Travel Insurance Requirements | Singaporeans' Favourite Destinations

5 Popular Travel Destinations for Singaporeans and Their Travel Insurance Requirements

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Travelling to another country can be an exciting experience. But, before planning your itinerary of popular attractions to visit, you will likely spend a lot of your time sorting out your travel visa, as well as booking your flight and accommodation. Another important thing you don’t want to forget is travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergencies. There is always a possibility of getting sick or injured in another country, so it’s good to be prepared!

Today, many countries require that travellers have travel insurance – with medical benefits – as part of their entry requirements. This is because the recent pandemic has led these countries to reevaluate their public health safety standards and funds. So, although it may seem like a cumbersome added process, we think it’s wise to have travel insurance with medical benefits no matter which country you plan to visit. In fact, DirectAsia makes it easy to purchase travel insurance with proper medical coverage by first getting a quick quote online. And now, you can add on COVID-19 medical cover to a single-trip policy for a maximum of 90 days per trip.

We’ve also put together a handy guide of travel insurance requirements – whether for COVID-19 specifically or a more general medical policy – of the 5 popular destinations that Singaporeans like to visit to help you prepare for your next holiday.
 

Here’s why these are the 5 popular countries Singaporeans choose to visit and their travel insurance requirements:

1. Malaysia

Being the closest country to Singapore, Malaysia is probably the most visited on this list. Besides the short journey – by road or air – there are a lot of attractions to see. There are numerous freshwater waterfalls, beaches like Tioman Island with white sand and crystal clear waters, as well as dense jungles with hiking trails.

Going for holiday to Malaysia is also an affordable option if you’re planning a quick family getaway. Currently, you can travel to Malaysia via air or land through the Vaccinated Travel Framework (VTF).

Travel Insurance Requirements:

Short-term visitors from Singapore are required to have COVID-19 travel insurance with a minimum coverage of US$20,000. It should cover COVID-19-related medical treatment and hospitalisation costs in Malaysia. This applies to all short-term foreign visitors regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination or recovery status. 
 

2. Indonesia

Indonesia is another neighbouring country that Singaporeans like to visit because of its gorgeous islands and beaches, as well as rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. It’s also very popular for surfing and yoga retreats. 

Before the newly announced VTF, Singaporeans were allowed to travel across to Batam and Bintan via the Vaccinated Travel Lane (Sea) as they are among the most visited islands by Singaporeans. Indonesia houses the second largest tropical forest in the world, with great dive sites, as well as amazing hikes to active volcanoes. If you’re more of a cultural and heritage buff, there are also majestic Indonesian temples set against lush green landscapes, like Borobudur, that you could visit.

Travel Insurance Requirements:

International travellers to Indonesia must have international travel insurance with minimum coverage of US$100,000, including coverage for COVID treatment and hospitalisation.
 

3. Thailand

Thailand is another most visited tourist destination by Singaporeans. Besides its tranquil beaches, this country also boasts of its spicy cuisine, magnificent temples, colourful culture as well as archaeological sites like Ayutthaya Historical Park.

Good news is, Singapore Passport holders may now enter Thailand without a visa, under the Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme (TVES). However, you must apply for a “Thailand Pass” before travelling.

Travel Insurance Requirements:

COVID-19 travel insurance is mandatory for all international travellers. Your policy should explicitly state the coverage for medical care in the event they contract COVID-19. Entry into Thailand may be denied for travellers whose insurance policies do not clearly state this requirement. Furthermore, travel insurance for Thailand must have a coverage level of at least US$20,000 and be valid the entire duration of the traveler’s visit.
 

4. Vietnam

Vietnam also seems to be a popular travel destination for many Singaporean’s. It has a stunning, diverse natural landscape that’s home to many species of wildlife and the world’s largest cave.

Thanks to Vietnam’s rich heritage and history, there are a number of stunning attractions that have been listed by UNESCO as world heritage sites worthy of protection. From the ancient town of Hoi An to the imperial city of Hue to Halong Bay.

Travel Insurance Requirements:

Travellers to Vietnam are required to have international travel insurance with minimum coverage of US$10,000 covering COVID-19 treatment in Vietnam for the full duration of your stay. Alternatively, you can sign a form declaring yourself to be financially responsible for any COVID-related medical treatment costs incurred while in the country.
 

5. Australia

As a remote yet highly developed country, Australia has captivated many Singaporeans with its unique natural wonders and exotic wildlife. Australia is also one of the few countries that caters to everyone, no matter your travel taste, budget, or age. 

From world-class wine to glistening beaches and exotic wildlife, there’s lots to see and do. Did you know that 80% of Australia’s wildlife is so unique it can't be found anywhere else in the world? It’s also the homeland of the largest Barrier Reef in the world.

Travel Insurance Requirements:

You are not required to have travel insurance to visit Australia, but it is strongly encouraged. Medical care in Australia can be expensive for travelers and visitors. A doctor or dentist visit can cost hundreds of dollars and hospital stays for emergencies or illnesses can cost you thousands of dollars – or more. 

Read the fine print of your travel insurance before you sign up for a plan. Try to match the insurance coverage with your trip plans and coverage needs. For example, if you’re planning to go scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, make sure “Extreme Sports and Activities” is included when considering travel insurance policies.
 

Which Country Would You Visit Next?

Which countries in this list have you been to and where would you go next? Whatever your preferred choice is, remember that these destinations now have specific travel entry rules, including travel insurance requirements.

However, you should note that this information is current as of May 2022. And all these countries have additional travel requirements, such as pre-travel visa registration, proof of a recent, negative COVID-19 test, proof of vaccination, and/or a mandatory quarantine period. We suggest you check your destination’s policies and travel requirements before you plan your trip.