Vacation without health insurance? How to avoid financial traps!

Vacation without health insurance? How to avoid financial traps!

On July 19, 2025 they published Magdeburg News a current article that highlights the legal requirements and insurance obligations for vacationers. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of travel health insurance, which is required by law or a prerequisite for entry in many countries. Dr. Michael Dorka, managing director of LTA (Lifecard-Travel-Assistance), warns urgently that travelers without insurance must expect significant medical costs or even be refused entry.

Countries with compulsory insurance include Cuba, Russia and Iran. But Argentina has also introduced such an obligation since May 2025. In addition, many Asian countries, such as Nepal, Laos and Turkey, require proof of sufficient insurance coverage. In addition, travelers from certain third countries traveling in the Schengen area must provide proof of health insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.

Special provisions and recommendations

Another interesting regulation applies in Italy: since 2022, holidaymakers on ski slopes must have appropriate private liability insurance. While there is no compulsory insurance in the USA, medical costs there are extremely high, which is why Dr. Dorka recommends comprehensive insurance coverage.

Before departure, travelers should carefully check the policies they need. The Consumer advice center emphasizes that statutory health insurance companies only offer limited protection abroad. It is therefore very important to take out private travel health insurance. Families in particular should pay attention to special tariffs and compare prices to find the best deals.

Important information for travelers

Travelers should check the deductible and fine print of their insurance contracts to avoid unpleasant surprises. In addition, it is recommended that repatriation is already covered in a medically “reasonable” condition, not just for medically necessary transport. The European Health Insurance Card cannot always be accepted, which can lead to high treatment costs.

Long-term trips require special policies that are usually more expensive. Chronically ill people should also take out private travel health insurance, as statutory health insurance can only provide support in exceptional cases. Reimbursement of repatriation costs is not included in the catalog of benefits offered by statutory health insurance, which further underlines the need for travel health insurance.

Finally, it is important to confirm that your insurance will cover the costs before expensive treatments abroad. Dr. Dorka recommends checking with the Foreign Office or the embassy about the current travel advice before departure in order to be fully prepared for the trip.