9 Countries That Require Proof of Insurance to Enter

Travel insurance is often treated as optional until a destination makes it mandatory. Some countries now require proof of coverage before travelers are allowed to enter, regardless of trip length or purpose. For Americans who are used to flexible entry rules, this can come as an unwelcome surprise.

These requirements are usually tied to healthcare costs and border policies. Governments want assurance that visitors can cover medical treatment, evacuation, or unexpected disruptions without burdening local systems. In some cases, proof is checked at the airport before boarding. In others, it is reviewed on arrival by border officials. Either way, missing documentation can stop a trip before it starts.

For couples planning international travel, this detail affects more than paperwork. Insurance requirements influence booking timelines, coverage choices, and how prepared a trip feels from the outset. Relying on assumptions or outdated information increases the risk of delays and denied entry.

We have identified 9 countries that require proof of insurance to enter. These are destinations where advance preparation is essential and where having the right documentation in hand helps trips begin smoothly and without unnecessary stress.

Cuba

Cuba requires all visitors to have valid travel medical insurance that covers healthcare on the island. Proof may be requested on arrival, and travelers without acceptable coverage can be required to purchase a local policy at the airport. Insurance must cover medical treatment and emergencies, and U.S. policies are not always assumed to be valid without documentation.

Takeaway: Cuba entry is smoother when travelers carry printed proof of medical insurance that clearly states coverage applies in Cuba.

Schengen Area

The Schengen Area requires visitors to carry travel medical insurance that meets minimum coverage standards. Policies must cover medical emergencies and repatriation for the entire stay. While not every traveler is asked, border officers can request proof at entry. Travelers who cannot show compliant insurance may be denied entry.

Takeaway: Schengen travel works best when travelers carry insurance documentation that clearly meets Schengen coverage requirements.

Thailand

Thailand has required proof of health insurance during certain entry periods and visa categories, and enforcement can change. Travelers arriving on specific visas or during health-related policy periods may be asked to show coverage for medical expenses. Assumptions that insurance is optional can cause delays.

Takeaway: Thailand entry is easier when travelers check current insurance rules tied to their visa type before departure.

Argentina

Argentina has implemented insurance requirements during specific periods, particularly tied to public health policies. Travelers may be asked to show coverage that includes medical treatment and hospitalization. Enforcement can vary by entry point and timing, which creates uncertainty for visitors who arrive unprepared.

Takeaway: Argentina travel is smoother when travelers carry proof of medical insurance, even if it is not always requested.

Iran

Iran requires travelers to show proof of medical insurance valid in the country. Many foreign insurance policies are not accepted due to sanctions, and travelers may need to purchase approved local insurance on arrival or in advance. Documentation is checked during visa or entry processing.

Takeaway: Iran entry works best when travelers confirm insurance acceptance in advance or plan to purchase an approved local policy.

Russia

Russia requires visitors to hold medical insurance that is valid for the entire stay and explicitly covers Russia. Proof is often checked during the visa application process and may also be requested at entry. Policies must include medical care and repatriation. Travelers who arrive without compliant documentation can face delays or denial.

Takeaway: Russia travel works best when insurance documents clearly list Russia as a covered destination and match visa dates exactly.

Algeria

Algeria requires visitors to carry medical insurance as part of entry conditions, particularly for visa holders. While checks are not always consistent, travelers can be asked to show proof on arrival. Coverage is expected to include medical treatment and emergencies.

Takeaway: Algeria entry is smoother when travelers carry printed insurance documents that clearly outline medical coverage.

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates requires visitors to have health insurance, and proof may be requested depending on visa type or length of stay. Some emirates enforce requirements more strictly than others. Travelers without coverage may be required to purchase insurance locally.

Takeaway: UAE travel is easier when travelers confirm insurance requirements tied to their specific visa before departure.

Belarus

Belarus requires foreign visitors to carry medical insurance valid in the country. Proof is commonly requested at the border, and travelers without coverage may be required to purchase a local policy immediately. Insurance must cover medical expenses for the duration of the stay.

Takeaway: Belarus entry works best when travelers arrive with insurance documentation that clearly states coverage within Belarus.

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