The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Uruguay in 2025

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A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard updated on July 16, 2025
Table of Contents
  • The best travel insurance plans for Uruguay
  • Is it currently safe to travel to</b> Uruguay?
  • Is travel insurance required by law to enter Uruguay?
  • Why take out travel insurance for Uruguay?
  • What Should Travel Insurance for Uruguay Cover?
  • The cost of travel insurance for Uruguay
  • How to pay less for your travel insurance to Uruguay
  • Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Uruguay?
  • FAQ
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Travel insurance for Uruguay: key takeaways

1. Definition: Travel insurance for Uruguay covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel-related events.
2. Key protection: While not mandatory for US citizens, insurance is crucial to cover potential medical and emergency costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare in Uruguay is high-quality but costly, with hospital stays averaging over $800 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Uruguay typically costs between $30 and $60 for US travelers.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers personal belongings, as petty theft can be a concern in urban areas.

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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 Uruguay.

The best travel insurance plans for Uruguay

Contract we recommendMedical reimbursement limitOur view
HelloTravel Premium$1.1MComprehensive and reliable coverage for Uruguay.
- high reimbursement ceiling
- emergency evacuation
- extensive guarantees
Cap Assistance 24/24$1.1MBroad protection for trips to Uruguay with strong support.
- 24/7 medical helpline
- easy claims
- emergency assistance
Tourist Card$545kGood choice for tourism and short stays.
- sufficient medical limit
- affordable rates
- emergency services
Travel Pass Monde$765kBalanced policy for longer visits to Uruguay.
- hospital care
- family benefits
- repatriation included
Globe Partner$327kCore guarantees for travelers needing straightforward protection.
- treatment abroad
- civil liability
- repatriation support
Globe Traveller$545kSimple policy for short or low-risk trips.
- basic medical cover
- fast reimbursement
- low deductible
Comparison of recommended travel insurance contracts for Uruguay.
HelloTravel Premium
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.1M
Our view
Comprehensive and reliable coverage for Uruguay.
- high reimbursement ceiling
- emergency evacuation
- extensive guarantees
Cap Assistance 24/24
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.1M
Our view
Broad protection for trips to Uruguay with strong support.
- 24/7 medical helpline
- easy claims
- emergency assistance
Tourist Card
Medical reimbursement limit
$545k
Our view
Good choice for tourism and short stays.
- sufficient medical limit
- affordable rates
- emergency services
Travel Pass Monde
Medical reimbursement limit
$765k
Our view
Balanced policy for longer visits to Uruguay.
- hospital care
- family benefits
- repatriation included
Globe Partner
Medical reimbursement limit
$327k
Our view
Core guarantees for travelers needing straightforward protection.
- treatment abroad
- civil liability
- repatriation support
Globe Traveller
Medical reimbursement limit
$545k
Our view
Simple policy for short or low-risk trips.
- basic medical cover
- fast reimbursement
- low deductible
Comparison of recommended travel insurance contracts for Uruguay.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

Is it currently safe to travel to Uruguay?

As of June 2025, the U.S. Department of State advises travelers to Uruguay to exercise increased caution due to ongoing concerns about street crime and theft in urban areas. Travel within the country is permitted, and no specific security restrictions have been put in place for U.S. travelers.

  • Security risks: petty crime and violent thefts, such as robberies and carjackings, are a concern especially in Montevideo and other urban centers. Criminals often operate in pairs on motorcycles and target tourists near banks or ATMs.
  • Health risks: no specific vaccinations are required beyond routine CDC recommendations, and medical care in Uruguay is generally considered comparable to U.S. standards. In rural areas, access to care may be slower, particularly during emergencies.
  • Legal requirements: U.S. travelers must hold a valid passport with at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. No tourist visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days.
  • Urban and cultural notes: keep valuables hidden and avoid displaying items such as expensive watches. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, and do not resist in case of a robbery attempt.

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

Is travel insurance required by law to enter Uruguay?

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for travelers from the US to enter Uruguay.

It is still strongly recommended to have travel insurance, as crime—such as theft and robbery—can affect tourists, especially in Montevideo and other urban areas. Medical facilities are generally adequate, but insurance ensures coverage for unexpected incidents, including medical evacuation and hospital stays.

According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Uruguay, mainly because of occasional urban crime and the cost of private healthcare.

Why take out travel insurance for Uruguay?

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

While Uruguay's healthcare system is generally adequate, costs for private care in clinics such as Hospital Británico in Montevideo can be high for foreigners. Public hospitals are available, but private facilities are often preferred for quality and speed of service, resulting in higher out-of-pocket expenses for non-residents.

Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US if a serious incident occurs.

Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Uruguay.

Example of medical treatmentCost at Hospital BritánicoCovered by travel insurance
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection55,000 UYU (about $1,400)up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)34,000 UYU (about $860)up to 100%
I need to be repatriated870,000 UYU (about $22,000)up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)135,000 UYU (about $3,400)up to 100%
Examples of medical treatments, their costs at Hospital Británico and coverage by travel insurance.
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection
Cost at Hospital Británico
55,000 UYU (about $1,400)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)
Cost at Hospital Británico
34,000 UYU (about $860)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I need to be repatriated
Cost at Hospital Británico
870,000 UYU (about $22,000)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)
Cost at Hospital Británico
135,000 UYU (about $3,400)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
Examples of medical treatments, their costs at Hospital Británico and coverage by travel insurance.

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 Uruguay Cover?

Main coveragesExplanations and recommendations
🏥 Medical expensesCovers hospital bills, doctor visits, and outpatient care for illnesses or injuries incurred in Uruguay.
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000.
✈️ Medical evacuationPays for emergency evacuation to the US or another country if necessary due to medical reasons.
Recommended minimum: $150,000.
🚑 RepatriationCovers transport back to the US if return is needed for medical reasons.
Recommended minimum: $50,000.
💼 Lost or stolen baggagePays for loss, theft, or damage to baggage or personal belongings.
Choose a limit of at least $2,000.
❌ Trip interruption/cancellationReimburses pre-paid expenses if your trip is interrupted or canceled for covered reasons.
Recommended limit: $5,000.
🏄‍♂️ Sports/adventure activitiesCovers injuries from sports or common activities.
Make sure you have at least $10,000 in coverage.
🦠 Personal liabilityProtects if you accidentally injure someone or cause property damage.
Recommended minimum: $50,000.
🚗 Rental car damagePays for damage or theft of a rental vehicle.
Recommended coverage: $30,000.
Travel Insurance Coverage Recommendations
🏥 Medical expenses
Explanations and recommendations
Covers hospital bills, doctor visits, and outpatient care for illnesses or injuries incurred in Uruguay.
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000.
✈️ Medical evacuation
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for emergency evacuation to the US or another country if necessary due to medical reasons.
Recommended minimum: $150,000.
🚑 Repatriation
Explanations and recommendations
Covers transport back to the US if return is needed for medical reasons.
Recommended minimum: $50,000.
💼 Lost or stolen baggage
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for loss, theft, or damage to baggage or personal belongings.
Choose a limit of at least $2,000.
❌ Trip interruption/cancellation
Explanations and recommendations
Reimburses pre-paid expenses if your trip is interrupted or canceled for covered reasons.
Recommended limit: $5,000.
🏄‍♂️ Sports/adventure activities
Explanations and recommendations
Covers injuries from sports or common activities.
Make sure you have at least $10,000 in coverage.
🦠 Personal liability
Explanations and recommendations
Protects if you accidentally injure someone or cause property damage.
Recommended minimum: $50,000.
🚗 Rental car damage
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for damage or theft of a rental vehicle.
Recommended coverage: $30,000.
Travel Insurance Coverage Recommendations

Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often has limited coverage, low limits, and several exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive benefits. Compare leading offers on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.

The cost of travel insurance for Uruguay

Trip durationTraveler’s ageIndicative price per person
1 week25 years old$28
2 weeks45 years old$48
1 month35 years old$61
1 month70 years old$182
Indicative prices per person based on trip duration and traveler's age.
1 week
Traveler’s age
25 years old
Indicative price per person
$28
2 weeks
Traveler’s age
45 years old
Indicative price per person
$48
1 month
Traveler’s age
35 years old
Indicative price per person
$61
1 month
Traveler’s age
70 years old
Indicative price per person
$182
Indicative prices per person 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 travel insurance is influenced by several key factors: the traveler's age, the trip's duration and destination, the desired coverage level, and any optional add-ons like cancellation protection. Keeping these in mind is essential to select the right policy that fits your specific needs and budget 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 Uruguay

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

CriteriaWhy it mattersExpert tip
🗓️ Trip durationInsurance premiums increase with longer trips, so only insure for your actual travel dates in Uruguay.Insure only for your exact stay to avoid paying for unnecessary extra days not spent in Uruguay.
🏥 Medical coverageAdequate but private medical care can be expensive, especially in cities like Montevideo.Choose coverage that matches your needs but do not over-insure for medical costs if you are healthy and risk is low.
👤 Traveler's ageMost insurers charge higher rates to older travelers but not all do.Compare several insurers. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which is rare in the industry.
🧳 Baggage and theftCrime against tourists is common in main cities, but you may not need high limits if you travel light.Set baggage coverage based on your possessions' value to avoid costly and unnecessary high-limit options.
🚗 Activities coverageActive travel or driving in Uruguay may require extra coverage, but this is not always needed.Opt out of adventure sports or car rental coverage if your travel activities are standard tourism only.
🗺️ Geographic areaWorldwide policies cost more than regional or country-specific coverage relevant to Uruguay.Select South America only or country-specific policies if you do not need worldwide protection.
👪 Group/family policiesFamily or group travelers can get lower per-person rates with combined insurance plans.Favor group plans if possible for lower rates, as these are usually cheaper than purchasing individual policies.
Key criteria for selecting travel insurance for a trip to Uruguay.
🗓️ Trip duration
Why it matters
Insurance premiums increase with longer trips, so only insure for your actual travel dates in Uruguay.
Expert tip
Insure only for your exact stay to avoid paying for unnecessary extra days not spent in Uruguay.
🏥 Medical coverage
Why it matters
Adequate but private medical care can be expensive, especially in cities like Montevideo.
Expert tip
Choose coverage that matches your needs but do not over-insure for medical costs if you are healthy and risk is low.
👤 Traveler's age
Why it matters
Most insurers charge higher rates to older travelers but not all do.
Expert tip
Compare several insurers. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which is rare in the industry.
🧳 Baggage and theft
Why it matters
Crime against tourists is common in main cities, but you may not need high limits if you travel light.
Expert tip
Set baggage coverage based on your possessions' value to avoid costly and unnecessary high-limit options.
🚗 Activities coverage
Why it matters
Active travel or driving in Uruguay may require extra coverage, but this is not always needed.
Expert tip
Opt out of adventure sports or car rental coverage if your travel activities are standard tourism only.
🗺️ Geographic area
Why it matters
Worldwide policies cost more than regional or country-specific coverage relevant to Uruguay.
Expert tip
Select South America only or country-specific policies if you do not need worldwide protection.
👪 Group/family policies
Why it matters
Family or group travelers can get lower per-person rates with combined insurance plans.
Expert tip
Favor group plans if possible for lower rates, as these are usually cheaper than purchasing individual policies.
Key criteria for selecting travel insurance for a trip to Uruguay.
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Important

Medical evacuation coverage is highly recommended due to the possibility of needing private medical care or evacuation. Verify your plan covers major cities and regional medical needs specific to Uruguay.

Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Uruguay?

It is natural to wonder if your US insurance or credit card coverage will protect you during a trip to Uruguay, but unfortunately, these protections are often limited or insufficient for travel needs. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.

Type of insuranceValid in Uruguay?What it coversWhy Travel Insurance is better
Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid)No, neverNo coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, or repatriation outside the US.Travel insurance often covers $100,000+ in medical care, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation.
Private health insuranceYes, partlyEmergency care abroad may be reimbursed up to $10,000 after return, but not always direct payment or evacuation.Travel insurance provides $100,000+ medical, daily hospital benefits, and evacuation with no delay.
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Chase Freedom)Yes, partlyMedical fees reimbursed up to $2,500, no reimbursement for trip cancellation, limited luggage coverage.Travel insurance includes $100,000+ medical, trip cancellation, and comprehensive baggage coverage.
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige)Yes, partlyMedical benefits up to $50,000, trip delay/cancel up to $10,000, some baggage loss, but limited evacuation.Travel insurance covers $100,000+ medical, full repatriation, and better support locally and in emergencies.
Comparison of Insurance Coverage Types for Travel
Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid)
Valid in Uruguay?
No, never
What it covers
No coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, or repatriation outside the US.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance often covers $100,000+ in medical care, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation.
Private health insurance
Valid in Uruguay?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Emergency care abroad may be reimbursed up to $10,000 after return, but not always direct payment or evacuation.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance provides $100,000+ medical, daily hospital benefits, and evacuation with no delay.
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Chase Freedom)
Valid in Uruguay?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Medical fees reimbursed up to $2,500, no reimbursement for trip cancellation, limited luggage coverage.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance includes $100,000+ medical, trip cancellation, and comprehensive baggage coverage.
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige)
Valid in Uruguay?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Medical benefits up to $50,000, trip delay/cancel up to $10,000, some baggage loss, but limited evacuation.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers $100,000+ medical, full repatriation, and better support locally and in emergencies.
Comparison of Insurance Coverage Types for Travel
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Example

While surfing in Punta del Este, Mark suffered a spinal injury. Emergency transport and initial care at a private hospital in Montevideo cost $25,000. His Chase Sapphire card's travel insurance only covered $2,000, and his US health plan denied the foreign claim, leaving him with a staggering $23,000 bill.

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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 subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to Uruguay?

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Uruguay for stays of up to 90 days. You must present a valid U.S. passport with at least one blank page for the entry stamp. Visas are required only for diplomatic or official passport holders.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Uruguay?

Start by comparing options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review coverage and exclusions, with particular attention to important features for Uruguay, such as medical evacuation and theft. Purchase your preferred policy online, then receive your insurance certificate by email.

Are medical facilities in Uruguay comparable to those in the US?

Most urban areas in Uruguay, including Montevideo and major cities, have adequate healthcare facilities similar to U.S. standards. However, in rural regions medical resources may be more limited. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation is a practical safeguard if serious issues arise.

What should I look for in a travel insurance policy for Uruguay?

Key features include at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and full medical evacuation benefits. Look for policies that cover theft, loss of personal belongings, and trip interruptions. Check if the insurer provides 24/7 English-speaking assistance and clear claim procedures.

Does travel insurance cover theft or loss in Uruguay?

Many travel insurance plans provide coverage for theft, loss, or damage to personal belongings. Ensure your chosen policy specifies clear limits and claim procedures for valuables such as electronics and jewelry. Always report losses to local authorities and retain documentation for your claim.

Can I extend my travel insurance if I decide to stay in Uruguay longer than expected?

Most insurers allow extensions as long as you apply before your policy’s expiration. Contact your provider early if your plans change. Additional fees may apply, but uninterrupted coverage ensures continued protection for medical emergencies or unexpected events.

Do I need a visa to travel to Uruguay?

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Uruguay for stays of up to 90 days. You must present a valid U.S. passport with at least one blank page for the entry stamp. Visas are required only for diplomatic or official passport holders.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Uruguay?

Start by comparing options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review coverage and exclusions, with particular attention to important features for Uruguay, such as medical evacuation and theft. Purchase your preferred policy online, then receive your insurance certificate by email.

Are medical facilities in Uruguay comparable to those in the US?

Most urban areas in Uruguay, including Montevideo and major cities, have adequate healthcare facilities similar to U.S. standards. However, in rural regions medical resources may be more limited. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation is a practical safeguard if serious issues arise.

What should I look for in a travel insurance policy for Uruguay?

Key features include at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and full medical evacuation benefits. Look for policies that cover theft, loss of personal belongings, and trip interruptions. Check if the insurer provides 24/7 English-speaking assistance and clear claim procedures.

Does travel insurance cover theft or loss in Uruguay?

Many travel insurance plans provide coverage for theft, loss, or damage to personal belongings. Ensure your chosen policy specifies clear limits and claim procedures for valuables such as electronics and jewelry. Always report losses to local authorities and retain documentation for your claim.

Can I extend my travel insurance if I decide to stay in Uruguay longer than expected?

Most insurers allow extensions as long as you apply before your policy’s expiration. Contact your provider early if your plans change. Additional fees may apply, but uninterrupted coverage ensures continued protection for medical emergencies or unexpected events.

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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