Repatriation insurance needed for Britons visiting France

UK nationals visiting France, once it is possible again, should note that rules for non-EU visitors include an obligation to hold travel insurance for death and repatriation.

Travel insurance has always been recommended by the UK government despite the fact that the Ehic covers “necessary” healthcare arising during a stay.

This is because Ehics do not cover some costly items, such as mountain rescue, repatriation in a medical emergency or death, or some private facilities.

Ehics, or the new Ghics, are being maintained for Britons, but non-EU visitors to the EU must have cover including “medical repatriation costs and expenses in the event of death”.

In theory, this could be checked on entry to France by short-term visitors – although Americans here have told The Connexion their visitors are not asked to show this. This will also be required if applying for a visa for up to six months in France.

However, the British Ehic or Ghic would remain valid for “essential” care, as long as there is no intention to “move” to France.

Research has not identified policies only for medical repatriation and death, though they are often included in general UK travel insurance policies.

One insurer, Churchill, said it covers medical repatriation up to €10million and body repatriation after death up to £7,500.

It was unable to quote a typical price as it said there are too many variables.

This is also included by some premium credit cards.

For example. the HSBC Gold Mastercard offers it, whether or not a trip is paid for with the card, but cover does not, unless agreed and an extra fee is paid, extend beyond 90 days.

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