While travel insurance is not mandatory for UK Standard Visitor visa, it's highly recommended. UK has excellent but expensive healthcare for visitors. NHS covers emergencies but you may face long waits. Private treatment is costly. Having travel insurance provides peace of mind and shows the visa officer you're prepared.
Why You Need Travel Insurance
High Medical Costs
Private healthcare in UK is expensive. A hospital stay can cost £500-1,000 per day.
NHS Limitations
NHS emergency care is available but non-emergency treatment requires payment.
Visa Application Support
Shows visa officer you are financially prepared and a genuine traveler.
Trip Protection
Covers flight cancellations, lost baggage, and trip interruptions.
Top 7 Travel Insurance Compared
ICICI Lombard UK Travel
Pros
- ✓ High coverage
- ✓ Fast claims
- ✓ Good network
- ✓ Trusted brand
Cons
- ✗ Slightly higher premium
- ✗ Standard add-ons
Bajaj Allianz UK Travel
Pros
- ✓ Affordable
- ✓ Good service
- ✓ Easy purchase
- ✓ Reliable
Cons
- ✗ Lower coverage
- ✗ Basic benefits
HDFC ERGO UK Travel
Pros
- ✓ Comprehensive
- ✓ Pre-existing option
- ✓ Good add-ons
- ✓ Strong network
Cons
- ✗ Higher price
- ✗ Complex options
Tata AIG UK Travel
Pros
- ✓ Most affordable
- ✓ Simple plans
- ✓ Quick issuance
- ✓ Trusted
Cons
- ✗ Basic coverage
- ✗ Fewer features
Reliance UK Travel Care
Pros
- ✓ Good value
- ✓ Adventure sports
- ✓ Flexible
- ✓ Good support
Cons
- ✗ Slower claims
- ✗ Less popular
Care Health UK Travel
Pros
- ✓ Lowest price
- ✓ Quick issuance
- ✓ Simple
Cons
- ✗ Basic coverage
- ✗ Fewer hospitals
SBI General UK Insurance
Pros
- ✓ Trusted brand
- ✓ Good for SBI users
- ✓ Reliable support
Cons
- ✗ Average coverage
- ✗ Less features
How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel insurance mandatory for UK visa?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for UK Standard Visitor visa. However, it's highly recommended. Having insurance shows visa officers you're prepared and a genuine traveler.
Can I use NHS in UK as a visitor?
A&E (Emergency) treatment is available to all. However, you may be charged for non-emergency treatment. Having travel insurance ensures you can access private care without worry.
How much coverage do I need for UK trip?
We recommend minimum £100,000 coverage. Private healthcare in UK is expensive - a simple procedure can cost £3,000-5,000. Coverage of £150,000-250,000 is ideal.
Does UK travel insurance cover Scotland and Wales?
Yes, UK travel insurance covers England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. One policy covers the entire United Kingdom.
Can I extend insurance if I extend my UK stay?
Most insurers allow extension before the policy expires. Contact your insurer at least 48 hours before expiry. Extension may cost extra premium.
Disclosure: Prices and coverage details are indicative and may change. Please verify with the insurer before purchasing. Times of Visa may earn a commission from purchases made through affiliate links, at no extra cost to you.