What is travel insurance?
Travel insurance is an insurance contract that covers you in the event of illness or accident that may occur during your trip.
Travel insurance comes in several forms. Apart from the basic cover which covers your unexpected medical expenses or covers any medical repatriation, the insurance also covers your luggage in the event of loss or theft or reimburses your trip in the event of cancellation, or cover your vehicle in the event of a breakdown or accident. The imponderables are part of everyday life, if you have to return home earlier than expected following a personal problem such as the death of a loved one or an incident at home, you are covered.
There are different travel insurance policy formulas, so it is important to compare them before taking out, in order to be sure to choose the formula that best suits your needs. You can take out travel insurance through an insurance broker or online through the Europ Assistance website.
Europ Assistance specialises in travel insurance and allows you to choose more comprehensive and extensive coverage than other insurers. To find out more about our options, click here.
What does travel insurance cover?
The basic coverage of travel insurance includes, among other things:
Medical assistance, reimbursement of medical expenses, medical repatriation
Early returns in case of problems at home
The organisation of the visit to the traveller hospitalised abroad
Financial compensation for the days you had to spend abroad in the event of an early return
Baggage insurance in the event of loss or damage to baggage (Optional)
Trip cancellation insurance (Optional)
Assistance for your vehicle in the event of a breakdown or accident (Optional)
…
You can count on the help of Europ Assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Find the best plan that suits your travel needs.
Why take out travel insurance?
While travelling, unexpected things can happen. Even if it is not pleasant to consider it, certain risks can hinder your plans or your stay: illness, hospitalisation (while travelling or of a loved one back home), death, medical repatriation, search or rescue costs, loss of your travel documents, early return due to a family event, loss of luggage, etc.
Travel insurance gives you peace of mind by providing assistance and financial protection to deal with these events.
Before taking out travel insurance, it is important to carefully read the General Conditions of the contract to find out what is covered and what is not. You should also consider the country of destination and the activities you plan to do, in order to choose the most appropriate cover.
Europ Assistance offers you several travel insurance formulas, which can be personalised according to your needs.
How does travel insurance work?
In the event of a problem during your trip, you must immediately contact the insurance company, which will explain to you how to proceed and who will provide you with assistance.
Travel insurance offers protection against the unexpected and allows you to travel with complete peace of mind.
Why take out travel cancellation insurance?
Cancellation insurance is a protection that allows travellers to be reimbursed in the event of cancellation of their trip. It is often included in organised trips, but can also be taken out separately. The conditions vary according to the insurers, but in general, the cancellation insurance covers cases of force majeure such as illness, accident or death.
Most cancellation insurance covers a specific trip and cannot be invoked for cancellations made a few days before departure. It is important to check the General Conditions of the insurance before taking it out in order to know how long before the start of the trip it is applicable and to know the events covered.
Europ Assistance has created the NoGo cancellation insurance which, depending on the type of contract chosen, covers all your trips for an entire year or a specific trip.
What is good travel insurance?
Good travel insurance has a few characteristics.
- First of all, you must make sure that the company is professional, reliable and that it has an international network which allows it to intervene 24 hours a day. There's no point in buying insurance from a company that won't be there when you need it.
- Second, the insurance company must be able to offer you a policy that covers your specific needs. Travel insurance policies can vary widely in terms of coverage, so it's important to find the one that's right for you.
- Finally, you need to make sure the company responds quickly and is trustworthy. When you're faced with an emergency, you don't want to have to wait days or weeks for your claims to be processed.
These different elements allow you to find a travel insurance policy that will protect you on your next trip. In any case, Europ Assistance meets all these criteria.
Is it worth taking out travel insurance?
Many people are reluctant to purchase travel insurance, believing it to be an unnecessary expense. However, the truth is that travel insurance is useful, especially if you are planning a trip overseas. Travel insurance can protect you against various risks such as medical emergencies, lost luggage and/or cancellations. Depending on the type of assistance contract you have taken out, you can also insure your vehicle during a trip to Europe against any breakdown problem. Finally, travel insurance also covers other beneficiaries included in the same insurance contract.
Travel insurance therefore gives you peace of mind, knowing that you will be covered in the event of an unexpected problem. No one likes to think about getting hurt or sick while on vacation, but these things can unfortunately happen. If so, travel insurance can help you with medical expenses incurred while travelling. In some cases, it can even cover repatriation costs. Be aware that your health insurance does not intervene in all cases for all companions and in all destinations.
So, before you book your next trip, don't forget to cover yourself well by taking out the travel insurance that's right for you.
Do I need travel insurance if I have a credit card?
Many people think they don't need travel insurance if they have a credit card, because the credit card provides them with enough coverage. However, this is not always the case. While some credit cards offer travel insurance, coverage is often limited. For example, many policies only cover emergency medical expenses, do not cover companions and provide no assistance in the event of lost or stolen luggage. Also, most credit cards only cover trips of a certain duration and only if the entire trip was paid for by the credit card. Therefore, it is important to be well informed and read the fine print of your credit card agreement before assuming you are fully covered.
Separately purchased travel insurance can give you peace of mind and financial protection in the event of a medical emergency.
To learn more about our travel insurance policies, click here.
Is travel insurance the same as international insurance?
Travel insurance and international insurance are not the same thing. Travel insurance is a type of insurance that covers you while you are travelling. It can cover things like lost luggage, travel delays, and medical emergencies. International insurance, on the other hand, is a type of insurance that covers you when you live abroad. It can cover things like medical expenses, property damage, and travel accidents. So if you plan to travel abroad, make sure you have travel insurance, not international insurance.
Our insurance packages cover both Europe and the world, so you can be sure that wherever your travels take you, we have you covered.
What is not covered by travel insurance?
When purchasing travel insurance, it is important to know what is covered and what is not. Some contracts only cover unforeseen medical expenses, while others also cover lost luggage or trip cancellation. It is sometimes also possible to cover the vehicle when travelling within Europe.
Some costs are never covered by travel insurance. For example, Europ Assistance does not cover costs related to pregnancy, pre-existing medical conditions or elective surgery. The assistance contract also does not cover costs incurred as a result of illegal activity or alcohol abuse.
It is important to know the coverage of your contract in order to be sure that you have the best protection. Check our website to find out what coverage our contracts cover.
What types of travel insurance are there?
There are two main types of travel insurance: term insurance and annual insurance.
- Short-term (or temporary) travel insurance is usually purchased for a single trip and provides coverage for the duration of that trip.
- The annual travel insurance, meanwhile, covers the beneficiaries during all their trips during the year. This type of travel insurance is often purchased by people who travel frequently or have multiple trips planned.
Both types of travel insurance offer protection against different types of risks, including medical emergencies and vehicle technical assistance (breakdown) in Europe.
Annual travel insurance also offers optional coverages such as trip cancellation insurance, which reimburses you for expenses if your trip is cancelled due to illness or other unforeseen event, and baggage insurance, which reimburses you for luggage. lost or damaged. Some will even intervene in the event of theft or loss of sports equipment.
Europ Assistance is one of the main providers of travel insurance and offers a wide range of assistance formulas adapted to all traveller needs. Before you pack your bags, be sure to research your travel insurance options and choose the policy that's right for you.
We offer annual assistance contracts, and temporary contracts covering a single trip, including ski destinations.
What type of travel insurance do I need and what does it cover?
There are a wide variety of travel assistance contracts available for all types of travellers. The type of contract you need will therefore depend on your specific needs.
If you are concerned about cancellation fees or other expenses related to changes in your travel plans, cancellation insurance may be a good option for you.
If you are worried about the costs of medical expenses you may incur on your trip, choose assistance that has high medical coverage. In some countries where medical costs are very high (such as the USA), this coverage is essential.
There are also contracts that cover the loss or theft of luggage.
Purchasing travel insurance can be essential to protect you against unexpected events that may occur during your trip.
Europ Assistance offers a variety of travel insurance policies to meet your needs. Whether you're looking for full coverage or basic coverage, we have options to suit your budget.
Is travel insurance necessary?
While travelling, unexpected things can happen. Even if it is not pleasant to consider it, certain risks can hinder your plans or your stay: illness, hospitalisation (while travelling or of a loved one back home), death, medical repatriation, search or rescue costs, loss of your travel documents, early return due to a family event, loss of luggage, etc.
Travel insurance gives you peace of mind by providing assistance and financial protection to deal with these events.
Before taking out travel insurance, it is important to carefully read the General Conditions of the contract to find out what is covered and what is not. You should also consider the country of destination and the activities you plan to do, in order to choose the most appropriate cover.
Europ Assistance offers you several travel insurance formulas, which can be personalised according to your needs.
When is the best time to make a travel insurance claim?
We are committed to providing our customers with the best possible service. We understand that making a claim is sometimes a complicated or stressful experience for our clients.
In general, it is best to submit a claim for compensation as soon as possible after the incident. You will thus be assured that your request will be analysed and processed quickly. You can submit a request for reimbursement by accessing the Customer Area of the site https://europ-assistance.be or via our application.
However, if you are unsure whether you need to submit a claim, you can always contact our customer service team for advice. Contact us here.
How to take out travel insurance?
Taking out a travel insurance policy is very easy. Just visit our website, fill out an online form or contact our customer service. You can also take out travel insurance through your insurance broker.
There are different types of travel insurance, such as annual travel insurance covering all your trips for the year or temporary travel insurance for a single trip. If you are travelling for business, it is also important to take out adequate insurance.
What does travel cancellation insurance cover?
Cancellation insurance is a type of travel insurance that reimburses you for non-refundable travel expenses if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason.
It is important to know the causes of cancellation covered by your cancellation insurance policy, as well as the limits and exclusions of the contract.
Cancellation insurance usually covers reasons such as serious illness, death
of a relative, a professional incapacity to take leave, failure to obtain a visa, the medical impossibility of being able to be vaccinated, a passing exam... This type of insurance therefore intervenes in unforeseen events which affect the sphere private and personal or the professional sphere. It does not intervene in large-scale external events such as a natural disaster or an epidemic. Some policies also have limits on the amount they reimburse.
Europ Assistance offers a temporary or annual cancellation contract. Thus the “NoGo All in” temporary cancellation contract offers complete cover for all aspects of the holiday, including flights, accommodation and car rental. The premium is calculated based on the amount of the trip you wish to cover. If you travel several times during the year, the annual travel cancellation contract is more interesting. It covers all your travels and trips throughout the year. Discover our policies here.
What are the covered reasons for trip cancellation?
Cancelling a trip can be a difficult and disappointing experience. However, there are situations where it may be necessary. Europ Assistance, a leading provider of travel insurance, lists the main reasons why trip cancellation is covered :
a health problem or disease
an accident or immobilisation of the vehicle a few days before departure or on the day of departure
the death of a loved one
a cause related to professional life (dismissal, new job, cancelled holidays, replacement of a colleague, etc.)
an administrative reason (examination, visa refusal, theft or loss of passport, summons, etc.).
If you have to cancel your trip for any of these reasons, be sure to check your travel insurance policy to see what coverage is available.
Europ Assistance's cancellation policy is one of the most comprehensive in the industry. Take a look at our policies here.
What is the best cancellation insurance contract?
The NoGo cancellation insurance offered by Europ Assistance is one of the most comprehensive. It allows you to cancel and have your trip reimbursed for various reasons, including illness, the death of a loved one, professional reasons or administrative hazards. The NoGo All in temporary contract offers full coverage for a single trip. The annual cancellation insurance contract covers all your trips for the year. Whatever your travel plans, Europ Assistance has a policy that meets your needs. See our offer here.
Does travel insurance cover children (minors)?
Europ Assistance travel assistance contracts cover children, but there are certain conditions. The child must be a beneficiary of the contract, be under the age of 18 and travel with a parent or guardian. If the child is travelling alone, they must have a letter of authorization from a parent or guardian.
Europ Assistance's annual travel assistance contracts allow grandparents to cover their grandchildren if they accompany them on a trip.
If so, contact our Customer Service.
Discover your travel insurance contract here.
What does travel sickness insurance cover?
Many people do not realise that their health insurance or health insurance coverage may not cover them (fully) when travelling outside their home country or travelling to distant countries.
Travel assistance contracts are designed to cover this type of unforeseen medical expense. This may include emergency medical care, medical transfer, or even repatriation for you and those travelling with you.
When choosing a travel assistance contract, it is important to consider the length of your trip, the countries visited and any pre-existing medical conditions.
Some types of contracts cover adventure activities such as hiking and skiing, as well as search and rescue costs.
More details on the Sport travel insurance here.
What is the best type of travel insurance for long-term trips?
If you are traveling abroad for a long period, whether to study, do an internship or as a globetrotter, it is important to take out suitable travel insurance.
During a long trip abroad, it is essential to be well covered in the event of illness or accident. It is also important to have insurance that covers search and rescue costs and the costs of an early return home in the event of problems for a loved one left behind. Most students going on an internship or Erasmus take out long-term travel insurance with their usual insurance company. However, it is often better to purchase travel insurance specifically designed for long trips, as it offers better coverage and higher benefits. It is an excellent option for students who want to do an internship or an Erasmus abroad, but also for those who leave for a long period to discover the world.
Your trip lasts more than 3 months? We've created Long Trip Insurance just for you. It is perfect for long trips such as Erasmus stays or study or professional internships abroad.
How to cancel an annual travel insurance contract?
If you wish to cancel your annual travel insurance, you must contact Europ Assistance customer service. Our team will be happy to help you answer any questions you have about cancelling your insurance contract. You can reach our customer service by telephone on +32 (0) 2 743 33 33 or by e-mail at serviceclients@europassistance.com. We are available Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CET.
The customer service agent will process your cancellation request and provide you with a confirmation number. Europ Assistance will refund the unused portion of the premium to the policyholder's credit card or bank account. Europ Assistance customers can also cancel their annual travel insurance online or via the app.
Does travel insurance cover pregnancy?
Europ Assistance Belgium offers a wide range of travel insurance to meet the needs of each traveller. This covers pregnancy, as well as pregnancy-related complications
However, for air travel, from the 28th week of your pregnancy, you must obtain written permission from your doctor and the airline to take the flight.
Our cancellation insurance protects you if you have to cancel your trip due to an unexpected event, such as complications or medical problems immediately related to your pregnancy or the pregnancy of a relative up to the 3rd degree, including premature birth at least 1 month before the planned date, or the pregnancy of your travel companion if the trip was planned in the last 3 months of pregnancy and this pregnancy was not known at the time of booking the trip. Before purchasing travel insurance, be sure to read the policy carefully to ensure it meets your needs.
How long before a trip should I take out travel insurance?
For all travel insurance, the effective date of coverage is essential. If you wait until the last minute to purchase a support contract, you run the risk of being left unprotected in the event of an emergency. And if you buy travel insurance too far in advance, you risk paying for coverage you don't (yet) need.
If you take out an annual travel insurance contract (travel assistance), all your trips for the year will be covered. However, the journey cannot yet have begun.
For temporary travel assistance contracts, cover begins on the date indicated in the contract taken out.
Travel insurance/travel assistance can be taken out up to the day before your departure.
For travel cancellation contracts (NoGo), if it is a trip already booked, the cancellation insurance must be taken out at least 30 days before the departure date of the trip.
If you book your trip at the last minute (""last minute""), the cancellation insurance contract must be taken out on the day of booking this trip.
For other types of contracts, such as Drive insurance, a waiting period of 5 days applies after taking out the insurance, before the vehicle can benefit from breakdown/towing coverage.
Find the travel assistance that's right for you here.
In which countries can I call on Europ Assistance's breakdown service?
If you have subscribed a breakdown and towing assistance as part of a travel assistance contract, the service applies in the Zone Europe, with the exception of the Canary Islands, Cyprus, Madeira, and Malta.
If you have a Drive assistance contract, the vehicle is covered in Belgium. Depending on the type of Drive contract you have subscribed, neighbouring countries or countries in the Europe Zone can also be covered, with the exception of the Canary Islands, Cyprus, Madeira and Malta.
Zone Europe
Albania - Andorra - Austria - Belgium - Bosnia-Herzegovina - Bulgaria - Croatia - Cyprus - Czech Republic - Denmark - Estonia - Finland - France (except overseas territories) - Germany - Gibraltar - Greece + islands - Hungary - Ireland - Italy + islands - Kosovo - Latvia - Liechtenstein - Lithuania - Luxembourg - Portugal - Spain (including Balearic and Canary Islands,but excluding Ceuta and Melilla) - Estonia - Finland - France (excluding overseas territories) - Gibraltar - Greece + islands - Hungary - Ireland - Italy + islands - Kosovo - Latvia - Liechtenstein - Lithuania - Luxembourg - Macedonia - Madeira - Malta - Moldova - Monaco - Montenegro - Netherlands - Norway - Poland - Portugal (excluding Azores) - Romania - San Marino - Serbia - Slovakia - Slovenia - Spain - Sweden - Switzerland - Czech Republic - Turkey (European part - see this link) - Ukraine - Vatican City.
The territories of these countries not located in geographical Europe are not covered.
Not covered by breakdown assistance: Canary Islands, Cyprus, Madeira, Malta.
Excluded countries and territories: Belarus, the Russian Federation, the Ukrainian regions annexed by the Russian Federation (annexation not recognised by Belgium): Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporijia, Kherson.
In what travel formulas can I subscribe a roadside assistance all over Europe ?
We can offer vehicle breakdown assistance in Europe in our annual travel assistance formulas (travel assistance and breakdown assistance) or in our Drive packages (breakdown assistance only).
Is travel insurance compulsory for international travel?
When planning a trip abroad, an important question to ask is whether travel insurance is necessary or not. Travel insurance is generally not compulsory for international travel, but there are a number of reasons why it can be very useful to take out an assistance contract.
The most important reason to purchase travel insurance for international trips is for medical coverage. If you get injured or sick while abroad, travel insurance will help cover the cost of medical treatment and even the cost of repatriation. In addition, many travel insurance policies also cover trip cancellation and interruption, loss of luggage and technical vehicle problems in Europe. While the cost of travel insurance may seem like an unnecessary expense, it could save you thousands of dollars in an emergency.
Finally, some countries require proof or certification of insurance before you can enter their territory. This is for example the case for Cuba. Inquire about this with our Customer Service.
Europ Assistance offers different types of assistance policies that can cover all your needs. Compare your options here.
Does travel insurance cover theft?
Europ Assistance travel insurance provides you with assistance in the event of the theft or loss of travel documents, passports or identity cards provided they are in the possession of the insured person at the time of the theft. Europ Assistance can also send you a spare suitcase in case of loss of flight or send you prescribed medication (not available on site).
Some contracts also allow you to take out insurance against theft or loss of luggage.
Europ Assistance offers round-the-clock assistance in the event of an emergency, so its customers can be assured that they will be taken care of if they encounter any problems during their journey. To learn more about our policies, click here.
Does travel insurance cover lost or delayed passports?
The loss or theft of a passport is a common travel mishap that can be very complicated and costly to solve. In the event of loss or theft of travel documents (identity card, passport, driving licence, etc.) occurring abroad, first contact the nearest Belgian embassy or consulate. Europ Assistance can give you the contact details. Europ Assistance will cover the transport costs and administrative costs incurred abroad related to the loss or theft of your travel documents. Contact our 24-hour support here.
Does travel insurance cover damage to or loss of luggage?
Our travel insurance policies include optional baggage insurance. Check out our comparison of support packages here.
Does travel insurance cover money lost while travelling?
Europ Assistance offers a variety of travel insurance contracts which provide for the provision of money abroad following illness, accident or loss of money.
In this case, the amount of the sum of money that we transfer to you is limited (max. 2,500 euros) and must be remitted to us beforehand in Belgium. To learn more, click here.
What is the difference between travel assistance and travel sickness insurance?
Travel assistance contracts usually have two components: assistance benefits during the trip and insurance and assistance in the event of illness or accident.
If the travel assistance covers you against certain hassles during the trip (e.g. loss of travel documents, loss of money, sending of a spare suitcase, etc.), the insurance in the event of illness is designed to protect you against costs of any medical treatment you may need during your trip. Often health insurance is required if you are travelling to another country. The best way to get both travel assistance and health insurance is through a company like Europ Assistance. If the country of destination requires proof of insurance, we can issue it to you.
We offer a variety of plans that can be customised to meet your needs, whether you are travelling for business or pleasure. When choosing travel insurance, it's important to consider the type of coverage you need and the countries you'll be visiting. See our options here.
Will my annual contract be renewed automatically?
A month and a half before the expiry date of your contract, we will send you an invitation to renew your policy. It will be up to you to decide whether or not to accept it.
Is it possible to take out insurance with Europ Assistance for non Belgian residents?
No, we only cover people who are Belgian residents and who live in Belgium most of the time.
A foreign person travelling to Europe can be insured with a Schengen travel insurance. The Europ Assistance Group offers this insurance through this site: schengen.europ-assistance.com
Do I get a confirmation of my contract renewal ?
After the renewal of your annual policy, we will not automatically send you a confirmation.
You can see at any time via your Customer area on our website, if your policy is still in renewal status or whether we have received the payment.
How can I cancel my contract?
To terminate your contract on its expiry date, the quickest way is to call us on 02 541 91 91. (During office hours)
You can also contact us at any time to check with you whether your assistance formula still corresponds to your needs and travel habits. You can call us on 02 541 91 91.
Are business trips covered by travel insurance?
Travel insurance is a complex insurance product that can cover many different types of trips.
One of the most common questions is whether or not travel insurance covers business trips. The answer is yes ! Travel insurance can cover business trips in different ways.
Europ Assistance offers a wide range of travel insurance products for business travellers, from essential cover to more comprehensive insurance.
Business Essential insurance is designed for budget-conscious travellers looking for basic coverage.
""Business Smart"" insurance is a more comprehensive option that includes additional benefits such as trip cancellation and baggage loss protection.
Pour les voyageurs qui souhaitent la couverture la plus complète, Europ Assistance propose l’assurance ""Business VIP"", qui offre une protection contre un large éventail de risques potentiels.
Whatever your needs, Europ Assistance has a travel insurance product that will give you peace of mind on your next business trip.
Are there different types of annual travel insurance?
Travel insurance is essential for anyone who undertakes a trip abroad. But since there are many types of contracts, it is not always easy to know which one best suits your needs.
To help you decide, first consider whether you need annual travel insurance or single-trip insurance. If you travel frequently, an annual contract is likely to be the most cost-effective option. On the other hand, if you only travel occasionally, a temporary contract (for a single trip) may be more appropriate.
We have a wide range of annual travel insurance.
One of our most popular products is our Travel Insurance Light plan, which covers the essentials without being too expensive. This policy provides coverage for :
Coverage of medical expenses
24/7 Support
Loss or theft of luggage (Optional)
Cancellation of the trip (Optional)
Technical assistance to the vehicle in Europe (Optional)
To learn more about the Light travel insurance policy, click here.
Europ Assistance's Smart Travel Insurance contract is designed to provide travellers with the coverage they need at an affordable price. This contract offers a variety of benefits, including:
Coverage of medical expenses
Financial compensation for the travel days you were unable to take advantage of
Cancellation of the trip (Optional)
Lost Baggage Coverage (Optional)
Technical assistance to the vehicle in Europe (Optional)
The cover of this contract can therefore be adapted to your needs. Take a look at some of its main features here.
If you prefer sports holidays, we have a perfect solution for you. Our Sport travel insurance plan covers:
Unlimited coverage of medical expenses
Loss of luggage and sports equipment
Financial compensation for the travel days you were unable to take advantage of
Reimbursement of search and rescue costs
Luggage and sports equipment insurance
Assistance on the ski slopes
Cancellation of the trip (Optional)
Technical assistance to the vehicle in Europe (Optional)
Before you set out on your adventure, make sure you find out more about the Sports insurance contract and how it can help keep your trip safe.
Our VIP travel insurance policy is designed for travelers who want the best possible cover abroad. The policy provides comprehensive protection against a variety of risks, including :
Trip Cancellation and Interruption
Unlimited coverage of medical expenses
Loss or theft of luggage
Damage to rental vehicle
Financial compensation for the travel days you were unable to take advantage of
Intervention in the event of theft or loss of sports equipment
Assistance on the ski slopes
Reimbursement of search and rescue costs
Trip cancellation insurance
Baggage insurance
Technical assistance to the vehicle in Europe (Optional)
For travellers who want full assistance, VIP travel insurance is a great option.
Visit our website to learn more about our VIP travel insurance contract.
The four formulas detailed above can be subscribed for Europe or for the World.
Europ Assistance provides 24/7 assistance to policyholders traveling abroad and is committed to providing the best possible service to its customers through its teams of experienced professionals around the world.
What is Smart Travel Insurance?
Would you like to take out comprehensive and affordable travel insurance? Smart Travel Assistance is what you need. This assistance contract is valid for one year and covers trips of up to 3 months, making it ideal for those who travel frequently. Intervention in medical costs up to 1,250,000 euros is included, as is medical repatriation and early return. So you can leave with peace of mind. Ski assistance is also included in our policy so that you can enjoy your winter holidays with complete peace of mind.
To learn more about the Smart Travel Insurance policy, click here.
What is a temporary travel assistance contract?
Term travel insurance, also sometimes called single trip insurance, is insurance that covers a person for a specific trip. This type of insurance includes coverage for medical expenses and repatriation in the event of a medical emergency. Temporary travel insurance can be purchased for trips within Europe and worldwide. The duration of the trip cannot exceed 45 days.
Term travel insurance is generally less expensive than annual travel insurance, but it doesn't offer the same level of coverage. If you're planning a single trip or an extended vacation, annual travel insurance may be a better option, especially if you want higher medical coverage or purchase additional coverages like trip cancellation or baggage insurance.
In any case, temporary or annual travel insurance also covers your vehicle in the event of a breakdown or accident in Europe.
Europ Assistance offers a variety of temporary travel insurance policies to meet your needs.
- For a short trip to town, the temporary City-Trip contract from Europ Assistance covers your trip for 4 days.
- The temporary Snow contract is intended for winter sports enthusiasts and covers a trip of up to 45 days.
-The temporary classic contract also covers a trip of up to 45 days in Europe or around the world.
For trips in Europe, you can supplement your assistance with vehicle assistance in the event of a breakdown or accident.
- For longer trips, Europ Assistance offers the temporary Long Trip contract, which covers a stay of 91 to 364 days.
All Europ Assistance temporary travel insurance policies offer 24/7 assistance from a team of experts and an international network. So you can be sure that you are in good hands.
To learn more about our policies, click here.
Are there different forms of temporary travel assistance?
There are different travel assistance packages depending on the type of trip you are undertaking. For example, the City-trip temporary travel assistance is intended for a short stay in a foreign city, while the Long-trip temporary travel assistance is intended for a long-term trip, such as a gap year, an Erasmus stay or working holiday. Temporary assistance Snow is intended for winter sports trips.
It is important to carefully check the details of the contract before subscribing, as some contracts exclude certain activities (e.g. skiing or snow activities are only covered in Snow). Europ Assistance offers a range of travel assistance contracts designed for different types of travel. It is therefore useful to look around the entire range to find the one that best suits your needs. To learn more about our temporary travel assistance contracts, click here.
What is a travel accident?
Travel accidents are events that can happen anytime you are on the go. For example, they can be caused by a car accident, a fall down the stairs, a mishap during a hike or a bad slip at the edge of a swimming pool...
Travel accidents can also occur when practising winter sports, such as skiing or snowboarding.
If you are injured while travelling, it is important to know what your medical insurance covers and how it can help you and your travel companions.
Some travel insurance does not cover winter sports, so if you do this type of activity, be sure to check the coverage before you go.
Do our customers receive a client assistance card ?
The physical customer card, in the format of a bank card, is no longer sent to our customers who subscribe to an annual contract.
However, there is a digital alternative that offers many advantages.
The digital card in your Wallet
You can download a digital version of your Europ Assistance customer card into your Wallet. This will enable you to have it at hand in your smartphone at all times.
You'll be able to :
- Find information about your contract (contract number, validity dates, the name of your product and that of the beneficiaries covered by your contract, as well as
the license plate if applicable.
- Find easily the information allowing you to contact us directly if you need immediate assistance or if you have an administrative question.
- Access your Customer Area, to view/modify your contract details or request a refund.
How do I install my digital customer card?
Downloading the customer card is quick, easy and free. Just go to your Customer Area on our website and click on the "Add to Wallet" button available for each contract.
Your digital customer card will then be available on your smartphone in the Google Wallet or Apple Wallet application. If you have several Europ Assistance contracts,
you must download a digital card for each contract.
Which travel insurance is best for students, internships or business trips?
The range of travel insurance products is very extensive, offering several solutions for people who want to protect themselves. So, the best travel insurance for students may not be the best option for someone going on a business trip, and vice versa.
However, there are some general tips that can help you choose the best travel insurance for your needs.
First, consider the length of your trip. If you're only going for a week or two, you probably don't need full coverage. On the other hand, if you plan to leave for a long period, you will need to ensure that you have adequate protection. Thus, the Long Trip insurance contract offers coverage for up to 364 days, ideal for those who are on a very long trip or a long internship abroad.
Also think about the activities you will do during your trip. If you engage in risky sporting activities, you must ensure that your assistance contract covers these activities. The annual Sport assistance contract covers theft or damage to sports equipment.
The Europ Assistance VIP Annual Assistance Contract offers a comprehensive annual travel insurance contract that covers everything from medical expenses to lost luggage.
And if you're travelling on a budget, we also offer a Light plan that offers basic protection at an affordable price. You can find more information
here.
Do I have to take out travel insurance for an Erasmus?
If you are going on Erasmus, you may be wondering if you need travel insurance. It is usually a long trip that can expose you to high medical bills or repatriation costs if something goes wrong.
Europ Assistance offers a comprehensive long-term travel assistance contract that covers up to 750,000 euros in medical expenses in Europe (1,250,000 euros in the rest of the world) and provides repatriation in the event of an emergency. This assistance contract can cover a trip of max. 364 consecutive days and also includes ski assistance and an early return guarantee in case you have to return home for an urgent family reason. To learn more, click here.
What are the best travel insurance options for young people?
Europ Assistance offers a wide range of travel assistance contracts.
For the cheapest solution, check out our annual Light travel insurance policy. It is the perfect assistance contract for travellers looking for basic cover for a short stay abroad. This contract covers medical expenses, and optional trip cancellation and loss or theft of luggage. It also includes optional coverage for technical problems with the vehicle. However, it does not cover winter sports.
The most popular type of basic assistance contract is Smart Travel Insurance. It covers trips of up to 3 consecutive months and reimburses unforeseen medical expenses up to max. €1,250,000. As an option, it covers trip cancellation, loss or theft of luggage and technical assistance to the vehicle in the event of a breakdown or accident.
Europ Assistance also offers a comprehensive long-term travel assistance contract which covers up to 750,000 euros in medical expenses in Europe (1,250,000 euros in the rest of the world) and provides repatriation in the event of an emergency. This assistance contract can cover a trip for up to 364 consecutive days and includes ski assistance and an early return guarantee in case you have to return home for an urgent family reason. To learn more, click here.
Apart from annual contracts, Europ Assistance also offers temporary travel assistance contracts which cover a single trip for up to 45 days.
By carefully comparing the coverage and costs of different types of travel insurance policies, you can ensure that you find the best protection that suits your needs.
What to do if you lose your phone while travelling?
Losing your phone while travelling can be a huge inconvenience, but there are a few steps you can take to minimise the damage. First, contact your carrier and let them know that your phone is missing. Have your number blocked. Your carrier may be able to suspend your service/subscription or help you find the device. Finally, file a report with the local police.
These measures may allow you to recover your phone or at least minimise disruption to your travel plans. Our support, available 24 hours a day, is always at your service.
I'm already abroad. Can I still subscribe a travel insurance ?
No, unfortunately this is not possible.
A travel assistance insurance can only be subscribed when you are still in Belgium before you start your trip.
What are the advantages of a long-term travel insurance contract?
Long-term travel insurance is an insurance contract that provides continuous coverage for an extended period. The advantages of such a contract are numerous, in particular the possibility of travelling without interruption and the peace of mind that comes with the certainty of being covered in the event of an emergency. Continuous insurance, such as Europ Assistance's Long Trip, offers 24/7 coverage, making it ideal for those who travel frequently or take long trips.
As far as annual travel insurance is concerned, Europ Assistance offers four different types of contracts: Light, Smart, Sport and VIP.
Light travel insurance is the most basic and covers a trip of max. 14 days and medical expenses up to €10,000.
Smart travel insurance is the classic travel assistance. It covers a trip of up to 3 months and medical expenses up to €1,250,000.
Sport travel insurance is designed for travellers who practice sporting activities abroad. It covers sports equipment, reimburses search and rescue costs, and covers medical expenses up to an unlimited amount for trips of max. 3 months.
VIP travel insurance is the most comprehensive and includes all the benefits of the other three policies, plus specific assistance options and services.
These annual travel insurances can each be supplemented by vehicle assistance in Europe. Whatever your travel needs, Europ Assistance has a policy that will meet your needs.
To learn more about our travel insurance policies, click here.
Which travel insurance is the best for an internship in the EU?
Several aspects should be taken into account when choosing an assistance contract for students going abroad. One of the most important is the length of stay. If you're only planning to be away for a few weeks, standard travel insurance will probably suffice. On the other hand, if you are going away for an extended period, for example for an Erasmus semester, you may need to take out longer term insurance.
We offer travel insurance policies specially designed for students going abroad for a long period.
With their extensive coverage and 24/7 support, they are a great option for anyone who wants peace of mind during a long-term internship, in Europe or outside of Europe.
Our Long Trip Assistance contract covers up to 364 days of travel and includes benefits such as emergency medical expenses, lost luggage and trip cancellation. To learn more, click here.
I can't find my actual travel assistance formula on this website.
On our site we present the products that are currently on sale.
You may have taken out insurance in the past that we no longer sell.
In your Customer Area or Partner Area, you will find more information about your current cover.
We will also be happy to answer any questions you may have on 02 541 91 91 or help you if you wish to change your travel assistance package.
Below you will find an overview of some of the products we no longer offer for sale :
(*) In our actual assistance formulas, people with diabetes are always covered.
What is a travel certificate and how can I get it ?
A travel insurance certificate is a document proving that we cover your medical expenses and/or repatriation costs.
This document is valid for the duration of your assistance contract.
You can download it easily by going to our website and clicking on your customer area.
This certificate is often compulsory when you apply for a visa in order to enter a specific country (it is required by countries such as Russia, Cuba, Algeria, Angola, etc.).
Sometimes organisations offering travel or study abroad (Erasmus) also require this type of certificate.
Is it possible to acquire a travel certificate for one single traveller ?
When you download a certificate via your Customer Centre, you will automatically receive a certificate for each beneficiary named in the policy.
Please note that the document you download consists of several pages if the policy covers several beneficiaries.
For more information, contact our Customer Service on 02 541 91 91 or send an e-mail to admin@europ-assistance.be.
Don't forget to have the addresses of all the beneficiaries.
Are pre-existing illnesses covered ?
A pre-existing illness or pre-existing medical condition refers to a medical condition known at the time of purchase or at the time the travel insurance or the cancellation insurance comes into effect.
Travel assistance contractPre-existing illnesses are only covered if they have been stabilized for "a certain time" at the moment of departure. In other words, the illness is only covered if no relapse or aggravation is foreseeable during the stay or if no new treatment is necessary.
The final acceptance of the file will be left to the discretion of our medical team on the basis of a medical report.
Cancellation insurance
In our cancellation insurance, pre-existing or chronic illness are covered as long as the attending doctor certifies that the person was medically fit to travel at the time of booking of the trip and subscription of the insurance, and that the person is no longer medically fit to travel at the time of departure.
Pre-existing advanced or terminal illnesses of persons who are not insured by the contract at the time of the booking of the trip or at the time that the insurance is subscribed, are excluded.
I'm pregnant. What does that mean for my travel assistance?
Are you travelling by plane? For any air travel from the 28th week of pregnancy onwards, you must have a written approval from your doctor/gynaecologist confirmed by the airline doctor.
Any pregnancy complication is covered by us. A birth (including premature) is not a complication and therefore not covered.
A baby born during your travel abroad is covered only from his/her arrival in Belgium. You must then take the necessary steps to have the baby included as an additional insured.
Are wars and uprisings covered ?
Travel assistance
Our Travel Assistance formulas and Cancellation insurances exclude by definition states of (civil) wars, uprisings, strikes, riots, etc. However, if you are injured, we will cover your healthcare costs.
If our services can intervene on site without taking any risks and in places where there is sufficient (medical) infrastructure, we may consider repatriation.
Under no circumstances we will repatriate in a situation of war or riot. In such cases, the Belgian government will organise the necessary assistance in order to repatriate its nationals.
Cancellation insurance
The cancellation of a trip due to war or insurrection is not covered by our insurances.
I travel longer than 45 days. What travel assistance contract should I take?
Our temporary contracts cover trips of up to 45 days.
Our annual travel assistance covers trips of up to 3 consecutive months.
For a trip lasting more than 3 consecutive months, you can take out our Long Trip travel assistance.
I travel longer than 3 months. What kind of travel assistance can I take?
For a trip longer than three consecutive months we can offer you our Long Trip travel assistance.
In which countries is it compulsory to have a travel insurance certificate?
In order to obtain a tourist visa, some countries require proof of travel insurance. This is the case for the following countries, among others:
Cuba: certificate of travel insurance recognized by the authorities (Assistur). This is the case for Europ Assistance.
Algeria: travel insurance certificate and a legalized accommodation certificate.
China
Mongolia
United States: for trips of more than 3 months.
Angola (we can provide you with a certificate in Portuguese via our customer service department)
Note: Russia and Belarus are currently excluded from our cover.
The certificates we issue are recognized by the countries listed.
How long before departure should travel insurance be subscribed?
Travel assistance or travel insurance contracts (whether annual or temporary) can be subscribed up to the day before your departure.
Specifically for cancellation insurances (also as an option in the annual assistance):
If the trip is already booked, the cancellation insurance must be subscribed at least 30 days before the departure date of the trip.
If you book a "last minute" trip, the cancellation insurance must be subscribed on the day you book your trip.
Specifically for the Drive formulas:
A waiting period of 5 days applies after the purchase of the Drive insurance, before the vehicle can be covered for breakdown/towing.
Can I pay my annual insurance fee through direct debit?
Yes, this is possible.
Simply contact our Customer Service Department on 02 541 91 91
We will then provide you with the document enabling us to arrange the renewal directly through your banking institution.
Does Europ Assistance also offer bicycle assistance ?
Yes we do. For bicycles, we can offer you Bike assistance, a fully-fledged assistance formula for you and your (electric) bicycle.
If you choose the Mobility option in our annual travel assistance formulas, all beneficiaries in the contract are automatically insured for bicycle assistance in Belgium (and up to 30 km across the border).
Such assistance is also available for other light vehicles such as an electric bike, a pedelec, a scooter, a moped (less than 125cc), a hoverboard.
For motorised vehicles over 125cc, we offer the Motorbike assistance.
I drive to Morocco with my car. Am I covered?
Our travel assistance cover covers you during your trip and in Morocco, depending on the option you choose: choose Morocco in temporary contracts or the World option in annual contracts.
Our vehicle technical assistance cover only covers Europe and therefore does not cover technical problems with the vehicle in Morocco.
What are the main limitations of the LIGHT assistance?
Our Light travel assistance is a very budget-friendly assistance formula. However, it is important to realise that performance is also somewhat more limited. Below you will find the most important limitations:
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Travels are only covered if they last a maximum of 14 days
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Coverage for the reimbursement of medical expenses abroad is limited to €250,000
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The number of interventions for a vehicle is limited to 2 per insurance year
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There is no cover for skiing
More information about this assistance formula can be found here.
Brussels Airlines : useful contacts
To manage your travel Assistance / Cancellation insurance
https://www.brusselsairlines.com/en-be/practical-information/travel-info/my-ticket/invoice/default.aspx
Telephone for your flight management
+32 (0) 2 200 62 34
A refund request (as a result of a covered event in your insurance)
Send us an e-mail at claims@europ-assistance.be
Follow-up on a claims file
Send us an e-mail at claims@europ-assistance.be
Is there an age limit to enjoy travel assistance ?
No, we offer you travel assistance regardless of your age.
However, you must be of majority age in order to subscribe to a contract.
I can enjoy a discount via my PlusPas
In that case, we ask you to subscribe your travel assistance or cancellation insurance online, via the PlusPas website.
However, these travel assistance formulas differ from the standard formulas that are offered on our website.
We will give you more information on 02 541 91 91.
Will I be covered by my travel assistance while I am in a competition?
Yes,
while competing in a race you will be covered at the exception of a motorised competition like for instants a rally or an off course road race.
Will my pet be repatriated, too?
Yes, in case of repatriation, the pets (dog or cat) of the beneficiaries will also be repatriated.
Pets are not mentioned on the subscription form.
What should I do if my luggage is stolen, lost or damaged ?
You must provide us with purchase invoices for stolen, lost or damaged luggage and items.
Theft
In case of theft, you must immediately lodge a complaint with the local authorities at the place of theft (police, transport company, purser, etc.), have an official report drawn up and the traces of burglary established. These supporting documents must be handed over to us.
Loss by a carrier
Send us the documents issued by the carrier (sea, air, rail or road transport) when your luggage or objects were lost while under its legal control. Require a statement and certificate of definite loss and keep all transport documents. Forward us the necessary supporting documents.
Damaged luggage
For partial damage to your luggage and personal belongings, send us the invoice of the repair or a certificate of non-repair.
What vaccinations will I need when travelling with my pet ?
Vaccination for rabies is always required.
Additionally, you will have to carry a certificate of good health, delivered by your veterinary.
Rules vary depending on your destination. Your veterinary will be able to inform you.
What does the luggage insurance option cover?
We insure your luggage, personal items and belongings you take with you on your trip against:
- theft
- total or partial damage caused by third parties and/or accident
- loss during transport by a transport company
The Luggage Insurance option in the annual Sport and VIP contracts covers also:
- luggage, sports equipment and personal effects in the event of theft, loss or damage during transport,
- reimbursement of hire costs following breakage of skis or snowboards.
Will Europ Assistance intervene if I want to visit a family member (insured by my policy) who is in quarantine abroad?
Yes.
Travel insurance covers visits to a person hospitalised abroad for more than 5 days (or shorter in certain contracts or if the person is a child under 18).
No.
A visit to a non-hospitalised person in quarantine is not covered (and is not recommended for health reasons).
Will Europ Assistance intervene if my hotel is placed under quarantine as a result of a government decision and I am charged extra for this extended stay?
A contribution to the cost of extending the stay at the hotel only applies if this extension is imposed on the sick person by doctor's order (positive PCR test). The intervention amounts to a maximum of EUR 500 per sick person and applies if the sick person cannot return to Belgium on the originally scheduled date.
Where can I find the Passenger Locator Form?
From August 12020, travellers returnong to Belgium have to fill in a Passenger Locator Form at least 48 hours before the return.
You can find the form at this site::
https://travel.info-coronavirus.be/public-health-passenger-locator-form
Can I pay my annual premium in instalments?
At the moment, this type of split payment is not possible.
How can I know if my destination is safe to travel to?
Information about the colour codes and for the latest update of the travel advice of the Belgian government, please consult:
https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en/travel-advice
We also advise you to register your trip on the website:
https://travellersonline.diplomatie.be/
