- The best travel insurance for Sri Lanka
- Is it currently safe to travel to Sri Lanka?
- Travel Insurance Requirement for a Visa to Sri Lanka
- Why take out travel insurance for Sri Lanka?
- The coverage included in travel insurance for Sri Lanka
- The cost of travel insurance for Sri Lanka
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Sri Lanka?
- Will my current insurance cover me in Sri Lanka?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Sri Lanka: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Sri Lanka covers medical costs, repatriation, and other unexpected travel-related issues.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens but is vital for covering potential emergencies.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is costly; a hospital night can average between $150 to $300 for tourists.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Sri Lanka typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers adventure activities like surfing or trekking if you plan to participate.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Sri Lanka.
The best travel insurance for Sri Lanka
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.0M | Best security for trips to Sri Lanka. - high medical ceiling - covers hospital stays - strong evacuation and repatriation |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.0M | Reliable for longer or complex trips. - 24/7 support - broad coverage - cancellation protection |
| Tourist Card | $0.5M | Great for city travel and tourism. - solid medical cover - emergency support - good value |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.7M | Balanced coverage for diverse travel. - includes repatriation - good global protection - hospital fees included |
| Globe Partner | $0.3M | Ideal for short trips and essential needs. - basic medical support - civil liability - quick set-up |
| Globe Traveller | $0.5M | For travelers wanting basic, efficient care. - emergency hospitalization - simple claims process - limited cap |
- high medical ceiling
- covers hospital stays
- strong evacuation and repatriation
- 24/7 support
- broad coverage
- cancellation protection
- solid medical cover
- emergency support
- good value
- includes repatriation
- good global protection
- hospital fees included
- basic medical support
- civil liability
- quick set-up
- emergency hospitalization
- simple claims process
- limited cap
Is it currently safe to travel to Sri Lanka?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting Sri Lanka, due to ongoing civil unrest and a persistent risk of terrorism.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: demonstrations can rapidly escalate, especially in Colombo and Galle Face Green, sometimes resulting in violence or police intervention. Recent incidents in central Colombo led to roadblocks and traffic disruptions.
- Health risks: several mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue and Japanese encephalitis, are prevalent, particularly in the Western Province. Hospitals outside Colombo may not meet US medical standards, and evacuation is difficult in remote regions.
- Legal constraints: photographing military sites or government buildings is prohibited and may result in detention. Adherence to all local laws is crucial, including regulations regarding visas and duration of stay.
- Cultural norms: modest dress is expected at religious sites, including the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. It is also customary to remove shoes before entering Buddhist and Hindu temples.
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 Sri Lanka.
Travel Insurance Requirement for a Visa to Sri Lanka
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers to obtain a visa for Sri Lanka.
However, travel insurance is highly recommended because access to healthcare, especially in remote areas, can be limited, and medical evacuations or hospitalizations may result in significant expenses. Coverage for medical emergencies, trip interruptions, or lost luggage can offer essential peace of mind throughout your stay.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Sri Lanka. This high percentage is mainly due to health risks, unpredictable events, and the limited capacity for emergency assistance in remote areas.
Why take out travel insurance for Sri Lanka?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Sri Lanka.
Health costs in Sri Lanka can be high for US travelers, especially at leading private hospitals like Asiri Medical Hospital in Colombo, where foreigners are generally sent for serious care. Public hospitals may offer basic services but are often overcrowded and lack advanced equipment, while private or emergency treatments require immediate upfront payment.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transportation, and emergency repatriation to the US in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Sri Lanka.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Asiri Medical Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | LKR 320,000 (about $970) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | LKR 185,000 (about $560) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | LKR 6,500,000 (about $19,600) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | LKR 730,000 (about $2,200) | 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.
The coverage included in travel insurance for Sri Lanka
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Sri Lanka.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| ? Medical expenses | Pays for emergency medical care, hospitalization, and medications if you get sick or hurt in Sri Lanka. Recommended: at least $100,000 of coverage. |
| ? Medical evacuation | Covers ambulance, helicopter, or air evacuation to get you to a quality hospital or return home. Recommended: $50,000 minimum for emergency evacuation. |
| ? Hospitalization | Daily hospital costs, including surgeries and intensive care if admitted. We recommend $100,000 per person for serious emergencies. |
| ? Baggage and personal items | Compensation if your luggage or valuables are lost, stolen, or damaged. Recommend at least $2,500 for full protection of personal effects. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Covers costs if you must cancel, delay, or cut short your trip due to illness or emergency. Recommend $2,000–$5,000 per trip depending on your bookings. |
| ? Emergency assistance | 24/7 support for emergencies, legal aid, or medical advice in English. Travel insurance often includes this service automatically. |
| ? Repatriation to the US | Pays for your medical repatriation to the US or returns remains if necessary. Look for up to $50,000 repatriation cover. |
Recommended: at least $100,000 of coverage.
Recommended: $50,000 minimum for emergency evacuation.
We recommend $100,000 per person for serious emergencies.
Recommend at least $2,500 for full protection of personal effects.
Recommend $2,000–$5,000 per trip depending on your bookings.
Travel insurance often includes this service automatically.
Look for up to $50,000 repatriation cover.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards is usually limited, with many exclusions and low coverage limits. It is safer to choose a reputable insurer with comprehensive protection. Compare leading options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Sri Lanka
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $32 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $50 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $78 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $155 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of travel insurance is influenced by several key factors: the traveler’s age, trip duration, destination, coverage limits, and add-ons like trip cancellation. Riskier destinations or longer trips often increase the price. Keeping these elements in mind is essential to choosing the right policy for your needs and budget.
? 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 Sri Lanka?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Sri Lanka while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ?️ Trip duration | Your insurance price is calculated based on the number of days you spend in Sri Lanka. | Choose a plan with coverage matching your itinerary and avoid annual policies if you take a single trip only. |
| ? Traveller’s age | Older travelers usually pay higher premiums, reflecting greater health risks, especially in tropical regions. | Heymondo does not increase prices for travelers over 62, so compare their offers if you are in this age group. |
| ? Level of coverage | Higher coverage for medical or personal belongings means higher premiums, important for destinations with potential unrest. | Select essential coverage such as medical emergencies, and remove add-ons that do not fit your needs. |
| ? Medical limits | Good coverage is needed in Sri Lanka, where private care or emergencies can be costly, especially in rural areas. | Choose a sensible deductible and opt for emergency coverage at or above $50,000 for serious incidents. |
| ? Activities covered | Insurance for excursions or sports can raise prices if you join adventure tours or activities in Sri Lanka. | Only select adventure sports coverage if you actually plan to participate in them during your trip. |
| ? Number of travelers | Family or group insurance often offers cheaper per-person rates for travel to Sri Lanka. | Buy a group or family policy instead of separate individual plans for more value if traveling together. |
| ? Purchase timing | Buying your insurance just before departure sometimes results in cost savings but risks losing cancellation coverage. | Weigh early purchase for peace of mind against late purchase for possible savings, based on your trip needs. |
Will my current insurance cover me in Sri Lanka?
It is reasonable to ask if your current coverage, such as credit card insurance or U.S. public health insurance, will protect you during a trip to Sri Lanka. Unfortunately, this coverage is often restricted or insufficient, leaving major risks unaddressed when you travel abroad. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Sri Lanka? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage abroad. Out-of-country emergency care is not reimbursed. | Travel insurance covers up to $100,000+ for hospital and evacuation. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare) | Yes, partly | Some emergency care may be reimbursed, usually up to $10,000 or $15,000. No evacuation included. | Travel insurance covers up to $100,000 for medical care and $250,000 for evacuation. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Capital One Platinum, Citi Simplicity) | Yes, partly | Medical expenses typically up to $2,500, rarely covers travel delay or baggage loss. No evacuation. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ and adds baggage, delays, and repatriation. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Visa Infinite) | Yes, partly | Coverage sometimes up to $50,000, limited cancellation and delay coverage, excludes adventure sports. | Travel insurance covers adventure sports and evacuation up to $250,000. |
Example
In Sri Lanka, Tom contracted severe dengue fever, leading to a $12,000 hospital bill in Colombo. His Chase Sapphire card’s insurance had a low limit, and his US health plan didn’t cover foreign hospitals. He was forced to pay over $10,000 out-of-pocket for a common, mosquito-borne illness.
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 Sri Lanka?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. You must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before departure. The ETA allows for tourism or transit stays of up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months past your expected departure date.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Sri Lanka?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to explore different policies and rates. Next, check the coverage and exclusions for issues relevant to Sri Lanka, like medical emergencies, natural disasters, or evacuation. Then, purchase your chosen policy online. Finally, receive your insurance certificate by email and keep it handy during your trip.
Does travel insurance for Sri Lanka cover health emergencies such as dengue fever or accidents?
Most comprehensive travel insurance plans pay for medical expenses related to illness or accident, including care for mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever. Coverage commonly includes hospital stays, medication, and doctor visits, but verify if pre-existing conditions and emergency evacuation are specifically included in the policy you select.
Are natural disasters, such as floods or tsunamis, covered by travel insurance in Sri Lanka?
Many travel insurance policies cover cancellations, trip interruptions, or medical costs caused by natural disasters, but coverage may vary by provider. Always check if your policy mentions earthquakes, flooding, or tsunamis, and whether it offers emergency evacuation in case of an environmental crisis.
What documents are needed to file a travel insurance claim in Sri Lanka?
To submit a claim, you usually need your insurance certificate, proof of travel, receipts for medical expenses, and any relevant medical or police reports. It is important to notify your insurer as soon as possible and follow their specific claim procedures for faster processing.
Can travel insurance be purchased after arriving in Sri Lanka?
Many providers require you to buy insurance before departure from the U.S., although some may allow purchase after you have left. However, policies bought after arrival may include waiting periods or limited coverage, so purchasing travel insurance ahead of time is advisable for full protection.
Do I need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. You must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before departure. The ETA allows for tourism or transit stays of up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months past your expected departure date.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Sri Lanka?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to explore different policies and rates. Next, check the coverage and exclusions for issues relevant to Sri Lanka, like medical emergencies, natural disasters, or evacuation. Then, purchase your chosen policy online. Finally, receive your insurance certificate by email and keep it handy during your trip.
Does travel insurance for Sri Lanka cover health emergencies such as dengue fever or accidents?
Most comprehensive travel insurance plans pay for medical expenses related to illness or accident, including care for mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever. Coverage commonly includes hospital stays, medication, and doctor visits, but verify if pre-existing conditions and emergency evacuation are specifically included in the policy you select.
Are natural disasters, such as floods or tsunamis, covered by travel insurance in Sri Lanka?
Many travel insurance policies cover cancellations, trip interruptions, or medical costs caused by natural disasters, but coverage may vary by provider. Always check if your policy mentions earthquakes, flooding, or tsunamis, and whether it offers emergency evacuation in case of an environmental crisis.
What documents are needed to file a travel insurance claim in Sri Lanka?
To submit a claim, you usually need your insurance certificate, proof of travel, receipts for medical expenses, and any relevant medical or police reports. It is important to notify your insurer as soon as possible and follow their specific claim procedures for faster processing.
Can travel insurance be purchased after arriving in Sri Lanka?
Many providers require you to buy insurance before departure from the U.S., although some may allow purchase after you have left. However, policies bought after arrival may include waiting periods or limited coverage, so purchasing travel insurance ahead of time is advisable for full protection.
