As of May 1, 2010, the Cuban Government is making it mandatory for all tourists entering Cuba to purchase travel medical insurance for the duration they will be in Cuba. If you do not have any coverage purchased prior to your trip, you will have to get it when you arrive at destination.
Not Just Any Insurance Will Do
It’s best to ensure that you have your insurance purchased already, before travelling to Cuba. Why’s that? The insurance you would purchase in Cuba will not have the same benefits that you would get when purchasing a Canadian insurance policy. For example, the benefits provided by Cuban companies are much lower than those provided here in Canada, and do not include essentials like repatriation to a hospital back in one’s home country, or even having a family member travel to the patient’s hospital bedside.
Will Any Insurance Work?
There is a specific list of insurers that are recognized by the Cuban government. It is not an extensive list, however the company we use for travel insurance, RBC Insurance, is one that is recognized. If you have any questions on the different companies that are included, don’t hesitate to contact us to inquire.
What are your thoughts on this new requirement? We’d love to hear about it, leave us a comment to discuss!
