What are the best travel insurances for Russia in 2025?
- The best travel insurances for Russia
- Is it currently safe to travel to</b> Russia?
- Is travel insurance required for the visa to Russia?
- Why take out travel insurance for Russia?
- What should travel insurance for Russia cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Russia
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Russia?
- Can I Rely on My Current Insurance to Cover Me in Russia?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Russia: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Russia covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unexpected travel-related risks.
2. Warning: The U.S. Department of State advises citizens not to travel to Russia.
3. Key protection: Travel insurance is mandatory for U.S. citizens to obtain a visa for Russia.
4. Minimum coverage: A minimum medical coverage of $35,000 is typically required for the visa application.
5. Healthcare cost: Private hospital stays in major Russian cities can cost several hundred dollars per night.
6. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Russia typically costs between $25 and $50.
7. Good to know: Ensure your policy is valid in Russia, as many U.S. insurers have coverage restrictions.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Russia.
The best travel insurances for Russia
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1M | Recommended for travel to Russia. A reputable insurer with strong coverage. - high medical ceiling - repatriation - modern policy wording |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1M | Reliable choice for all travelers. Comprehensive support and simple formalities. - 24/7 assistance - cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $500k | Solid option for short stays and tourism in Russia. - good medical cover - emergency helpline - competitive pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $700k | Balanced coverage for travelers seeking security abroad. - repatriation included - hospital coverage - broad territorial scope |
| Globe Partner | $300k | Dependable insurance for international trips. - medical care abroad - repatriation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | $500k | Good for short or low-risk trips to Russia. - essential medical coverage - fast reimbursement - reasonable limits |
- high medical ceiling
- repatriation
- modern policy wording
- 24/7 assistance
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
- good medical cover
- emergency helpline
- competitive pricing
- repatriation included
- hospital coverage
- broad territorial scope
- medical care abroad
- repatriation
- civil liability
- essential medical coverage
- fast reimbursement
- reasonable limits
Watch out!
These are the insurers we generally recommend for their quality of service and value for money. However, be aware that in exceptional situations like the war between Ukraine and Russia, they may not be able to provide coverage.
Is it currently safe to travel to Russia?
⚠️ As of June 2025, the U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to Russia due to the ongoing war with Ukraine and wider security threats. This alert reflects significant risks including arbitrary detention, conflict-related violence, and limited access to consular assistance.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: the threat of wrongful detention by authorities is high, particularly in cities like Moscow, and near conflict-affected zones such as the Ukrainian border. Recent incidents include arrests for perceived criticism of Russian policy.
- Health risks: medical care in Russia is variable, with modern hospitals mainly in large cities. In rural areas or in the event of injury or illness, emergency medical evacuation may be necessary and local care may be inadequate.
- Legal constraints: U.S. citizens are at risk under Russia’s broad security laws. Posting content critical of Russian authorities or being present near demonstrations can result in arrest. Dual nationality may result in conscription or exit bans.
- Financial and administrative issues: U.S. credit and debit cards do not work due to ongoing sanctions. Electronic money transfers are severely restricted, making it difficult to access funds during emergencies.
Travel insurance is mandatory to enter Russia. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Is travel insurance required for the visa to Russia?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for U.S. citizens applying for a visa to Russia.
To obtain a Russian visa, travelers must present a valid travel insurance certificate that covers medical expenses and repatriation during the entire stay in Russia. The certificate should be compliant with consular requirements and clearly state the coverage period, insurance provider, and geographical validity for Russia.
Expert Tip
Due to the ongoing conflict and international sanctions, some U.S.-based insurers may restrict or refuse coverage for trips to Russia.
Research insurance companies that explicitly confirm coverage and recognition in Russia before applying for your visa.
Contact your chosen insurer to ensure the policy will meet all Russian consular demands and is issued by an accepted provider.
💡 If possible, always choose a recognized international travel insurance policy with strong coverage and 24/7 assistance, such as Cap Assistance 24/7, AVA Capital, Globe Trotter, or World Travel Premium.
Why take out travel insurance for Russia?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement to obtain a visa for visiting Russia.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Russia.
In Russia, foreigners are most often directed to private clinics in large cities such as Moscow or Saint Petersburg, like the European Medical Center, where care is expensive and payment is required upfront. Public hospitals may lack modern equipment and English-speaking staff, so urgent access and proper care cannot be guaranteed.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Russia.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at European Medical Center | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 120,000 RUB (about $1,300) | Up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 80,000 RUB (about $870) | Up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 1,150,000 RUB (about $12,600) | Up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 310,000 RUB (about $3,400) | 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 should travel insurance for Russia cover?
⚠️ Due to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, and the Level 4 travel advisory, many international insurers may restrict coverage in Russia. Confirm that your chosen insurer offers valid and compliant protection before purchasing a policy.
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Russia.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Required for visa? |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Reimburses urgent care, surgery, and hospitalization, generally excluding pre-existing conditions. We recommend at least $50,000 in reimbursement for Russia. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🛌 Hospitalization | Covers inpatient care, room, medication, and related services. Recommended reimbursement: $50,000 or more. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Covers ambulance or air evacuation to another country for advanced treatment. Minimum advised reimbursement limit is $30,000 for Russia. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Covers transport back to the US in case of severe illness or death. Required minimum: $30,000 for compliant Russia visa insurance. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 💊 Prescription drugs | Refunds urgent prescription costs linked to a covered accident or illness. Suggested minimum: $2,000 in medication expenses. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🧳 Baggage insurance | Protection in case of lost, stolen, or damaged luggage. Recommend at least $1,000 coverage for valuables. | 🟡 Optional |
| 🎫 Trip cancellation | Covers non-refundable prepayments and expenses if illness or emergency prevents travel. Suggest $3,000 or more. | 🟡 Optional |
| ⚖️ Civil liability | Covers accidental damage or injury to others. Minimum: $100,000 is advisable for international legal risks. | 🟡 Optional |
We recommend at least $50,000 in reimbursement for Russia.
Recommended reimbursement: $50,000 or more.
Minimum advised reimbursement limit is $30,000 for Russia.
Required minimum: $30,000 for compliant Russia visa insurance.
Suggested minimum: $2,000 in medication expenses.
Recommend at least $1,000 coverage for valuables.
Suggest $3,000 or more.
Minimum: $100,000 is advisable for international legal risks.
Important information
To obtain a short-term visa for Russia, US travelers must provide proof of travel insurance covering medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation, with a minimum limit of $30,000. The certificate must be valid for the entire trip, translated to Russian, and issued by a recognized insurer.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards typically includes low limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer offering comprehensive protection. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Russia
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $45 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $85 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $135 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $310 |
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 shaped by several variables. Be sure to consider your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the amount of coverage you need, and any optional add-ons like cancellation protection. Keeping these in mind is key to selecting the right policy that fits your budget and travel needs.
💡 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 can you pay less for your travel insurance to Russia?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Russia while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Medical care in Russia is expensive for foreigners and proof of coverage is required for the visa. | Choose a policy that meets the minimum required limits but avoid excessive extras to save on premium. |
| 📅 Trip duration | The longer your stay, the higher your insurance premium. | Buy insurance only for the official period of your visa and avoid unnecessarily long coverage dates. |
| 👨👩👧 Number of travelers | Family or group policies may offer better rates than buying separately. | Consider group coverage if you are traveling with companions to benefit from discounts per person. |
| 🌍 Geographical area | Worldwide coverage is always more expensive than a region-specific or country-specific policy. | Select Russia-only coverage rather than a global policy unless you plan to visit other countries as well. |
| 🧳 Baggage coverage | Some comprehensive plans include more baggage cover than you need. | Opt for basic baggage coverage rather than high-value or specialty coverage to keep costs lower. |
| 🎂 Traveler's age | Age impacts price, especially for travelers over 60. | Compare different providers as Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 💳 Deductible amount | Choosing a higher deductible lowers premiums but means more out-of-pocket cost. | Assess your risk comfort and consider a higher deductible if you can afford minor expenses yourself. |
Important
Travel insurance is required for U.S. citizens to obtain a visa for Russia. Ensure your policy covers medical expenses (minimum $35,000), is valid for all travel dates, and provides a certificate in English or Russian for your visa application.
Can I Rely on My Current Insurance to Cover Me in Russia?
It is reasonable to wonder if your existing coverage, such as public health insurance or credit card insurance, can protect you during a trip to Russia. Unfortunately, these forms of coverage are often limited or insufficient for international risks. If you are traveling from the US, travel insurance is mandatory to obtain a short-stay visa for Russia, as only this meets embassy requirements.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Russia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage outside the US. No medical or hospitalization costs are reimbursed. | Travel insurance covers over $100,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield) | Yes, partly | Emergency care with limits under $10,000. No coverage for evacuation or repatriation. | Travel insurance covers higher costs abroad and includes medical evacuation and support. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | May cover medical fees under $5,000. No compensation for stolen luggage or trip cancellation. | Travel insurance reimburses for luggage loss and cancellations up to $100,000. |
| Premium credit card (Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve) | Yes, partly | Emergency care with limit up to $50,000. Limited help for theft or travel delays. | Travel insurance includes comprehensive support and higher medical limits. |
Example
While skiing in Kamchatka, Russia, Mark suffered a severe concussion. The emergency helicopter evacuation to a hospital cost $25,000. His US health plan denied the transport claim, and his Visa Signature card only covered $5,000. Mark was unexpectedly left with a $20,000 bill, a harsh reality of inadequate travel insurance.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Russia?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to travel to Russia for any purpose. The visa application must be arranged before departing the United States, as visas are not issued on arrival. In addition to your visa, you must have a valid U.S. passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your planned departure from Russia.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Russia?
1/ Compare: Begin by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to identify policies suitable for Russia.
2/ Check cover and exclusions: Review plans for coverage limits, emergency evacuation, war and terrorism exclusions, and any restrictions specific to Russia.
3/ Buy online: Purchase the policy from the provider’s website.
4/ Receive your certificate: Get your insurance certificate, required for your Russian visa application.
Are there travel insurance plans that cover conflict or war-related incidents in Russia?
Most standard travel insurance policies do not cover acts of war, terrorism, or civil unrest. You may need to seek specialized insurance with explicit coverage for such risks, which can be costly and require direct negotiation with insurers. Always read the exclusions carefully and consult your provider regarding Russia-specific restrictions.
How much does travel insurance for Russia usually cost?
Premiums vary widely due to increased risk. For basic coverage, expect to pay about $10 to $15 per day for travelers under 60. Plans with higher coverage or evacuation benefits may be significantly more expensive. Pricing factors include your age, trip duration, and coverage limits.
Will my credit or debit card work to pay for medical expenses in Russia?
Due to international sanctions, U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Russia. Travelers should carry sufficient cash or have pre-arranged local means of payment for emergencies. Ensure your travel insurance provides direct payment to medical providers or reimburses you in U.S. dollars upon your return.
What documentation should I carry with me in Russia in case of a medical emergency?
Carry your printed insurance certificate, policy number, and the insurer’s 24/7 emergency assistance contact information. In addition, keep a translated emergency notice or summary in Russian if possible, so local providers can understand your coverage. Russian authorities may request proof of insurance upon entry.
Do I need a visa to travel to Russia?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to travel to Russia for any purpose. The visa application must be arranged before departing the United States, as visas are not issued on arrival. In addition to your visa, you must have a valid U.S. passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your planned departure from Russia.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Russia?
1/ Compare: Begin by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to identify policies suitable for Russia.
2/ Check cover and exclusions: Review plans for coverage limits, emergency evacuation, war and terrorism exclusions, and any restrictions specific to Russia.
3/ Buy online: Purchase the policy from the provider’s website.
4/ Receive your certificate: Get your insurance certificate, required for your Russian visa application.
Are there travel insurance plans that cover conflict or war-related incidents in Russia?
Most standard travel insurance policies do not cover acts of war, terrorism, or civil unrest. You may need to seek specialized insurance with explicit coverage for such risks, which can be costly and require direct negotiation with insurers. Always read the exclusions carefully and consult your provider regarding Russia-specific restrictions.
How much does travel insurance for Russia usually cost?
Premiums vary widely due to increased risk. For basic coverage, expect to pay about $10 to $15 per day for travelers under 60. Plans with higher coverage or evacuation benefits may be significantly more expensive. Pricing factors include your age, trip duration, and coverage limits.
Will my credit or debit card work to pay for medical expenses in Russia?
Due to international sanctions, U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Russia. Travelers should carry sufficient cash or have pre-arranged local means of payment for emergencies. Ensure your travel insurance provides direct payment to medical providers or reimburses you in U.S. dollars upon your return.
What documentation should I carry with me in Russia in case of a medical emergency?
Carry your printed insurance certificate, policy number, and the insurer’s 24/7 emergency assistance contact information. In addition, keep a translated emergency notice or summary in Russian if possible, so local providers can understand your coverage. Russian authorities may request proof of insurance upon entry.
