Securing travel insurance when you have pre-existing medical conditions can seem challenging, but it’s absolutely possible with the right approach. As of April 2025, several insurance providers offer specialized coverage for travelers with health concerns, ensuring you can explore the world with confidence and proper protection. Understanding how to navigate this process is essential for obtaining comprehensive coverage at reasonable rates.
Understanding Pre-Existing Conditions in Travel Insurance
A pre-existing condition is any health issue that exists before you purchase travel insurance. This includes chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart conditions, respiratory problems such as asthma, mental health disorders, and any medical condition you’ve sought treatment for recently. Even conditions that seem minor or well-managed need to be disclosed to ensure proper coverage.
Most standard travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions, meaning any medical expenses related to these conditions while traveling wouldn’t be covered. However, specialized policies and pre-existing condition waivers can provide the protection you need.
Types of Coverage Options Available
Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion Waivers
Many insurers offer pre-existing condition exclusion waivers that lift the standard exclusion for pre-existing conditions. To qualify for this waiver, you typically need to:
- Purchase your travel insurance within 14-21 days of making your initial trip deposit
- Insure 100% of your pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs
- Be medically able to travel when you purchase the policy
These waivers generally don’t cost extra but must be obtained within the specified timeframe after booking your trip.
Specialized Medical Travel Insurance
Several companies offer policies specifically designed for travelers with pre-existing conditions:
- Comprehensive medical coverage: Policies with higher medical expense limits (ranging from $50,000 to $1,000,000)
- Medical evacuation coverage: Essential for emergency transportation to appropriate medical facilities
- Trip cancellation/interruption benefits: Reimburses non-refundable expenses if your condition prevents travel
Top Insurance Providers for Pre-Existing Conditions in 2025
Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz offers the OneTrip Prime Plan, which includes coverage for pre-existing conditions when purchased within 14 days of your initial trip deposit. Their coverage includes up to $50,000 for emergency medical expenses and $500,000 for emergency medical transportation.
GeoBlue
As a BlueCross BlueShield company, GeoBlue specializes in international health insurance. Their highest-tier policy covers pre-existing conditions as long as you have primary health insurance in the US. With coverage limits up to $1,000,000 and medical evacuation coverage up to $500,000, they’re particularly valuable for international travelers.
Seven Corners
Seven Corners’ Trip Protection Choice plan offers strong medical coverage with up to $500,000 for emergency medical expenses and $1,000,000 for medical evacuation. Their pre-existing condition waiver is available if purchased within 20 days of your initial trip deposit.
MSIG
MSIG’s TravelEasy Pre-Ex plans provide coverage for pre-existing conditions with various tiers available. They’re particularly noted for coverage of elderly travelers with pre-existing conditions, with premiums ranging from $61 to $304 depending on age and coverage level.
AllClear
AllClear specializes in travel insurance for people with medical conditions with no upper age limit. Their three-step quote process makes it easy to get coverage tailored to your specific health needs.
How to Successfully Obtain Coverage
1. Act Quickly After Booking Your Trip
The most critical factor in securing pre-existing condition coverage is timing. Most insurers require you to purchase insurance within 14-21 days of making your initial trip deposit to qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver.
2. Be Completely Honest During Medical Screening
During the application process, you’ll need to complete a medical screening questionnaire. Be thorough and honest about:
- All diagnosed conditions
- Medications you’re currently taking
- Recent medical treatments or consultations
- Pending test results or treatments
- Changes in medication or treatment
Failing to disclose relevant information could invalidate your policy if you need to make a claim.
3. Compare Multiple Providers
Insurance costs and coverage for pre-existing conditions vary significantly between providers. Use comparison websites or consult with insurance brokers who specialize in travel insurance for medical conditions to find the best option for your specific needs.
4. Understand Coverage Limitations
Even with pre-existing condition coverage, be aware of potential limitations:
- Maximum coverage limits for medical expenses
- Exclusions for certain activities or destinations
- Requirements for stable conditions
- Age-related restrictions or premium increases
5. Consider Your Destination Carefully
Some destinations have extremely expensive healthcare systems, particularly the United States, Switzerland, and Japan. Coverage limits that might be sufficient in one country could be inadequate in another.
Cost Considerations
Travel insurance with pre-existing condition coverage typically costs more than standard policies. Factors affecting the price include:
- Your age (with significant increases after 65, 70, 75, and 80)
- The nature and severity of your conditions
- Your destination
- Trip duration
- Coverage limits
For example, a basic plan with pre-existing condition coverage for a 5-day trip to Asia might cost between $61 and $536, depending on the provider and level of coverage.
Special Considerations for Unstable Conditions
If your condition is considered “unstable” (recent diagnosis, medication changes, or pending test results), securing coverage becomes more challenging but not impossible:
- Look for specialized high-risk providers like AllClear
- Consider higher premium options that cover unstable conditions
- Explore policies with longer stability period requirements
- Consult with insurance brokers who specialize in difficult-to-insure travelers
Conclusion
Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions requires additional planning, but shouldn’t prevent you from exploring the world. By understanding the requirements for coverage, shopping early after booking your trip, being honest about your medical history, and comparing multiple providers, you can secure appropriate travel insurance that gives you peace of mind.
Remember that the best policy isn’t necessarily the cheapest-it’s the one that provides adequate coverage for your specific health needs and travel plans. With the right insurance in place, you can focus on enjoying your journey rather than worrying about potential medical expenses abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get travel insurance if I’m currently awaiting test results?
This is challenging but possible. Some specialized providers like AllClear may offer coverage, though premiums will likely be higher and certain exclusions may apply.
Will my credit card travel insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Most credit card travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions. It’s best to purchase a specialized policy that explicitly covers your conditions.
Is it worth paying extra for pre-existing condition coverage?
Absolutely. Medical treatment abroad can cost tens of thousands of dollars. The additional premium is minimal compared to potential out-of-pocket expenses for uncovered medical emergencies.
Can I get coverage for a terminal illness?
Some specialized providers offer coverage for terminal illnesses, though with limitations. AllClear and certain other providers specialize in high-risk coverage.
Do I need to declare conditions that are well-controlled with medication?
Yes. Any diagnosed condition should be declared during the application process, even if it’s well-managed or asymptomatic.