- 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
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.
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 recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Strong choice for French Polynesia, especially for remote emergencies. - high medical limit - medical evacuation included - flexible cancellation terms |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Good coverage and support for travelers to the islands. - 24/7 assistance - no medical deductible - cancellation covered |
| Tourist Card | $540K | For short visits and tourists, reliable medical and assistance coverage. - solid medical cover - covers emergencies - easy application online |
| Travel Pass Monde | $750K | Balanced for long stays or remote excursions in French Polynesia. - hospital coverage abroad - medical evacuation - user-friendly process |
| Globe Partner | $320K | For travelers needing essential coverage in remote islands. - emergency care internationally - repatriation included - civil liability protection |
| Globe Traveller | $540K | Affordable for low- to moderate-risk trips and simpler needs. - quick medical refund - limited but essential coverage - suitable for short stays |
- high medical limit
- medical evacuation included
- flexible cancellation terms
- 24/7 assistance
- no medical deductible
- cancellation covered
- solid medical cover
- covers emergencies
- easy application online
- hospital coverage abroad
- medical evacuation
- user-friendly process
- emergency care internationally
- repatriation included
- civil liability protection
- quick medical refund
- limited but essential coverage
- suitable for short stays
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 treatment | Cost at Centre Hospitalier de la Polynésie Française | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 160,000 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 repatriated | 2,000,000 XPF (about $18,000) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 500,000 XPF (about $4,500) | up to 100% |
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 coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| ? Medical expenses | Covers doctor visits, emergency care, and hospital bills when sick or injured. Recommended reimbursement limit: $250,000 per trip. |
| ? Medical evacuation | Pays for air or sea evacuation to Papeete or the US in a serious emergency. Recommended reimbursement limit: $300,000 per trip. |
| ? Medication | Reimburses prescription drugs and urgent treatments. Recommended reimbursement limit: $1,000 per trip. |
| ? Hospitalization | Covers overnight hospital stays and related care. Recommended reimbursement limit: $100,000 per trip. |
| ? Luggage and personal belongings | Reimburses theft, loss, or damage to luggage or valuables. Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,000 per trip. |
| ? Trip cancellation/interruption | 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 | Pays for repair costs and excess charges if your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen. Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,500 per trip. |
| ⚖️ Personal liability | Covers costs if you cause injury or property damage to others. Recommended reimbursement limit: $500,000 per trip. |
Recommended reimbursement limit: $250,000 per trip.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $300,000 per trip.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $1,000 per trip.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $100,000 per trip.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,000 per trip.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $5,000 per trip.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $2,500 per trip.
Recommended reimbursement limit: $500,000 per trip.
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 duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $27 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $45 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $65 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $130 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
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 compareHow 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:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ? Trip duration | Longer 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 age | Insurers 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 coverage | Emergency 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 planned | Some 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 travelers | Group 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. |
| ? Deductible | Higher 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 timing | Buying 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. |
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 insurance | Valid in French Polynesia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicaid, Medicare) | No, never | No coverage for care or hospitalization abroad | Travel insurance covers up to $500,000 in medical expenses, hospitalization, and 24/7 emergency assistance |
| Private health insurance | Yes, partly | May reimburse emergency treatment up to $50,000; rarely covers evacuation, no trip interruption | Travel insurance offers $500,000+ for medical, $100,000 for evacuation, and additional trip protection |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover) | Yes, partly | Basic accident/illness up to $10,000–$25,000, no evacuation, minimal/no baggage or cancellation | 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) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical may be up to $100,000, trip delay, basic baggage coverage | Travel insurance often offers $500,000 for healthcare, real-time support and much higher evacuation and trip coverage |
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.
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.
