Even though it is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended that you purchase travel insurance for Mexico.
The risks of unforeseen events are numerous and a family vacation, study trip, or expatriation to Mexico can be ruined by lost luggage or an accident that is not properly taken care of.
To leave with good travel insurance is to leave with a serene spirit.
Travel Insurance in Mexico: an Essential Protection
Social security does not cover health expenses abroad
Social security abroad only covers health expenses in exceptional cases, on request, and upon presentation of receipts, which means that you have to pay in advance.
As for insurance linked to bank cards, they generally do not work beyond 90 days, and apply ceilings and deductibles.
There is a health insurance system in Mexico, but it is often not sufficient.
Accidents or illnesses that require hospitalization or even repatriation are very expensive and may not be reimbursed. Taking out insurance for a trip to Mexico can protect your entire family and help you manage these unforeseen events.
Health care in Mexico: an expensive and unequal system
Mexican doctors are generally well-trained, but there are great disparities between the health care facilities in the major cities and in rural areas, as well as between the public and private sectors.
In the public sector, fees are generally affordable, but patients are often sent to hospitals in the larger cities, which are better equipped and offer a wider range of services, resulting in overcrowding and long delays in treatment.
It is therefore always advisable to turn to private facilities, which are more efficient but also more expensive, and often require financial guarantees and full payment of fees on the spot in order to take care of patients.
When you discover the cost of Mexican health care, it makes sense to take out a good insurance policy before your trip to Mexico.
Choosing the Right Travel Insurance for Mexico
Temporary insurance for a trip to Mexico of 12 months or less
When purchasing insurance for a trip to Mexico, it is advisable to look into one of the many private companies that offer temporary insurance plans designed to meet the needs of each situation, whether you are traveling around the world, on an assignment, or on a student internship.
The so-called “first euro/dollar” offers allow you to be reimbursed for your health expenses from the first dollar paid, and offer an English-speaking assistance service that can be easily reached.
The process is often facilitated by information and services accessible via a mobile application.
The different travel insurance plans offered for Mexico can include adapted guarantees and services, such as repatriation assistance, access to high-quality healthcare networks or an international third-party payment service, and can also cover the insured’s civil liability.
Long-term insurance for trips to Mexico lasting more than 12 months
For a trip or a stay of more than 12 months in Mexico, other insurance solutions exist.
In the particular case of expatriation, there is a compulsory health insurance plan for employees in Mexico, which covers the insured and his/her family.
This option can be interesting if the employer pays the contributions, but it will not cover repatriation assistance or care bills during a stay in your country of origin.
Given the need to use the private sector for proper care in the country, it is advisable to purchase private insurance for a trip to Mexico anyway, and the long-term first dollar plans, similar to the temporary plans, are the most common insurance solution for Foreign nationals in Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Insurance for Mexico
No, the Mexican government does not require travel insurance to enter the country. However, it is strongly recommended.
The most common choice for travelers to Mexico is to purchase insurance from the first dollar. This is mainly due to the good value for money of these contracts.
