china travel medical insurance

China Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for china.

Home to the Great Wall of China, a major tourist attraction for Americans. Tourists can also experience China’s multi-faceted cultures, history, and Asian cuisine.

Before you pack your bags to Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai or other parts of the country, travel insurance is a valuable coverage that adds protection over your trip.

• What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to China? 
• How does Travel Insurance for China Work?
• Do I need Travel Insurance for China? 
• How much does Travel Insurance cost for China? 
• Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan
• What types of medical coverage does AXA Travel Protection plans offer?

Are There Any COVID-19 Restrictions for Travelers to China?

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions , what should your travel insurance cover for a trip to china.

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage. AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.

• Medical Coverage   – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions  – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation   – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings  – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason  – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for China.

How Does Travel Insurance for China Work?

Fortunately, China is a fairly safe travel destination, although small risks such as petty theft and pickpocketing have been known to occur in public spaces and on public transportation. If your passport or other identification ends up missing on the train from Beijing to the Gobi Desert, your AXA Travel Protection Plan will help you replace your documents. Here is how travelers can benefit from an AXA Travel Protection Plan:

Medical Benefits:

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms. 

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations. 

Post-Departure Travel Benefits

• Trip Interruption: In case of an unexpected event, you could be eligible for reimbursement for the unused portion of your trip.
• Missed Connection: If you miss a connecting flight due to delays or cancellations, this coverage may help with expenses like rebooking fees and accommodations.

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings. 

Additional Optional Travel Benefits 

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver) : Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days : Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days : Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures. 

Do I Need Travel Insurance for China?

While the Chinese government does not require travelers to purchase travel insurance , it offers valuable protection when you are far from home on an overseas trip. Unexpected issues are less problematic when you can rely on your travel insurance plan to help assist you with issues that may come up. Why? There are several reasons:

Trip Interruption: Severe weather, illness or another eligible event may disrupt your trip or cause you to end it sooner than you planned. Travel insurance may pay reasonable expenses according to the per-day limit and maximum benefit.

Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without your essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.

Missed Connections: Direct flights to China are available but some travelers may have connecting flights. If you miss a connection because of unforeseen circumstances, travel insurance can pay reasonable expenses up to a daily limit for meals, transportation and accommodations.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for China?

In general, travel insurance costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans: 

• Total Trip cost:  The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc. 
• Age:  Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Spain will be offered three tiers of insurance:  Silver,   Gold  and  Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan 

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the  Silver Plan , Gold Plan , and Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Argentina hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.

Broader coverage is available under the Platinum Plan which is a good choice for China travelers who want additional coverage. For example, Cancel for Any Reason is an optional coverage that offers greater flexibility to travelers. The Collision Damage Waiver coverage is another option, and it covers collision, theft or damage to a car you rent for your China trip.

With over 500 golf courses to explore, China is a golfer’s paradise, and Lost Golf Rounds can pay up to $500 per day if you have to cancel a tee time due to weather or some other unexpected reason.

What Types of Medical Coverage Do AXA Travel Protection Plans Offer?

AXA covers three types of medical expenses: Emergency medical Emergency evacuation & repatriation Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation.

Emergency Medical: Can cover illnesses such as heart or breathing problems and injuries such as a broken arm or back pain.

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: Can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness. 

Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: Can cover evacuation expenses if you need to leave the country at the last minute due to a non-medical event such as an earthquake, fire or flood.

The People’s Republic of China requires travelers from the United States to present a negative COVID-19 test and they screen passengers for a fever via a scanner. Their entry and exit requirements and quarantine requirements are subject to change so check the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in China regularly prior to your trip.

Traveling with preexisting medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we are here to support you during your trip. Our Gold and Platinum Plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

The Platinum plan is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons, What does this mean for you? If you have got a medical condition that has been hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plan with a preexising medical condition, so long as it is within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We are here to make sure you travel with ease, no matter your health situation.

1.Can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight?

You can buy travel insurance even after your flight is booked.

2.When should I buy Travel Insurance to China?

It is advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.) AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip. Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14-days of making your initial trip deposit.

3.Do Americans need travel insurance in China?

No, travel insurance is not currently required to visit China, although you may find it valuable.

4.What is needed to visit China from the USA?

If you are visiting China from the USA, all you need is a passport that is valid for at least six months. Be sure to carry it with you at all times.

5.What happens if a tourist gets sick in China?

If you become sick in China, travelers with AXA Travel protection can contact the AXA Assistance hotline 855-327-1442 . Contact information is typically provided within the insurance documentation. Please ensure to read through your policy details and information.  

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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Travel insurance for China (what you need to know)

Posted by Mike Cairnduff | Updated March 19, 2023 | Travel

Don’t leave for China without travel insurance.

The Chinese medical system is not the same as back home. Hefty medical costs may be required upfront, and English may not be spoken.

So, if something bad were to happen, would you be able to cope – both mentally and financially – if you didn’t have cover?

In this article, I’ll share information about China travel insurance, health and safety tips, as well as links where you can get a quote and buy an insurance plan.

Do I need travel insurance for China?

If you’re not insured and you get injured, you could be up for thousands. Image by George Rudy on Shutterstock.

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory for China.

However, it’s recommended if you want cover for medical treatment while you’re there, which can be very expensive.

Accidents and medical emergencies happen all the time in China, and foreigners are not immune.

Whether you’re in Beijing or Shanghai, or somewhere off the beaten track, paying a little bit of money upfront for insurance can save you from potentially forking out thousands of dollars for medical care.

Hopefully you don’t need to use your travel health insurance in China. But it’s nice knowing it’s there if you do need it.

What’s the best travel insurance for China?

I recommend VisitorsCoverage when traveling to China.

With VisitorsCoverage, it’s easy to find, compare and buy the best travel insurance for your China trip.

For total peace of mind, a comprehensive plan is best for China. It’s especially recommended if you have any pre-existing conditions or if you’re elderly.

If you’re looking for basic coverage at an affordable price, a limited plan may suit you best.

It really depends on your personal circumstances (such as your health), how long you’re going for, and how much money you want to spend to look after you and your loved ones.

What’s the cheapest travel insurance for China?

If you want basic coverage and limited benefits, you can choose a limited plan with VisitorsCoverage . This is also known as a fixed benefit plan.

Just keep in mind that the cheapest plan may not include things like COVID-19 treatment or pre-existing conditions.

Whenever I travel to China, I take out comprehensive insurance and I’m relatively fit and healthy. I never scrimp and save when it comes to my health.

To keep your premium low, you can also choose a higher deductible no matter the plan.

Cover for COVID-19 in China

Do you want cover for COVID-19 treatment in China?

If so, simply choose a travel insurance medical plan with VisitorsCoverage that includes this benefit. You’ll find these plans clearly marked with a green tick.

You can also select a plan that doesn’t include COVID-19. Generally, these plans are a bit cheaper.

For me, it’s a no brainer. Cover for COVID-19 in China is a must-have!

Cover for medical evacuation from China

In the best interests of your health, sometimes you need to return home straight away.

Medical evacuation from China can be super expensive. That’s why it’s important to check that your insurance policy includes this benefit.

Sometimes it’s referred to as medevac insurance.

What are medical facilities like in China?

The quality of medical care depends on where you are in China. Image by Junrong on Shutterstock.

China has international-standard hospitals and medical services. However, treatment can be expensive which is why taking out travel insurance is recommended.

Some hospitals in the biggest cities, like Shanghai and Beijing, even have special departments for treating foreigners.

Outside major cities, however, the standard of medical care and the range of medications may be limited. Medical staff in rural areas may not be trained to the standard you’re used to.

Hospitals may ask for cash up-front before treating you.

Health and safety tips for China

Take care while traveling in China. Image by Elizaveta Galitckaia on Shutterstock.

China is a safe destination for travelers.

Having said that, it’s always worth taking extra care when you’re traveling overseas. Here are some tips to help you.

There’s still a risk that you can get COVID-19 in China and become very sick. Try to avoid very crowded places if you can (this can be hard in China!).

If you test positive for COVID-19 and your symptoms are mild, you should rest in your hotel or hostel until you feel better.

However, there are no longer any legal requirements to self-quarantine, so you’re free to keep sightseeing if you choose. Just make sure you wear a mask to help protect others.

If your symptoms are more serious and you’re very sick, you should see a doctor straight away.

Food and drink

To minimize your chance of getting a tummy bug or food poisoning, eat thoroughly cooked food that has been prepared in hygienic conditions.

Please don’t drink the tap water in China. It’s unsafe to drink, even in hotels. You should drink bottled water instead, which is available everywhere.

It’s OK to brush your teeth with the tap water – just don’t swallow it.

Stay away from both domestic and wild animals in China as you can get sick or even die if you’re bitten.

For example, you could get rabies from a pet dog or cat. And, people have died from bird flu in China, so stay away from live poultry too.

Insect-borne diseases

Japanese encephalitis and malaria exist in southern China, particularly in rural areas in the warmer summer months.

Dengue fever cases have also recently risen sharply , especially in Guangdong. Risks increase during the wet season.

There are numerous vaccinations for China you should get, depending on which parts of the country you’re visiting and the time of year. You can also protect yourself from insects by using repellent and covering up.

Sexually transmitted diseases

If you’re going to have sex with a local, make sure you use protection. HIV/AIDS is a significant risk in China.

And, although prostitution in China exists, it’s actually banned and there are severe penalties if you get caught including fines and deportation.

Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly throughout your trip.

Public toilets in China can be unhygienic, and there is usually no toilet paper or hand soap. You’ll need to bring your own paper and hand sanitizer.

Chinese roads are busy and accidents happen all the time, so take care when crossing the road. Cars may not stop for you, even at pedestrian crossings.

If you plan on riding an e-bike or e-scooter in China, make sure your insurance plan covers these kinds of vehicles. And always wear a helmet!

High pollution in China is a big problem in many cities, particularly if you have pre-existing conditions or respiratory issues. Consider buying a face mask that blocks out pollution, and stay indoors on the worst days.

You can check this page for the latest pollution levels in the cities you’re traveling to.

Altitude sickness

Some regions in China , such as Tibet and Qinghai, are at altitudes of over 3,000 m (almost 10,000 ft). Altitude sickness is common among travelers to these areas.

Take plenty of rests especially if you have pre-existing conditions such as heart or respiratory problems.

Psst! A quick travel tip

Download a VPN before you arrive in China. Image by Gemmy on Shutterstock.

You may not have heard that the Chinese internet is censored.

So, when using Wi-Fi, you won’t have access to your favorite sites and apps like Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Gmail, Google and heaps more, unless you get a VPN before you arrive.

You can read my review about the best China VPN (or skip the review and go straight here ).

A summary of travel insurance for China

Too long, didn’t read? Here are the most important bits.

Although travel insurance isn’t an entry requirement for China, it’s recommended you get cover. If something bad were to happen to you in China, you could be up for thousands of dollars as medical care can be expensive there.

With VisitorsCoverage , there are two main types of medical insurance for China – comprehensive and limited.

Comprehensive gives the best level of protection. Just make sure it includes everything you need, such as COVID-19 and medical evacuation cover.

Although China is a safe place to visit, accidents happen all the time, and there are risks associated with other people, food, animals, insects, traffic, hygiene and pollution.

That’s why having travel insurance for China is so important.

Heading to China soon?

As well as getting medical insurance, make sure you’ve got the other essentials sorted:

• Visa – if you’re only staying for a few days, you may be eligible for visa-free travel .
• Payments – your credit card may not be accepted, so bring yuan or get Alipay .
• Packing – knowing what to pack can be hard, so use the China packing list .

Have an amazing, safe time in China. And don’t forget your travel insurance!

Help in China

Here are some helpful, local phone numbers if you need help in China.

Emergency assistance

• Medical – call 120
• Police – call 110
• Fire – call 119

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number as well.

• United States: +86 10 8531 3000
• United Kingdom: +86 10 5192 4000
• India: +86 10 8531 2500
• Canada: +86 10 5139 4000
• Australia: +86 10 5140 4111
• Singapore: +86 10 6532 1115
• Indonesia: +86 10 6532 5486
• Germany: +86 10 8532 9000

You can look up your country’s embassy or consulate in China here .

FAQ about travel insurance for China

Is travel insurance required for china.

No, it’s not required to enter China. However, it’s recommended if you want to avoid paying potentially huge medical bills if something bad were to happen.

Why would I need travel insurance for China?

It’s worth getting travel insurance for China in case you get sick or injured while you’re there. A suitable insurance plan can cover big medical expenses if you end up in a Chinese hospital and require care. If you don’t have travel insurance and something happens to you, then you could be up for significant out-of-pocket costs, which you may have to pay upfront.

What’s China’s medical system like?

China has an advanced medical and hospital system, despite the fact that it’s still classed as a developing country. Medical facilities in the big cities like Beijing and Shanghai are better than those in smaller towns.

Is China a Schengen country?

No, China isn’t part of the Schengen area. This means if you’re traveling to Europe on a Schengen visa (with Schengen travel insurance) and China is included on the trip, then you wouldn’t be covered in China unless you took out separate insurance.

Can I take out Beijing travel insurance?

Not specifically. Your travel insurance plan would cover all of China, not just Beijing. This is actually beneficial as you make take trips to other cities in the country.

The China travel insurance information on this page is a brief summary only and does not take into account your individual circumstances. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage, terms, conditions and exclusions. Coverage may not be available in your jurisdiction.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CHINA

Get the peace of mind you need in China with VisitorsCoverage.

Main image credit: Humphery on Shutterstock.

Commercial relationship disclosure: The Helpful Panda has commercial arrangements with organizations that may appear on this page, such as affiliate links. See our terms for more info.

Mike Cairnduff

Mike has lived and worked in China, and has traveled extensively across the country. He loves Chinese food and has a keen interest in Chinese culture. You can follow him on X and LinkedIn .

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Safety Tips and Travel Insurance for Visitors China

China is a hot new destination for world travelers and visitors in more ways than one. Travel here is booming. It is the 4th most visited destination in the world (after traveling to France , the travel to the United States , and travel to Spain ). The country also ranks first in the world regarding the travel industry’s contribution to employment. And it’s a country on the cutting edge of cuisine, fashion, technology, and entertainment.

China wasn’t always so accessible. In fact, between 1949 and 1974, the tourism industry was closed to all but select foreign visitors. And today’s tourists are often playing catch up when it comes to their knowledge about the country. Our guide to China covers Chinese travel insurance  and safety advice to help every traveler have the best possible trip.

Travel Insurance for China

When traveling to China, you will want one of two different types of coverage. Travel medical insurance plans cover medical emergencies and offer additional benefits like medical evacuation and trip interruption coverage. Your other option, trip cancellation insurance , offers the same benefits but also covers the cost of your flight to Asia and other travel expenses.

Travel Medical Insurance Plans for Visitors

Comprehensive travel medical insurance is essential in China. The treatment at the best private hospitals is extremely expensive compared to the more basic public hospitals. And if serious health services are needed in a remote area, expensive airlift services are required. It’s best to be prepared. Choose a travel insurance policy from a company that includes translation services, medical evacuation, and private hospitals to maximize your comfort. Both include cover for Covid-19 (Coronavirus).

For all nationalities (excluding Canada and Australia) the Atlas Travel Insurance plan is an excellent option, providing affordable healthcare in China for visitors and a wide range of benefits.

• Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
• Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
• Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
• 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance

Another excellent option with affordable coverage is the Liaison Travel insurance plan.

Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance

• Comprehensive medical coverage with benefits up to $5,000,000.
• Adventure activities coverage available.
• Emergency Medical Evacuation protection up to $500,000.

Trip Can Insurance for US Citizens Traveling to China

We recommend Seven Corners travel insurance for US citizens traveling to China. An alternative option would be the GeoBlue Voyager plan which offers comprehensive travel medical benefits but does not include trip cancellation benefits.

Seven Corners Trip Protection Insurance

• Comprehensive trip protection for U.S. residents traveling abroad.
• Optional rental car collision coverage available.
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage available (if eligible).

GeoBlue Voyager Plan

• For U.S. citizens up to age 95
• Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
• 24/7/365 service and assistance

Medical Insurance in China for Foreigners

If you are looking for health insurance for foreigners living in China , the Cigna Global Plan is a comprehensive annually renewable plan. This plan provides an unlimited amount of coverage annually, and benefits include cover for doctor office visits expenses, prescription drugs, maternity, surgery, hospitalizations, diagnostic testing, lab work, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation, etc. This plan will cover your medical expenses all over the world – including China – and you can choose to include or exclude the US in coverage. Learn more about international health insurance plans.

Cigna Global Insurance Plan

• The flexibility to tailor a plan to suit your individual needs
• Access to Cigna Global’s trusted network of hospitals and doctors
• The convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service

Related: Expatriate Insurance Plans

General Travel Tips and Safety Advice for Visitors to China

China is larger and more diverse – in ethnicity, in geography, in food, in tradition – than most travelers realize. Regardless of where you visit, keep these tips in mind.

Work hard to break the language barrier. English language skills are growing rapidly, especially among young people and urban dwellers. However, knowing several basic Mandarin phrases is invaluable. Hire a tutor for the most efficient learning experience. Even a few hours of free online instruction will make a huge difference when you arrive. (And if you need extra motivation, note that a typical scam is taxi drivers who don’t turn on the meter. Ask your tutor for a phrase or two to use in this situation!)

As with travel to all major cities, please keep your wits about you. Pickpockets love large crowds and distracted foreigners. In addition, if you are worried about getting lost and are not sure you will be able to find your way back to your hotel, take a photo of the hotel’s business card (written in Mandarin) and a photo of the exterior.

Research the weather while planning your trip. The country is vast, with an equally significant amount of climate zones. Knowing what to expect will help you have a more comfortable time during your trip.

Make communication plans. Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube are officially banned in China. Make arrangements to keep in touch by email or invest in a VPN (a virtual private network).

Expect pollution and congestion. Air quality is poor to bad in many locations. Smog levels are notorious in China’s cities. The U.S. Embassy in Beijing and U.S. Consulates in Hong Kong, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Shenyang make air quality data available to travelers so they can prepare themselves prior to travel. As well, cigarette smoking is widespread. Speak with your doctor before your trip if you are prone to asthma.

Also Read: Dept. of State Travel Advice for China

Vaccines Required for Visitors to China

Before any trip, check that your routine vaccinations are up to date. This list includes tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, chickenpox, polio, and influenza. Additionally, travelers to China should be vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B. In particular, Hepatitis B is widespread in China, with approximately 10% of the population infected.

The CDC also recommends travelers speak with their doctors about vaccines for typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, Japanese encephalitis, as well as a preventative treatment for malaria. Whether or not you’ll require these different forms of protection depends on where you’ll be traveling and what you’ll be doing.

Depending on where you are traveling to in China, the following diseases are common so take normal precautions:

• hepatitis A and B
• tuberculosis

Diet, Water, and Medication Considerations

Tap water in China is not potable. Bottled water is widely available, as are bottled soft drinks, beer, and hot coffee and tea. Identify safe street food vendors by a long line of locals eager to eat their fare. Look for a very busy cook who is continuously cooking to fill orders (and not letting food sit and cool). Treat undercooked or raw meat and eggs with serious caution.

Most cities, including those in Tibet, Qinghai, parts of Xinjiang, and western Sichuan, are at altitudes over 10,000 feet. Altitude sickness can be a problem so take precautions.

Cash payment for services is often required prior to treatment, including emergency cases. Travelers will be asked to post a deposit prior to admission to cover the expected cost of treatment. Hospitals in major cities may accept credit cards.

When with prescriptions or other medications, always check with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to ensure the medicine or drug is legal in China. Carry prescription medication, along with your prescription, in its original packaging. Many common drugs and medications are not available in China, and counterfeit, low-quality knockoffs are prevalent. If you try to have medications sent to you from outside China, you may have problems getting them released by Chinese Customs, and/or you may have to pay high customs duties.

Your packing list should always include sunscreen, a bug spray with 20% Deet, and a basic first aid kit. Prescription medication must be in the original packaging from the pharmacy, with the prescription label attached.

Emergency Assistance Numbers for Visitors

• Emergency services Beijing: dial 999
• Emergency services Shanghai: Dial 120
• Fire department services: dial 119
• Police services: dial 110

Note: Chinese ambulances can be slow to arrive and often do not have modern medical equipment or trained responders.

Embassies in China

• United States: 86 10 8531-3000
• United Kingdom: 86 10 5192 4000
• Canada: 86 10 5139 4000
• Australia: 86 10 5140 4111
• France: 86 10 8531 2000

Understanding the Chinese Medical System

Healthcare in China is a mix of public and private services. Nearly 95% of the population has some form of basic public health coverage. However, only a portion of the cost associated with personal medical treatment is covered by the public plan. The system is restructuring, in part to shrink the coverage gap between rural and urban regions. Cities like Beijing and Shanghai offer Chinese hospitals world-class care and have excellent specialist services. However, rural regions may have very basic or even essentially non-existent health services.

Traditional medicine has been practiced in China for more than two thousand years. It is often practiced alongside Western techniques and treatments, though not always harmoniously. Few practitioners are equally competent in both fields. In rural areas, health care options are often limited to only traditional medicine, which includes herbal remedies, acupuncture, and acupressure.

Resources for Expats or Visitors to China

• What is the Cost of Living in China
• List of Diplomatic Missions in China – Wikipedia
• Living in China: A Guide to Moving to China as an Expat: Expat Info
• Health Insurance for US Citizens Living Abroad

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8 Reasons You Need Travel Insurance for China

China is a relatively safe country to travel. But it’s also full of adventure, from scenic hikes to interesting street foods. So travel insurance for China is a must.

The sound of sizzling woks and the smell of chili oil emanating from the streets of China. They will undoubtedly make your mouth water. But after devouring some pork dumplings, things may very well take a turn for the worse: an achy, grumbling stomach with waves of nausea that’ll send you straight to the hospital. And, if that happens, you’ll wish you had travel insurance in China.

Travel insurance will cover both your medical bills and protect you against other incidents that could happen in China. The truth is, you never know what could happen to you while traveling. You could hurt yourself hiking up the Great Wall. Or someone could snatch your backpack while your nose is in your camera at the top.

Travel insurance is, by far, the most important thing to take with you on your trip.

Even the best travel insurance only costs a fraction of your total trip. So there’s no reason not to protect yourself by purchasing a plan. In reality, you really can’t afford to travel without it.

What is Travel Insurance?

To put it simply, travel insurance covers the costs of unexpected incidents that happen while you’re traveling.

A great travel insurance policy should include the following coverage:

• Trip cancellation and trip interruption
• Medical emergencies and evacuations
• Stolen, damaged or lost baggage and property

You may already have health insurance in your home country. But your policy probably won’t cover you while you’re in China. For this reason alone, it’s vital to purchase a travel insurance plan.

It’s also important to note that travel insurance covers more than just your health. It’s there to protect you against any hiccups during your trip.

8 Reasons Why You Need Travel Insurance in China

There’s no reason not to purchase a travel insurance plan for China. In fact, I would go so far as to say that travel insurance is worth it and is an absolute necessity when you travel. But here are specific examples of why you should.

Pedestrians in China Do Not Have the Right of Way

Many drivers don’t pay attention. Some disobey traffic signs, frequently running through red lights, turning corners without looking and speeding. This all makes crossing the street a dangerous task for you.

Seatbelts Are Scarce in China

It’s mandatory to wear your seatbelt in the car. But you might not find them in taxis or public buses. In fact, Chinese drivers and passengers rarely buckle their seatbelts at all. Without a seatbelt, you increase your risk of serious injury.

Subway Theft Is Too Easy in China

Subway stations during rush hour can be chaotically overcrowded. With everyone pushing to get on the train, you might not feel someone’s hand slipping your wallet out of your back pocket.

The Water in China Is Questionable at Best

The tap water in China may look clear. But it’s almost always undrinkable. Water quality is not well regulated. And it can contain harmful bacteria and materials. As a result, even the smallest of sips could make you sick.

Chinese Street Food Might Not Sit Well With You

China is known for its endless supply of cheap street foods. However, you don’t know how long those meat skewers or egg tarts have been sitting in the sun. If they aren’t cooked properly, you could get an upset stomach or even food poisoning.

Thieves Could Snatch Your Transportation in China

Bicycles may be a great way to navigate the city. But they’re also prime targets for thieves. Experienced thieves can easily pick the locks or take off with your individual bike parts.

The Air Quality Is Alarmingly Low in China

The air pollution in Beijing can be extremely hazardous to your health. You don’t have to spend extended periods in China to feel its effects. Even if you’re normally healthy, having asthma or other respiratory problems could actually land you in the hospital.

Chinese Airports Are Mayhem

China’s airports are notorious for long delays and even canceled flights. While delayed flights are inconvenient, they could also result in missed connections and lost baggage. This means more money out of your pocket.

What Does Travel Insurance in China Cover?

Travel Insurance policies come in many shapes and sizes. However, the best travel insurance for China should cover the following events.

Trip Cancellation

If for some reason, you are unable to go on your trip to China, the trip cancellation insurance will reimburse any non-refundable costs. The amount of trip cancellation coverage differs between companies and policies. However, you should purchase a travel insurance plan covers the total cost of your trip.

Keep in mind that your reason for canceling needs to be outlined by the insurance company. You can’t just file a travel insurance claim if you found a better deal on a hotel, or if want to take the later flight home.

Some of the most common reasons include illness, the death of a family member and natural disasters.

Trip Interruption

Unfortunately, incidents can happen while you’re already traveling through China. If you have to return home due to an illness or family emergency, travel insurance will cover your costs.

Similar to trip cancellation coverage, a great trip interruption plan should cover the entire cost of your trip.

Medical Emergencies

If you get into an accident or need to see a doctor abroad, medical emergency insurance will cover the cost of your medical bills.

At the very least, you should purchase $100,000 of medical emergency coverage. This amount should cover you for everything from minor doctor visits to severe injuries.

Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

If your illness or injury becomes severe, the hospital in China may not be equipped to handle the emergency. Then you’ll need to be flown back home. In this case, you’ll be thankful to have medical evacuation and repatriation coverage.

Being airlifted to a hospital or flown back home from China is extremely expensive. It can cost thousands of dollars. For this reason, you should have at least $100,000 of evacuation and repatriation coverage.

Lost, Stolen or Damaged Property

Maybe your airlines lost your luggage during your connection from Tokyo. Or perhaps your wallet was nabbed while you were on the train. Either way, your travel insurance should cover the costs.

While you can’t claim items that were left unattended, you can get refunded for stolen or damaged belongings.

The Best Travel Insurance for China

World nomads : the best overall travel insurance for china.

There’s a reason why World Nomads consistently tops our list for best travel insurance. It’s specifically made for travelers and globetrotters. World Nomads is affordable and comprehensive travel insurance for your trip to China.

Even their standard plan comes with extensive coverage. The plan includes $100,000 emergency medical coverage, $300,000 medical evacuation and repatriation, and $1,000 of lost or stolen property.

Unlike other travel insurance companies, World Nomads also covers over 300 sports and activities. That means you’re protected whether you plan to hike the Great Wall or dive the reefs of Hainan.

World Nomads a great choice of travel insurance for China. But it’s also perfect for wherever else you want to travel in the world.

Click here to read our full World Nomads travel insurance review or click the button below to get a quote.

Allianz : The Best China Travel Insurance for Seniors

Exploring the far east is an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages. Unfortunately, there are very few travel insurance companies that cover senior travelers. That’s where Allianz steps in.

Not only is Allianz one of the best names in the biz, but they also offer coverage for travelers of every age. That’s right. There’s no age limit for purchasing an Allianz insurance to travel to China.

Although Allianz offers multiple plans, seniors should invest in the premier policy. With this plan, you’ll get $50,000 medical emergency coverage and a generous $1,000,000 for emergency evacuation.

Click here to read our full Allianz Travel Insurance review or click the button below to get a quote.

InsureMyEquipment : The Best Travel Insurance for Camera Equipment

If you want to photograph the majestic landscapes and temples in China, then remember to purchase travel insurance for your camera equipment. InsureMyEquipment does not offer medical or trip coverage. But it will cover any damage or theft to your valuable electronics.

Most travel insurance policies only reimburse your lost or damaged property up to a certain amount. Unfortunately, this may only cover a small fraction of the total cost of your camera gear.

However, InsureMyEquipment offers specific policies for your camera and other equipment.

How to File a Claim with Your Travel Insurance if Something Goes Wrong in China

Hopefully, your trip to China will go smoothly. If it doesn’t, it’s important that you know how to file a claim.

Keep in mind that every travel insurance company has a slightly different filing process. In general, however, keep in mind the following guidelines.

Note: If it is a serious medical issue, call your travel insurance company immediately.

There is usually a 24-hour assistance hotline for such cases. By calling ahead, you can get information on what hospital is best to visit. Sometimes, you can also get advanced payment from the insurance company. That way, you won’t have to cover everything out of pocket up front.

Take Precautions Before You Travel

Before you leave for your trip, prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

First, store your travel insurance information somewhere accessible. If you didn’t receive a card in the mail, you should be able to print one online. Make sure the card includes your full name and policy number.

Second, fill out the information in your passport. You should typically include your full name, address and phone number. You should also include details of an emergency contact. Always make a copy of your passport information to carry instead of the real thing. This way you can lock up your passport when you don’t need it.

And finally, research the in-network providers in China that accept your travel insurance. If an emergency arises, you’ll have a list of hospitals that you can go to if needed.

Call the Insurance Provider’s Hotline

Good travel insurance in China should have a 24-hour customer service line. To start the claim filing process, call your travel insurance company to inform them of your situation. In fact, the travel insurance representative can also assist with finding the nearest hospital or police station.

In dire situations, go straight to the hospital or local authorities in China. You can always call your insurance provider after.

Document the Incident or Accident with Police and/or Medical Reports

Travel insurance companies require a detailed paper trail. It’s important to collect and save any documentation, receipts or written notices. This way you can submit them to the travel insurance company.

For example, let’s say you need to cancel your trip due to illness. This means you’ll need to submit your trip itinerary and cost breakdown of the nonrefundable flights and hotels. You’ll also need a medical certificate saying you are unable to travel.

Remember, it’s your responsibility to gather the documents from the airline companies, the police or the hospital.

File the Travel Insurance Claim

The process for filing a claim with your insurance provider is easier than ever. Many companies let you submit your claim directly from their website online.

It’s important that you submit your claim to your China travel insurance company quickly. Insurance companies have different timelines for filing claims. But most need to be submitted between 10 and 60 days.

Get Reimbursed

After you’ve filed your claim, you’ll need to wait for the travel insurance company to approve the reimbursement. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

It’s best to file early. And it’s ideal to send as much information as possible to avoid complications. Of course, you have a higher chance of getting approved if you submit your claim on time and with the necessary documentation.

China is a beautiful and exhilarating country. It has something for every type of traveler. After all, it’s huge. With travel insurance and, okay, a lot of time, you can check off everything you want to do.

It’s important to realize that travel insurance isn’t just for China, however. No matter where you travel in the world, you should always go with travel insurance.

China Travel Insurance FAQs

Do i need travel insurance in china.

Yes, you should definitely have travel insurance to travel to China.

Do you need insurance to enter China?

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory to enter China, but it is definitely a good idea.

Do you need health insurance to go to China?

You should buy a good travel medical insurance plan to go to China.

Can US citizens travel to China?

Yes, US citizens can travel to China.

Is it OK to not have travel insurance?

It is never a good idea to not have travel insurance, even if you’ve gotten away with it before.

Tara Burgess

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How to Choose Your Travel Insurance for China (and why you need it)

Note : If you are only interested on getting a free quotation for a travel insurance, then we recommend World Nomads (click here to get your free quotation) .

Travel Insurance for China – Index

Why do i need an health insurance when i travel to china, hospitals in china, privacy at the hospital in china, what insurance do we recommend, what should a good insurance cover, travel insurance for people over the age of 65, what should i do when i need medical assistance, frequently asked questions.

When I decided to go to China for the first time, finding an affordable and comprehensive health insurance was one of my first concerns, as I knew that, while in my country I was covered by the welfare system, in China I was on my own. This also applies to short-term travelers: unless you have international insurance, you won’t be covered while traveling around Asia.

Health insurance isn’t compulsory when you travel, so you can still go to Asia without any insurance and hope to never get sick, have an accident, lose your luggage, or having your flight canceled by a storm.

However, I won’t do it myself. It’s too risky. Especially when you consider that a good travel insurance only costs you a couple of USD per day.

Chinese hospitals are business-oriented and they won’t help you unless you can pay cash in advance or they can verify that you’re covered by adequate medical insurance.

I repeat, if you can’t pay nobody will help you. Also, international hospitals in China (where doctors and nurses can speak English) are often more expensive than hospitals in the U.S.

I’ve heard plenty of horror stories of western tourists or expats that were left to die or lose a foot in an Asian hospital because, after being a victim of an accident or bad food poisoning, they didn’t have insurance or enough cash to pay for the emergency treatments they needed. Can you afford to pay 5,000 or 10,000 USD cash?

If you can’t, then I suggest you get a quality travel medical insurance before going to China, Thailand, or wherever you are going.

In China there are mainly two kinds of hospitals:

1) The public hospitals where nobody speaks English, and where you’ll have to wait for ages, you won’t have any privacy, and where the hygienic conditions are somewhat dubious (there are exceptions but in this case, the prices are usually higher).

2) The international hospitals , where doctors and nurses can speak English, the service is faster, you’ll get privacy conditions similar to the ones that you find in the west and the overall hygienic conditions are usually better.

If you don’t speak Mandarin, you want to end up in an international hospital, especially if you are seriously sick. Because of this, when in 2010 my former boss explained to me that I was going to get an insurance that was going to only cover my expenses in a public hospital, I chose to purchase private insurance by myself.

I took the above pic in one of the best public hospitals in Hangzhou (a metropolis neighboring Shanghai) in 2011: my girlfriend was discussing her case with a doctor and several patients gathered around her looking at her problem and even giving advice to the doctors regarding the treatment. I was amazed by the complete lack of privacy. Chinese people aren’t bad. They just don’t know what the word “privacy” means.

For traveling o short-term stays, we recommend World Nomads because it’s quite flexible (you can choose the duration of your policy), it covers you almost worldwide (so you won’t have to subscribe to a new policy if you live in China and decide to take a holiday in Thailand), it can easily be extended online, you can buy it online even if you have already left your country, its price is quite cheap for the value it offers, it gets consistently good reviews and it comes recommended by Lonely Planet, Rough Guides and many more.

Also, besides covering you in the case of sickness and injuries, it provides emergency medical evacuation, it covers you if you have to cancel your trip due to unforeseeable events outside of your control, and it covers your gear (laptop, smartphone, camera, etc) if it gets stolen or damaged whilst traveling.

However, note that if you’re going to move to China – or another Asian country – and stay there for a long period of time, let’s say more than 6 months, you may want to check other (more expensive) insurance companies ( click here to learn more ). The reason is that World Nomads, if you have a severe health problem, will send you back to the country where you enjoy national health coverage (for instance to the UK, if you’re a UK resident and are covered by NHS).

Thus, if you’re giving up your coverage in your former country of residence because you’re moving out for long periods of time, World Nomads may not be the most appropriate choice.

In my opinion, the basic requirement you should have is that your insurance covers you for medical expenses, hospitalization, and treatments, medicines, and emergency transport or repatriation.

Another important point is to make sure that the insurance covers you for personal liability. This means that if you hurt somebody, you can settle for monetary compensation instead of going to jail. You don’t want to pay the compensation yourself, do you?

Also, as already said, there are a lot of nice bonuses you can get such as trip cancellation or interruption reimbursement, extreme sports coverages, stolen or lost personal effects reimbursement, and so on.

Regardless of the insurance plan you choose, before purchasing it, I do recommend that you check by yourself what your policy will cover and what situations will be excluded by the coverage.

Just to give some examples, if you’re already sick before purchasing the insurance, you won’t be covered for that particular sickness; and if you get drunk, start to punch people on the street, and end up in jail, you’ll be left on your own as well. Just read the policy before buying anything!

Click here to check the prices and benefits of World Nomads health insurance.

If you’re aged 65 or above, it can be difficult to find an insurance company that’s willing to cover you. However, there are a few options available in the market, and where the International Medical Group (IMG) is one of the biggest companies.

The company was founded by Dr. Ian Clarke who is a missionary, physician, philanthropist, and entrepreneur, born and educated in Northern Ireland. He has resided in Uganda since 1988 where he started the company and has run it ever since.

Let’s review one of their most popular options for senior travelers and that can be used if you’re a US citizen or permanent resident. If you have any other recommendations, feel free to contact us or write a comment below.

GlobeHopper Seniors Single Trip travel insurance

As mentioned, GlobeHopper Senior travel insurance is provided by IMG and it’s suitable for US citizens and US permanent residents who are aged 65 or above.

Worth mentioning is that the insurance offers flexible protection to travelers who purchase an annual plan to cover multiple trips over a 12-month period. Each trip can be a maximum of 30 days during this period, this is also something you should have in mind before buying the insurance.

The plan starts from as little as USD 114, depending on the deductible and max coverage option, and can be used for persons who are 65. The eligibility and requirements to get this insurance is listed below:

• The insurance is only valid for medical expenses outside the US
• You have to be a US-citizen or US permanent residents
• You have to be qualified for Medicare and enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B
• Enrolled in a Medigap Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan
• The plan is secondary to Medicare, a Medigap and/or a Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare supplement insurance)

The features, on the other hand, are beneficial and provides you the following:

• Maximum limits starts at USD 50,000 – USD 1,000,000
• Only one deductible within each 12 months coverage period
• No maximum age limit at all!
• You get reimbursed for both emergency and non – emergency care expenses
• Gives immediate access to care and reimbursement for medical expenses
• Ability to choose a hospital or doctor or your choice
• No coinsurance
• Offers pre-existing conditions coverage

The insurance is used for:

• Vacations / Holidays
• Visitors / Immigrants
• Employers / Business Travelers

IMG also has other travel insurance options for seniors who wish to travel to China. For more information, you can request a quote by clicking the link below.

[Disclaimer: We don’t work for an insurance company and these are just general guidelines. You should always talk with an operator of the insurance company from whom you purchased a policy to be sure of what to do].

First of all, I suggest you have your insurance provider’s emergency phone number and policy number (you’ll get the info as soon as you purchase a health insurance plan) saved on your phone.

If you can call your insurance company yourself – for instance, in the case you’re the victim of food poisoning – then do so before going to the hospital because, if you go to the “wrong” hospital, the insurance may not cover your expenses. Also, some hospitals will only accept cash.

It’s not a big deal: just call an operator and tell them your name, policy number, the nature of your problem, and any other useful information and they will redirect you to the nearest hospital that accepts coverage by your insurance company.

You should also keep this information in your wallet in case you can’t call yourself (for instance in case of a bad incident that lets you faint or can’t speak).

Download, fill out and print this simple form

We prepared a simple file to fill out, print, and keep in the wallet to always have the necessary information available.

The goal is twofold:

• When you show up at a clinic or hospital, you will have all the necessary information in a single file
• If you have a serious accident and you are not able to communicate, the person that will help you will most luckily find and use the information to help you

Click here to download the Word version (or Open Office), which you can fill out on your pc before printing it.

Click here to download the PDF version (if you prefer, print and fill it out by hand).

Here’s how to fill out the form:

• Information for taxi drivers : Note that depending on your health insurance policy, you might not have access to all hospitals in your city. So I recommend that you discuss this with your insurance company before choosing a hospital (or risk them not reimbursing you);
• Personal data : Insert your name, date of birth, passport and visa number, address, and telephone number in Asia. They’ll ask you for this during the hospital check-in, so you should have it handy;

Emergency contact : Name and telephone number of the person to contact in the event of an emergency. Note that putting your mother’s name who lives in another part of the world won’t help you much. Insert the name of a person you trust who lives in your city and if possible, speaks the language of the country you’re in;

If you’ve just moved to Asia and know almost no one, you could put the name and number of your boss, teacher, or anyone you think could help you in case there’s a need. I recommend that you ask for their permission before putting someone down as your emergency contact;

• Your insurance company’s information : At a minimum, you have to enter the name of the company, your policy number, and the number to call in case of an emergency. In any case, I recommend that you contact your insurance company to ask them what information you should insert;
• Your consulate information : If something really serious happens, it could be useful to have the emergency number of your consulate so that they can advise your family and, when possible, help you;
• Language : As you’ll see the form contains two pages, one in English and one in Chinese. If you’re in China, I suggest that you fill out and print them both, front and back.

Once you have filled out and printed the form, keep it in your wallet, purse, or wherever is most convenient for you, together with a copy of your passport and insurance policy.

We additionally recommend that you don’t travel around without a telephone and make sure that it’s connected to the internet (4G, for example), so that you can use the maps , etc.

To conclude, we always suggest that you carry a little cash with you (even just for a taxi).

The price is usually the same unless you’re traveling to the United States (those traveling to the United States pay more since American hospitals are the most expensive on the planet).

Moreover we recommend keeping a copy on your smartphone, in the form of a PDF document or screenshot.

*For Canadian and US residents, unfortunately, due to financial services laws, World Nomads cannot provide a discount. This promotional code cannot be used with any other discount offer, including World Nomads Members’ discount for travel insurance policyholders.

Photo Credits: Photo by Pixabay on Pexels

About The Author

Sapore di Cina

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Travel Insurance for a China Vacation (2024)

If you’re planning a trip to China, having the best travel insurance will give you peace of mind.

in under 2 minutes

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Sabrina Lopez is an editor with over six years of experience writing and editing digital content with a particular focus on home services, home products and personal finance. When she is not working on articles to help consumers make informed decisions, Sabrina enjoys creative writing and spending time with her family and their two parrots.

When planning a trip to China, travel insurance is essential. After spending thousands of dollars on an overseas trip, the last thing you want is to lose your investment due to a change of plans or inclement weather.

The best travel insurance plans will help you recoup losses from delayed and canceled flights, cover medical expenses and reimburse you for lost personal belongings. Doing so will give you peace of mind that you are fully covered should you need emergency assistance on your trip.

Compare China Travel Insurance Companies

Before selecting travel insurance for your upcoming trip to China, compare costs and coverage across top providers in the table below

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

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Rating Factors

Do I Need Travel Insurance for China?

Travel insurance is not mandatory to enter China , but traveling uninsured poses a significant risk. No matter how you spend your time in China, you should have a travel insurance plan that will provide coverage for delayed or canceled flights and other concerns.

Mainland China is a popular vacation destination for travelers looking for adventure. Activities like hiking the Great Wall of China, seeing the terracotta warriors and exploring the Forbidden City will excite the culture-inclined. Foodies can enjoy delicacies like Peking duck, Chinese Hot Pot and traditional Char Sui. Meanwhile, cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing offer a metropolitan escape.

Your trip to China could be canceled due to a disease outbreak, or you could require medical coverage if you become ill during your trip. Likewise, U.S. exit bans can be enforced without warning, which could leave you stranded if you don’t have insurance coverage.

The following sections will tell you about the different types of coverage you can purchase when traveling to China and the benefits that they offer.

Cancel for Any Reason Coverage

Cancel for any reason coverage (CFAR) is typically an add-on provided by most insurance companies. It will allow you to claim back any pre-booked expenses for your trip if you need to cancel for a reason that is not covered in basic travel insurance plans.

For a China trip, you might want CFAR to cover the following:

• COVID-19 concerns, should restrictions change
• Safety risks, such as natural disasters or political unrest like the Hong Kong demonstrations
• Pre-existing medical conditions (standard medical coverage will often have exclusions for pre-existing conditions should you choose to cancel your trip)
• Personal and professional obligations that mean you can no longer travel to China
• Travel delays affecting your planned trip

Be aware that CFAR often needs to be purchased two weeks before your travel date, and to be reimbursed you will need to cancel your trip 48 hours prior to your departure date. Always check your travel insurance policy and contact your travel insurance company, as they will have different restrictions.

Gear Theft Protection

Gear theft protection covers valuables like laptops and cameras if they are damaged or stolen on your trip. It is usually included in travel insurance plans up to a certain amount, but this may not fully cover the cost of your belongings should they be damaged.

Consider what items you will take on your trip before you purchase travel insurance. You may want to insure expensive gadgets individually. Consider leaving certain valuables at home.

Medical Emergency Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation

Medical emergency insurance will cover you should you find yourself in need of emergency medical care. Chinese healthcare can be expensive — the best treatment is available from private hospitals, so having medical coverage protects you from paying treatment costs out of pocket.

You may also find yourself in need of emergency transport to a medical center. While this won’t be too difficult in cities like Chengdu and Xi’an, this could cost significantly more or take longer in a rural area.

Travel insurance plans can have exclusions regarding the medical treatment of pre-existing conditions. However, some travel insurance companies will provide specialized coverage, so it is worth shopping around.

Emergency medical evacuation involves returning travelers to their home country for medical treatment if they cannot receive it in China. Having health insurance will cover these costs, and most policies will include medical repatriation in the insurance plan if you pass away while abroad.

Rental Car Protection

Car rental in China can be a challenge. China does not recognize foreign licenses, but if you plan to rent a car, you can apply for a temporary provisional license for your stay. You will need a valid visa in order to be eligible for car rental as well.

Rental car protection can be added to your travel insurance plan, or you may be able to purchase extra coverage from your rental car provider.

Trip Cancellation Insurance

With any trip, there is a chance that things won’t go as planned. In this event, having travel cancellation and trip interruption insurance will protect you from sunken costs should you need to cancel your trip.

Trip cancellation insurance is included within most travel insurance plans, but they are subject to exclusions which can vary depending on your insurance provider and chosen policy. You should check with your credit card company, as they may offer this coverage if you purchase your airline tickets with them.

Valid reasons for trip cancellation typically include:

• Death of traveler(s) or family members
• Illness or injury preventing travel
• Military deployment
• Subpoena to appear in court
• Other legal responsibilities that prevent you from traveling

Trip cancellation will typically be included in a policy up to a certain amount. It is worth checking multiple insurance providers to see how much you can be reimbursed.

How Much Does China Travel Insurance Cost?

The cost of travel insurance will vary depending on the individuals traveling. Cheaper travel insurance options will provide less cancellation and personal effects reimbursement, whereas higher-end insurance provides more robust coverage in all categories.

We requested quotes from ten travel insurance companies for their most affordable plan for a trip to China. The below quotes are for a 30-year-old traveler from Florida, traveling to China for ten days in September 2024, with a total trip cost of $4,000. Policies include coverage for cancellations, interruptions, delays, medical care and evacuation.

These quotes were collected in April 2024 for a trip in September 2024.

Overall, insurance plans with higher costs will offer more medical coverage and reimbursement for your belongings. Most providers will offer 100% of your trip cost in their cancellation coverage, but premium plans will reimburse you for much more. This can be seen in the Explorer Plan from World Nomads , which offers up to $10,000 in cancellation coverage, whereas others will only reimburse the total trip cost.

How Do I Get Travel Insurance for China?

The first step when you buy travel insurance for a China trip is to compare policies from multiple providers. Consider companies you have used previously, as you may be eligible for rewards or extra add-ons.

If you are planning multiple trips, it could be worth getting multi-trip insurance, also called annual travel insurance , which covers all trips you take for one year. This is also applicable if you are stopping in nearby countries like Thailand and want more comprehensive coverage.

Many insurance companies will have an online tool to get a quote for your insurance plan. Be sure to compare coverage for all aspects of your trip. For example, injuries from certain sports or activities may not be included in your medical coverage.

Once you find a quote that suits your budget and needs, you can usually purchase it online. Be sure to keep a printed copy with you when you travel should you need to provide your insurance details.

China Safety Tips

While China’s top procuratorate says that violent crime rates have dropped in recent years , the country does have significant risks that should be considered when traveling. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for China , highlighting arbitrary enforcement of laws and wrongful detentions as reasons to reconsider travel. Travelers should also anticipate petty crimes like pickpocketing in crowded areas. Be aware that the quality of health care may also be lower than in the U.S., even in major cities, and the State Department advises that English-speaking travelers frequently encounter difficulties .

Crime and Safety

Though uncommon, tourists can expect to be targeted by pickpockets and should remain vigilant when traveling through busy areas. Keep all personal belongings on your person and never leave your valuables where someone could easily take them. You may also be targeted by scams in markets selling counterfeit goods, so always make purchases carefully.

Traveling through China is not without its risks, and travelers from the U.S. are particularly vulnerable due to short-notice travel bans and wrongful detentions. Many officials will only speak Mandarin and may limit your contact with the U.S. Embassy, so have their contact details readily available.

You could also be detained for sending private messages that the Chinese government considers critical of them. Similarly, taking part in demonstrations or protests is considered illegal, so tourists should remain clear of these activities.

Day Trips, Tours and Excursions

China has many sights that you would be hard-pressed to fit into one trip. When taking part in excursions or tours, you should choose guided tours over self-led ones, as these are much safer and also tend to provide a better and more insightful experience.

Guides for places like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China will be able to tell you more information on your tour and will be better equipped to handle crowds and keep you safe. Be sure to book with trusted and established guides to avoid scams.

Public transport is generally a safe option when taking day trips within China, but be mindful of illegal taxis as they are not licensed and may overcharge you.

COVID-19 is still a concern in China, and the U.S. Embassy in China posts updated requirements for travelers. As of May 2023, travelers may choose to take antigen tests, rather than nucleic tests like PCR, within 48 hours of boarding. While airlines won’t check pre-departure testing results, they will need to declare their negative test result to Chinese Customs.

Face coverings remain mandatory on public transport, and other COVID guidelines should be adhered to while in the country. Though not required, it is recommended that you travel with your COVID-19 vaccination documents, as well as other vaccination papers should you require medical treatment.

Is Travel Insurance for a China Vacation Worth It?

Travel insurance coverage may not be mandatory when traveling to China, but most travelers will find it to be a valuable purchase. Coverage for cancellations and baggage delays gives you a safety net for your flights, and travel medical insurance can help you pay for any treatment you might need while you are abroad.

Travel insurance is worthwhile since it alleviates some of the financial risks associated with traveling to China and will allow you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance in China

How much compensation am i entitled to if i cancel my trip.

Compensation will vary depending on your policy, but you will be reimbursed for all non-refundable deposits made before the trip commencement date. This could include your flights, accommodation plus other expenses like rental cars or extra baggage allowance.

Learn more: How To Claim Compensation for Delayed and Canceled Flights

Is healthcare free in China?

There is free public healthcare in China for permanent residents, but this does not extend to foreign travelers. In fact, cash payment for services may even be required up-front . If you are planning an extended trip, it is worth having medical coverage as medical bills can be expensive.

What documents are required for travel to China?

When traveling to China you will need a valid visa and passport within six months of expiration. These should be kept on you at all times should you find yourself in an emergency situation, as these are required by local regulations.

Will travel insurance cover me if I get coronavirus?

You will be covered for medical expenses incurred from COVID-19 as long as your chosen travel insurance has COVID-19 inclusions. This is highly recommended for travel to China and should be selected as an add-on if not covered in the basic plan.

More Resources:

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The Best Travel Medical Insurance of 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Seven Corners »

GeoBlue »

WorldTrips »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Travel Medical Insurance Plans.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners

Buying travel insurance is a smart move for any type of trip, but you may not need a policy that covers everything under the sun. If you don't need coverage for trip cancellations or delays because you're relying on your travel credit card to offer these protections, for example, you may find you only need emergency medical coverage that works away from home.

Still, travel medical coverage varies widely based on included benefits, policy limits and more. If you're comparing travel insurance plans and hoping to find the best option for unexpected medical expenses, read on to learn which policies we recommend.

Frequently Asked Questions

The term travel insurance usually describes a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes coverage for medical expenses as well as trip cancellations and interruptions, trip delays, lost baggage, and more. Meanwhile, travel medical insurance is coverage that focuses on paying for emergency medical expenses and other related care.

Travelers need international health insurance if they're visiting a place where their own health coverage will not apply. This typically includes all international trips away from home since U.S. health plans limit coverage to care required in the United States.

Note that if you don't have travel health insurance and you become sick or injured abroad, you'll be responsible for paying back any health care costs you incur.

Many travel insurance policies cover emergency medical expenses you incur during a covered trip. However, the included benefits of each policy can vary widely, and so can the policy limits that apply.

If you're looking for a travel insurance policy that offers sufficient protection for unexpected medical expenses, you'll typically want to choose a plan with at least $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical care and at least that much in protection for emergency medical evacuation and transportation.

However, higher limits can provide even more protection from overseas medical bills, which can become pricey depending on the type of care you need. As just one example, Allianz says the average cost of emergency medical evacuation can easily reach up to $200,000 or more depending on where you’re traveling.

Your U.S. health insurance policy almost never covers medical expenses incurred abroad. The same is true for most people on Medicare and especially Medicaid. If you want to ensure you have travel medical coverage that applies overseas, you should purchase a travel insurance plan with adequate limits for every trip. Read the U.S. News article on this topic for more information.

The cost of travel medical insurance can vary depending on the age of the travelers, the type of coverage purchased, the length of the trip and other factors. You can use a comparison site like TravelInsurance.com to explore different travel medical insurance plans and their cost.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• Seven Corners: Best for Families
• GeoBlue: Best for Expats
• WorldTrips: Best Cost

Coverage for preexisting conditions is available as an add-on

Easy to purchase as needed for individual trips

Relatively low limits for medical expenses

No coverage for trip cancellations or trip interruption

• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Up to $250,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage loss and damage
• Up to $600 in baggage delay insurance
• Up to $1,000 for travel delays
• Up to $10,000 in travel accident insurance
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Concierge services

Purchase comprehensive medical coverage worth up to $5 million

Coverage for families with up to 10 people

Low coverage amounts for trip interruption

Medical coverage options vary by age

• Up to $5 million in comprehensive medical coverage
• Up to $500,000 in emergency evacuation coverage
• Up to $10,000 in coverage for incidental trips to home country
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for terrorist activity
• Up to $500 in accidental dental emergency coverage
• Up to $100 per occurrence in coverage for emergency eye exams
• $50,000 in coverage for local burial or cremation
• 24/7 travel assistance
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment per traveler
• Up to $500 for loss of checked baggage
• Up to $5,000 for trip interruptions
• Up to $100 per day for trip delays
• Up to $50,000 for personal liability

Qualify for international health insurance with no annual or lifetime caps

Use coverage within the U.S. with select providers

Deductible from $500 to $10,000 can apply

Doesn't come with any nonmedical travel insurance benefits

• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $25,000 for repatriation of mortal remains
• $50,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment

High limits for medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation

Covers multiple trips over a period of up to 364 days

Deductible of $250 required for each covered trip

Copays required for medical care received in the U.S.

• Up to $1,000,000 of maximum coverage
• Up to $1,000,000 for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $10,000 for trip interruptions
• Up to $1,000 for lost checked luggage
• Up to $100 per day for travel delays
• Up to $25,000 in personal liability coverage
• Medical coverage for eligible expenses related to COVID-19
• Ability to add coverage for your spouse and/or child(ren)
• Repatriation of remains coverage up to overall limit
• Up to $5,000 for local burial or cremation 
• $10,000 to $50,000 for common carrier accidental death

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning content creator who has been writing about travel insurance and travel for more than a decade. She has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world and has experience navigating the claims and reimbursement process. In fact, she has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg, who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states, in their family media business.

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Top Travel Insurances for China You Should Know in 2024

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Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

China is famous for its rich cultural heritage, in particular the Great Wall of China, the Terra-Cotta Warriors, and the Forbidden City, as well as its delicious cuisine and bustling cities. Although travelling to China can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, and although healthcare costs in the country aren't outrageously expensive, it's still a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance anway, as you'll want the highest-quality healthcare you can find.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to China and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

China Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for China:

Best Travel Insurances for China

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for China? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance to China scroll down

Heading to China soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

• 💳 Eager to dodge high FX fees? See our picks for the best travel cards in 2024.
• 🛂 Need a visa? Let iVisa take care of it for you.
• ✈ Looking for flights? Compare on Skyscanner !
• 💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
• 💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for China?

No, there's currently no legal requirement to take out travel insurance for travel to or through China.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to China or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for China:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to China. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to China, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for China:

• Policy names: Varies
• Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to China? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to China

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, you'll not be required to take out travel insurance for China. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in China can be high, and taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself if you need medical attention during your stay.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

Looking for Travel Insurance to Another Country?

See our recommendations for travel insurance to other countries worldwide:

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Travel Insurance China

Travel Insurance China You Can Count On

International Health Insurance

Get valuable travel information and tips via Travel Info page

Find the best travel & health insurance today.

Travel Insurance China  offers travel insurance online to citizens of China and travellers to China. Get a quote now and purchase travel medical and evacuation coverage online via a secure server. Our travel insurance plans are great for Chinese nationals immigrating to the USA, Canada, Europe and beyond! In fact, most of our plans are available to citizens around the world. We are a premier supplier for travel insurance for people going to and from China.

Travel Insurance China Products Available

Travel Medical Insurance

Obtain a quote for several different travel medical insurance plans under one umbrella via Visitors Coverage.com

International Health Insurance for Expatriates in China

Get a quote from one of our international health insurance providers .

International Health Insurance for Chinese Expatriates

We offer an array of excellent global medical plans for Chinese nationals who live outside China.

Travel Insurance For Canadian Residents

Available to Canadian residents only who are covered by provincial medical plan and are currently in Canada.

Visitors to Canada Single-Trip Hospital and Medical

Emergency Excess Hospital/Medical insurance coverage that covers Insured individuals visiting Canada for single trips.

EXPAT FINANCIAL & Design is a registered trademark of TFG Global Insurance Solutions Ltd. Note: Some of the products and services described or advertised on this site may not be available to residents of certain jurisdictions, depending on regulatory constraints, including Canada and the U.S. Please contact TFG Global Insurance Solutions Ltd. for more information about your specific jurisdiction. If you or your company requires a policy that is billed to the USA, please contact us and we will refer you to a broker located in the USA. The policies we offer via TFG Global Insurance Solutions Ltd. or its related web sites are not available to citizens currently residing in the USA when taking out the policy.

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When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

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Travel Insurance For Vietnam: Everything You Need To Know

Published: Apr 25, 2024, 12:17am

Table of Contents

Do australians need travel insurance for vietnam, what does travel insurance for vietnam cover, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Vietnam is an increasingly popular travel destination for Australians, with the country even hoping to encourage more Aussies to visit by potentially waiving visa requirements in due time.

The Southeast Asian country is set to be high on the list for Aussies going overseas in 2024. The number of Australian tourists in Vietnam now exceeds pre-pandemic levels: more than 317,000 Australians visited Vietnam in 2019 , while there were 390,000 Aussie visitors in 2023.

Plus, as more and more flights become available, such as low-cost carrier Vietjet Air launching a direct service between Hanoi and Melbourne earlier this year, getting to Vietnam is becoming easier for Australians.

If the direct flights, fascinating history, vast scenery and delicious food aren’t enough to convince Australian travellers, the cost may be. Vietnam is considered one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world for Australian tourists due to our strong conversion rate against the Vietnamese Dong and the nation’s low cost of living in comparison to our own.

And while cheap thrills may be what you’re after on your vacation, it’s important not to skimp on the necessities that may cost that little bit extra—such as travel insurance. This guide outlines what you need to know regarding travel insurance in Vietnam.

Featured Partners

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Investing in travel insurance is a good idea for any overseas trip. Travel insurance policies can help protect you from having to dive deep into your pockets, with many offering unlimited medical treatment while abroad and cancellation cover for your trip should the unexpected occur.

Travel insurance is not just handy for medical purposes or travel changes, either. Your personal items can be covered, should any baggage go missing or an important item be stolen—which, unfortunately, often occurs in Vietnam.

Smarttraveller warns Australians to be alert at all times in Vietnam, considering petty theft–including bag slashing–is common in tourist areas and crowded places, especially during holiday times. Snatch-and-grab theft by thieves on motorcycles is also common, the website states.

Like most international travel insurance policies, you will be able to find basic coverage for your trip to Vietnam, or choose to opt for a more comprehensive, albeit more expensive, policy.

While a basic policy will often cover medical expenses and lost luggage,a comprehensive policy includes a lot more. Most basic policies also likely won’t offer compensation for travel delays, stolen cash, accidental death and more.

Additionally, if you are going on a trip to multiple countries within the year, it may be worth opting for an ‘annual multi trip’ insurance instead—making sure that there are no exclusions to the regions you are wishing to visit.

Visa Requirements For Australians Travelling to Vietnam

You’ll still be allowed to travel to Vietnam if you don’t invest in travel insurance, but you do so at your own risk—and, as stated, it is highly advised to have a travel insurance policy for any overseas trip.

However, what you cannot do is enter Vietnam as an Australian tourist without a tourist visa. While Vietnam will grant Australian citizens visas on arrival, applying for one online is much easier.

A tourist visa costs under $100 AUD; however the exact price depends on your length of stay.

The Vietnamese government may consider waiving visas for Australian citizens, especially since many other SEA countries have done so such as Indonesia and Thailand .

However, at the time of writing, Forbes Advisor Australia has confirmed that Australian citizens must still obtain a visa to visit Vietnam for tourism purposes.

The exact inclusions of your travel insurance will be dependent on your personal policy and the provider.

However, generally speaking, you can expect a travel insurance policy for Vietnam to offer some level of cover for:

• Medical expenses;
• Lost, damaged or stolen luggage;
• Travel cancellations or delays ;
• Personal liability;
• Credit card fraud;
• Covid-19 expenses;

If you are partaking in certain sports and activities, you will need to make sure that you choose a policy that covers them. You’ll also need to make sure that your policy covers any pre-existing medical conditions as well.

Plus, if you are travelling with valuables, you may wish to opt for a policy that lets you increase the protection cover on your items.

Ultimately, you need to consider what your trip consists of, what you will be taking with you, and your physical health to establish what policies would be appropriate for you.

From there, you can compare quotes of different policies and providers to ensure you have the optimal—yet affordable—cover for your trip to Vietnam.

Does Travel Insurance Cover The Ha-Giang Loop?

Considered one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the world, the Ha-Giang Loop is a popular tourist activity in Vietnam for adventurous travellers. If the Ha-Giang Loop is one of your goals, you’ll need to make sure you have travel insurance that covers motorcycling.

Occasionally a policy may include this as one of their included ‘sports and activities’, but it is more often the case that you will need to purchase an additional ‘adventure pack’ that is either specific to, or includes, motorsports.

Even so, when purchasing an additional pack to cover motorbikes, you need to be cautious of the conditions. For example, some policies will only cover motorcycle riding if the bike you are riding has an engine under a certain size.

Often, coverage will cease and claims won’t be accepted if you haven’t been wearing the correct safety equipment such as boots and a helmet, or have been under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

What Does Travel Insurance Exclude?

Your travel insurance policy may exclude some activities that you wish to partake in, unless you can opt-in to purchase an additional adventure pack as explained above in regards to motorbike riding.

Just like with the inclusions of a policy, the exclusions depend on what type of policy you choose, and what provider you go with.

Commonly, however, you won’t be covered for instances where you:

• Break the law;
• Are under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
• Partake in an excluded activity;
• Receive medical treatment for a pre-existing condition that was not disclosed;
• Travel to a ‘Do Not Travel’ destination as outlined by Smarttraveller.

As always, it is essential to read the product disclosure statement (PDS) of your travel insurance policy carefully to understand what you will and won’t be covered for while overseas.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Yes, as of April 2024, Australian tourists still need a visa to travel to Vietnam. This visa can be obtained on arrival, or purchased online prior to travel. The visa takes approximately three days to process online, and the cost depends on how long you intend to stay in the country.

Does international travel insurance cover Covid-19?

Many comprehensive travel insurance policies now cover Covid-19, including medical conditions related to Covid-19 or trip cancellations due to a Covid-19 diagnosis. However, it is not guaranteed that all policies will. It’s important to check your policy’s PDS carefully to understand what it will and will not cover in regards to Covid-19 for both you and your travelling companions.

Related: Travel Insurance And Covid: Are You Covered?

How much does travel insurance cost for Vietnam?

The cost of your travel insurance for a trip to Vietnam will depend on your age, your health, the activities you wish to partake in, and the length of your stay.

For example, for a 34 year old with no pre-existing medical conditions travelling to Vietnam for two weeks, a policy from some of our top choices for comprehensive travel insurance would cost around $130 (based on quotes from Cover-More , 1Cover , and Fast Cover ).

The prices of these quotes would change depending on a chosen excess, cancellation cover, and any additional coverage options you may choose to purchase such as adventure packs or cruise cover.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

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Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally.

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The e-certificates enables individuals to present a QR code instead of physical insurance cards.

China's National Healthcare Security Administration revealed that over 1.12 billion individuals enrolled in the country's basic health insurance program have been issued electronic certificates, according to its state news agency.

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Xie Zhangshu, an official with the administration, noted that the e-certificates are accepted in over 800,000 healthcare institutions nationwide. 

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