India Travel Insurance Requirements

Key Takeaways

• India does not accept U.S. health insurance, so we strongly recommend buying travel insurance for international medical coverage.
• Health risks, travel delays, and infrastructure issues make comprehensive travel insurance a smart choice.
• Travel medical coverage for India can cost as little as $2.50 daily, significantly less than accrued medical expenses.
• We recommend getting custom quotes for your trip with our online travel insurance comparison tool. The tool lets you compare plans and prices from over 20 travel insurance companies.

Our Top Recommended India Travel Insurance Plans

• Tin Leg – Gold because it offers high medical limits and comprehensive cancellation coverage, at an affordable average premium.
• Travel Insured International – FlexiPAX because it offers strong all-around coverage with customizable coverage options and high medical benefits that meet or exceed our international coverage recommendations.
• IMG – iTravelInsured Choice because it offers extensive medical coverage for international travel and comprehensive cancellation coverage at the lowest average premium of the top plans.

Do I Need Travel Insurance to Visit India?

India does not require proof of travel insurance for entry. Still, U.S. travelers are strongly encouraged to purchase a policy with medical coverage should they run into healthcare-related issues and need Emergency Medical care.

U.S. health plans do not work in India, even if you pay your insurance premium or have hit your deductible while on your trip. While major cities have world-class hospitals, rural care access can be limited. Travel medical coverage ensures you won’t be stuck with steep out-of-pocket medical expenses or emergency costs.

India also presents travel challenges, such as delayed trains and flights, foodborne illness, and sanitation-related health risks. A comprehensive travel insurance policy can protect you financially from these common issues and provide Trip Cancellation coverage, allowing you to protect your trip investment.

Reasons You May Need Travel Insurance for India

Medical Emergencies and Hospital Costs

According to the U.S. Embassy’s website for India, the country has a combination of superb private hospitals and somewhat limited public health infrastructure. Some facilities necessitate upfront payment before treatment; regrettably, U.S. travelers cannot depend on their domestic health insurance abroad.

✅ Travel medical insurance covers hospital stays, urgent care visits, and prescription medication, and it offers 24/7 global support in emergencies.

Foodborne Illness and Water Safety

India’s tap water is generally not safe to drink, and foodborne illnesses such as traveler’s diarrhea, typhoid, and cholera are prevalent. Even experienced travelers can become ill from local street food or contaminated water.

✅ Travel insurance can pay for doctor visits and treatment if you get sick from contaminated food or water.

Transportation Disruptions and Travel Delays

India’s railway system, while extensive, often encounters delays and cancellations. Both long-distance travel and domestic flights face logistical challenges due to infrastructure issues or weather conditions.

✅ If you miss a connection, travel insurance can reimburse costs for rebooking, lodging, and meals during delays.

High Trip Costs

While India might appear affordable upon arrival, the costs of international flights, multi-city itineraries, and guided tours can significantly raise the overall trip expenses. Most U.S. travelers budget over $3,000 and plan their trips for 14 to 18 days.

✅ Trip Cancellation insurance can reimburse prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you cancel due to illness, injury, or family emergencies. Trip Interruption insurance covers costs if your trip gets cut short.

Remote Destinations and Natural Disasters

From trekking in the Himalayas to exploring remote jungle reserves in the south, travelers often journey far from major cities. Landslides, monsoons, and earthquakes can disrupt plans or leave them stranded. But weather-related disruptions don’t need to derail your trip.

✅ Medical evacuation coverage can pay to transport you to a proper facility or even back to the U.S. if needed. Without insurance, an evacuation can cost $100,000 or more.

More Details on the Best Travel Insurance for India

Tin Leg

• Recommended Plan: Gold
• Emergency Medical: $500,000
• Medical Evacuation: $500,000
• Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
• Covers a wide-range of adventure sports & activities

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Travel Insured International

• Recommended Plan: FlexiPAX
• Emergency Medical: $100,000
• Medical Evacuation: $500,000
• Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
• Great for add-ons and coverage upgrades

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IMG

• Recommended Plan: iTravelInsured Choice
• Emergency Medical: $100,000
• Medical Evacuation: $500,000
• Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
• Reliable coverage for pre-existing conditions

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How Much Does India Travel Insurance Cost?

The average cost of travel insurance for India is $12.25 per day, based on internal Squaremouth sales data for U.S. travelers over the past year. Most Squaremouth travelers spend around $294.07 for a 24-day trip that costs just under $4,000.

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What Travel Coverage Do You Need for India?

Selecting the right travel insurance policy involves understanding the various coverage options available, as without it, you could unexpectedly face steep medical or other costs.

Consider the following when shopping and comparing travel insurance providers and plans:

Travel Medical Coverage

Essential for any trip to India, travel medical insurance covers expenses related to unexpected illnesses or injuries. While metropolitan areas like Delhi and Mumbai have advanced medical facilities, treatment can be costly for foreigners. Emergency Medical benefits of at least $50,000 in coverage ensure you receive necessary medical care without bearing the financial burden, which aligns with our recommended amount.

Medical Evacuation Coverage

In cases of severe medical emergencies, especially in remote regions, Medical Evacuation coverage is critical. This benefit facilitates transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility or repatriation to your home country. The cost of medical evacuation from India to the U.S. can be substantial, often exceeding $100,000. Ensuring your policy includes sufficient coverage limits can protect you from these exorbitant expenses. We recommend $100,000 worth of coverage for medical benefits.

Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Insurance

Considering the considerable investment in traveling to India, protecting your trip expenses is wise. Trip Cancellation insurance reimburses up to 100% of prepaid, non-refundable costs if you need to cancel for a covered reason, such as illness or family emergencies. Suppose your trip is cut short for one of those covered reasons. In that case, Trip Interruption insurance covers unused portions of your trip and additional expenses incurred to return home.

Coverage for Natural Disasters

Since weather disruptions can affect travelers to India, having insurance ensures safety and peace of mind. Weather events often disrupt trips, especially in regions known for severe conditions. Factors like airport closures and major flight delays may trigger insurance cancellation coverage. However, unfavorable weather alone, not significantly affecting travel, isn’t covered. Travel insurance does cover hurricane season, but policies must be purchased before a storm is named for coverage of related losses. It specifically covers weather events impacting travel plans; hurricanes nearby but not affecting travel may not qualify for cancellation trip.

Insurance for Baggage and Personal Items

While not mandatory, baggage insurance offers peace of mind by covering losses due to theft, damage, or delay of your belongings. Although India is generally safe, incidents of baggage mishandling can occur, particularly during domestic transfers. This coverage ensures you’re compensated for essential items and personal belongings affected during your journey.​

What Isn’t Covered by India Travel Insurance Plans?

After gathering your necessary documents, like receipts, itineraries, and proof of payments or reservations, you can use that to file a claim. But, you can avoid the trouble of being denied a claim by learning about what typically isn’t covered by most insurance providers.

Each plan has its own set of exclusions, but common ones include the following:

• Acts of War or Terrorism: Most policies do not cover incidents related to war or terrorism.​
• Alcohol or Drug-Related Incidents: Claims arising from situations involving alcohol or drug misuse are typically excluded.​
• Illegal Activities: Engaging in unlawful actions that lead to claims will not be covered.​
• High-Risk Sports and Activities: Activities deemed hazardous, such as extreme sports or adventure activities, may be excluded unless additional coverage is purchased.​

Review your policy’s fine print to understand specific exclusions and consider purchasing additional coverage for activities you plan to undertake.

Tips for Finding the Best Types of Travel Insurance for India

Use a Comparison Tool

As the nation’s largest travel insurance marketplace, Squaremouth allows travelers to compare more policies and providers than any other site. Comparing multiple travel insurance plans side-by-side helps you find the best travel insurance coverage for your India trip at the lowest possible price.

Read the Fine Print and Policy Exclusions

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal, and the benefits can vary widely. Always review the policy documents, including the Certificate of Insurance, to understand what’s included and what’s not.

Some plans may exclude adventure sports, Pre-existing Medical Conditions, or personal liability claims. Understanding these exclusions beforehand helps you avoid surprises during the claim process.

Consider Your Specific Travel Risks When Buying Coverage

India is an unforgettable destination, but it comes with unique travel challenges — from potential food and waterborne illnesses to civil unrest or infrastructure-related trip delays. Your age, health, destination cities, and travel purpose can influence your risk level.

A comprehensive travel insurance plan tailored to your itinerary can protect against medical expenses, an unforeseen cancellation, baggage loss, and more.

Determine How Much Coverage You Need

When purchasing travel insurance for India, look for a policy that includes at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and $50,000–$100,000 in Medical Evacuation benefits.

Top Indian hospitals in cities like Mumbai often require up-front payment for medical care. Some travel insurance providers offer cashless hospitalization or pay the provider directly — saving you from high out-of-pocket medical treatment costs.

Is Travel Insurance for India Worth It?

Yes, travel insurance for India is worth it. Traveling to India is an unforgettable experience but comes with a fair share of unpredictability. Add to that that your U.S. health insurance won’t work here, and it becomes clear: travel insurance for India isn’t just a good idea — it’s essential.

At under $12-$15 per day for comprehensive coverage, the cost is low, but the protection is high. Whether you’re on a spiritual retreat in Rishikesh or navigating the bustling streets of Mumbai, having the right policy in place offers priceless peace of mind.

FAQ: What Does India Travel Insurance Cover?

Is India Safe To Visit?

Most areas of India are safe for tourists, especially those following common-sense precautions. The most common issues travelers face are petty theft, scams, and traffic-related accidents. It’s always a good idea to stay alert in crowded areas, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places, and follow local laws and customs.

The U.S. State Department currently lists India under a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory, mainly due to crime and terrorism risks in specific regions like Jammu and Kashmir. Always check the latest travel advisories before your trip.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for India in 2025?

No, travel insurance is not legally required to enter India. However, it is strongly recommended—especially for medical coverage. Without insurance, travelers may face steep out-of-pocket costs for hospitalizations, emergency care, or evacuation.

What Documents are Required to Travel to India?

To enter India, you’ll need:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• A valid Indian visa (e-visa available for many nationalities)
• Proof of return or onward travel
• In some cases, documentation of vaccinations or health screenings, especially if coming from a yellow fever-affected country

Always check the official Indian government website or your nearest consulate for up-to-date visa and entry requirements.

Does India Require Covid Insurance?

As of early 2025, India does not require proof of COVID-specific insurance. However, many travel insurance plans still cover COVID-related medical treatment, trip cancellation, or quarantine expenses. It’s wise to confirm your policy includes these benefits in case the situation changes or you fall ill during your trip.

Do I Need A Visa Or Passport To Travel To India?

Yes, both are required. U.S. citizens and most other international travelers must apply for a visa before arrival. The easiest option is the Indian e-Visa, which can be used online. Your passport must also be valid for at least six months before arrival.

Does U.S. Health Insurance Work In India?

Most U.S. health insurance plans, including Medicare, do not provide international coverage. If you’re injured or fall sick in India, you’ll likely have to pay for care out of pocket — unless you have travel medical insurance. That’s why this type of coverage is considered essential for trips to India.