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 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.
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 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.
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 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.
Can I insure a trip for cancellation if I have already booked it?
Yes, it is possible, as long as the date of purchase and the effective date of the cancellation insurance are at least 30 days before your departure date.
If you are leaving within 30 days, we can also offer you a travel cancellation insurance, but the insurance must be subscribed on the day you book your trip.
If you have any questions, we will be happy to help you at 02 541 91 91
Until how long before my departure I can cancel my trip ?
Cancellation may occur up to the time of your scheduled departure.
If the cause of the cancellation is an event covered in the contract, you will be reimbursed in accordance with the guarantees provided by your cancellation insurance.
Please note: the cancellation contract cannot be activated once the trip has begun.
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.
From what amount and duration can I insure my trip for cancellation?
A trip in Belgium can be insured for cancellation from a minimum of 3 overnight stays. This limitation is not valid for trips outside Belgium.
A trip (any destination) must cost at least € 150 to be insured.
Are trips in Belgium also covered with my cancellation insurance?
Trips in Belgium will be covered from three overnight stays on. (and a minimum amount of €150.00 for the annual NoGo).
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.
Is there a deductible (franchise) in the cancellation insurance ?
No, there is no franchise.
We will reimburse you the price of the cancelled trip up to the maximum amount provided in the subscribed cancellation insurance.
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.
Your package holiday is cancelled by the tour operator
If the travel destination is in an area affected by the coronavirus epidemic and the journey takes place while the epidemic is in progress, the tour operator may cancel the journey.
He can suggest an equivalent alternative (e.g. a leisure voucher, a different destination or a different departure date). If you refuse the offered alternative, the tour operator must reimburse the customer.
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.
How can I apply for a refund ?
You have subscribed a travel assistance insurance and/or a travel cancellation insurance as a private individual directly with Europ Assistance Belgium or through one of our brokers (your contract number has 10 digits), and you wish to apply for a refund of medical costs, breakdown costs or the expenses of a cancelled trip ? Then you can enter your claim in your customer area.
If you are requesting cancellation of your trip for a medical reason, do not forget to ask your doctor to complete this document.
If you wish to submit a request for reimbursement relating to a Europ Assistance Business contract or a contract linked to a Europ Assistance Belgium partner, please send your request to claims@europ-assistance.be
If you have subscribed an insurance policy with one of our partners (like an airline or a travel agency), please refer to specific instructions in the policy
or check this list.
Please always provide us with your bank account number and e-mail address when requesting a refund.
Does Europ Assistance also operate outside Europe?
Yes, we operate worldwide (except for excluded regions and countries).
Check the geographical cover of your policy in its General Terms and Conditions.
I'm pregnant. What about my cancellation insurance ?
Cancellation contracts cover the following pregnancy-related circumstances :
- Medical complications of pregnancy or medical disorders of pregnancy of the insured or a member of her family up to the 3rd degree, including premature childbirth at least 1 month before term.
- Pregnancy of the insured or of the insured's travelling companion, provided that the trip was planned during the last 3 months of pregnancy and that the pregnancy was not known at the time the trip was booked;
However, voluntary interruption of pregnancy is not covered.
What steps should I take in case of trip cancellation ?
If you are in the situation where you need to cancel your trip or stay, please inform the travel agency or tour operator first, as they usually provide a cancellation procedure.
You must therefore first cancel your trip with the tour operator(s) (Tour Operator, airline company, hotel, etc.).
If you have booked online, most booking websites also provide an online cancellation option.
If you have not booked via a tour operator, you must take the necessary steps to cancel the booking and request a refund from the party concerned (e.g. holiday home owner).
You can then submit a file to our company with the necessary documents (cancellation request, cancellation invoice, initial booking invoice, document confirming the reason for cancellation, etc.).
From which expenses can a refund be claimed ?
For a new declaration :
Depending on the type of subscribed contract and its applicable options :
- the medical expenses, after the Health insurance fund intervention (Mutuelle),
- the towing costs,
- the locksmith fees,
- the damage costs to the rented vehicle (CDW warranty),
- the luggage costs (luggage insurance),
- the trip cancellation before departure (cancellation insurance),
- the trip change before departure (cancellation insurance),
- the trip interruption after departure.
As part of your assistance file :
All guaranteed costs related to your assistance file (medical costs, transport costs, towing costs, hotel costs, telephone costs with our company, etc...).
Is a make-up exam a reason for refund of a cancelled trip ?
Yes, a make-up exam (second session) is a covered event.
It must be a make-up exam at the end of the school or university year, which cannot be postponed and which the insured must take in the period between the day of departure and 30 days after the date of return from the trip.
Are business trips also covered in case of trip cancellation or baggage problems ?
It all depends on the type of insurance you have subscribed.
Here's an overview:
Annual NoGo cancellation insurance: business trips covered as an option
Temporary NoGo cancellation insurance: business trips covered
Temporary travel assistance contracts: business trips covered
VIP contracts: business trips covered
Smart, Sport or Light contracts (with or without options): business trips not covered
We also offer specific business insurance policies to cover business travel. Please do not hesitate to contact us during office hours on 02 541 91 91 if you have any questions.
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
You can't reach your travel destination because of an entry ban imposed by the local authorities.
You will need to contact your tour operator, carrier and/or accommodation provider to request cancellation, modification or postponement of the trip. Indeed, according to the legislation, travel agents must allow their clients to cancel their trip free of charge if they are affected by exceptional circumstances.
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.
What if my airline cancels my flight?
If your airline cancels your flight, it will make the refund.
In the case of a non-refundable ticket, you have the right to request reimbursement of the airport taxes.
We therefore advise you to contact your airline and request a refund.
What if your flight is cancelled by your Airline as a result of a negative advise of the Belgian authorities?
European regulations impose certain obligations on European Union airlines. If you have booked with such an airline, you will need to contact your airline (or tour operator) to obtain a refund, modification or postponement of your trip.
If you have booked with an airline that is not subject to European regulations, you will also need to contact the airline concerned to obtain a refund, modification or postponement of your trip.
Can I get a cancellation insurance for a group of more than 8 travellers?
Yes, we can offer you a NoGo Group cancellation insurance for more than 8 travellers.
This product is not available online but you can contact your Europ Assistance broker or we will be happy to help you at our customer service (02 541 91 91).
