French Polynesia

The Best Travel Insurance Plans for French Polynesia in 2025

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A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard updated on July 16, 2025
Table of Contents
  • The best travel insurance plans for French Polynesia
  • Current travel safety in French Polynesia
  • Is travel insurance required by law to enter French Polynesia?
  • Why take out travel insurance for French Polynesia?
  • What travel insurance for French Polynesia should cover
  • The cost of travel insurance for French Polynesia
  • How to pay less for your travel insurance to French Polynesia
  • Does my current insurance cover me in French Polynesia?
  • FAQ
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Travel insurance for French Polynesia: key takeaways

1. Definition: Travel insurance for French Polynesia covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unexpected travel-related issues.
2. Key protection: While not mandatory, insurance is vital as US health plans rarely cover you abroad.
3. Healthcare cost: Healthcare is expensive; a hospital night can cost over $1,000, especially with emergency transport.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for French Polynesia typically costs between $40 and $80.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes high coverage for medical evacuation from remote islands to Tahiti.

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Why trust HelloSafe?

HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for French Polynesia.

The best travel insurance plans for French Polynesia

Contract we recommendMedical reimbursement limitOur view
HelloTravel Premium$1.1MStrong choice for French Polynesia, especially for remote emergencies.
- high medical limit
- medical evacuation included
- flexible cancellation terms
Cap Assistance 24/24$1.1MGood coverage and support for travelers to the islands.
- 24/7 assistance
- no medical deductible
- cancellation covered
Tourist Card$540KFor short visits and tourists, reliable medical and assistance coverage.
- solid medical cover
- covers emergencies
- easy application online
Travel Pass Monde$750KBalanced for long stays or remote excursions in French Polynesia.
- hospital coverage abroad
- medical evacuation
- user-friendly process
Globe Partner$320KFor travelers needing essential coverage in remote islands.
- emergency care internationally
- repatriation included
- civil liability protection
Globe Traveller$540KAffordable for low- to moderate-risk trips and simpler needs.
- quick medical refund
- limited but essential coverage
- suitable for short stays
Comparison of Recommended Travel Insurance Contracts
HelloTravel Premium
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.1M
Our view
Strong choice for French Polynesia, especially for remote emergencies.
- high medical limit
- medical evacuation included
- flexible cancellation terms
Cap Assistance 24/24
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.1M
Our view
Good coverage and support for travelers to the islands.
- 24/7 assistance
- no medical deductible
- cancellation covered
Tourist Card
Medical reimbursement limit
$540K
Our view
For short visits and tourists, reliable medical and assistance coverage.
- solid medical cover
- covers emergencies
- easy application online
Travel Pass Monde
Medical reimbursement limit
$750K
Our view
Balanced for long stays or remote excursions in French Polynesia.
- hospital coverage abroad
- medical evacuation
- user-friendly process
Globe Partner
Medical reimbursement limit
$320K
Our view
For travelers needing essential coverage in remote islands.
- emergency care internationally
- repatriation included
- civil liability protection
Globe Traveller
Medical reimbursement limit
$540K
Our view
Affordable for low- to moderate-risk trips and simpler needs.
- quick medical refund
- limited but essential coverage
- suitable for short stays
Comparison of Recommended Travel Insurance Contracts
? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

Current travel safety in French Polynesia

As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers that the safety situation in French Polynesia is stable, with a vigilance level set at exercise normal precautions.
Here are their four main recommendations.

  • Security risks: petty theft remains the primary safety concern, especially in busy resort beaches and in rental cars. For instance, wallets and phones are frequently targeted in public places.
  • Health risks: medical care is generally reliable in Tahiti and major islands, but limited on more remote islands. A severe illness or injury could require costly medical evacuation to Papeete or even to Hawaii.
  • Entry regulations: a valid US passport with at least six months’ validity is mandatory, and travelers must present proof of onward or return travel. The 12-page US emergency passport is not accepted for visa-free stays.
  • Environmental risks: while natural disasters are rare, travelers should remain aware of tropical storm warnings and strong ocean currents, particularly during the rainy season from November to April.

Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in French Polynesia.

Is travel insurance required by law to enter French Polynesia?

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens entering French Polynesia.

Even though it is not required by law, travel insurance is strongly recommended. Medical care is limited on outlying islands and a medical evacuation to Papeete or another major center can be extremely expensive. Insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency repatriation is especially important in this remote location.

According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to French Polynesia. This high percentage is linked to the high cost of medical care and emergency evacuation in French Polynesia.

Why take out travel insurance for French Polynesia?

It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to French Polynesia.

Health costs in French Polynesia can be high, particularly outside of Tahiti, where only the Taaone Hospital (Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie Française) offers advanced medical services. On smaller islands, facilities are basic and severe cases may require a costly emergency evacuation to Papeete or even New Zealand.

Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in case of serious illness or accident.

Here are some examples of healthcare costs in French Polynesia.

Example of medical treatmentCost at Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie FrançaiseCovered by travel insurance
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection160,000 XPF (about $1,440)up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)90,000 XPF (about $810)up to 100%
I need to be repatriated2,000,000 XPF (about $18,000)up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)500,000 XPF (about $4,500)up to 100%
Examples of medical costs and travel insurance coverage in French Polynesia.
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection
Cost at Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie Française
160,000 XPF (about $1,440)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)
Cost at Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie Française
90,000 XPF (about $810)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I need to be repatriated
Cost at Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie Française
2,000,000 XPF (about $18,000)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)
Cost at Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie Française
500,000 XPF (about $4,500)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
Examples of medical costs and travel insurance coverage in French Polynesia.

These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.

It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.

What travel insurance for French Polynesia should cover

Main coveragesExplanations and recommendations
? Medical expensesCovers doctor visits, emergency care, and hospital bills when sick or injured.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $250,000 per trip.
? Medical evacuationPays for air or sea evacuation to Papeete or the US in a serious emergency.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $300,000 per trip.
? MedicationReimburses prescription drugs and urgent treatments.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $1,000 per trip.
? HospitalizationCovers overnight hospital stays and related care.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $100,000 per trip.
? Luggage and personal belongingsReimburses theft, loss, or damage to luggage or valuables.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,000 per trip.
? Trip cancellation/interruptionRefunds non-refundable expenses if you must cancel or end your trip for a covered reason.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $5,000 per trip.
? Rental vehicle excessPays for repair costs and excess charges if your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,500 per trip.
⚖️ Personal liabilityCovers costs if you cause injury or property damage to others.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $500,000 per trip.
Recommended Travel Insurance Coverage
? Medical expenses
Explanations and recommendations
Covers doctor visits, emergency care, and hospital bills when sick or injured.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $250,000 per trip.
? Medical evacuation
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for air or sea evacuation to Papeete or the US in a serious emergency.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $300,000 per trip.
? Medication
Explanations and recommendations
Reimburses prescription drugs and urgent treatments.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $1,000 per trip.
? Hospitalization
Explanations and recommendations
Covers overnight hospital stays and related care.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $100,000 per trip.
? Luggage and personal belongings
Explanations and recommendations
Reimburses theft, loss, or damage to luggage or valuables.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,000 per trip.
? Trip cancellation/interruption
Explanations and recommendations
Refunds non-refundable expenses if you must cancel or end your trip for a covered reason.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $5,000 per trip.
? Rental vehicle excess
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for repair costs and excess charges if your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,500 per trip.
⚖️ Personal liability
Explanations and recommendations
Covers costs if you cause injury or property damage to others.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $500,000 per trip.
Recommended Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often has limited coverage with low limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.

The cost of travel insurance for French Polynesia

Trip durationTraveler’s ageIndicative price per person
1 week25 years old$27
2 weeks45 years old$45
1 month35 years old$65
1 month70 years old$130
Indicative prices for travel insurance based on trip duration and traveler's age.
1 week
Traveler’s age
25 years old
Indicative price per person
$27
2 weeks
Traveler’s age
45 years old
Indicative price per person
$45
1 month
Traveler’s age
35 years old
Indicative price per person
$65
1 month
Traveler’s age
70 years old
Indicative price per person
$130
Indicative prices for travel insurance based on trip duration and traveler's age.

These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.

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Good to know

The price of your travel insurance is influenced by key factors: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, and any add-ons like cancellation coverage. Keeping these in mind is crucial for selecting a policy that fits your budget and provides the right amount of protection for your journey.

? It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.

? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

How to pay less for your travel insurance to French Polynesia

Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to French Polynesia while keeping good coverage:

CriteriaWhy it mattersExpert tip
? Trip durationLonger trips increase the risk of claims and raise the insurance price. Short stays usually cost less.Limit your insured days to actual travel dates and avoid extra coverage if your trip is not extended.
? Traveller's ageInsurers often raise prices for older travelers. Age bands make a significant difference in premium amount.Check providers who do not raise rates after 62, like Heymondo, for more consistent and possibly lower costs.
? Level of coverageEmergency and medical evacuation is important in remote areas like French Polynesia. Choice of coverage affects cost.Select only necessary medical coverage, and adjust policy limits to what is reasonable for the destination.
?️ Activities plannedSome activities like diving or boating are popular. Not all policies cover them. Coverage for high-risk activities increases cost.Only add coverage for activities you will actually do to reduce overall premium.
? Number of travelersGroup or family policies may offer a better rate per person. Solo coverage can be less economical.Look for discounts on family or group policies if traveling together to pay less per person.
? DeductibleHigher deductible means you pay more out-of-pocket but it lowers your premium.Choose a higher deductible if you are comfortable handling minor expenses yourself in case of a claim.
✈️ Purchase timingBuying too early or too late can impact options and price. Most travelers can buy once all trip details are known.Buy insurance soon after booking flights and hotels to get competitive rates and access to broader coverage.
Factors to consider when choosing travel insurance.
? Trip duration
Why it matters
Longer trips increase the risk of claims and raise the insurance price. Short stays usually cost less.
Expert tip
Limit your insured days to actual travel dates and avoid extra coverage if your trip is not extended.
? Traveller's age
Why it matters
Insurers often raise prices for older travelers. Age bands make a significant difference in premium amount.
Expert tip
Check providers who do not raise rates after 62, like Heymondo, for more consistent and possibly lower costs.
? Level of coverage
Why it matters
Emergency and medical evacuation is important in remote areas like French Polynesia. Choice of coverage affects cost.
Expert tip
Select only necessary medical coverage, and adjust policy limits to what is reasonable for the destination.
?️ Activities planned
Why it matters
Some activities like diving or boating are popular. Not all policies cover them. Coverage for high-risk activities increases cost.
Expert tip
Only add coverage for activities you will actually do to reduce overall premium.
? Number of travelers
Why it matters
Group or family policies may offer a better rate per person. Solo coverage can be less economical.
Expert tip
Look for discounts on family or group policies if traveling together to pay less per person.
? Deductible
Why it matters
Higher deductible means you pay more out-of-pocket but it lowers your premium.
Expert tip
Choose a higher deductible if you are comfortable handling minor expenses yourself in case of a claim.
✈️ Purchase timing
Why it matters
Buying too early or too late can impact options and price. Most travelers can buy once all trip details are known.
Expert tip
Buy insurance soon after booking flights and hotels to get competitive rates and access to broader coverage.
Factors to consider when choosing travel insurance.

Does my current insurance cover me in French Polynesia?

It is completely reasonable to wonder if your existing coverage—like private health insurance, public health programs, or even your credit card—will be enough for travel to French Polynesia. Unfortunately, these sources often provide limited protection, especially when it comes to medical evacuation or trip issues abroad.

Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.

Type of insuranceValid in French Polynesia?What it coversWhy Travel Insurance is better
Public health insurance (Medicaid, Medicare)No, neverNo coverage for care or hospitalization abroadTravel insurance covers up to $500,000 in medical expenses, hospitalization, and 24/7 emergency assistance
Private health insuranceYes, partlyMay reimburse emergency treatment up to $50,000; rarely covers evacuation, no trip interruptionTravel insurance offers $500,000+ for medical, $100,000 for evacuation, and additional trip protection
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover)Yes, partlyBasic accident/illness up to $10,000–$25,000, no evacuation, minimal/no baggage or cancellationTravel insurance can include $500,000+ for medical, evacuation, lost luggage, trip cancellation or interruption
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Prestige)Yes, partlyEmergency medical may be up to $100,000, trip delay, basic baggage coverageTravel insurance often offers $500,000 for healthcare, real-time support and much higher evacuation and trip coverage
Comparison of different insurance types for travel to French Polynesia.
Public health insurance (Medicaid, Medicare)
Valid in French Polynesia?
No, never
What it covers
No coverage for care or hospitalization abroad
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers up to $500,000 in medical expenses, hospitalization, and 24/7 emergency assistance
Private health insurance
Valid in French Polynesia?
Yes, partly
What it covers
May reimburse emergency treatment up to $50,000; rarely covers evacuation, no trip interruption
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance offers $500,000+ for medical, $100,000 for evacuation, and additional trip protection
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover)
Valid in French Polynesia?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Basic accident/illness up to $10,000–$25,000, no evacuation, minimal/no baggage or cancellation
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance can include $500,000+ for medical, evacuation, lost luggage, trip cancellation or interruption
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Prestige)
Valid in French Polynesia?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Emergency medical may be up to $100,000, trip delay, basic baggage coverage
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance often offers $500,000 for healthcare, real-time support and much higher evacuation and trip coverage
Comparison of different insurance types for travel to French Polynesia.
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Example

While scuba diving in Rangiroa, Sarah suffered decompression sickness. The emergency air evacuation to Tahiti cost $25,000. Her Chase Sapphire card's insurance only covered $10,000, and her US health plan denied the transport claim. She was left with a $15,000 bill, a devastating cost for her dream vacation.

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Expert advice

Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to purchase a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to French Polynesia?

No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days in French Polynesia. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date, and you must have a return or onward ticket for entry.

How do I purchase travel insurance for French Polynesia?

First, compare options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best coverage and price. Next, check which covers and exclusions are particularly relevant to French Polynesia, such as medical evacuation and extreme sports. Then, buy your policy online. You will receive your insurance certificate by email.

What types of risks does travel insurance for French Polynesia usually protect against?

Most travel insurance policies cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and medical evacuation, which can be essential in French Polynesia due to its remote location. Policies may also include trip cancellation, lost baggage, and assistance services. Always check the policy for limits and specific conditions.

Is medical evacuation covered by basic travel insurance plans?

Medical evacuation coverage is not included in all basic plans. You should look for a policy that clearly states coverage for emergency medical evacuation, as this service can cost upward of $25,000 in French Polynesia. Confirm the amount and conditions before you purchase.

Can I buy travel insurance after arriving in French Polynesia?

Most insurers require you to buy travel insurance before you depart the United States. Some providers may offer coverage after departure, but options and coverage can be limited. For full protection and access to benefits, it is best to purchase your policy in advance.

What should I do if I need medical care in French Polynesia?

In the event of illness or emergency, contact your insurer’s 24/7 assistance number as soon as possible. They can guide you to approved medical facilities, arrange direct payment if covered, and coordinate medical evacuation if required. Always keep your insurance documents and emergency contact numbers accessible during your trip.

Do I need a visa to travel to French Polynesia?

No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days in French Polynesia. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date, and you must have a return or onward ticket for entry.

How do I purchase travel insurance for French Polynesia?

First, compare options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best coverage and price. Next, check which covers and exclusions are particularly relevant to French Polynesia, such as medical evacuation and extreme sports. Then, buy your policy online. You will receive your insurance certificate by email.

What types of risks does travel insurance for French Polynesia usually protect against?

Most travel insurance policies cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and medical evacuation, which can be essential in French Polynesia due to its remote location. Policies may also include trip cancellation, lost baggage, and assistance services. Always check the policy for limits and specific conditions.

Is medical evacuation covered by basic travel insurance plans?

Medical evacuation coverage is not included in all basic plans. You should look for a policy that clearly states coverage for emergency medical evacuation, as this service can cost upward of $25,000 in French Polynesia. Confirm the amount and conditions before you purchase.

Can I buy travel insurance after arriving in French Polynesia?

Most insurers require you to buy travel insurance before you depart the United States. Some providers may offer coverage after departure, but options and coverage can be limited. For full protection and access to benefits, it is best to purchase your policy in advance.

What should I do if I need medical care in French Polynesia?

In the event of illness or emergency, contact your insurer’s 24/7 assistance number as soon as possible. They can guide you to approved medical facilities, arrange direct payment if covered, and coordinate medical evacuation if required. Always keep your insurance documents and emergency contact numbers accessible during your trip.

A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard
Insurance expert
HelloSafe
Co-founder of HelloSafe and an experienced entrepreneur in the insurance and personal finance sector, Antoine uses his experience and in-depth knowledge of the market to help Internet users make the right choices. With an MBA in economics, he is a committed expert whose mission is to make personal finance and insurance issues simple and understandable. With a rich career marked by the creation of innovative companies, Antoine's ambition has always been to bring transparency to complex issues and to give power back to consumers. With HelloSafe, he continues to translate this vision by providing accurate advice, impartial comparisons and detailed explanations of travel insurance. He has analysed hundreds of contracts to reveal the best options available on the market.

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