Medical travel insurance for expats

To be eligible for this policy, you’ll need to: 

• be an English-speaking resident of Spain, France or Portugal, and to have lived there for at least 6 of the past 12 months 

• have spent more than 6 months in your home (non-native) country within the last year 

• be in your home (non-native) country when you take out this policy 

• be registered with a medical practitioner in the country where you live 

• start and end your trip in the country where you live 

• check first that you don’t already have suitable insurance cover with another provider 

• follow the latest government travel advice 

Yes. A GHIC or EHIC only gives you access to basic state healthcare in EU countries, and won’t pay for private treatment, repatriation to your country of residence, or non-medical costs like cancellations. Our expat medical travel insurance helps fill these gaps – giving you peace of mind with cover for emergencies, trip disruption and personal belongings.

Yes – it’s essential to declare all pre-existing medical conditions when you take out your policy. This ensures you’re fully protected if something goes wrong. Our simple online medical screening takes just a few minutes and is completely confidential. If you prefer, you can speak to one of our friendly team members by phone.

If you don’t tell us about a pre-existing medical condition, any related claims could be refused. That could leave you paying thousands in medical bills yourself. Always declare everything when you buy your policy – it’s the best way to travel with confidence, knowing you’re fully covered.

You’ll need to declare any conditions where, in the last 2 years, you’ve had symptoms, treatment, tests, investigations, surgery, appointments or ongoing medication. For heart or circulation problems, you must declare them even if they occurred more than two years ago. Declaring them upfront helps us provide cover that truly fits your health needs.

Yes. If you’ve seen a GP or specialist about menopause symptoms in the past two years – including for treatment, medication (like HRT) or investigations – you should declare it. While menopause itself is not an illness, related health issues can affect cover, so declaring it means you’re protected if you need to claim for anything linked to those symptoms.

Possibly – it depends on your current health, your destination and your travel plans. We’ll assess each case individually during the medical screening. In some situations, we can offer tailored cover to ensure you have the protection you need for your trip.

Most people with stable medical conditions can fly without problems. You’ll need to be fit to travel, which means your doctor hasn’t advised against it. If you’ve recently had surgery, hospital treatment or changes to your medication, check with your GP before you book. Some airlines also require a medical clearance form if you have certain conditions.

Airlines and doctors may advise against flying if your condition is unstable, you’ve had recent major surgery, or you have an infectious illness such as chickenpox. Certain heart or lung conditions may also require medical clearance before flying. Always check with your GP and airline before you travel.

Yes – just keep it in its original packaging and carry it in your hand luggage along with a copy of your prescription. Some countries have restrictions on certain medicines, so always check local embassy or government advice before you travel. It’s also a good idea to pack extra in case of delays, and to split your supply between bags in case one goes missing. 

Yes – most airlines will let you take essential medical equipment in addition to your usual baggage allowance. You should notify your airline in advance and check their requirements for battery-powered devices if you plan to use them during the flight. Keep any essential equipment in your hand luggage where possible.

Yes – our policies include emergency medical treatment abroad, hospital stays, surgery, and repatriation to your country of residence, if medically necessary. Comprehensive policies offer unlimited medical expenses, so you can focus on recovery instead of worrying about costs. Declared and accepted pre-existing conditions are included as standard.

Yes – you can carry them in both your hand luggage and checked baggage. For liquids over 100ml, you’ll need a doctor’s note. It’s also best to keep any medication in its original packaging to avoid issues with airport security or customs.

First, call the local emergency services if needed. Then contact our 24/7 emergency assistance team, who can guide you to the most suitable medical facility and liaise with doctors. We can often arrange payment directly with the hospital or clinic so you don’t need to pay upfront. 

Yes. At Staysure Expat, everything is handled in English – from your policy documents and written communications to our friendly support team on the phone.