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Vietnam travel insurance

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Why do I need travel insurance in Vietnam?

• It can cover you for emergency medical treatment.
• It can cover medical expenses caused by injuries and accidents, unless it's from an excluded activity.
• It can pay for transport to hospital by helicopter or ambulance, as well as medical evacuations back to Australia.
• If you're renting a car in Vietnam, make sure you have car rental excess cover.
• Theft can occur in Vietnam. Travel insurance can cover you for lost or stolen valuables. This could include rings, necklaces, phones and watches.
• Terrorism is a risk in Vietnam. A few insurers provide cover for medical and hospital expenses caused by an act of terrorism, including the cost of bringing you back home.

Looking for the best travel insurance for Vietnam? Check out our award winners in 2023

Tick travel insurance has ranked first place for customer satisfaction in 2023 .

This survey was conducted by Dynata, where 95% of respondents said they would recommend Tick to a friend, and it scored the highest in the 'value for money' category.

Southern Cross Travel Insurance has taken the top position in the 'Travel insurance - Comprehensive' category for the 2023 Finder Awards . Why? It's got to do with its wide COVID-19 coverage and how it handles cancellations due to unexpected events.

Adding to that, its average pricing was pretty affordable compared to other brands who offer less coverage for a higher price.

Fast Cover is the winner of the 2023 Finder Awards for the 'Travel insurance - Value' category. How? We compared the average prices of 28 international travel insurance policies, and Fast Cover came out on top.

But what does ' value' mean? It means we looked at more than just price. Fast Cover doesn't include everything on its policies, but it offers good value.

InsureandGo has taken the top place for the 'Travel insurance - Domestic' category in the 2023 Finder Awards .

Why? We analysed 23 domestic policies and found that InsureandGo were generous with their benefit limits for things like cancellation and rental car excess insurance.

Southern Cross Travel Insurance is the winner of the 'Travel insurance - Seniors' category in the 2023 Finder Awards . Why? It has higher age limits and generous benefits.

We also appreciated SCTI's easy-to-read product disclosure statement. This means that customers can easily understand their policies, and travel with confidence.

Fast Cover Travel Insurance's COVID-19 Benefits & Refund Policy earned it a place among the finalists in the Insurance Innovation category of this year's Finder Innovation Awards .

It goes further than many other insurers, covering COVID medical expenses and evacuation, up to $5,000 for COVID-related cancellations and additional expenses.

Vietnam travel insurance: Common exclusions

Every travel insurance policy has things you won't be covered for. Common exclusions include:

• If you purchase cover after the incident has occurred. For example, if you take cover out after you've been injured and need medical attention.
• Pre-existing medical conditions. If you have any major medical conditions, make sure you let your insurer know before taking out a policy. Otherwise you won't be covered for claims related to that condition.
• You travel despite government travel advice. For example, if you travel to areas that have a warning from Smartraveller, travel insurance may not cover you.
• Incidents that occur while you're under the influence of drugs or alcohol. For example, if you go out drinking in Ho Chi Minh City, get injured and need medical attention, travel insurance won't cover you.
• Driving vehicles without a licence. Like Australia, you won't be covered for medical costs or personal liability expenses if you drive without a licence in Vietnam.

What add-ons should I look for?

• If you have plans to zoom around Vietnam on a scooter or motorbike, make sure to have the right license, and the right policy.
• Watersports like snorkelling, jet skiing and para-sailing are popular activities in Vietnam. Make sure to add the right cover to your travel insurance.

Will I be covered for COVID-19?

Travel insurance can cover you for COVID-19 in Vietnam. A policy can cover you for the following:

• Rearrangement costs if you catch the virus and need to change your plans. Lots of comprehensive travel insurance policies let you claim up to $5,000 towards these expenses.
• Medical costs due to COVID-19. This can include hospital expenses and RATs if you catch COVID-19 while overseas (but you won't be covered for mandatory PCRs).
• Expenses if you need to isolate. For example, if you catch COVID while you're overseas and need to push back your flight and stay in your accommodation longer.

How do I get cheap travel insurance for Vietnam?

• Medical only or basic policies will generally be the cheaper policies on the market.
• Use exclusive deals or promo codes to get a discount.
• Opt for a higher excess. This will make your policy cheaper but more expensive if you have to claim.
• Compare across a handful of travel insurers – they're not all the same.
• Get the most value by buying your policy early. It means you're covered for longer while paying the same price.

When I travel, I don't want to fork out a lot for travel insurance. I always get something above the bare minimum though which usually only covers medical-only expenses. Flight disruptions and delayed luggage are really common, so look for a cheap policy that covers me for these things.

Gary Ross Hunter Finder's travel insurance senior writer

What do I do in emergencies?

For emergencies: call 113 (police), 115 (ambulance) or 114 (fire).

In a medical emergency, call for help and then contact your insurer on their emergency assistance line.

Civil unrest, security risks, threat of terrorist attack and crime are a concern in Vietnam, but you should still be eligible for travel insurance. It won't cover all of these situations but it can help cover medical costs, stolen belongings and much much more.

Why you can trust Finder's travel insurance experts

We're experts

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We're here to help

Faqs about vietnam, is it safe to eat street food in vietnam.

Street food in Vietnam is hit or miss, it can be totally safe to consume or not at all. But like restaurants in Vietnam, there is no guarantee that it's safe. Luckily, at street food stalls, you can see how food is prepared.

A few tips on what to look out for when picking a street food vendor:

• Avoid eating raw food as a lot of it is washed with tap water
• Avoid eating meat that you can't identify since it's not uncommon for meat to be swapped for a cheaper alternative
• Opt to eat at stalls that have three sides since the food is better protected by glass surrounding the foodChoose to eat where locals eat

Do you need a vaccination before going to Vietnam?

There are a number of vaccinations that you should get before leaving for Vietnam. You should also keep up to date with routine vaccinations.

Smartraveller and a doctor can best advise you on the risks associated with various diseases that you may come into contact with in Vietnam, which can include the following:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Japanese encephalitis
• Dengue fever
• Hand, foot and mouth disease
• Conjunctivitis

Zika is a concern throughout Vietnam, while malaria is prominent in remote mountainous areas and dengue fever is mostly in the south. All are mosquito-borne diseases so protect yourself by using mosquito repellent; wearing loose, long and light-coloured clothing; and staying in accommodation that is mosquito proof.

Which travel insurance is good for Vietnam?

The cheapest policy will usually only cover you for medical expenses. However, flight disruptions and petty crime are fairly common in Vietnam so it may be worth getting comprehensive travel insurance. This can cover you for medical expenses, trip rearrangement costs, theft, luggage delay and more.

Do you need travel insurance to go to Vietnam?

The Australian government's smartraveller site recommends that you take out cover when travelling to Vietnam. If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.

Which travel insurance company has COVID cover for Vietnam?

Lots of travel insurers cover COVID-related expenses now. You can find a full table of the policies that cover COVID expenses on our homepage .

Is it safe to travel to Vietnam?

Yes. The Australian government smartraveller website says to exercise normal safety precautions in Vietnam.

Gary Ross Hunter

Gary Ross Hunter is an editor at Finder, specialising in insurance. He’s been writing about life, travel, home, car, pet and health insurance for over 6 years and regularly appears as an insurance expert in publications including The Sydney Morning Herald, The Guardian and news.com.au. Gary holds a Kaplan Tier 2 General Advice General Insurance certification which meets the requirements of ASIC Regulatory Guide 146 (RG146).

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Travel Insurance for Vietnam

Travelling to Vietnam for a much-needed holiday? Compare your travel insurance options with Savvy.

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Whether you’re planning to soak up its exotic seascapes, fly through Hanoi on a two-wheeler or explore the system of caves across its national parks, it’s always important to have peace of mind when you’re travelling to Vietnam. If you’re searching for the right travel insurance cover for your next international journey, Savvy can point you in the right direction.

By comparing with us, you can find a policy which offers you the right protection, whether your flights are delayed, your luggage goes missing or you fall ill while overseas. We provide instant quotes from our partners, so you can consider their pros and cons and compare the cost of each policy. Before you take off overseas, compare your travel insurance options with Savvy today.

Do I need travel insurance for a holiday to Vietnam?

You don’t necessarily ‘need’ travel insurance if you’re taking a trip to Vietnam. However, it’s strongly recommended that you purchase a policy before you jet off on your holiday, whether you’ve got plans to indulge in the flavours of Vietnamese cuisine or kitesurfing off Mui Nei.

While Vietnam has the potential to offer you some breathtaking and compelling experiences on your next holiday, there are also plenty of risks to watch out for when visiting Southeast Asia . This is why it’s essential to compare with Savvy and get the best travel insurance for your holiday.

If you’re itching to experience all of what Vietnam has to offer, some of the incidentals to watch out for include:

• Road accidents: road accidents are incredibly common across much of Vietnam, so it pays to be cautious when you’re riding a motorcycle on your holiday or driving around in a hire car. Data from the World Health Organisation found people were more than ten times more likely to be killed in a road accident in Vietnam than in Australia due to poor compliance with the road rules. When you’re on the road in Vietnam, keep your speed down and wear good quality protective gear if you’re on two wheels.
• Political situation: while it’s relatively rare that a protest or demonstration erupts in Vietnam, it pays to be vigilant if political tensions flare up. Large public protests can often turn violent, so it’s a good idea to keep away from areas where these occur. Also, don’t take photos of the military or police, as this may not be tolerated by local authorities.
• Crime: street crimes are common around Vietnam and generally occur more frequently during holiday periods. Often, these include bag snatchings or slashings and are committed by thieves who commit snatch-and-grab crimes while riding motorbikes. Some of the hot spots include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. Be vigilant while walking the streets and be prepared to surrender your worldly possessions in exchange for your safety.
• Natural disasters: the wet season, which usually lasts from June to November, can bring about floods, typhoons, landslides and other types of severe weather. Typhoons mostly affect the coastal north and central regions, while landslides usually hit regional towns and villages. Keep an eye on the local media and follow information from local authorities.

What’s covered by my travel insurance for my holiday to Vietnam?

Depending on the policy and level of protection, travel insurance can help if you become ill or injured while travelling, lose your things, or suffer airline cancellations or delays. Some travel insurance benefits are:  

• Overseas medical bills: it’s a good idea to take out travel insurance if you are struck down with an illness or even injure yourself and require medical attention while in Vietnam. Aside from the high risk of traffic accidents, Vietnam has many insect-borne diseases such as dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis and malaria, which can be deadly, including if you’re pregnant .
• Evacuation or repatriation: if you're critically ill and your insurance company's physicians say you need to return home, they'll pay for your evacuation and repatriation. This emergency cover includes if you need to leave ship on a trip, which may cost up to $100,000 without insurance.
• Cancellation: many travel insurance carriers may refund pre-paid deposits on hotels, flights, or excursions if you cancel your trip due to a covered occurrence. Illness, injury, or a sick or dying family member are among the valid reasons for cancelling a trip.
• Lost, stolen or damaged bags: most insurance providers will compensate or replace lost, stolen, or damaged baggage up to an agreed claim amount, which can reach up to $15,000.
• Individual items: taking a phone or laptop on your overseas or domestic getaway? Many insurance plans offer sub-limits for lost, damaged, or stolen property. For example, some may allow you to claim up to $300 per day if your flight is delayed for more than 24 hours.
• Travel delays: most travel insurance cover hotel, food, and other expenses if your flight is delayed longer than 24 hours. This includes delayed luggage owing to a delayed airliner.
• Personal liability: legal issues abroad may be costly. If you're held directly accountable for damage or injury, your insurance company may pay up to $5 million.
• Accidental death: if you die overseas in a covered accident, your insurance company can repatriate your remains. They may pay up to $25,000 for funeral or cremation fees.
• Optional extras: going kayaking in Northern Vietnam or scuba diving off the coast of Nha Trang? Most travel insurance plans don't cover these activities automatically but they do offer supplementary coverage for an added premium.

However, most travel insurance companies won’t cover you for the following incidentals:

• Unapproved pre-existing medical conditions
• Lost possessions left unattended
• Breaking local laws and road rules
• Accidents caused by drug or alcohol use
• Travelling to a country against Australian government advice
• Travelling for medical tourism  

What factors should I consider before buying travel insurance for a trip to Vietnam?

It might be difficult to figure out which policy provides the most beneficial coverage for your next trip to Asia . However, by comparing with Savvy, you may be able to make the experience of searching for the perfect policy a whole lot easier.

Premium cost

It is, of course, in your best interest to keep your insurance premium costs to a minimum. To avoid overpaying for your travel insurance, it is crucial to shop around and get the best possible policy at a price that works for you. If you’re over 65 and planning a trip to Vietnam, you’ll likely be paying a higher premium based on your age, so it will be worth shopping around to find the best seniors' travel insurance policy .

The type of policy you need

Numerous options exist for travel insurance, whether you're looking for single-trip, annual or one-way cover, so it’s important to consider your travel requirements. For example, if you’ll be taking multiple international trips across the year, an annual policy may be more suited to you than single-trip. Take a look at your itinerary, think about how often you’ll be flying and compare it with Savvy so you can get the best insurance for your trip.

What you’re doing in Vietnam

Carefully consider which insurance company provides the greatest value and level of protection if you’re looking to partake in high-risk pursuits before signing up. If you’re planning to rock climb on the jagged cliffs of Da Lat or trek Mt. Fansipan, make sure you get a policy that covers you.

Claim limits

In most cases, the amount you may claim from your overseas travel insurance policy will be capped. Check if these limits are enough for your trip and the items you want to take with you by doing a side-by-side comparison of several brands with Savvy.

Inclusions and exclusions

When searching for the best international policy for your trip to Vietnam, make sure you opt for a policy that best suits your needs. Before settling on one choice, do your homework and weigh what's included and what isn't. For example, a pre-existing condition you suffer from may not be automatically included under one policy, while it could be covered by a competitor.

Types of travel insurance

International.

International travel insurance can offer cover for a range of events, including medical expenses, lost luggage or items, cancellation fees and more when you're overseas and a long way from home.

If you're journeying within Australia, domestic policies are designed to offer many of the same protections as international travel insurance (with the exception of medical expenses).

Single trip

The most standard and common type of travel insurance, this policy can cover you for one trip starting and ending in Australia (and is available for both international and domestic travel).

Annual multi-trip

As the name suggests, this type of travel insurance covers multiple trips over a 12-month period. Depending on your insurer, you may be able to take an unlimited number of trips up to 90 days each.

You don't have to have a return ticket booked to take out cover while you're overseas. One-way travel insurance enables you to access cover without a set end date, such as if you're moving temporarily.

You may need to take out specialist coverage if you're setting sail on a cruise. Fortunately, cruise insurance can cover emergency evacuation, cabin confinement and more.

Just because you're older doesn't mean travel insurance isn't still important. If you qualify for cover, seniors' travel insurance can offer greater peace of mind for included events while you're travelling.

Adding winter sports or ski cover to your policy can add protection against damage to your equipment, piste closure due to bad weather and activities such as back-country skiing, heliskiing and more.

Adventure sports

Looking to enjoy some adventure sports on holiday? An adventure sports pack can grant you cover for a range of activities, such as hiking, scuba diving and motorcycle or scooter riding.

Jetsetting with the whole clan in tow? Some insurers offer family travel insurance, which enables you to include yourself, your partner and your dependent children under one policy to help you save.

If you're travelling interstate or overseas with your partner (or simply another friend or family member), you may be able to access a discount by taking out a joint or duo travel insurance policy.

Why compare travel insurance with Savvy?

Reputable insurance partners, fast and convenient online process.

You can complete the quote, comparison and purchase process online through Savvy quickly and easily.

Competitive quote costs

Regardless of the type of insurance you’re looking for, we can help you compare between competitive quotes.

Top tips for saving on your travel insurance to Vietnam

Combine policies.

You can get group policies from providers covering you, your partner, your extended family, and even your children or grandchildren. Most providers allow you to include up to 25 people under the same policies, which, if the costs are divided among the travellers, can save you money.

Consider increasing your excess

You can pay less for your travel insurance by increasing the excess you're willing to pay if you need to file a claim. A higher excess can help you save money in the long term, but it shouldn't be so high that it causes you financial hardship to pay it.

Only pay for what you need

There's no point paying for cover you're not going to use on your holiday. Before you purchase a policy, read the PDS and make sure you aren’t paying extra for add-ons such as rental car hire or cruise coverage if you don't have any intentions of either hiring a car or sailing across the seas.

Compare your travel insurance options

Using Savvy to help you decide lets you easily see which provider gives you the best coverage for the lowest price. You can compare policies side by side so you can weigh what's included, what's not included, the price of your premium, and any other essential factors.

Frequently asked questions about travel insurance for Vietnam

Yes – most travel insurance policies cover any COVID-19-related expenses, such as medical treatment while you’re in Vietnam and the need to cancel your holiday if you test positive before you leave. However, cancellation due to COVID-19 isn’t usually available on basic policies. The risk of testing positive for COVID-19 is still quite high if you’re travelling to Vietnam as of September 2022, so it’s best to wear a mask when possible if you’re worried about contracting the virus.

Yes – you can buy travel insurance if you’re already wheels up and headed to Vietnam for your holiday. You’ll be afforded the exact coverage you would usually get if you purchased before departure. However, these policies have waiting periods of between 48 and 96 hours. This means that if you suffer a claimable incident inside this period, you won’t be able to make a claim.

Most people in the know will tell you the best time to purchase your travel insurance is when you know your travel dates. That allows you to be covered for the maximum amount of pre-paid bookings, such as those for hotels or tours if something unforeseen happens and you need to call off your holiday. There are also often sales on around holiday periods, such as Easter, Christmas and the End of the Financial Year, which means you could snap up a policy at a discount. In most cases, you won’t be able to get instant cover, as most policies have waiting periods of at least 72 hours.

When you do it online, claiming on your travel insurance is a pretty easy process. When you go to your insurance company's website, enter your policy number and the email address that goes with it. From there, you can do the following:

• Fill out your claim form with plenty of detail
• Attach any documents, such as receipts, medical evidence, or proof of purchase
• Submit your claim

  The majority of the time, you should hear back from your insurance company within about ten business days. It's best to quickly answer any requests for more information to avoid slowing down the process.

The cost of your travel insurance to Vietnam will be determined by a range of interchangeable variables, including:

• The length of your trip and destinations
• Whether you suffer any pre-existing conditions
• If you need optional extras
• The insurer you’ve chosen
• The level of cover you have purchased
• What part of Vietnam (for example, you may not be able to receive cover if you’re travelling somewhere experiencing a natural disaster or an outbreak of infectious disease)

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Disclaimer: We do not compare all travel insurance brands currently operating in the market. Any advice presented above or on other pages is general in nature and does not consider your personal or business objectives, needs or finances. It’s always important to consider whether advice is suitable for you before purchasing an insurance policy.

Savvy earns a commission from our partners each time a customer buys a travel insurance policy via our website. We don’t arrange for products to be purchased from these brands directly, as all purchases are conducted via their websites.

Before purchasing your policy, we recommend you refer to the provider’s PDS for any further information on the terms, inclusions and exclusions.

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• Ho Chi Minh City

• Planning A Trip

All-in-one Guide to Travel Insurance For Your Vietnam Trip

• 1. Why Would I Need Insurance?
• 2. What Types Of Insurances Are There?
• 3. Insurance Plan
• 4. When To Get Your Insurance
• 5. Where To Start Looking For Travel Insurance

In many countries, purchasing and showing proof of a purchase for a travel insurance is a must as you apply for your travel documents. As you get a visa for Vietnam, you are not required to present one. But do you need one? The answer is YES, you will greatly benefit from a wisely picked travel insurance. And how to figure out which one is the best in the pool of insurance offered? We will tell you right now.

Why Would I Need Insurance?

You can just skip this section if you already know how important it is to get travel insurance. For those who are still skeptical, read on.

This is not to say Vietnam is an unsafe place to visit, but that anything can happen and it is better you get yourself prepared. Getting insurance sometimes will save you thousands of dollars, but in the least it gives you peace of mind. You know you are protected to a certain extent.

What Types Of Insurances Are There?

Thanks to Vietnam’s readily available tourism activities, you will find yourself anywhere from flying, taking cruise trips, staying at a high end resort, going kayaking on the bay or even simply crossing the streets. Fun as they may sound, some may be more prone to risk than others.

Currently in the insurance market, there is both individual and comprehensive plan for you to choose from: flight and trip cancellation insurance, travel health insurance, medical evacuation insurance, baggage coverage insurance, excess valuation, to name a few. Depending on your particular trip and preference, you may find one that best suits your interest.

How much your insurance will cost you will depend on the number of days you travel, the destination you will be travelling (Vietnam is generally listed as a safer place, and costing less money for insurance, some other countries), and the types that you choose.

Below is a closer look at the different types of insurance:

Trip cancellation.

If you book your flight with, Expedia or Orbitz or even directly from the airlines website such as Air Asia, chances are that you will be asked whether you want to purchase a flight or trip cancellation insurance. Unless you are 100% sure that you will make it for the trip, it may be wise to purchase one. This flight cancellation insurance starts from $13 and will be an excellent deal in case your flight or trip gets cancelled.

Flight Insurance

Baggage Insurance

You won’t be a happy traveler as you land and find out that you lost your baggage or your 2 trolleys were totally damaged. Most airlines will provide only hefty reimbursement in case of lost luggage. Baggage insurance will be necessary if you travel long distance.

Travel Health Insurance 

Your national health care insurance will not cover your trip to Vietnam in particular. The Australian Reciprocal Medicare Agreement only entitle Australian nationals to get discounted treatment while in the UK, New Zealand, Sweden, Italy, among others, but Vietnam is not currently on the list. Canadians with OHIP coverage will too bear the full cost of medical expense while abroad. For US citizens, some private health insurance may cover basic needs for your travel but no company will assist you to evacuate or repatriate back to the homeland with your existing plan. With the evacuation or medication pack, you will be aided in case of injury or death and flown back to your home country. The annual premium starts from $250.

Other insurances available for your consideration are: Adventure travel, Credit card coverage, extreme sports insurance, to name a few.

Insurance Plan

Instead of going with individual coverage you may also purchase insurance plan:

Vacation plan

This is the most popular type of all travel insurance. Vacation plan includes trip cancellation or interruption, medical emergencies, loss or delays of luggage, and some over coverage depending on the insurance providers.

Specialty plan

This includes evacuation plans, accident plans, which cover the emergency evacuation and often-sold on annual basis. The insurance will cover transport and any emergency medial costs associated with the occurrence while you are abroad.

Travel medical plan 

When To Get Your Insurance

It is best to get your travel insurance as you start your booking process: reserving a flight ticket, making deposit for a package tour to Vietnam or paying for your cruise trips.

Where To Start Looking For Travel Insurance

Below are some of the more prestigious travel insurance providers by countries:

Canada: Travel Guard, Kanetix (www.kanetix.ca), Manu Life (www.manulife.ca), RBC (http://www.rbcinsurance.com/travelinsurance/index.html)

US: Travel Guard, (http://www.travelguard.com)

UK: travel guard, Tesco Bank, Barclay (www.barclays.co.uk)

Australia: Travel guard, World Nomad, Travel Insurance Cover (www.travelinsurancecover.com.au)

Latest Travel Alerts & Updates for Vietnam

Can I travel to Vietnam right now? What are the requirement? When can I expect to be allowed to travel to Vietnam? Find answers to these questions with our frequently updated travel alerts.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam: When to Go & What to Expect

"When is the best time to visit Vietnam" is one of the most common questions that spring up to mind for all trip planners. Overall the golden time to visit the country is March-May and October-early December.

What $1 Can Buy in Vietnam

Although the cost of living has risen tremendously in Vietnam in recent years, you can still to live by with few dollars per day in your pocket. Below is a quick summary of what a dollar can be worth in various cities in Vietnam.

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Travel Insurance Vietnam

Travel insurance for vietnam.

Ah, Vietnam – a vibrant chaos of scooters zipping around, ancient temples that have seen it all, and greenery that makes you feel like you're in a nature hug. This Southeast Asian gem isn't just about rich culture and history – it's also the kingdom of adventures and, of course, the land of the mighty pho. Before you kick off your shoes and wade into the wonders of Vietnam, let's talk about practical matters. While Vietnam's known for the stunning Ha Long Bay and its gregarious people, it's also a place where even the savviest traveler might hit a speed bump. Let's dive into the everything you need to know abouet travel insurance for Vietnam so you can face unexpected travel hiccups with confidence.

• What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Vietnam? 
• How does Travel Insurance work for Vietnam?
• Do I need Travel Insurance for Vietnam? 
• How much does Travel Insurance cost for Vietnam? 
• Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan

What Types of Medical Coverage Do AXA Travel Protection Plans Offer?

Are there any covid-19 restrictions for travelers to vietnam.

• Traveling with pre-existing Medical Conditions?

What should your travel insurance cover for a trip to Vietnam?

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.  AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind. 

• Medical Coverage   – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions  – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation   – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings  – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason  – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Vietnam.

How does Travel Insurance for Vietnam work?

Imagine: you're on a motorbike adventure through the winding roads of Dalat. Suddenly, an unexpected slip or a minor mishap occurs, and you find yourself in need of medical attention. Here's where an AXA Travel Protection plan steps in with its "Emergency Medical Expenses" benefit. From hospital stays to doctor's fees, AXA can support and assist so you're not left navigating the complications of the Vietnamese healthcare system. Moreover, if the situation takes a serious turn and requires evacuation to the nearest medical facility or even repatriation, AXA Travel Protection's got your back. Here’s how travelers can benefit from an AXA Travel Protection Plan:  

Medical Benefits: 

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms. 

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations. 

Post-Departure Travel Benefits:

• Trip Interruption: In case of an unexpected event, you could be eligible for reimbursement for the unused portion of your trip.
• Missed Connection: If you miss a connecting flight due to delays or cancellations, this coverage may help with expenses like rebooking fees and accommodations.

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings. 

Additional Optional Travel Benefits:

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures. 

Do I need Travel Insurance for Vietnam?

Although it's not required to have travel insurance for Vietnam, we highly recommend that travelers think about getting an insurance plan to make sure they stay well-protected during their visit. Why? There are several reasons:

Medical Emergencies: Given the adventurous activities in Vietnam, the potential for minor mishaps or unexpected health issues is notable. Having coverage for emergency medical expenses ensures that you can seek necessary medical attention without worrying about the financial burden.

Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without your essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.

Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: While Vietnam's healthcare has improved through the years, the quality of healthcare in more rural or remote areas may not be as advanced. In the event of a serious medical emergency, having coverage for emergency evacuation to the nearest suitable medical facility or repatriation becomes crucial.

How much does Travel Insurance cost for Vietnam?

In general, travel insurance costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans:

• Total Trip cost:  The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc. 
• Age:  Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Ecuador will be offered three tiers of insurance:  Silver,   Gold  and  Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan 

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the  Silver Plan ,  Gold Plan , and  Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Vietnam hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses. Travelers to Vietnam may want extra coverage. The Platinum Plan is a good choice for travelers who want a bit of extra coverage. Cancel for Any Reason is an option that offers coverage for canceling a trip for any reason. The Collision Damage Waiver coverage is also optional. It covers collisions, theft or damage to a rental car being used during your Vietnam trip.

AXA covers three types of medical expenses:

• Emergency medical expenses 
• Emergency evacuation & repatriation 
• Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation 

Emergency Medical: Can cover medical expenses, hospital stays, and even emergency evacuations, covering the expenses of hefty bills and ensuring access to quality healthcare while away from home.

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: Can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness. 

Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: Offers assistance in unexpected situations such as political unrest or natural disasters, ensuring safe and timely relocation to a secure location or repatriation back home. 

Starting in 2023, travelers heading to Vietnam no longer have to show a valid Covid-19 vaccine card or a negative PCR test. The travel restrictions in Vietnam have been lifted, making the entry process simpler for all travelers.

Traveling with pre-existing Medical Conditions? 

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.   Our Gold and Platinum  plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.  The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons, 

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition that's been hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plans with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation. 

1. Can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight?

You can buy travel insurance even after your flight is booked.

2. When should I buy Travel Insurance to Vietnam?

Purchasing travel insurance for your trip is advisable as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.) AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip. Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit.

3. Do Americans need travel insurance in Vietnam?

While travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for Americans visiting Vietnam, it is highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide financial protection and assistance in case of unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, or other travel-related issues.

4. What is needed to visit Vietnam from the USA?

For a trip to Vietnam, US citizens need a visa for tourism or business, obtainable from the Vietnamese Embassy in the US or through a single-entry e-visa on the Vietnam Immigration website. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and has at least one blank visa page.

5. What happens if a tourist gets sick in Vietnam?

If you become sick in Vietnam, travelers with AXA Travel protection can contact the AXA Assistance hotline at  855-327-1442 . Contact information is typically provided within the insurance documentation. Please ensure to read through your policy details and information.

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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With our travel insurance we can take great care of you too

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Speak with one of our licensed representatives or our 24/7 multilingual insurance advisors to find the coverage you need for your next trip.

Vietnam Jack

Travel and discover the best things to do in Vietnam!

Vietnam Travel Insurance Guide: Top 5 Insurance Options for Your Trip

Embarking on a journey to Vietnam, with its captivating landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, is an adventure filled with excitement and discovery. Ensuring a safe and worry-free experience involves choosing the right travel insurance. From comprehensive coverage to specific needs for exploring Vietnam, this guide explores the best travel insurance options, providing peace of mind for every traveler’s unique journey.

1. World Nomads: Comprehensive Coverage

World Nomads stands out as a top choice for adventurous travelers exploring Vietnam’s diverse terrains. Offering extensive coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities like trekking and motorcycling, it caters to the thrill-seekers. Their flexible policies and user-friendly online platform make it easy for travelers to customize plans based on their specific needs. With 24/7 customer support and a reputation for reliability, World Nomads ensures that adventurers can explore Vietnam with confidence.

2. Allianz Global Assistance: Versatile Coverage for Every Traveler

Allianz Global Assistance provides versatile coverage suitable for a range of travel styles, making it an excellent choice for Vietnam-bound tourists. Their comprehensive plans include coverage for medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and baggage loss. Allianz offers a user-friendly online interface for easy policy management and claims processing. With a global network of medical providers and assistance services, travelers can trust Allianz to provide reliable support throughout their journey in Vietnam.

3. AXA Assistance: Tailored Coverage with Global Support

AXA Assistance offers tailored travel insurance with a global support network, making it a reliable choice for Vietnam-bound travelers. Their plans cover a spectrum of needs, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage protection. AXA Assistance’s emphasis on customer service ensures that travelers have access to assistance whenever needed. With a user-friendly online platform for policy management and claims, AXA Assistance provides a seamless experience for those prioritizing personalized coverage and global support.

4. Travel Guard: Customizable Plans for Personalized Protection

Travel Guard, powered by AIG, provides customizable travel insurance plans to suit individual preferences and needs. Their coverage includes medical expenses, trip disruptions, and comprehensive protection against unexpected events. With flexible options for coverage enhancements, travelers can tailor their policies for specific activities or preferences. Travel Guard’s commitment to customer satisfaction, coupled with its global presence, ensures that Vietnam-bound tourists have access to personalized protection for a worry-free exploration.

5. SafetyWing: Affordable and Flexible Coverage

For budget-conscious travelers seeking reliable coverage, SafetyWing emerges as an affordable and flexible option. With comprehensive medical insurance, SafetyWing is a practical choice for those exploring Vietnam on a budget. Their policies are available to travelers of all nationalities, and the coverage extends even during brief returns to the home country. SafetyWing’s affordability and flexibility make it an attractive option for those prioritizing financial considerations without compromising on essential coverage .

Choosing the Right Travel Insurance: Considerations and Tips

Selecting the best travel insurance for Vietnam involves considering factors like coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and specific activities such as adventure sports. Assess your individual needs, duration of stay, and the type of activities you plan to engage in. Read policy details carefully. Additionally, consider the ease of claims processing and customer support. Comparing quotes and reviews can guide you in making an informed decision tailored to your travel requirements.

Conclusion: Safeguarding Your Vietnam Adventure

Choosing the best travel insurance for your Vietnam adventure ensures a safety net for unforeseen circumstances. Whether you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations or immersing yourself in cultural experiences, reliable coverage from providers like World Nomads, Allianz Global Assistance, SafetyWing, AXA Assistance, and Travel Guard ensures you can focus on creating lasting memories with peace of mind.

Featured Image: View of Hanoi at Night | Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh

Top Travel Insurances For Vietnam You Should Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Vietnam is known for its friendly people, intriguing cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine such as the famous Pho and Banh Mi dishes. Although travelling to Vietnam can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, and although healthcare costs in the country aren't outrageously expensive, it's still a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance anway, as you'll want the highest-quality healthcare you can find.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to Vietnam and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

Vietnam Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for Vietnam:

Best Travel Insurances for Vietnam

• 01. Do I need travel insurance for Vietnam? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance to Vietnam scroll down

Heading to Vietnam soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

• 💳 Eager to dodge high FX fees? See our picks for the best travel cards in 2024.
• 🛂 Need a visa? Let iVisa take care of it for you.
• ✈ Looking for flights? Compare on Skyscanner !
• 💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
• 💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory in Vietnam?

No, there's currently no legal requirement to take out travel insurance for travel to or through Vietnam.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to Vietnam or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for Vietnam:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to Vietnam, no matter whether you're planning to hike through the jungles of Phong Nha-Ke Bang or explore the busy streets of Hanoi.

VisitorsCoverage lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Vietnam, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies, and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for Vietnam:

• Policy Names: Varies
• Medical Coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip Coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer Support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing Range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
• Insurance Underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best For: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option for Vietnam, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy Names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical Coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip Coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer Support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing Range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
• Insurance Underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best For: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads in Vietnam because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy Names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical Coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip Coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing Range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
• Insurance Underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best For: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to Vietnam? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to Vietnam

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, you'll not be required to take out travel insurance for Vietnam. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in Vietnam can be high, and taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself if you need medical attention during your stay.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

Looking for Travel Insurance to Another Country?

See our recommendations for travel insurance to other countries worldwide:

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WARNING RE COVID-19

Policies purchased after 8 Apr, 2020 will not provide any cover for claims directly or indirectly arising from, relating to or in any way connected with COVID-19 (or any mutation or variation thereof or any related strain). We will not therefore cover claims relating to any inability to travel, any decision not to travel or any changes to travel plans, nor any medical or health related loss or expense incurred, as a result of COVID-19.

Please note that the application service will be temporarily unavailable from 8:00PM on 1 March 2024 to 2:00AM on 2 March 2024 for maintenance works. 

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No matter where you are in the world. Ask for a reverse charge call in your visiting location and we’ll help you through with access to medical and dental treatment and emergency evacuation as the situation demands.

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Choose from 3 Levels of Quality Cover. Select from our Silver, Gold or Platinum cover to match your personal travel needs.

Quality travel cover at an affordable price

With more than 50 years of insurance experience and many millions of travellers served, Chubb Travel Insurance offers high-quality insurance to Vietnam travellers. We have plan options for all types of travellers, from frequent flyers and families to holidaymakers on a budget, adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts.

Access to a global team of travel experts

Purchasing travel insurance from Chubb means access to a truly global network. In addition to our wealth of local expertise, Chubb's operation in Australia is backed by our extensive global travel network and breadth of resources to serve your every need.

Fast, fair and efficient handling of claims

Experience has taught us the importance of being proactive when managing claims. Chubb understands that a fast, fair and efficient approach to claims handling will bring about an expedited outcome, and can help to deliver an improved result.

24 hour emergency assistance

When you purchase Chubb Travel Insurance, you are instantly covered by Chubb Assistance, our 24-hour emergency hotline that provides the support that you expect in your time of need, anywhere, anytime.

Travel Smarter with Chubb Travel Insurance. Get an instant quote now!

You may contact us via email or telephone..

Chubb Insurance Vietnam Company Limited

Head Office Saigon Finance Center, 9 Dinh Tien Hoang Str., 8/F, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Chubb Customer Center

Tel: +84 (28) 3910 7300 (Mondays to Fridays, 8:30am to 5:30pm) Fax: +84 (28) 3910 7228

E-mail: [email protected]

For 24-hour emergency medical and travel assistance, call Chubb Assistance +84 28 3822 8779

Chubb Worldwide Offices

For the mailing address, telephone number and email address of any Chubb office in our global network, use our office locator.

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©   Chubb Insurance Vietnam Company Limited (Chubb). This policy is underwritten by Chubb. Full details of the terms, conditions and exclusions of this insurance are provided for in the  Policy Wording  documentation. Please read our  Personal Data Protection Policy .

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Travel insurance Vietnam

On this page:, what should my travel insurance policy for vietnam include, do australians need a visa to travel to vietnam, travel insurance tips for vietnam, mozo experts choice award-winning travel insurance.

Vietnam, a land with a troubled past, but a vibrant future in tourism opportunities. From great food, to buzzing nightlife, and beaches dotted all along its coastline, this Southeast Asian nation has lots on offer. 

Whether you’re floating down the Mekong Delta, riding scooters through Hanoi, or trekking the Central Highlands to get a bird’s eye view of the country from its peaks, pack a travel insurance policy to ensure you’re protected in the event the unexpected happens. 

While the Australian dollar is strong against the Vietnamese dong, there’s still the possibility of being stung with surprise expenses if your flights are cancelled, you end up in hospital, or your luggage goes missing.

The kind of insurance you buy will depend on what kind of traveller you are. When comparing international travel insurance policies, consider how long you are travelling for, what benefits you might need, and if there are any optional-extras you’re interested in.

Whether you’re travelling around Vietnam in a rental vehicle or motorbike, backpacking , or sightseeing, an international travel insurance policy should fit your needs and budget. If you’re looking to cruise down the Mekong river, then make sure your policy offers cruise travel insurance as an optional-extra. Some providers will offer motorcycle and moped insurance as an optional extra, if they don’t already include it in their policy. 

Also, if you’re travelling with a pre-existing medical condition , make sure that your insurance provider covers your condition. You don’t want to foot the bill in an overseas hospital if your health acts up while travelling. 

Many travel insurance providers will offer different tiers of cover on their international policies. These often range from basic or essential policies, to premium or comprehensive policies. 

Generally, a basic policy will cover benefits like overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses, and personal liability. However, cover for things like flight delays, cancellations, loss of travel documents or cash, might only be available if you pay a higher premium. The question you have to ask yourself is, what can I afford to risk?

As an Australian, you’ll need to apply for a visa before you leave home. You won’t be granted a visa when you arrive there, so come prepared, or risk being turned around.

However, it’s not difficult for Australians to apply for a visa for Vietnam online. To apply for a tourist visa, head over to the Vietnamese Government's e-visa portal , and follow the prompts.

• Excess fees. When you need to make a claim on your travel insurance policy, you may be required to pay a certain part of the total value of your claim. The rest would be paid by the insurance provider. This amount that you need to pay yourself is called an excess. This excess fee can vary according to your policy. Generally, the cheaper the cover, the more likely your excess fee will be higher.
• Pre-existing conditions. Travel insurance providers ask you to declare any pre-existing conditions at the time of purchasing the policy. If you fail to do so, the insurance company can reject a claim you later make regarding that condition. Also, remember that pregnancies are considered as a pre-existing condition.
• Unattended baggage. Remember that if your bags go missing while you’ve left them unattended, your insurance provider may reject your claim. In fact, even when you leave your bags with the hotel concierge after you’ve checked out, that’s often considered ‘unattended’ in the provider’s eyes. So, leaving your luggage with the concierge at the hotel could result in your provider refusing to reimburse you for it, if it goes missing. 
• Report incidents ASAP. Whether you’ve injured yourself while riding a moped through Hanoi, or had your purse stolen, you need to report any incident as soon as possible. Again, if you’ve read your policy’s product disclosure statement (PDS) carefully, you’ll know the exact documentation that you will be required to submit with your claim. Generally, these will be doctors reports, hospital bills, police reports, or receipts, depending on the nature of your claim. So, make sure you hold onto these when it comes to contacting your travel insurance provider. 
• Driving in Vietnam. First of all, don’t drive a vehicle you aren’t licensed to drive. For non-Vietnamese citizens, you’re only permitted to drive if you hold a temporary Vietnamese driver’s licence. Make sure you have the right paperwork when you hire a car in Vietnam, and consider whether or not your policy covers rental vehicle insurance excess, in case there’s an accident in your hire car. And like in any part of the world, don’t drink and drive – your insurance will not cover you for any accidents while under the influence.
• Drink responsibly. Given the price of alcohol in much of Southeast Asia, it’s easy to sink Saigon Red tinnies like water, but always remember to be responsible with your drinks. If you face a medical emergency or injury while you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, your insurance company could refuse to reimburse you for those expenses. The worst type of hangover doesn’t come from cheap beer – it’s induced by bills.

With so many options to choose from, finding the right travel insurance provider to suit your individual needs can be challenging. To help make your search a little easier, why not start by checking out this year’s  Mozo Experts Choice Travel Insurance Award  winners.

Find out more about the winners and what they offer on our  best travel insurance page .

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Vietnam Travel Insurance: The best guide before you go

Should I need Vietnam travel insurance ? What are the benefits that I got? In this post, Prime Trave l will help you address all your concerns about travel insurance when visiting Vietnam, ensuring you have the safest and most enjoyable trip.

Why do you need travel insurance in Vietnam?

Do you really need to purchase travel insurance? If not, what are the disadvantages? Here are some several reasons:

• Vietnam has a different health care system than your home country. You may not be able to access the same quality of care or facilities that you are used to. And you also may have to pay upfront for medical services, which can be expensive and difficult to claim back from your regular health insurance.
• Vietnam has various natural and man-made hazards that could affect your travel plans. You could encounter typhoons, floods, landslides, fires, civil unrest, terrorism, or crime. These could cause injuries, damages, delays, or cancellations that could cost you a lot of money and stress.
• You need to meet strict entry requirements, such as visa, passport, vaccination.
• Vietnam has different laws and customs than your home country. You may not be aware of some of the rules or regulations that apply to you as a visitor. You could unknowingly break the law or offend the local culture and face legal consequences or social backlash.

Why do you need Vietnam travel insurance ? ( Source: Internet )

Read more>>> How to apply Vietnam E-visa 2023

What does travel health insurance in Vietnam cover?

Each Vietnam travel medical plan varies just as each trip and traveler varies. A travel medical insurance plan for Vietnam can be purchased as a standalone plan or as a part of a comprehensive travel insurance plan. A comprehensive travel insurance policy offers coverage for various travel-related expenses, such as cancellation, lost baggage, or delays.

Travel insurance provides a safe experience for travelers ( Source: Internet )

Some common coverages to consider for a trip to Vietnam include:

• Motorcycle/Motorbike travel insurance
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions (obtaining a waiver for the condition before traveling)
• Emergency Medical Evacuation
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment

Read more>>> Things to do in Hanoi 

What do Vietnam travel insurance not include ? ( Source: Internet )

There are a few eventualities a standard travel insurance policy is unlikely to cover, including: 

• Pre-existing conditions: Make sure you declare any pre-existing medical conditions to your provider when you buy your policy, otherwise you won’t be covered.
• Drugs or alcohol: But be aware that if your belongings are stolen or you’re injured while you’re under the influence, you might find your insurance provider won’t pay out.
• Natural disasters: Vietnam’s long coastline makes it prone to storms and flooding, particularly in the cyclone season from May to November. While it’s unlikely that extreme weather will affect your trip, it’s worth knowing that you may not be covered if it does.
• Terrorism: Vietnam doesn’t have a history of terrorist attacks, but it still pays to be vigilant. Although your travel insurance will cover the cost of any medical care you might need following an attack, it won’t cover much else.

How much is travel insurance to Vietnam?

The price of Vietnam travel protection can vary depending on the age, health status, and number of travelers being covered, as well as the duration of the trip and type of coverage.

Tourists experience boat rowing on Trang An ( Source: Internet )

As risk involved with the trip increases, prices may also increase. For example, a trip to Vietnam that lasts one week may cost less than a two-week trip, even if the type of coverage is the same, due to the extended length of the trip. Additionally, a traveler with pre-existing health conditions can usually expect to pay higher rates than a traveler who does not have any diagnosed pre-existing conditions.

In general, the cost of purchasing travel insurance in Vietnam for foreigners will range from $40 to $80 for a trip lasting from 7 to 10 days in Vietnam.

Read more>>>  Vietnam trip cost for Australian

How to choose the best travel insurance in Vietnam?

There are many travel insurance providers and plans available for Vietnam, but not all of them are suitable for your needs. Here are some tips on how to choose the best travel insurance in Vietnam:

• Compare different plans and providers online. You can use websites like: Chubs, Luma, or Care to compare different features, benefits, prices, and reviews of various travel insurance plans and providers for Vietnam.
• Check the coverage limits and exclusions. Make sure that the plan you choose covers you adequately for the risks you face in Vietnam. For example, if you plan to ride a motorbike in Vietnam, make sure that your plan covers motorbike accidents. 
• Check the customer service and claims process. Make sure that your provider has a reliable and accessible customer service team that can assist you 24/7 in case of an emergency. Also check how easy and fast it is to file and settle a claim with your provider.

How to choose the best travel insurance in Vietnam ? ( Source: Internet )

Read more>>> Top 5 best Vietnamese traditional food

How to use travel insurance in Vietnam?

Using travel insurance in Vietnam is simple and straightforward if you follow these steps:

• Keep your policy documents and certificate of insurance handy at all times. You may need to show them at the airport or immigration checkpoints when entering or leaving Vietnam.
• Contact your provider or their assistance company as soon as possible if you encounter any emergency or problem during your trip. They will guide you on what to do next and how to access their network of medical providers or other services.
• Keep all receipts and evidence related to your claim. You may need to submit them along with a completed claim form to your provider within a certain time frame after your trip.
• Enjoy your trip with peace of mind knowing that you are covered by travel insurance in Vietnam.

Tips for using travel insurance ( Source: Internet )

Read more>>> Hanoi street food – Top 10 delicious dishes

How to buy travel insurance in Vietnam?

Buying travel insurance in Vietnam is easy and convenient with online platforms. You can follow these steps to buy travel insurance in Vietnam online:

• Visit one of the websites mentioned above or search for other reputable online travel insurance providers for Vietnam.
• Enter your personal details and travel information, such as your name, age, nationality, destination, duration, and purpose of travel.
• Choose the plan that suits your needs and budget from the options available.
• Review the policy details and terms and conditions carefully before confirming your purchase.
• Pay securely online with your credit card or other payment methods.
• Receive your policy documents and certificate of insurance instantly by email.

Capturing best moment with safe journey in Vietnam ( Source: Internet )

You can also choose to purchase travel insurance directly in your home country through travel companies. Additionally, if you have already arrived in Vietnam, you can consider buying it from providers like Liberty , Chubb , etc….

Read more>>> Top 5 best tours in Hanoi

 To conclude, travel insurance is not mandatory when traveling to Vietnam, but considering its various uses and benefits, it’s something you should contemplate purchasing. With the information shared by Prime Travel above, it is hoped that it will give you a detailed understanding of this type of travel insurance.

Check out Prime Travel’s tours here:

       Dinner with Locals

Authentic Vietnamese coffee workshop

Best of Vietnam from North to South

primetravel

Political Situation in Vietnam: Safety Tips for Travelers

Vietnam weather in december: a traveler’s guide to the best trip.

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Exercise normal safety precautions in Vietnam.

Vietnam (PDF 920.32 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions  in Vietnam.

• Road accidents are a major cause of injury. Be alert at all times on the roads. 
• Petty theft, including bag slashing, is common in tourist areas and crowded places, especially during holiday times. Snatch-and-grab theft by thieves on motorcycles is also common. Hold bags and backpacks in front of you or on the opposite side to the traffic to make them harder to steal. Be aware of motorbikes approaching as you walk. Carry the minimum amount of valuables. Be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle.
• Aggravated theft, sexual assault and assault happen. Travellers have been assaulted after having their food or drinks spiked. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Get urgent medical help if you suspect drink spiking.
• Personal or commercial disputes sometimes lead to threats of physical violence or death. Have a clear agreement on the expected level of service. Report any threats to police.
• Travellers have been robbed withdrawing money from ATMs. Credit and debit card fraud and card skimming happen across Vietnam. Taxi and gambling scams are also common. Only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres. Always keep your credit card in sight. Use metered or prearranged taxis, especially at airports. Report gambling scams to police.
• During the rainy season (June to November), floods, typhoons and severe weather can disrupt essential services. Follow the advice of local officials.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Air pollution levels can be high in Vietnam, particularly in large cities.
• Insect-borne diseases such as dengue, Japanese encephalitis, malaria and zika virus are a risk. If you’re pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated before you travel. Consider taking anti-malarial medication.
• Rabies occurs in Vietnam, especially in the north. It’s fatal without treatment. If you’re bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help immediately.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you’re taking part in high-risk activities.
• Diphtheria is a risk. Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
• Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. It mainly affects children and young adults. Foodborne, waterborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases include cholera, hepatitis and typhoid. Wash your hands well and often. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don’t use or carry illegal drugs, including marijuana. Penalties for drug offences include the death penalty and life imprisonment. Never carry parcels or luggage for others.
• Get professional legal advice before signing any contract. If you're in a business or civil dispute, officials could stop you leaving Vietnam until it’s resolved.
• It's illegal to gamble in a non-government licensed casino or possess pornography. Non-state sanctioned political or religious activity or material, or involvement with groups perceived by the Government of Vietnam to be associated with dissident groups, is also illegal. 
• It’s illegal to export antiques without a permit. Get a permit from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Vietnamese) . It’s illegal to photograph border areas or military sites. Be careful when taking photos.
• Possessing or distributing images or objects linked to the former Republic of Vietnam, including commemorative or Vietnam War service-related items, is an offence that could attract harsh penalties.
• Vietnam recognises dual nationality in limited situations. If you're a dual national, travel on your Australian passport. You may need to do compulsory military service. Contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for details.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You must have an appropriate visa before travelling to Vietnam. You can  apply online  for an eVisa for tourism or business purposes. If approved, the eVisa allows for a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for multiple entries. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam for the latest details.
• You must check your details are correct when applying for a visa. The visa details must match exactly the information on your passport's biodata page, such as your full name and date of birth. Any errors or name omissions may result in you being refused entry. You may be charged a significant fee at check-in or on arrival to correct the visa error.
• If you're travelling with prescription medication, check the value and quantity restrictions on the import and export of prescription medication with the nearest  embassy or consulate of Vietnam .

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.
• For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Hanoi , or the Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Petty crime, street crime and harassment happen, especially in larger cities.

Bag slashing is common in tourist areas, at markets, on crowded trains and buses, and at supermarkets. It increases in the lead up to and during Vietnamese and Western holiday periods.

Thieves on motorcycles commit snatch-and-grab crimes against pedestrians. This happens often and sometimes results in injury.

Thieves steal valuables, such as jewellery, handbags, mobile phones and cameras.

To protect your belongings:

• take care crossing the street or walking along footpaths
• be aware of motorcycles approaching from behind as you walk on the footpath
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you or in ways that make them harder to snatch
• carry only what you need and leave other valuables in a secure location
• be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle

Violent crime

Aggravated theft, sexual assault and assault happen. Hot spots include:

• Ho Chi Minh City
• Sapa, especially on the train to and from Lao Cai
• Cat Ba Island, near Ha Long Bay

Reports of groping and other sexual assault are rising.

Drink spiking occurs. Foreigners have been robbed and sexually assaulted after having spiked food and drinks. This happens at late-night establishments in major cities.

To protect yourself from drink spiking:

• only drink alcohol at reputable places
• pay attention when your alcoholic drinks are being mixed
• stay with people you trust in bars and at nightclubs

If you think your drink or a friend's drink has been spiked, get urgent medical attention.

If you're a victim of a violent crime, especially sexual assault, get medical attention. There is a risk of contracting HIV/AIDS, hepatitis and other sexually transmitted diseases in Vietnam.

Although gun violence is uncommon in Vietnam, there have been isolated incidents in recent years. 

Travellers have been robbed after withdrawing money from ATMs.

Break-ins to hotels and private homes are reported. This happens even while guests are in their rooms.

To protect yourself from robbery :

• only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres
• make sure your hotel room is locked at all times, including when you're inside
• pay close attention to your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas
• be alert on overnight trains and buses and on quiet stretches of road

Report thefts straight away to the local police and hotel management.

Personal or commercial arguments sometimes lead to threats of physical violence or death.

If you're threatened with violence, report it to local police.

To avoid commercial disputes, have a clear agreement on what the expected level of service is.

Many travellers have become victims of credit and debit card, taxi and gambling scams .

Credit and debit card skimming is where card data is taken for use in fraudulent transactions. This happens throughout Vietnam.

Some Australians have lost thousands of dollars after accepting invitations to private homes from friendly locals. Beware of rigged card games and other confidence tricks organised by criminals.

Gambling may break local laws, which also apply to travellers. See Laws .

To avoid credit and debit card scams:

• keep your credit card in sight at all times
• don't share or show your PIN to others, especially when using ATMs
• check your transaction statements

At airports, use airport taxis, prearranged hotel transfer services, taxis from clearly marked taxi ranks with staff, or one reserved through a car booking app.

Check that any person holding a placard with your name on it knows where you are going.

Be careful of people who are overly friendly and invite you to their home.

If you're a victim of a gambling scam, report it to local police.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Although rare, protests sometimes happen.

Don't take photos of demonstrations, the military or the police. Authorities may not tolerate this.

Some localised violent clashes between protesters and police have resulted in casualties. The most recent incident occurred in Đắk Lắk Province in June 2023, when several police were killed in organised attacks on police stations.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators' safety and maintenance standards may not meet your expectations. This can include adventure activities, such as mountain climbing and boat trips.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Vietnam experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• flash floods

Severe weather events can disrupt air, sea, road and rail transport, electricity and communications.

If there's a natural disaster:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in regular touch with family and friends
• check the media and other local sources for information
• follow the advice of local authorities

Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Flooding and typhoons

Floods , flash floods, typhoons and severe weather are common during the rainy season, from June to November.

Flooding can lead to landslides including in built up and residential areas of towns and villages. 

Typhoons mostly affect the coastal areas of the north and central regions. Though less common, typhoons also happen in the south.

Monitor the media, and weather and flood level reports during the rainy season.

The Mekong River Commission gives information on flood levels for the Mekong River region.

If there's a flood, typhoon or severe weather:

• don't enter the affected areas without getting advice from local authorities
• check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas
• if in doubt about the safety of any location, change your travel plans. 

Large, frequent earthquakes in the region make destructive tsunamis more likely.

Be alert to warnings. A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Do not wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

If there's a tsunami or if a tsunami warning is current, check the US Tsunami Warning System .

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Some addictive and psychotropic medications are controlled.

If you plan to take medication, check if it's legal in Vietnam. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and always carry it in its original packaging.

If you are travelling with prescription medication, check the value and quantity restrictions on the import and export of prescription medication with the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam .

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Localised outbreaks of diphtheria can occur in Vietnam.

Seek medical advice to en sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.

• Diphtheria (HealthDirect)

Insect-borne illnesses

Zika virus  continues to be a risk. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

discuss any travel plans with your doctor

consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Dengue  is found, especially in the south. There's no vaccine or treatment.

Japanese encephalitis  is also found. To protect yourself, consider getting vaccinated. A vaccine is available in Australia.

Malaria is a risk in some remote mountainous areas.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Discuss your travel plans and other vaccination needs with your doctor before you travel.

Infectious diseases

Rabies is potentially fatal if you don't get vaccinated or receive quick treatment.

Rabies is found in infected dogs, monkeys, bats and other mammals.

Most reported cases are in the mountain areas of northern Vietnam. It's most commonly passed on through dog bites.

To reduce your risk of rabies, don't go near dogs and other mammals.

If you're bitten or scratched, seek medical help immediately.

HIV/AIDS is a risk.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to risk of infection.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. Sometimes more serious outbreaks happen.

Outbreaks usually peak from March to May and from September to December.

HFMD mostly affects children under the age of 10 years. Adult cases, especially young adults, are not unusual.

The illness appears as a fever, blisters and rashes on the hands, feet and buttocks.

HFMD is spread by direct contact with nose and throat discharges and faeces of infected people.

To reduce the risk of getting or passing on HFMD, pay close attention to hygiene. Wash your hands well and often.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Human cases of avian influenza or 'bird flu' are reported in Vietnam.

Cholera and other health risks

Acute watery diarrhoea and cholera occur.  

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get urgent medical attention if you have a fever or diarrhoea or you suspect food poisoning.

Air pollution

There can be high levels of air pollution, up to and including hazardous levels, in major cities, especially during January to March. Pollution can increase the risk of breathing problems. People with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart and lung conditions, may be affected.

If you're concerned about the levels of air pollution:

• seek medical advice
• follow advice from local authorities about methods to reduce exposure
• monitor an air quality index
• reduce your exposure

World Air Quality

Drug use has been reported to cause psychotic episodes and hospitalisation.

If you use drugs in Vietnam, you face possible health and legal risks. See Local laws

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities and care varies, is generally below Australian standards, and may lack medicine and supplies.

Foreign private medical clinics are available in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. They may not meet Australian standards.

Medical facilities and care at most public hospitals are poor. This is especially true outside Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

You may need medical evacuation to a major centre, even for minor operations.

Doctors and hospitals expect payment before providing medical services, including for emergency care.

Some hospitals may talk with your travel insurance company to secure payment. Others may need up-front payment before they will start treating you.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to Bangkok or Singapore. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You may need to show a legalised birth certificate to be recognised as next of kin for medical consent purposes.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Vietnamese authorities have broad powers to implement various measures to contain COVID-19. These include movement restrictions and mandatory isolation for positive cases. These can vary from province to province. Follow the advice of local authorities.

There are strict security and investigative measures to stop drug trafficking.

Penalties for all types of drug offences, including those with small amounts of drugs, are severe. Many drug offences attract the death penalty or life in jail.

Marijuana in any form is illegal.

More than 20 Australians are serving sentences for drug offences in Vietnam. More have been arrested and are waiting for further investigation or trials.

Never carry parcels or luggage for others.

For information about carrying prescription medications into Vietnam, see Travel .

Carrying or using drugs

Marriage laws

Foreigners who want to marry a Vietnamese citizen in Vietnam must get formal approval from the Department of Justice. This must be done in the province where the Vietnamese citizen is registered.

You also need a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI) if you plan to marry in Vietnam.

Apply for a CNI through the:

• Australian Embassy in Hanoi
• Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City

You can also apply for the CNI from DFAT in Australia.  Fees apply. The embassy or consulate of Vietnam in Australia needs to authenticate it. Only then will the Department of Justice in Vietnam recognise it.

Getting married

Business laws

Increased Australian business activity has resulted in a higher number of commercial disputes in recent years.

If you're thinking about entering into a contract, get professional legal advice.

If you're involved in a business or civil dispute, authorities could stop you from leaving Vietnam until you resolve the matter.

• Doing business
• Doing business in Vietnam
• Living or working overseas

Disputes over alleged misrepresentation of working and living conditions for Australians working in Vietnam often happen. This is especially the case for people teaching English.

Before signing an employment contract or travelling to Vietnam for work, verify the true nature of the work you're offered.

Check for unacceptable employment conditions. For example, conditions for early termination may state that you surrender your right to a return air ticket. Your potential employer may also withhold your pay.

To safeguard your stay, also:

• check the living arrangements your potential employer has offered
• make sure you have the correct visa before arriving — ask an embassy or consulate of Vietnam
• get professional legal advice before signing any contract
• get all the work permits you need

The Australian embassy or consulate-general can provide a limited range of notarial services for some documents needed for a work permit.

Never hand over your passport to your employer, even for safekeeping. Reputable businesses won't ask you to hand over your passport.

Make sure you keep a valid visa and work permit. If you don't, authorities will fine you and could detain you.

Going overseas to live or work

Penalties for serious crime, such as rape, espionage and hijacking, may include the death penalty.

It's illegal to:

• take photos at border crossings or military installations
• go too close to the border with China, Cambodia or Laos without prior written permission from the local authorities
• gamble, except in government-licensed casinos where foreign passport holders can gamble
• possess pornography
• possess non-state sanctioned political or religious material

These activities may result in arrest and imprisonment.

Taking part in unsanctioned religious activities, including online, is against the law. Any involvement with non-state sanctioned political organisations, or groups perceived by the Government of Vietnam to be associated with dissident groups is also illegal. If authorities suspect you of involvement in these activities, they could stop you from entering the country, detain or deport you. Authorities could also stop you from leaving, place you under surveillance or subject you to interrogation until an investigation has been completed.

It's illegal to export antiques without a permit. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Vietnamese) offers advice and necessary permits.

Possessing or distributing images or objects linked to the former Republic of Vietnam, including commemorative or Vietnam War service-related items, is an offence that could attract harsh penalties. 

Embassy or consulate of Vietnam

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal. However, social and cultural attitudes towards same-sex relationships can be conservative, especially in rural areas.

Avoid public displays of affection.

Same-sex partners aren't legally protected or recognised.

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Dual citizenship

Vietnam recognises dual nationality in limited situations.

If you're a dual citizen and you enter Vietnam on a Vietnamese passport, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained. Vietnamese authorities may not tell us of your situation.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Australian citizens must re-enter Australia on an Australian passport.

If you're a dual national, you may need to do compulsory military service in Vietnam.

Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam in Australia before you travel.

Advice for dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

To enter Vietnam, you must have either a:

• visa exemption certificate

Australian passport holders are not able to obtain visas on arrival in Vietnam.

Learn more about  visa requirements.

You can now apply for an eVisa for tourism or business purposes. It allows eligible travellers to stay up to 90 days in Vietnam if granted. The eVisa is valid for single or multiple entries.

You can complete the  visa application form  online. As there have been reports of difficulties in accessing eVisas during airport check-in, once granted, you should consider printing a hard copy of the visa approval document.

Make sure you enter your details correctly when applying for a visa. The visa details must match exactly the information on your passport's biodata page, such as your full name and date of birth details. When you're issued a visa to enter Vietnam, check that all your Vietnam visa details are correct, match the information in your passport, that your full name is listed, and that there are no spelling or other errors. Any errors or name omissions may result in you being refused entry, or you could be charged a significant fee at check-in or on arrival to correct the visa error. 

For stays longer than 90 days, please contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam.

If your visa expires or is no longer valid, you may be detained and/or fined when leaving.

The Australian Government cannot sponsor your visa application or extension.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Vietnam  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

You must register your place of residence with local police within 24 hours of arrival. Check that your hotel does this as part of the check-in process. Register at the local police station if you're staying in private accommodation.

Travellers have been scammed by private online visa services and travel agents.

Only apply for your visa through the Government of Vietnam’s official website or offices.

Vietnamese spouse or parent visas

If your spouse or parent is a Vietnamese national, you can apply for a visa exemption certificate.

Changes to visa status and visa extensions

You can't change the status of your entry visa to any other visa type in Vietnam. For example, you can't change a tourist or a spouse visa to a working visa.

Vietnam does not issue automatic visa extensions. If your visa has expired, contact the Vietnamese immigration authorities to make arrangements to exit Vietnam. Visa extensions are only possible before your visa expiry date.

To get a visa extension from the Vietnamese immigration authorities, your passport must have at least 6 months validity left at the time of application. 

This requirement is subject to change.

Check with the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam  for details.

Border measures

Travel and entry requirements may change rapidly. Contact your nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate for details on entry and exit requirements.

Other formalities

Import and export of prescription medication .

Medication  and medical equipment 

Register place of residence

All foreigners must register their place of residence with the local police within 24 hours of arrival.

The Australian embassy and consulate can't provide translation services to help with registration.

If you stay at a hotel, check that you'll be registered as part of the normal check-in process. They'll need your passport details.

Many hotels ask foreigners to leave their passport with hotel staff for registration purposes. It isn't a legal requirement for hotels to keep your passport for the time you stay there.

If you stay with family, friends or in another private residence, you need to register at the local police station. Use a translator if needed.

Local hosts need to pre-register foreign guests. If you stay in a private residence, make sure your host has followed this legal requirement.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost and stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

Keep a photocopy (or photograph) of your passport bio page and visa somewhere separately in case you lose your passport.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).

When you arrive or exit Vietnam, declare:

• foreign currency in excess of $US5,000, including cash and traveller's cheques
• more than 15 million Vietnamese dong

If you carry more currency or gold than you declared, authorities could confiscate it. They could arrest or fine you.

These requirements may be subject to change. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Vietnam for details.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout major cities in Vietnam.

ATMs are widespread in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

Check with your bank to confirm if your ATM (eftpos) card will work in Vietnam.

Card skimming happens throughout Vietnam. See Safety .

You may have trouble getting replacement ATM cards.

Many Australian banks don't have local or regional branches with English-speaking staff.

The Vietnamese postal services are generally unreliable. If you need a new card, consider using an international courier service. The Australian embassy or consulate can't help you with money while you wait for a new card. It can't act as a personal mail-holding service.

Local travel

Travel is restricted:

• in some parts of the central Highlands
• around some border areas
• near military installations

Long Tan Cross site

The Vietnamese Government won't permit official Long Tan commemorations at the Long Tan Cross site in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province.

Access to the site will remain open to small groups of people for private visits without media coverage. This may change at short notice.

Visitors to the site may not:

• wear medals or uniforms
• carry banners or flags

You must behave in a solemn manner, respecting the wishes of local communities.

Landmines and explosive remnants of war

Unexploded ordinance and landmines are a danger in former battlefields, especially in central Vietnam and along the Laos border.

Mine-free roads and paths are well-marked.

If you visit former battlefields, stay on marked pathways.

Driving permit

You must have a valid Vietnamese driver's licence to drive or ride in Vietnam. This includes for motorcycles of 50cc or more.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in Australia is not recognised in Vietnam.

Authorities may fine you for driving without a valid licence.

Australian embassy, Hanoi

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Vietnam than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• crowded streets in major cities
• drivers ignoring road rules 
• poor vehicle and road maintenance

Traffic accidents often happen and attract large crowds.

If you're involved in an accident, you could face criminal charges. This is regardless of who's at fault. You may need to pay a large sum to the injured person or their family.

If you're not familiar with local conditions, avoid driving or riding a motorcycle.

Whether driving, riding or walking, be very careful when crossing busy streets. Traffic can appear from any direction.

Road Safety

Motorcycles

The number of travellers involved in serious motorcycle accidents is increasing.

Check your travel insurance policy covers you when travelling by motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet that meets Australian safety standards.

Only ride motorcycles if you're:

• properly licensed (Australian driver licences or International Driver Licences issued in Australia are not accepted in Vietnam; you must hold a Vietnamese driving licence to ride a motorbike 50cc or above); and
• familiar with and comfortable in local driving conditions

Be careful using taxis hailed on the street.

Major metered taxis are generally reliable. Ensure the taxi driver knows how to get to where you're going before you get in.

Check the meter is used. Leave the taxi if the driver tries to pick other passengers up.

If you book a taxi online or through an app, make sure the details of the vehicle and driver match those the company gives you.

Unless using an Australian safety standard-approved helmet, we discourage using motorcycle taxis as they provide riders with helmets that offer little to no protection against injury in the case of an accident.

Be careful of taxi scams. See Safety

Public transport

Inter-city buses have a high accident rate.

Petty theft often happens on buses. See Safety .

When travelling by rail, keep the ticket stub as you need it when leaving the train station.

Getting around

Boats, hydrofoils and ferries may not meet Australian safety standards.

Accidents on waterways happen. Vessels have sunk and people have died. This includes in Ha Long Bay.

Whenever you plan to travel by boat :

• ask tour operators about the safety record and emergency procedures
• make sure there is enough safety equipment such as life jackets on board
• if proper equipment is not available, use another provider

Piracy happens in coastal areas of Vietnam.

• Reducing the risk of piracy
• International Maritime Bureau piracy reports

You may need to show your luggage tags when leaving a Vietnamese airport. Keep your luggage receipt from your airline on you at all times.

By law, children under 14 years travelling alone on domestic flights must:

• bring a birth certificate
• have an authorisation letter between the legal guardian of the child and the airline confirming the child can travel alone

Contact the airline in advance to check what is needed for unaccompanied minors.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Vietnam's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Travelling by air

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Emergency numbers in Vietnam are operated in Vietnamese only and may be unreliable. You may have a long wait before emergency services arrive.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Take a translator with you to report a crime to the local police. Cases reported by foreigners may be accepted at the discretion of local police.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the nearest embassy or consulate.

Australian Embassy, Hanoi

8 Dao Tan Street

Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Phone: (+84 24) 3774 0100

Fax: (+84 24) 3774 0111

Website: vietnam.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in Vietnam

Twitter: @AusAmbVN

Australian Consulate-General, Ho Chi Minh City

20th Floor, Vincom Centre

47 Ly Tu Trong Street

Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Phone: (+84 28) 3521 8100

Fax: (+84 28) 3521 8101

Website: hcmc.vietnam.embassy.gov.au

Check the relevant website for details about opening hours, and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Vietnam?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

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What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is designed to cover you for a range of unexpected events that could happen when you’re travelling overseas or in Australia. Allianz Travel Insurance can cover costs like travel delays or emergency medical treatment, or the cost of replacing items that were lost or stolen during your trip. 1

We have Basic, Comprehensive, Domestic, and Multi-Trip Plans to choose from, with varying levels of cover to help you when you need it most. Our plans are available for singles, duos or families. Read through our Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for detailed information about our plans to see which level of cover is right for you.

Find the right cover for your trip

Basic Travel Insurance

• Overseas emergency assistance 1
• Overseas medical and hospital expenses 1
• Personal Liability 1

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

• Overseas medical assistance and expenses 1
• Unexpected trip cancellation 3
• Loss of or damage to luggage and personal effects 1
• COVID-19 benefits 2

Domestic Travel Insurance

• Travel delay expenses 1
• Rental vehicle excess 1

Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

Additional cover options.

For an additional premium, you can choose to add an Adventure Pack, Cruise Pack, or Snow Pack to eligible plans. Increased Item Limits Cover can also be added to insure your luggage, personal effects or valuables should something happen to them while travelling.

You have the option to vary the base excess when you buy your policy (premium adjustment will apply depending on the excess selected). The choice is yours.

Website review and travel remediation

Choose what suits your needs, single cover, family plan, ready to get started, frequently asked questions.

Without travel insurance, you run the risk of incurring some significant expenses that may take years to pay off.

If you’re travelling overseas, travel insurance is an important consideration for unexpected medical bills and hospitalisation. Other unforeseen expenses could include the replacement of lost or stolen luggage, delays or cancellations to your trip, and many other unfortunate scenarios.

We don’t cover medical expenses under our Domestic Travel Insurance policy. However, you may wish to take out insurance for domestic flight changes or cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, or rental vehicle excess. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for more information.

Travel insurance may cover you for a range of unexpected events that may affect your trip, such as emergency medical assistance if you become ill or injured while travelling overseas, including arranging your evacuation if needed.

Other incidents that travel insurance may cover include costs due to unexpected delays and cancellations, rental vehicle excess, and personal liability. You also have the option to purchase additional cover for activities such as adventure sports or skiing, although this isn’t available on all plans.

Cover limits vary from insurance provider to insurance provider, as do policy terms, conditions, limits and exclusions, so it’s important to read the Product Disclosure Statement to make sure you fully understand what’s covered, the limits applying to the policy, and to make sure the policy is appropriate for your needs.

The length of your Travel Insurance policy is largely dependent on the travel dates you supply. When obtaining a quote, or buying a policy, you’ll be prompted to enter in your departure and return dates – this will be the period of cover for all benefits except the cancellation benefit, which begins from the date your policy is issued.

The period of cover is also shown on your Certificate of Insurance, which is sent to you at the time of purchase. You may want to extend the length of your holiday abroad (and therefore need an extension of your period of cover) and you may be able to do this within specified timeframes.

If you think you may travel more than once a year, you may wish to consider a Multi-Trip policy . Different start and end dates apply, refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.

It’s up to you when you buy Allianz Travel Insurance, however, keep in mind these three things:

• You can buy our Travel Insurance up to 12 months in advance.
• You must buy Allianz Travel Insurance before you start your journey. Your journey starts when any traveller named on the Certificate of Insurance leaves home or work in Australia to begin travel.
• Depending on the plan you choose you may have trip cancellation cover, which covers unexpected trip cancellation, rescheduling or shortening from the date your Certificate of Insurance is issued. So, consider buying our Travel Insurance as soon as you’ve booked and paid for some or all your trip as you may be covered for such events before you depart.

Yes, if you change your mind after you buy your Travel Insurance policy, you may cancel it within 14 days of your Certificate of Insurance being issued.

You’ll be given a full refund of the premium you’ve paid, provided you’ve not started your journey and don’t intend to make a claim or exercise any other right under your policy.

When considering which policy is right for you, make sure you consider your needs, as well as your financial situation. Reading the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination (TMD) is a good place to start as they will give you more detail, so you can decide if the plan is right for you.

Allianz Travel Insurance offers a number of travel insurance plans – Basic , Comprehensive , Domestic , Non-Medical or Multi-Trip Travel Insurance . You can see more detailed information on our Compare Cover Options page .

This product has a general exclusion, with limited exceptions, against epidemics and pandemics. That means we don’t cover claims that arise from, or are related to, an epidemic or pandemic.

However, you’re covered under selected benefits in this product if, during your period of cover, you’re positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19.

Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement to see which benefits offer cover in the event that you contract a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, and the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply.

Note: There is no cover under any benefit of this policy if your claim arises because you did not follow advice or a warning that has been issued by the Australian Government or a reliable mass media source. This applies even if an Australian government has given you permission to travel, or you fall under a specific exemption where there is otherwise a travel ban in place.

If you have any questions call us on 13 1000 .

If you need to shorten your journey while travelling, or are prevented from travelling due to a COVID-19 border closure or mandatory quarantine period, you may be entitled to receive a partial or full refund on your premium. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for more information.

Eligibility criteria applies. Contact us on 1800 440 806 or email us .

There is no cover under any benefit of this policy if your claim arises because you didn’t follow an advice or warning that a reasonable person would have been aware of, that has been issued by the Australian government (when a ‘reconsider your need to travel’ or ‘do not travel’ alert is in place), which can be found on Smartraveller ; or which was published in a reliable mass media source.

Before buying travel insurance, and while you’re travelling, check Smartraveller and Allianz Partners for travel alerts or advisories for your intended destination(s).

Note: This applies even if an Australian government has given you permission to travel, or you fall under a specific exemption where there is otherwise a travel ban in place.

Tip: Subscribe to Smartraveller to get travel alerts and advisory updates by email.

Refer to General Exclusions in the Product Disclosure Statement for a full list of exclusions.

If you have any questions, call us on 13 1000 .

A general exclusion, sometimes referred to as a policy exclusion or exclusion, is an exclusion that applies to all policy benefits.

Should a general exclusion apply, your travel insurance policy won’t provide cover for the specified event, activities or circumstances.

Refer to General Exclusions in the Product Disclosure Statement provided at the time of purchase for a full list of exclusions.

We're here to help

Give us a call, or send us a message, follow us on, *conditions apply.

• Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits apply. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.
• Policy terms, conditions, limits, exclusions, and sub-limits apply to particular types of losses, premium refunds (full or partial) or claims. This product has a general exclusion, with limited exceptions, against epidemics and pandemics. That means we don’t cover claims that arise from, or are related to, an epidemic or pandemic. However, you’re covered under selected benefits in this product if, during your period of cover, you’re positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement to see which benefits offer cover in the event you contract a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, and the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply.
• Terms, conditions, limits, exclusions and sub-limits apply. Cancellation cover is only available on Comprehensive, Domestic and Multi-Trip Plans. Refer to Cancellation and General Exclusions sections of the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.
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Any advice here does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits apply. Before making a decision about this insurance, please consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)/Policy Wording and Supplementary PDS (if applicable). Where applicable, the PDS/Policy Wording, Supplementary PDS and Target Market Determination (TMD) for this insurance are available on this website.

Travel Insurance is issued and managed by AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFS Licence No. 245631, trading as Allianz Global Assistance (AGA) as agent of the insurer Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFS Licence No. 234708 (Allianz). Travel Insurance is underwritten by the insurer Allianz. Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits apply.

We don’t provide advice based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision, please consider the Product Disclosure Statement available on this website. If you purchase this insurance, AGA will receive a commission that is a percentage of the premium. Ask us for more details before we provide you with any services on this product.

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Our Pick Of The Best Boat Insurance For Australians

Published: Apr 18, 2024, 8:17pm

It may not come as a surprise that Australians love taking boats out on the water as 87% of the population live within 50km of the coast. Data from the Boating Industry Association for 2022/23 shows that 2.5 million Australians have a boat licence—that’s almost 10% of the population.

As a boat is a considerable investment, it’s a good idea to protect it as you would your car. Boat insurance can offer similar benefits to car insurance , such as cover for damage to the boat itself and its contents, and legal liability, if you damage someone else’s property, or someone is injured or dies as a result of an accident you’ve caused.

However, it additionally offers more boat-specific cover, paying out for environmental damage caused by an oil, fuel or waste leakage, for example. Many policies also offer cover for sailboat racing and waterskiing, typically as an optional extra and for an additional premium.

As all policies differ in their features, it’s essential to compare them to find what you need for a suitable price. You should first decide, if you need third-party only; third party, fire and theft; or comprehensive cover which protects against the widest range of eventualities. We’ve conducted extensive research into the latter, to find what we consider to be the best comprehensive policies. All policies include cover for loss or damage to your boat as a result of storms, floods, fire and theft. You can find out how we scored them in the methodology section further down this page.

Note: the below list represents a selection of our top category picks, as chosen by Forbes Advisor Australia’s editors and journalists. The information provided is purely factual and is not intended to imply any recommendation, opinion, or advice about a financial product. Not every product or provider in the marketplace has been reviewed, and the list below is not intended to be exhaustive nor replace your own research or independent financial advice. For more information on how Forbes Advisor ranks and reviews products, including how we identified our top category picks, read the methodology selection below.

Nautilus Marine Boat Insurance

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Agreed or market value

• Choice of repairer

Liability cover

Limit not readily disclosed

This offering is the most comprehensive we found, covering your boat up to 250 nautical miles from the Australian coastline. Unlike most boat insurance policies, there’s the option to have your boat insured at market or agreed value.

There’s $5,000 each for emergency expenses and funeral costs, $20,000 for personal effects, $500,000 for marine damage, and $50,000 for related fines and penalties. This policy also allows you, rather than the insurer, to choose a repairer for your boat if damaged. Additionally, you have a choice of how much you pay in excess on accepted claims, which can lower or raise the policy premium, to a more favourable level. This policy is also a rare one in that it automatically covers sailboat racing, limiting the distance to up to 100 nautical miles. Additional cover can be purchased for longer races. Note that while this policy offers legal liability cover, the limit is not disclosed.

Aside from comprehensive cover, this insurer also offers third party only, extended blue water yacht racing and blue water cruising policies.

• Lay-up discount available
• 21-day cooling off period
• Insures at market value or agreed value
• No rescue cover
• No salvage cover
• Cover for ‘reasonable’ repairs at market value only

$10 million

As is common with boat insurance, this policy covers you up to 200 nautical miles off Australia’s shores. However, it offers up to $10 million in salvage and removal cover, which is relatively high compared to policies provided by other insurers.

It also includes $250,000 to cover the cost of removing or containing damage caused by pollution from your boat and related legal costs, if your boat is stranded or damaged. There’s $5,000 each for emergency repair, the boat’s contents and fatal injury. Unlike certain policies, this one also covers rescue, paying out up to $5,000. However, one drawback is that your boat can only be insured at agreed value. A lay-up discount and cover for sailboat racing and watersports are optional extras that can be added.

If you make a successful claim, the policy allows you to choose the repairer. You can also pay an excess amount that you choose on taking out the policy. Paying a low amount in excess typically raises the policy premium and vice versa.

This insurer also offers third-party boat insurance as an alternative to comprehensive cover.

• $10 million legal liability
• Rescue cover included
• Insures at agreed value only

This policy pays out up to $5,000 for emergency expenses, and covers damage up to the agreed value, as long as your boat stays within 200 nautical miles of Australia’s coastline.

It also covers rescue up to $5,000 and salvage costs, as long as they are ‘reasonable’, while $250,000 is available for clean-up expenses to remove, contain or clear debris and liquid from your boat as a result of an insured event. For funeral expenses, there’s $10,000, while $10 million is provided in legal liability cover. However, content cover is only available to bolt on to the policy as an optional extra. Insurance for sailboat racing and watersports are also available as add-ons, for an extra premium.

Unlike certain policies, you can choose a repairer, which is an added bonus. You also have a choice of how much excess you pay on each accepted claim. Note that this comprehensive offering is the only type of boat cover this insurer offers.

• $250,000 clean-up costs
• Covers ‘reasonable’ salvage costs only
• Contents cover not automatically included

Suncorp’s comprehensive boat insurance offers a suite of attractive features: there’s $10 million in salvage and removal cover; an equal amount in legal liability cover; $250,000 for pollution by oil, fuel or waste; and $5,000 each for emergency expenses, the boat’s contents, and for fatal injury.

The policy will remain valid up to 200 nautical miles from Australia’s shores, covering your boat at agreed value only and paying out up to this value for rescue. Note that if the boat is damaged, only the insurer can choose a repairer. However, you will have a choice of how much excess you pay on accepted claims, when you first take out the policy. Paying more in excess can lower your policy premium and vice versa.

Cover for sailboat racing and water-skiing can be added on to the policy at an extra cost. This insurer offers third party cover, as an alternative to comprehensive cover.

• No choice of repairer

This policy will cover your boat up to 200 nautical miles from Australia’s coastline, covering ‘reasonable’ repair costs up to an agreed value only. However, it allows you to choose a repairer, if you wish, and offers several excess options to choose from when taking out the policy. Opting to pay a higher excess on accepted claims can lower the policy premium and vice versa.

The policy also includes salvage cover, though no specific limit is readily provided, and $10 million in legal liability cover, including $250,000 for clean-up costs. It also offers $10,000 for funeral costs, up to $800 for emergency repairs and an additional $1,000 to cover emergency transport and accomodation. There’s $1,000 to cover the boat’s contents, which is relatively low compared to other insurers, but there is the option to increase this amount to $1,500 by paying an additional premium.

This policy does not cover rescue, but insurance for sailboat racing and water-skiing are available at an additional cost. This insurer also provides third party insurance as an alternative to its comprehensive offering.

• 21-day cooling period
• $800 only for emergency repairs

In addition to $5,000 in cover for rescue, Apia’s comprehensive boat insurance includes $10 million each for salvage and legal liability. It also offers $250,000 for clean up and $5,000 for emergency expenses.

For fatal injury, there’s $5,000, while up to $250 is provided for the boat’s contents and $250 for personal effects. Cover for sailboats and watersports come as optional extras, at an additional cost. Cover remains valid up to 200 miles from the Australian mainland and Tasmanian coastlines.

The policy offers several excess amounts to choose from, allowing you the ability to lower your policy premium, if you prefer to pay more in excess, and vice versa. Note that the insurer will choose a repairer for you on this policy. As an alternative to comprehensive cover, it also offers third party insurance.

• $10 million salvage
• Insured at agreed value only
• No lay-up discount

Youi Comprehensive Boat Insurance covers you up to 200 nautical miles from the Australian and Tasmanian coastlines, providing $1,000 for emergency repairs, transport and accomodation. However, it insures at market value only and you can’t choose the repairer if you’re boat is damaged.

There’s $1,000 for the boat’s contents, $10 million for legal liability and $5,000 for accidental personal injury. The latter rises to $10,000, including for funeral expenses, if injury leads to death. The policy also includes $150,000 for salvage costs and $250,000 in pollution cover. Note that the policy does not include cover for rescue, and offers a 20-day cooling off period, which is slightly shorter than the 21-day period offered by many insurers. Social sailboat racing cover is available as an optional extra for an additional premium, but water-skiing cover is not provided.

As well as comprehensive cover, Youi offers a third party property only policy, and third party fire and theft insurance. It also provides a choice of excess amounts, allowing you to raise how much is levied in exchange for a lower policy premium, or vice versa.

• $10 million legal liability cover
• Insurer offers good range of policy types
• $10,000 accidental injury cover
• Market value only
• Water-skiing cover not available

While pleasure boat insurance is Club Marine’s most comprehensive offering, it also provides third party cover. The former, which we analysed, can cover your boat at market or agreed value, up to 250 nautical miles from Australia, protecting it against damage costs up to the policy limit. You, rather than the insurer, can choose a repairer when needed.

The policy also includes $10,000 for personal effects, $500,000 to cover clean up costs, and covers ‘reasonable’ costs for salvage. Insurance for water-skiing and sailboat racing can be bolted on to the policy at an additional cost. You can also add cover for emergency measures if you choose, but such scenarios are only covered up to a ‘reasonable’ amount. There is no automatic or optional cover for rescue.

You can choose from a number of excess options when taking out the policy, which allows you to raise the excess to lower the policy premium or vice versa, depending on your preference.

• 14-day cooling period
• Lay-up discount optional

To find our pick of the best comprehensive caravan insurers in Australia, Forbes Advisor analysed 14 of the most popular companies in the country.

Our analysis included comparing how a boat is insured (whether by market value or agreed value); policy benefits, such as cover for emergency expenses and accidental damage; and an in-depth review of each provider’s product disclosure statement (PDS) to evaluate any exclusions and extras.

The policies were compared across the following 16 key data points:

Market versus agreed value: Can owners choose how their boat is insured? Choice of repairer: Can boat owners choose the repairer? Choice of excess: Do boat owners have a choice of how much excess they pay? Note that paying a high amount in excess usually lowers the policy premium, and vice versa. Cooling-off period: What is the cooling off period for purchase? Emergency expenses: Are boat owners covered for emergency expenses and by up to how much? Above $1,000 is great. Fire and theft: Does the policy include fire and theft cover? Legal liability: As boating and its equipment is expensive, is there at least $10 million for damage a boat owner may accidentally cause with their boat? Contents cover: Are the contents of the boat covered by more than $4,000? Natural disasters: Is there cover for floods and storms? Funeral services: Is there at least $10,000 or more for funeral expenses? Salvage costs: Is there at least $10 million for salvage operations? Clean-up costs: is there at least $250,000 for clean-up costs? Rescue services: Is there at least $5,000 for rescue services? Water-skiing: Is there cover for water-skiing automatically or as a policy add-on? Sailboat racing: Is there cover for sailboat racing automatically or is there an add-on? Discounts for ‘lay-up’: Does the insurer offer lay-up cover to allow owners to save on their premium when the boat is stored?

These variables were compared to complete an overall ranking of each comprehensive boat insurance provider. Each provider was ranked between one and five, with the leading providers (being those ranked higher than 3.5) included in the above best-of list.

A Note on Star Rankings

You will note that we have included a star rating next to each product or provider. This rating was determined by the editorial team once all of the data points above were considered, and the pros and cons of each product attribute was reviewed. The star rating is solely the view of Forbes Advisor editorial staff. Commercial partners or advertisers have no bearing on the star rating or their inclusion on this list. Star ratings are only one factor to be considered, and Forbes Advisor encourages you to seek independent advice from an authorised financial adviser in relation to your own financial circumstances and investments before you decide to choose a particular financial product or service.

As the name suggests, cover for boats can protect you when using a vessel such as a motorboat, yacht, small craft or super yacht. An insurer will be able to tell you what type of vessels it specifically covers. Similar to car insurance, the following types of boat cover are available:

Third party only: Protects against claims of injury or death, or damage to property by passengers or other third parties. Third party, fire and theft: Covers everything a third party only policy does, as well as someone stealing your boat and damage caused by fire. Comprehensive: Covers the widest range of unexpected emergencies, including those caused by theft, accidents and natural disasters.

The benefits of boat insurance can differ between policies. However, you’ll find that most comprehensive policies tend to include cover for the following:

Accidental loss and damage: This can include cover for theft, impact, sinking, fire, a storm, malicious damage and transit damage, when your boat is being transported on its own trailer

Emergency expenses: Covers the cost of emergency assistance such as the towing of your boat to the nearest safe place, or for the delivery of fuel, if your boat is stranded due to an emergency or unforeseen incident. It can also cover urgent repairs.

Personal effects/contents: Insures you for theft, loss or damage of belongings owned by you and depending on the insurer, your passengers, which are being used or stored on your boat at the time of an incident. This can include clothing, fishing and diving equipment and unfixed furniture. There are typically exclusions to this cover such as jewellery, money and mobile phones. Sub-limits on cover may also apply to certain items. Clean-up: Covers the cost to remove, contain or clear waste and pollution caused by your boat. Salvage and removal: Covers the cost of recovering your boat and moving it to a safe place in the event your boat is stranded or damaged in a covered incident. Legal liability: Covers you for injury to other people or damage to someone’s property when using your boat. Funeral expenses: Pays out following the accidental death of an insured person on the policy while boating.

A policy may also include cover for rescuing from a stranded boat, while insurance for sailboat racing and waterskiing may each come as optional extras that you can bolt on to your policy at an additional cost.

In addition to the types of cover included on a policy, you’ll also want to find out how far you can take your boat from land. Typically, you can travel 200 nautical miles away from Australia’s coastline without invalidating your policy. Certain insurers may allow you to travel farther out. You may also want to check if you can choose the repairer if you claim for damage, or if the insurer must choose.

Certain policies may offer a lay-up discount, often as an optional extra. This is when you can nominate certain months in the year that you don’t use your boat, and the insurer will charge you less for your policy during these times. This discount is worth considering, in addition to the policy premium (the cost of the policy). You’ll also want to weigh these factors up against the excess you’re typically required to pay on each accepted claim. This sum is usually automatically deducted from the claim amount. On taking out your policy you may have the option to choose an excess amount. While lowering it can usually raise your policy premium, paying more in excess could lower your policy premium to an amount that you may prefer.

Most insurers offer either agreed value or market value policies. However, some insurers may offer the option to insure at agreed value or market value, depending on your preference, although this is rare.

On an agreed value policy, the value is determined through a boat valuation you arrange before the policy starts. This must usually be carried out by a registered boat dealer or broker who specialises in your type of boat.

On a market value policy, the value of your boat will be determined at the time of claiming, typically using dealer or repairer valuations or industry publications.

You’ll want to read a policy’s PDS thoroughly before deciding whether it’s worth purchasing. This should be available to view on the insurer’s website. It will detail what the cover includes and excludes, as this differs between policies.

Insurers usually offer a 21-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel your policy and get a refund, should you change your mind and haven’t yet made a claim.

Certain policies may come with a shorter cooling off period of 20, or even 14 days. As with all the details of your policy, you can check how long this period will last in its PDS.

A quick way to compare boat insurance policies is to run quotes on the websites of individual insurers. Shopping around will raise your chances of finding a suitable policy, at the best price available.

As well as the cost of a policy, you will be able to compare factors, such as the types of cover included, cover levels and the amount of excess levied on each successful claim you make.

First, you’ll need to enter a few details into the insurer’s online quotation tool to give it an idea of the type of boat that needs covering, how you use it, its speed and engine type, where you store it when not using it and more. An insurer will also want to know information about you, such as your age, and boating experience.

Data Research: Mia Dunn

How much boat insurance do I need?

The amount of cover you will need will depend on factors such as the value of your boat and the contents inside, whether it will be insured at agreed or market value.

You’ll want to carefully look through a policy’s PDS to find out exactly what it does and does not cover. You may want to consider a different policy if it automatically includes cover you don’t need such as water skiing insurance.

What is the best boat insurance policy?

Our above ranking of what we consider to be the best comprehensive boat insurance policies gives you an idea of how they compare based on what we’ve identified as key factors.

In addition to the levels of cover available, we considered whether owners can choose the repairer that fixes their boat, whether they have a choice of what they pay in excess, how long of a cooling off period is provided, should they wish to cancel their policy and get a refund and more.

However, the best boat insurance for you will ultimately come down to your personal preferences, budget and needs.

How much is boat insurance in Australia?

According to the Pacific Boating club, insuring your vessel can cost upwards of $300 per year.

The specific price will be based on factors such as the size and make of your boat, as well as the type of policy you choose.

I have been writing for newspapers, magazines and online publications for over 10 years. My passion is providing, in a way that is easily accessible and digestible to all, the knowledge needed for readers to not only manage their finances, but financially flourish.