
MSH International positions itself with slightly above-average premiums, reflecting its comprehensive international coverage and robust medical reimbursements, especially on core Travel Insurance and Special Risk Insurance plans.
Coverage limits are strong, up to $7 million USD, with benefits such as emergency evacuation, ambulance, and specialized repatriation specificities that justify higher pricing than most digital-first providers.
The insurer operates via traditional distribution channels, which further explains costs slightly above some pure digital players, but caters well to travelers seeking peace of mind and specialized security options.
Overall, MSH International is best for those prioritizing breadth and depth of coverage over ultra-low premiums.
Travel Insurance | Special Risk Insurance | Visitors to Canada Insurance | Worldwide Emergency Medical Insurance | |
---|---|---|---|---|
A solo traveler | $53 | $72 | $49 | $57 |
A couple | $87 | $118 | $82 | $91 |
A family of 4 | $159 | $201 | $148 | $166 |
A group of 6 people | $232 | $296 | $218 | $239 |
These prices are provided for information purposes based on one week of travel in Europe. The cost may vary significantly depending on the specifics of your trip (number of travelers, destination, duration, trip cost, selected options, etc.). We recommend running a simulation on HelloSafe.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareMSH International Promo Codes
MSH International Promo Codes | Details |
---|---|
HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best travel insurance providers.
Reimbursements with MSH International
MSH International reimburses eligible expenses up to your plan’s coverage limit, minus any policy deductible. Here’s how claims are handled on the highest-tier plan:
✅ Example 1: Hospitalization after sudden illness in France
Total medical bills: $6,300 (hospital stay, tests, ambulance)
Deductible amount to subtract: $100
Amount reimbursable after deductible with the Premium plan: $6,300 – $100 = $6,200
? You receive a reimbursement of $6,200.
ℹ️ The Premium plan covers eligible emergency medical care abroad up to $7,000,000 per policy year, after the deductible.
✅ Example 2: Lost luggage in transit at Heathrow
Total value of lost items: $1,250
Deductible amount to subtract: $0
Amount reimbursed at 100%: $1,250 × 100% = $1,250
? You receive a reimbursement of $1,250.
ℹ️ Pay attention to itemization—proof of purchase may be required for higher-value items.
✅ Example 3: Trip cancellation due to serious family emergency
Total non-refundable travel costs: $2,300
Deductible amount to subtract: $0
Amount reimbursed at 100%: $2,300 × 100% = $2,300
? You receive a reimbursement of $2,300.
ℹ️ Valid cancellation reasons and supporting documents, such as a medical certificate, are required for full reimbursement.
MSH International Support
MSH International’s assistance is available 24/7 by phone, which is key for travelers facing emergencies abroad. However, the absence of a dedicated WhatsApp number or mobile app limits flexibility and the ease of digital communication. The service supports at least two languages, English and French, which is standard but not broad. There is no mention of teleconsultation, and claims processing time can be longer than average based on user feedback. Advance payments for medical expenses are available but require approval, which may delay urgent care in specific cases.
Assistance MSH International | Available? | Details |
---|---|---|
24/7 customer service | ✅ | Support line open 24/7 in case of emergency. Contact through toll-free North America number. |
WhatsApp number | ❌ | No WhatsApp or equivalent chat assistance is available. |
International phone number | ✅ | International support and claims numbers are provided in policy documents. |
Mobile app | ❌ | No mobile app for claims, emergencies, or account management. |
Number of supported languages | 2 | Assistance available in English and French. No indication of other languages. |
Online document upload | ✅ | Online portals allow document upload for claims and contract management. |
Average claims processing time | 15–30 | Processing may range from 15 to 30 days. Delays reported if documentation is incomplete. |
Teleconsultation | ❌ | No mention of teleconsultation available with the assistance offer. |
Advance on medical expenses | ✅ | Advance possible case by case, especially for major hospitalizations. Pre-approval from assistance required. |
Contact through toll-free North America number.
No indication of other languages.
Delays reported if documentation is incomplete.
Pre-approval from assistance required.
MSH International Reviews
Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
---|---|
Trustpilot | 1.5 / 5, 186 reviews |
We analyzed the reviews from the sites mentioned above.
On the positive side, policyholders who purchased a plan from MSH International for their trip often mention:
- An exceptional level of support from certain customer service representatives during complex claims.
- A high coverage limit for medical emergencies which is reassuring for serious incidents.
- The availability of a 24/7 assistance hotline which is valued by travelers facing emergencies.
On the negative side, they mention:
- A very long processing time for claims, sometimes several months or more.
- Frequent loss or repeated request for documents during claims handling.
- A need to advance large sums for medical care before reimbursement, causing financial stress.
- A lack of responsiveness by email and delays in customer service on the phone.
- A perception of administrative disorganization which makes following a claim difficult.
Customer testimonial
I had a minor car accident in Paris and had to go to the hospital for a check-up. The bill was €500 (approx. $740 CAD). I called the 24/7 assistance line, but the wait times were incredibly long. When I finally got through, the process to start a claim felt complicated and slow. I had to pay upfront and I'm still waiting for my reimbursement weeks later. The whole experience has been very stressful and disappointing. Mark, 45 years old
MSH International Contact
Your need | Contact Method |
---|---|
I want to get a travel insurance quote | To subscribe, use our travel insurance comparison tool, select the MSH International plan you’re interested in, and request a quote. |
I need medical assistance |
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I want to report an incident |
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I want to track a reimbursement |
|
- +1 800 360 3234 (24/7 emergency assistance) / contact@msh-intl.com
- Available worldwide, respond to medical emergencies
- +1 800 360 3234 / contact@msh-intl.com
- Describe the incident, provide policy number and relevant details
- +1 800 360 3234 for status / contact@msh-intl.com for claims follow-up
- Attach claim form, invoices, proof of payment
- Reimbursement via bank transfer or cheque
- Average reimbursement time: 15–30 days
FAQ
What is covered under MSH International travel insurance for Canadians?
MSH International offers several plans that cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, ambulance services, repatriation, trip cancellation, lost or stolen baggage, and accidental death. Some plans also include special risk insurance for sports and travel in high-risk areas. Specific coverage limits vary, but medical expenses are insured up to $7,000,000 CAD for most travelers.
Does MSH International cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded unless they meet stability requirements specified in the policy. It is important to review the policy wording or contact MSH International to clarify whether your medical history will be covered during your trip. This is a key consideration, especially for seniors or those with chronic health issues.
How do I get emergency medical help abroad with MSH International?
A dedicated assistance team is available 24/7 by calling +1 800 360 3234 from anywhere in the world. You will need your policy number and personal identification details. MSH International can coordinate direct payments with hospitals and clinics, minimizing your out-of-pocket expenses when possible during emergencies.
Are there any notable exclusions in MSH International travel insurance policies?
Standard exclusions apply, such as coverage denial for incidents related to travel against medical advice, risky activities not listed in your contract, or claims resulting from alcohol and drug use. High-risk sports and non-emergency medical care may also be excluded unless a dedicated module has been purchased.
How do I file a claim with MSH International and how long does it take to be reimbursed?
Claims can be submitted by email, phone, or online via your member portal. Required documents usually include your claim form, original receipts, and proof of travel or incident. Reimbursements can take several weeks, with an average processing time of 15 to 30 days for most clear-cut files.
What is the process if I need to cancel my trip and file for reimbursement?
If your policy includes trip cancellation, notify MSH International as soon as possible, provide supporting documentation (such as proof of payment and reason for cancellation), and submit your claim through the client portal or by email. Covered reasons and the amount reimbursed will depend on your specific policy and circumstances.
How can I get a quote or purchase an MSH International plan in Canada?
You can request a quote online by using a travel insurance comparison tool and selecting the MSH International plan that matches your needs. Once your details are submitted, you will receive an offer and can proceed with the purchase easily and securely. Premiums are calculated according to your age, trip length, and level of coverage.
What is covered under MSH International travel insurance for Canadians?
MSH International offers several plans that cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, ambulance services, repatriation, trip cancellation, lost or stolen baggage, and accidental death. Some plans also include special risk insurance for sports and travel in high-risk areas. Specific coverage limits vary, but medical expenses are insured up to $7,000,000 CAD for most travelers.
Does MSH International cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded unless they meet stability requirements specified in the policy. It is important to review the policy wording or contact MSH International to clarify whether your medical history will be covered during your trip. This is a key consideration, especially for seniors or those with chronic health issues.
How do I get emergency medical help abroad with MSH International?
A dedicated assistance team is available 24/7 by calling +1 800 360 3234 from anywhere in the world. You will need your policy number and personal identification details. MSH International can coordinate direct payments with hospitals and clinics, minimizing your out-of-pocket expenses when possible during emergencies.
Are there any notable exclusions in MSH International travel insurance policies?
Standard exclusions apply, such as coverage denial for incidents related to travel against medical advice, risky activities not listed in your contract, or claims resulting from alcohol and drug use. High-risk sports and non-emergency medical care may also be excluded unless a dedicated module has been purchased.
How do I file a claim with MSH International and how long does it take to be reimbursed?
Claims can be submitted by email, phone, or online via your member portal. Required documents usually include your claim form, original receipts, and proof of travel or incident. Reimbursements can take several weeks, with an average processing time of 15 to 30 days for most clear-cut files.
What is the process if I need to cancel my trip and file for reimbursement?
If your policy includes trip cancellation, notify MSH International as soon as possible, provide supporting documentation (such as proof of payment and reason for cancellation), and submit your claim through the client portal or by email. Covered reasons and the amount reimbursed will depend on your specific policy and circumstances.
How can I get a quote or purchase an MSH International plan in Canada?
You can request a quote online by using a travel insurance comparison tool and selecting the MSH International plan that matches your needs. Once your details are submitted, you will receive an offer and can proceed with the purchase easily and securely. Premiums are calculated according to your age, trip length, and level of coverage.