Compare Travel Insurance Policies for Residents of Greece

Compare Travel Insurance Policies for Residents of Greece

Who Needs Travel Insurance in Greece?

Travel insurance is advised for all travelers from different countries. Greek nationals use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access public healthcare inside Greece and other EU nations (including Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein); this card only covers medically necessary treatment in public facilities. It does not address private healthcare, repatriation, or other travel-related concerns. Non-EU nationals should get travel insurance, particularly since they won't have public healthcare services. Travel insurance is required on the application for those needing a Schengen Visa to enter Greece. For stays up to 90 days within the Schengen Area, many non-EU nationalities—including those from much of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East—need this visa.

Types of Travel Insurance Coverage

Though the exact coverages vary greatly depending on the provider, travel insurance policies usually give a mix of the following:

Medical Expenses: This covers doctor's visits, hospital stays, and other medical costs incurred abroad. Ensure the coverage amount is sufficient, especially for travel to the U.S., where healthcare is expensive.

Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation: This policy covers medical transport costs to a suitable facility or back to your home country, a potentially exorbitant expense without insurance.

Trip Cancellation/Interruption: This policy reimburses prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to covered reasons (e.g., illness or natural disaster). Some policies offer "cancel for any reason" coverage for an additional fee.

Lost/Stolen/Damaged Baggage and Personal Belongings: This covers replacing your luggage and its contents if lost, stolen, or damaged during your travels.

Travel Delay: This policy reimburses expenses like accommodation and meals if your trip is delayed due to covered reasons.

Personal Liability: Covers costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property.

Accidental Death & Dismemberment: Provides a lump sum payment in case of accidental death or dismemberment during your trip.

Factors Affecting Travel Insurance Cost

Your travel insurance policy's cost is determined in part by:

Trip Duration: Longer trips generally equal higher premiums.

Destination: Destinations with higher medical costs or perceived risks can increase the premium.

Age: Older travelers often pay higher premiums due to increased health risks.

Coverage Amount and Type: Comprehensive plans with higher coverage limits and additional benefits like "cancel for any reason" coverage will be more expensive.

Activities: Engaging in adventurous activities (e.g., scuba diving and skiing) might require additional coverage and a higher premium.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Declaring pre-existing conditions can increase the cost, but it's vital to do so to ensure coverage for related medical issues. Some insurers specialize in covering travelers with pre-existing conditions.

Comparing Travel Insurance Policies

Compare Quotes: Use online comparison tools to get quotes from multiple insurers simultaneously. Be sure to enter accurate trip details for a more precise comparison.

Read Policy Wording Carefully: Don't just focus on the price. Thoroughly review the policy wording to understand coverage details, exclusions, and claim procedures. Pay close attention to the definitions of covered reasons for trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, and medical expenses.

Check Insurer Reputation: Research the insurer's financial stability and customer reviews to ensure they are reliable and have a good track record of paying claims.

Consider Customer Service: Look for insurers with 24/7 assistance services, which is especially important when traveling abroad.

Travel Insurance for Specific Needs

Schengen Visa Insurance: If you require a Schengen visa, ensure the chosen policy meets the minimum coverage (€30,000 medical) and validity requirements. AXA and other providers offer specific Schengen visa insurance plans.

Annual/Multi-Trip Insurance: Frequent travelers might find yearly or multi-trip policies more cost-effective than single-trip policies.

Insurance for Pre-existing Conditions: Some insurers specialize in covering travelers with pre-existing conditions. Be sure to declare all conditions accurately and thoroughly review the policy wording regarding coverage for these conditions.

Senior Travel Insurance: Older travelers may need policies tailored to their age group, with potentially higher medical coverage limits. Some providers have specific senior travel insurance plans.

Adventure/Sports Travel Insurance: If you plan on engaging in activities like skiing, scuba diving, or rock climbing, ensure your policy explicitly covers these activities.

Healthcare in Greece

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): Greek citizens and residents of other EU/EEA countries can use the EHIC to access medically necessary public healthcare during temporary stays. However, remember its limitations—no repatriation coverage, private healthcare, etc.

Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC): UK residents can use the GHIC to access state healthcare in Greece. Like the EHIC, it has limitations.

Emergency Numbers: The general emergency number in Greece is 112 (or 166 for an ambulance).

Pharmacies: Pharmacies are readily available in Greece. Some medications require prescriptions.