- The best travel insurance plans for pre existing medical conditions
- What is pre existing medical conditions travel insurance?
- The price of travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions
- Travel insurance coverage for pre existing medical conditions
- The Conditions of Travel Insurance for pre existing medical conditions
- The importance of travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions
- How to choose the right travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions
- Travel Insurance Coverage for pre existing medical conditions Under Your Current Policies
- FAQ
pre existing medical conditions travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: This insurance covers emergency medical costs for health conditions that existed before your trip began.
2. Price: For a one-week trip to Europe, expect to pay between $150 and $350 CAD for this coverage.
3. Coverage: It covers declared stable conditions but excludes unstable conditions, undeclared issues, and routine care.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Provincial plans (e.g., OHIP, RAMQ) and credit cards offer little to no coverage for pre-existing conditions abroad.
5. Tips: Always confirm your condition's stability period in writing and disclose your full medical history to the insurer.
6. Other useful info: Your condition must be considered 'stable' for a set period (e.g., 90-180 days) before your departure.
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 pre-existing medical conditions.
The best travel insurance plans for pre existing medical conditions
Here is a selection of the best travel insurance plans for pre existing medical conditions available for residents of Canada in 2025.
These policies stand out for their high medical limits, low deductibles and flexible terms, providing optimal protection for travellers with pre existing medical conditions.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $5,000,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Covers stable pre existing conditions. • Direct billing with hospitals. • Multilingual emergency support. • Medical teleconsultation included. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $5,000,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • No deductible for eligible claims. • Quick claims process. • 24/7 medical hotline. • Cancellation and delay coverage. |
| Tourist Card | $1,000,000 CAD | $0 – $250 CAD | • May cover stable pre existing conditions. • Trip interruption protection. • Easy online enrolment. • Baggage and liability included. |
| World Travel | $1,000,000 CAD (Canada/USA), $500,000 CAD (others) | $50 – $250 CAD | • Worldwide coverage. • Emergency medical transport. • Covers stable pre existing for certain ages. • Digital claims submission. |
| Globe Partner | $500,000 CAD | $0 – $250 CAD | • May cover some stable pre existing conditions. • 24/7 assistance. • Direct hospital payment. • Simple online purchase process. |
| Globe Traveller | $500,000 CAD | $0 – $250 CAD | • Suitable for long trips or seniors. • Covers emergency repatriation. • Multi-language support. • Optional trip curtailment coverage. |
• Direct billing with hospitals.
• Multilingual emergency support.
• Medical teleconsultation included.
• Quick claims process.
• 24/7 medical hotline.
• Cancellation and delay coverage.
• Trip interruption protection.
• Easy online enrolment.
• Baggage and liability included.
• Emergency medical transport.
• Covers stable pre existing for certain ages.
• Digital claims submission.
• 24/7 assistance.
• Direct hospital payment.
• Simple online purchase process.
• Covers emergency repatriation.
• Multi-language support.
• Optional trip curtailment coverage.
The best pre existing medical conditions travel insurance will depend on your individual needs. We invite you to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find the plan that suits you best and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareWhat is pre existing medical conditions travel insurance?
Pre existing medical conditions travel insurance is a type of insurance specifically designed to cover travelers whose health issues were diagnosed or treated before their trip.
It provides emergency medical coverage for those conditions while abroad, along with standard travel benefits such as medical repatriation and trip interruption.
This protection is essential for Canadians with ongoing medical needs, as standard travel insurance usually excludes such conditions unless stability requirements are met.
This coverage is often offered as an option or add-on to a standard travel insurance policy.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out pre-existing medical conditions travel insurance is especially important for travellers from Canada:
- For any recent diagnosis, surgery, or change in medication.
- If you manage a chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease.
- When travelling to a country with high medical costs like the USA.
- To cover cancellation costs if your condition flares up before departure.
- If you are an older Canadian traveller, as medical risks increase.
- When your condition may not meet a policy's required stability period.
- If you take any regular prescription medication for an ongoing condition.
The price of travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions
On average, travel insurance covering pre existing medical conditions costs between 7% and 15% of your total trip price.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| One-week trip to the USA with diabetes | $ 2,800 | $ 80 to 180 |
| Two-week tour in Europe with heart condition | $ 5,000 | $ 150 to 350 |
| One-month stay in Mexico after cancer treatment | $ 6,500 | $ 250 to 600 |
| Three-month snowbird trip to Florida with COPD | $ 11,000 | $ 700 to 2,000 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your pre existing medical conditions travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer the trip, the higher the insurance premium.
- destination: countries with high healthcare costs, such as the USA, will increase the price.
- traveller’s age and medical history: older travelers or those with recent hospitalizations or changes in treatment pay more.
- condition and stability period: coverage is more expensive for complex conditions or those not stable for long periods.
- coverage level and options: higher medical limits, no deductible, and extra benefits raise the cost.
Travel insurance coverage for pre existing medical conditions
pre existing medical conditions travel insurance is a specialized policy designed for people with ongoing or past health issues or illnesses.
It provides coverage for medical emergencies that may arise from those conditions while travelling outside Canada.
Premiums and eligibility depend on the stability and type of the condition declared.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund of prepaid costs if you must cancel due to a flare-up or complication. | Choose at least $5,000 per trip and avoid deductibles above $100. Undeclared conditions, changes in medication, and non-medical reasons are often excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Covers extra transport if you miss your flight due to a covered medical event. | A minimum of $500 per claim is recommended, with no deductible. Not covered for missed connections unrelated to a medical issue. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for hospitals, doctors, ambulances abroad, if related to pre existing medical conditions. | Look for at least $5M per person, with a deductible under $500. Unstable conditions, undisclosed illness, or experimental treatments are excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Transport home to Canada if your medical situation requires emergency repatriation. | Choose coverage of at least $200,000 per trip, ideally unlimited, and no deductible. Not covered if repatriation is not medically necessary or is refused. |
| 💊 Emergency prescription drugs | Covers necessary prescription medication if you need urgent treatment for your existing condition. | At least $10,000 per trip, with a maximum deductible of $100 is best. Ongoing and non-emergency prescriptions are not included. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Pays urgent dental costs if related to a pre existing condition or injury. | Pick at least $1,000 per person, with low or no deductible. Planned treatments, chronic dental issues, and cosmetic care are excluded. |
| 🧑⚕️ Paramedical services | Provides for physio, chiro, or specialist fees after an acute event abroad. | A minimum of $1,000 coverage, deductible under $50 is advised. Routine ongoing therapy and non-emergency appointments are excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Compensation for meals and accommodation if your trip is delayed due to a medical event. | Seek $500 or more per person, without deductible. Delays due to weather or airline strikes are usually excluded. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or delay | Compensation if your medication, equipment, or luggage is lost or delayed. | A limit of $1,500 per trip usually suffices, with deductible below $75. Unattended bags and non-essential items are not covered. |
| ⚖️ Personal liability | Coverage if you injure someone or damage property while travelling. | Recommend at least $500,000 per event and deductible below $100. Intentional acts, family claims, and business activities are excluded. |
Undeclared conditions, changes in medication, and non-medical reasons are often excluded.
Not covered for missed connections unrelated to a medical issue.
Unstable conditions, undisclosed illness, or experimental treatments are excluded.
Not covered if repatriation is not medically necessary or is refused.
Ongoing and non-emergency prescriptions are not included.
Planned treatments, chronic dental issues, and cosmetic care are excluded.
Routine ongoing therapy and non-emergency appointments are excluded.
Delays due to weather or airline strikes are usually excluded.
Unattended bags and non-essential items are not covered.
Intentional acts, family claims, and business activities are excluded.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the pre existing medical conditions travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The Conditions of Travel Insurance for pre existing medical conditions
Pre existing medical conditions travel insurance in Canada is subject to several important conditions for coverage to apply.
- Full disclosure: you must declare all relevant medical history and health changes to the insurer when purchasing your policy.
- Stability period: most policies require your condition to be stable for a set time, often 30, 90, or 180 days before departure.
- Medical questionnaire: insurers may require you to complete a health questionnaire or assessment as part of the application process.
- Age restrictions: coverage terms and availability may be affected by your age, often after age 60 or 65.
- No recent hospitalisation or change: you must not have been recently hospitalized or had a change in medication or treatment within the stability period.
- Written confirmation: you should obtain written proof from the insurer that your pre existing medical conditions are covered.
- Coverage limits: policies may cap the amount covered for claims related to pre existing conditions, so review these limits.
- Trip duration compliance: the duration of your trip must not exceed the number of days permitted by your insurance contract.
Watch out!
Many Canadians assume they're covered for a pre-existing condition if they feel well. However, policies require a 'stability period' with no new symptoms or medication changes before your trip. Even a minor dosage adjustment can void your coverage, leaving you with massive medical bills.
The importance of travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions
Even for travelers with pre existing medical conditions, unexpected illnesses or accidents can lead to very high medical bills abroad.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Heart attack (hospitalization, 3 days) |
| Up to $10,000,000, depending on policy |
| Asthma attack (emergency room and medication) |
| Usually 100%, often subject to stability requirements |
| Stroke (hospitalization, diagnosis and treatment) |
| Commonly up to $5,000,000 or more |
| Prescription drugs for chronic illness (per course) |
| Typically covered up to $5,000–$50,000, as per policy |
| Repatriation for serious medical condition |
| Up to 100% if medically necessary and stable |
- Europe: $10,000
- North America: $30,000
- Asia: $7,000
- Europe: $500
- North America: $2,000
- Asia: $300
- Europe: $15,000
- North America: $40,000
- Asia: $10,000
- Europe: $150
- North America: $400
- Asia: $50
- Europe: $20,000
- North America: $50,000
- Asia: $15,000
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
In addition to medical expenses, pre existing medical conditions travel insurance may also include trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, civil liability coverage, 24/7 emergency support and coverage for companion care or early return when needed during your journey.
Good to know
Your provincial plan won't cover you abroad, where a simple asthma attack can cost over $2,000. Don't risk financial ruin over a medical flare-up. Specialized policies, like those from AVA Assurances, ensure your pre-existing condition is covered so you can travel with peace of mind.
How to choose the right travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions
The amount reimbursed and coverage conditions for pre existing medical conditions travel insurance can vary significantly between plans. Knowing which criteria to compare is essential to get protection that matches your situation, especially for Canadians needing coverage abroad.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Reimbursement limits | Low limits can leave you underinsured for serious emergencies linked to your condition | Choose the highest available limit, ideally at least $5,000,000, especially for pre existing medical conditions. |
| 🏥 Policy conditions | Policies may exclude unstable or recent diagnoses, affecting claim eligibility | Check the required stability period before departure and be sure your condition is declared as stable. |
| 💉 Deductible | Higher deductibles mean higher out-of-pocket costs if you have an emergency | Prefer plans with no deductible or as low as possible to reduce your direct costs if you need care abroad. |
| ⏳ Stability period | The insurer's definition of “stable” varies and directly impacts your eligibility | Always confirm the exact stability period required, commonly 30 to 180 days, and ensure you comply. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Older travelers face more exclusions and higher rates, especially with complex histories | Check if insurers place age limits or charge extra for certain ages or pre existing medical conditions. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Some insurers limit coverage or price increases for certain countries | Ensure your policy is valid where you travel, and that repatriation to Canada is included in all situations. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Some plans only cover short trips or have a maximum trip length for pre existing issues | Choose a policy that matches your full trip length, with no gaps for longer or multi-country travel. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Overlapping coverage can cause confusion during claims or offer less protection | Compare current bank card or group coverage to specialized travel insurance for pre existing conditions. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Fast online sign-up makes it easier to obtain timely proof of coverage | Opt for insurers offering instant online certificates and clear digital access to policy documents. |
Travel Insurance Coverage for pre existing medical conditions Under Your Current Policies
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances, like credit card insurances or public health system, can offer you a pre existing medical conditions travel insurance, but unfortunately it is often not enough.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | pre existing medical conditions travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (OHIP, RAMQ) | Never | No emergency medical or pre existing condition care abroad. No repatriation, no hospital coverage, no emergency, or medication reimbursement outside Canada. | Travel insurance can cover up to $10,000,000 for emergency medical, plus repatriation, stable pre existing, and more. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life) | Almost Never | Some add-ons for stable pre existing, up to $5,000,000, strict requirements apply. No unstable condition coverage, limited trip cancellation or interruption. | Travel insurance includes higher limits and waiver for stable pre existing, plus trip interruption and hospital direct pay. |
| Classic credit card (RBC Avion Visa, TD First Class Travel Visa) | Never | Emergency medical up to $2,000,000 for new issues, excludes pre existing. No pre existing condition coverage, no evacuation, and no medical follow-up. | Travel insurance extends protection to pre existing, covers evacuation up to $500,000, and prescription drugs. |
| Premium credit card (BMO World Elite Mastercard, CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite) | Almost Never | Emergency medical for new conditions only, up to $5,000,000, trip duration limits. No coverage for declared or undeclared pre existing conditions. | Travel insurance covers lengthy trips, stable pre existing up to $10,000,000, and offers global travel assistance. |
No repatriation, no hospital coverage, no emergency, or medication reimbursement outside Canada.
No unstable condition coverage, limited trip cancellation or interruption.
No pre existing condition coverage, no evacuation, and no medical follow-up.
No coverage for declared or undeclared pre existing conditions.
Expert advice
Many bank cards and health plans exclude key situations like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness. Read your policy carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Is pre existing medical conditions travel insurance mandatory?
Travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions is usually not mandatory, but it can be required by some countries before issuing a visa—such as Cuba, Thailand, or the Schengen Area in Europe. In most cases, it is not legally required but strongly recommended. For example, if you are traveling to the United States and need care for a heart condition during your trip, insurance can prevent tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs.
When is it recommended to purchase pre existing medical conditions travel insurance?
It is best to purchase travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions as soon as you book your trip. Buying early ensures you are covered for cancellations and medical emergencies, including issues related to your condition. Some policies require you to buy within a specific window after booking (often 7–14 days) to waive exclusions for pre existing conditions or to access “Cancel For Any Reason” benefits.
How do I purchase pre existing medical conditions travel insurance?
- Compare policies and prices using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool online.2. Carefully check all policy guarantees, stability period requirements, and exclusions for pre existing medical conditions.3. Purchase your chosen plan directly online in just a few minutes.4. Once payment is completed, you will receive your insurance certificate by email for your records and visa applications.
Can I purchase pre existing medical conditions travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can purchase pre existing medical conditions travel insurance after booking your trip, but it is important to do so as early as possible. Waiting too long may mean you miss eligibility for certain coverages, especially for trip cancellation or pre existing condition waivers. Always check the insurer’s deadline for adding coverage after booking to ensure full protection.
How do I make a claim for a medical emergency related to a pre existing condition?
If you need to make a claim, contact your insurer’s 24/7 emergency assistance line immediately for guidance. Gather all necessary documents, such as medical reports, receipts, and your policy number. Follow the insurer’s instructions to submit your claim, either online or by mail. Claims for pre existing conditions may require extra documents, such as a physician’s letter confirming your condition’s stability.
Are there age restrictions for pre existing medical conditions travel insurance in Canada?
Most insurers offer coverage for all ages, but travelers over 60, 70, or 80 may face additional requirements, higher premiums, or stricter stability period rules. Some plans have upper age limits, while others require a detailed medical questionnaire for seniors. Always verify age conditions with the insurer before you buy.
What happens if my medical condition changes before my trip?
If your health status or medication changes before you travel, you must notify your insurer as soon as possible. A change in your condition could affect your eligibility or coverage, especially if it makes your condition “unstable.” Failure to update your insurer could lead to claim denial for any issues arising from the changed condition. Always keep documentation from your doctor regarding any changes.
Is pre existing medical conditions travel insurance mandatory?
Travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions is usually not mandatory, but it can be required by some countries before issuing a visa—such as Cuba, Thailand, or the Schengen Area in Europe. In most cases, it is not legally required but strongly recommended. For example, if you are traveling to the United States and need care for a heart condition during your trip, insurance can prevent tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs.
When is it recommended to purchase pre existing medical conditions travel insurance?
It is best to purchase travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions as soon as you book your trip. Buying early ensures you are covered for cancellations and medical emergencies, including issues related to your condition. Some policies require you to buy within a specific window after booking (often 7–14 days) to waive exclusions for pre existing conditions or to access “Cancel For Any Reason” benefits.
How do I purchase pre existing medical conditions travel insurance?
- Compare policies and prices using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool online.2. Carefully check all policy guarantees, stability period requirements, and exclusions for pre existing medical conditions.3. Purchase your chosen plan directly online in just a few minutes.4. Once payment is completed, you will receive your insurance certificate by email for your records and visa applications.
Can I purchase pre existing medical conditions travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can purchase pre existing medical conditions travel insurance after booking your trip, but it is important to do so as early as possible. Waiting too long may mean you miss eligibility for certain coverages, especially for trip cancellation or pre existing condition waivers. Always check the insurer’s deadline for adding coverage after booking to ensure full protection.
How do I make a claim for a medical emergency related to a pre existing condition?
If you need to make a claim, contact your insurer’s 24/7 emergency assistance line immediately for guidance. Gather all necessary documents, such as medical reports, receipts, and your policy number. Follow the insurer’s instructions to submit your claim, either online or by mail. Claims for pre existing conditions may require extra documents, such as a physician’s letter confirming your condition’s stability.
Are there age restrictions for pre existing medical conditions travel insurance in Canada?
Most insurers offer coverage for all ages, but travelers over 60, 70, or 80 may face additional requirements, higher premiums, or stricter stability period rules. Some plans have upper age limits, while others require a detailed medical questionnaire for seniors. Always verify age conditions with the insurer before you buy.
What happens if my medical condition changes before my trip?
If your health status or medication changes before you travel, you must notify your insurer as soon as possible. A change in your condition could affect your eligibility or coverage, especially if it makes your condition “unstable.” Failure to update your insurer could lead to claim denial for any issues arising from the changed condition. Always keep documentation from your doctor regarding any changes.
