- The best travel insurance plans for Philippines
- Is it currently safe to travel to Philippines?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Philippines?
- The importance of travel insurance for the Philippines
- What should travel insurance for the Philippines cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Philippines
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Philippines?
- Will my current insurance cover me in the Philippines?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Philippines: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for the Philippines covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage.
2. Warning: Canada advises against all travel to Western Mindanao due to terrorism and kidnapping risks.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is crucial as medical care can be very expensive for foreigners.
4. Healthcare cost: Quality private healthcare is costly, with hospital stays often exceeding $300 CAD per night.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for the Philippines typically costs between $25 and $50 CAD.
6. Good to know: All travellers must register with the mandatory eTravel system within 72 hours before their flight.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for the Philippines.
The best travel insurance plans for Philippines
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.45M $CA | Our top recommendation for a trip to Philippines. - very high medical ceiling - repatriation covered - clear exclusions |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.45M $CA | A reliable contract for short and long stays in Philippines. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | 725K $CA | A solid option for visitors needing core protection. - good medical expenses - efficient emergency help - accessible pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | 1.0M $CA | Balanced benefits for Canadian travellers heading to Philippines. - broad medical cover - hospital costs included - repatriation |
| Globe Partner | 435K $CA | Well-suited for extended or study stays abroad. - reliable medical cover - civil liability included - simple reimbursement process |
| Globe Traveller | 725K $CA | Useful for shorter visits in Philippines. - essential medical guarantees - fast processing - capped benefits |
- very high medical ceiling
- repatriation covered
- clear exclusions
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
- good medical expenses
- efficient emergency help
- accessible pricing
- broad medical cover
- hospital costs included
- repatriation
- reliable medical cover
- civil liability included
- simple reimbursement process
- essential medical guarantees
- fast processing
- capped benefits
Is it currently safe to travel to Philippines?
As of June 2025, the Government of Canada, through Global Affairs Canada, advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution regarding trips to the Philippines due to ongoing security and health risks. Travel is not officially prohibited for the entire country, but specific regions are subject to stricter advisories, particularly Western Mindanao, where all travel is advised against because of terrorism and armed violence.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: crime, kidnapping, and terrorism remain serious concerns, especially in areas such as Western Mindanao and Sulu, where armed clashes and abductions have occurred. For example, Canadian nationals have previously been targeted for ransom in these regions.
- Health risks: outbreaks of diseases like dengue fever and malaria are possible, particularly during the rainy season and in rural provinces. Medical infrastructure can be basic outside Manila or Cebu, and emergency evacuation may be difficult.
- Legal requirements: eTravel registration is mandatory for all arrivals and must be completed within 72 hours before departure. For stays over 59 days, every foreigner must register at the Bureau of Immigration.
- Urban safety: pickpocketing and express kidnappings are reported in Metro Manila. Using unlicensed taxis or showing signs of wealth increases your exposure to these risks.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Philippines.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Philippines?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian citizens travelling to the Philippines.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended due to limited access to quality healthcare outside major cities and the presence of health risks like dengue, malaria, and the need for possible emergency repatriation. The Canadian public system does not cover expenses abroad, and the cost of treatment or evacuation can be high.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to the Philippines. This is because of significant health risks and security concerns in some regions.
The importance of travel insurance for the Philippines
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Philippines.
In Philippines, emergency care for foreigners is usually provided in private hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center in Manila or Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital, where costs are high and upfront payment is often required. Public hospitals outside major cities may lack equipment and English-speaking staff, making immediate quality care difficult, especially in urgent cases.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Canada in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Philippines.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at St. Luke’s Medical Center | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 120,000 PHP (approx. 2,750 CAD) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 70,000 PHP (approx. 1,600 CAD) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 900,000 PHP (approx. 20,500 CAD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 160,000 PHP (approx. 3,650 CAD) | up to 100% |
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 the Philippines cover?
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Philippines.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency treatment, hospital stays, doctor consultations, and surgery. We recommend at least CAD 200,000 in reimbursement limit for healthcare in private clinics of Metro Manila and other major cities. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for air ambulance or evacuation to Canada in case of severe accident, illness, or lack of medical facilities. Recommended minimum coverage: CAD 250,000. |
| 💊 Prescription drugs | Reimburses for doctor-prescribed medicines needed due to covered incidents during your stay. Seek at least CAD 2,000 for unexpected medication costs. |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Covers emergency repatriation to Canada for health or security reasons, including in case of death. Suggested limit is CAD 50,000. |
| 👨⚖️ Personal liability | Covers expenses if you accidentally cause injury or property damage to others. We recommend a minimum of CAD 1,000,000. |
| 🧳 Luggage insurance | Reimburses the cost of lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal items. Look for coverage of at least CAD 2,000. |
| ⚡ Emergency assistance | 24/7 hotline for arranging treatment, hospital admission, and advice in English. Limit amounts vary, but confirm this service is included in your policy. |
| 🦟 Infectious disease cover | Covers diagnosis and treatment if you contract diseases such as dengue or malaria, which are present in several regions. Ensure this coverage matches the overall medical expense coverage limit. |
We recommend at least CAD 200,000 in reimbursement limit for healthcare in private clinics of Metro Manila and other major cities.
Recommended minimum coverage: CAD 250,000.
Seek at least CAD 2,000 for unexpected medication costs.
Suggested limit is CAD 50,000.
We recommend a minimum of CAD 1,000,000.
Look for coverage of at least CAD 2,000.
Limit amounts vary, but confirm this service is included in your policy.
Ensure this coverage matches the overall medical expense coverage limit.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards is often limited, with low reimbursement levels and numerous exclusions. It is safer to select a trusted insurer that offers full coverage. Compare the top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online to receive instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Philippines
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | 38 CAD |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | 62 CAD |
| 1 month | 35 years old | 90 CAD |
| 1 month | 70 years old | 175 CAD |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of travel insurance varies based on key factors: your age, trip duration, destination, and selected coverage level, including cancellation options. Given the specific risks in the Philippines, considering these elements is crucial to ensure you have adequate protection for your trip and can travel with peace of mind.
💡 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 can you pay less for your travel insurance to Philippines?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Philippines while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip duration | Shorter trips generally cost less to insure, especially in destinations like Philippines with varying health infrastructure. | Buy a policy only for the days you are abroad. Avoid pre-set packages longer than your actual stay. |
| 👤 Traveller's age | Price can increase for older travelers, especially for medical risks in the Philippines. | Compare insurers by age group. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Higher reimbursement limits increase premium but may be needed due to medical costs or evacuation in the Philippines. | Choose a mid-range ceiling. A 250,000 CAD limit is usually sufficient for most travelers. |
| 🚶♂️ Type of activities | Adventure or water sports (diving, trekking) common in the Philippines may affect risk and premium. | Select only relevant optional coverage. Exclude risky activities you will not practice. |
| 🧳 Baggage coverage | Theft and baggage loss are not rare, but higher limits cost more in the Philippines. | Lower non-essential baggage limits for electronics or valuables you are not bringing on your trip. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveling with family | Family plans may save money over individual contracts if all are insured together for travel to the Philippines. | Opt for a family or group policy if at least two are traveling. It is often cheaper per person. |
| 💻 Where you buy | Online comparison helps find cheaper rates. Brokers and travel agents may charge more for Philippines plans. | Use online comparators to view multiple offers and customize your coverage needs in real time. |
Will my current insurance cover me in the Philippines?
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your provincial health plan, private health insurance, or credit card coverage could protect you when traveling to the Philippines. Unfortunately, these protections are usually quite limited and may not cover major medical expenses, repatriation, or emergencies abroad.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Philippines? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Health card, RAMQ, MSP, OHIP) | Never | No coverage for medical care outside Canada. No direct payment or advance for hospitals in the Philippines. | Travel insurance covers up to 250,000 CAD+ for medical expenses, emergency assistance, and repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (work plans, Manulife, Sun Life) | Limited coverage | May reimburse some expenses after return, caps of 10,000 to 25,000 CAD. No repatriation or upfront payment. | Travel insurance offers 250,000 CAD+ for medical costs, instant support, and direct billing worldwide. |
| Classic credit card (TD Classic Visa, RBC Classic, BMO MasterCard) | Limited coverage | Medical emergencies under 5,000 to 15,000 CAD. Often excludes trip cancellation and baggage loss. | Travel insurance covers 250,000 CAD+ with trip cancellation, baggage, and medical evacuation included. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, Amex Gold, Mastercard World Elite) | Limited coverage | Medical fees up to 100,000–150,000 CAD. Some trip delay or lost baggage, coverage time often limited. | Travel insurance includes up to 10M CAD if needed, with longer stays plus 24/7 on-the-ground support. |
Example
While in Palawan, Sarah contracted severe dengue fever, requiring an emergency medical flight to Manila. The total cost reached CA$40,000. Her RBC Visa's travel insurance only covered CA$5,000, and her provincial health plan covered almost nothing. Without comprehensive travel insurance, she faced a staggering CA$35,000 bill for her recovery.
Expert advice
Your credit card or provincial health plan may not cover key situations like trip interruption for a family emergency. Read your policy's fine print carefully to avoid costly surprises abroad. For peace of mind, it's always safer to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Philippines?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa to visit the Philippines for tourism if their stay is 30 days or less. You must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure and a return or onward ticket. For longer stays, a visa extension must be arranged through Philippine immigration after arrival.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Philippines?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to compare available offers. Second, check the coverage and exclusions, focusing on guarantees for medical expenses, evacuation, and theft in the Philippines. Third, buy your chosen policy online. Fourth, you will quickly receive your travel insurance certificate by email.
What should I check in my travel insurance policy for the Philippines?
Check that your policy includes adequate coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation, as healthcare quality can vary, especially outside major cities. Consider coverage for trip cancellation, lost luggage, and personal liability. Always read the exclusions to understand what is not covered during your trip to the Philippines.
Is travel insurance valid throughout all regions of the Philippines?
Most travel insurance is valid nationwide, but always review the fine print. Some policies may exclude coverage in areas with government advisories against all travel, such as parts of Mindanao. Make sure your insurer does not restrict claims for travel in regions listed under Canadian government warnings.
What is the average price of travel insurance for the Philippines from Canada?
The cost typically ranges from CAD 60 to CAD 140 for a three-week stay, depending on your age, coverage limits, and supplementary options. Prices may be higher if you require extended coverage or add-on benefits, so compare policies to find the protection that fits your needs and budget.
Are adventure activities in the Philippines covered by travel insurance?
Not all policies automatically cover activities like scuba diving, surfing, or trekking. If you plan to participate in adventure or water sports, check whether your insurance covers injuries or accidents related to these activities. You may need to purchase additional coverage to ensure you are protected during such activities.
Do I need a visa to travel to Philippines?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa to visit the Philippines for tourism if their stay is 30 days or less. You must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure and a return or onward ticket. For longer stays, a visa extension must be arranged through Philippine immigration after arrival.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Philippines?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to compare available offers. Second, check the coverage and exclusions, focusing on guarantees for medical expenses, evacuation, and theft in the Philippines. Third, buy your chosen policy online. Fourth, you will quickly receive your travel insurance certificate by email.
What should I check in my travel insurance policy for the Philippines?
Check that your policy includes adequate coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation, as healthcare quality can vary, especially outside major cities. Consider coverage for trip cancellation, lost luggage, and personal liability. Always read the exclusions to understand what is not covered during your trip to the Philippines.
Is travel insurance valid throughout all regions of the Philippines?
Most travel insurance is valid nationwide, but always review the fine print. Some policies may exclude coverage in areas with government advisories against all travel, such as parts of Mindanao. Make sure your insurer does not restrict claims for travel in regions listed under Canadian government warnings.
What is the average price of travel insurance for the Philippines from Canada?
The cost typically ranges from CAD 60 to CAD 140 for a three-week stay, depending on your age, coverage limits, and supplementary options. Prices may be higher if you require extended coverage or add-on benefits, so compare policies to find the protection that fits your needs and budget.
Are adventure activities in the Philippines covered by travel insurance?
Not all policies automatically cover activities like scuba diving, surfing, or trekking. If you plan to participate in adventure or water sports, check whether your insurance covers injuries or accidents related to these activities. You may need to purchase additional coverage to ensure you are protected during such activities.
On the same topic
