Orlando Harmon
Since May 1, 2010, travellers to Cuba have been required to carry proof of travel insurance covering medical costs. This can be in the form of an insurance policy, insurance certificate, or health insurance card. While some travellers report never being asked for proof of insurance, it is a requirement for visa extensions. Cuban authorities do not accept US insurance policies, and travellers are advised to take out insurance from their home country before departure. Those without insurance may purchase it from Cuban insurance companies at the airport, port, or marina upon arrival.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Requirement | Since May 1, 2010, all travellers to Cuba have been required to carry proof of travel insurance covering medical costs. |
| Proof of insurance | Insurance policy, insurance certificate, health insurance card, or boarding pass (if Asistur travel medical insurance is included in the ticket cost). |
| Insurance providers | Asistur, CAA, RBC, Manulife, TD Canada Trust, Blue Cross, and more. |
| Cost | Varies depending on the provider and traveller's age, ranging from $50 for two people to $58 for one person per week. |
| Coverage | Medical and dental emergencies, hospitalization, treatment, transportation, repatriation, and bail bond in case of a legal process. |
| Exclusions | Pre-existing medical conditions, burial costs, special coffins or urns in the event of death. |
| Purchase options | Through insurance companies, banks, credit cards, travel agents, or at the airport upon arrival in Cuba. |
| Recommendations | Taking out private health insurance is recommended, as some public insurance plans may not cover all medical costs in Cuba. |
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What You'll Learn
Why proof of medical insurance is required for Cuba
Since May 1, 2010, all travellers to Cuba have been required to carry proof of travel insurance covering medical costs during their stay. This is because, according to Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, the Cuban authorities do not allow anyone with unpaid medical bills to leave the country. This means that travellers must provide, upon request, their insurance policy, insurance certificate, or health insurance card. In special cases, those who do not meet this criterion can take out travel health insurance on the spot.
It is important to note that the Cuban Tourist Board accepts the Quebec health insurance card as adequate proof of coverage. However, CAA-Quebec recommends taking out private health insurance, as Quebec’s health insurance board (RAMQ) does not cover all medical costs. Similarly, travellers with group insurance are advised to check with their insurer to avoid having two insurance policies providing the same coverage.
Additionally, US-based insurance cards are not accepted in Cuba due to the trade embargo. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for hurricanes and other emergency medical services, evacuation, and repatriation. Asistur Travel Insurance, for example, allows travellers to deal directly with Cuban institutions and receive treatment without paying in cash.
Furthermore, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, travellers to Cuba, including Cubans living abroad who are visiting temporarily, are required to purchase COVID-19 travel medical insurance that covers coronavirus-related expenses for the full duration of their stay.
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What documents are accepted as proof of medical insurance
Since May 1, 2010, all travellers to Cuba have been required to carry proof of travel insurance covering medical costs during their stay. Accepted documents include insurance policies, insurance certificates, and health insurance cards. These documents must be valid for the duration of the traveller's stay in Cuba.
While the Cuban Tourist Board considers the Quebec health insurance card adequate proof of coverage, CAA-Quebec recommends purchasing private health insurance. This is because Quebec's health insurance board (RAMQ) does not cover all medical expenses. Similarly, travellers with group insurance should check with their insurer to avoid overlapping coverage.
For residents of Ontario, Canada, the OHIP card is accepted as proof of insurance when entering Cuba. However, it is recommended to obtain additional insurance as OHIP offers limited coverage outside of Canada. It is also important to ensure that the name on the OHIP card matches your current name and other travel documents to avoid any potential issues.
Travellers from the United States should be aware that US insurance companies do not provide coverage in Cuba. Therefore, it is necessary to purchase a policy from Cuban insurance companies, either before departure or upon arrival in Cuba. US airlines that fly directly to Cuba may include Asistur travel medical insurance in the cost of the ticket, and a boarding pass can serve as proof of insurance.
It is worth noting that some travellers have reported not being asked for proof of insurance upon arrival in Cuba. However, it is highly recommended to obtain adequate medical insurance before travelling to any destination. In the event that proof of insurance is required and cannot be provided, travellers may be directed to purchase insurance at the airport or through Cuban insurance companies.
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Where to buy medical insurance for Cuba
Since May 1, 2010, all travellers to Cuba have been required to carry proof of travel insurance covering medical costs during their stay. This is because the Cuban authorities do not allow anyone with unpaid medical bills to leave the country.
There are a few options for purchasing medical insurance for Cuba. One option is to purchase Asistur Travel Insurance through Cuban Adventures. Asistur is a Cuban organisation that specializes in providing assistance to foreigners, and they have agencies in all the major tourist centres. Purchasing Asistur Travel Insurance through Cuban Adventures gives you the advantage of dealing directly with Cuban institutions without having to contact an outside agency to confirm your coverage. If you need medical treatment or hospitalization while in Cuba, you can simply call the local Asistur assistance number and provide your policy number, and they will guide you through the next steps. Asistur's contact information is as follows:
- Phone: (537) 866-8527 / 8920 / 8339 / 4121 / 867-1315
- Fax: (537) 866-8087
- Email: [email protected]
Another option for purchasing medical insurance for Cuba is through CAA-Quebec. While the Cuban Tourist Board considers the Quebec health insurance card to be adequate proof of coverage, CAA-Quebec recommends taking out private health insurance, as Quebec's health insurance board (RAMQ) does not cover all medical costs. Additionally, if you already hold group insurance, CAA Quebec urges you to check with your insurer to find out if you already benefit from coverage to avoid having two insurance policies providing the same coverage.
It is important to note that all health insurance policies are recognized by the Cuban authorities, except those issued by US insurance companies. Therefore, if you are a US citizen, you may want to consider purchasing travel insurance from a non-US company.
When purchasing medical insurance for Cuba, it is essential to be cautious and aware of potential scams. The FBI has issued warnings about discounted medical insurance scams, where victims are tricked into signing up for plans that seem to offer special deals or reduced rates but ultimately provide no actual health insurance coverage. To protect yourself, the FBI recommends verifying that the plan is offered by a reputable source by contacting the state insurance commissioner or the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, you should contact your current medical providers to confirm that they would accept the plan you are considering. It is also important to never pay for any offerings upfront before thoroughly reviewing the policy.
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What happens if you don't have proof of medical insurance in Cuba
Since May 1, 2010, all travellers to Cuba have been required to carry proof of travel insurance covering medical costs during their stay. This can be in the form of an insurance policy, insurance certificate, or health insurance card. While it is not always enforced, travellers without proof of insurance may be directed to a kiosk at the airport to purchase it.
It is important to note that all health insurance policies are recognized by the Cuban authorities, except those issued by US insurance companies. This means that US citizens will need to purchase the "Special" option from Asistur, a Cuban organisation that provides travel medical insurance. Additionally, the Cuban authorities do not allow anyone with unpaid medical bills to leave the country. Therefore, it is highly recommended to obtain adequate travel health insurance before visiting Cuba to ensure peace of mind and avoid potential financial burdens.
If you do not have proof of medical insurance in Cuba, you may encounter challenges in accessing medical services. While some larger hotels and resorts provide doctors who can visit their guests, you may need to present proof of insurance to receive this service. In the event of a medical emergency, you may be required to pay out of pocket for any treatment received, which could result in significant financial costs.
Furthermore, without insurance, you may struggle to navigate the local healthcare system and cover the costs of hospitalization, treatment, or medical emergencies. It is worth noting that pre-existing medical conditions are typically not covered by travel insurance policies, so ensuring comprehensive coverage is essential.
In summary, while the consequences of not having proof of medical insurance in Cuba may vary, it is a significant risk. Obtaining adequate travel health insurance is crucial to ensuring access to necessary medical services and avoiding potential financial burdens. By purchasing suitable insurance, travellers can have peace of mind and focus on enjoying their trip.
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What does medical insurance for Cuba cover
Since May 1, 2010, all travellers to Cuba have been required to carry proof of travel insurance covering medical costs. This can be in the form of an insurance policy, insurance certificate, or health insurance card. Those who do not meet this criterion can take out travel health insurance on the spot. However, it is recommended to purchase insurance before travelling, as it can provide coverage for unforeseen events such as hurricanes or COVID-19-related expenses.
Medical insurance for Cuba typically covers medical and dental emergencies, hospitalization, and treatment for illnesses or injuries sustained during the period of insurance. It is important to note that pre-existing medical conditions are usually excluded from coverage. Additionally, expenses for transportation and repatriation in the event of an accident or illness are also covered up to the maximum insured sum. This includes accommodation and transportation costs if the insured person is unable to leave Cuba as scheduled due to illness or injury.
In the unfortunate event of the death of the insured person, the cost of burial, special coffins, or urns may be excluded from coverage. It is important to carefully review the specific terms and conditions of your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what exclusions may apply.
When purchasing medical insurance for Cuba, it is recommended to use a reputable company such as Asistur Travel Insurance, which is a Cuban organisation specialising in assistance to foreigners. Asistur Travel Insurance allows you to deal directly with Cuban institutions and provides assistance in receiving treatment and medical services without the need to pay in cash.
It is worth noting that US airlines that fly directly to Cuba may include Asistur travel medical insurance in the cost of the airline ticket, and your boarding pass can serve as proof of insurance. However, it is always a good idea to verify this information with the airline before travelling.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, since May 1, 2010, all travellers to Cuba have been required to carry proof of travel insurance covering medical costs.
You can use your insurance policy, insurance certificate, or health insurance card as proof of coverage. If you have a Manulife card, this is also adequate, as long as it has your name on it. If you are from Ontario, your OHIP card is sufficient proof when entering Cuba.
If you don't have proof of medical insurance, you will be directed to a kiosk at the airport where you can buy insurance. It is also possible to purchase Cuban health insurance online before you travel.
