07 JAN 2019: There is a trend in the tourism industry that will only become more prevalent over the years.  Many countries are making travel insurance compulsory before allowing visitors to enter their borders. A report by Allianz Partners states that some countries are asking travellers “to show proof of medical or hospitalization coverage before they can enter.”

Those who fail to provide such proof are being denied entry into the country. “This trend is set to continue, as countries seek ways to relieve themselves of the financial burden of medical bills left unpaid by tourists, whether that is travelers taking advantage of free healthcare or simply making a swift exit without paying their bills,” Allianz said in their report.

The list of countries that currently require some type of insurance for visitors, students and expats include: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Lithuania, Malta, Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey.

When visitors have not purchased the mandatory travel insurance prior to departure to Cuba or Poland, they can do so at the destination airport.

Proof of travel insurance (including comprehensive health coverage) is mandatory for all cruises to Antarctica before a ticket can be issued.

Egypt is looking at mandating personal accident insurance coverage for total disability and death, along with treatment for medical expenses.

Thailand is expected to make insurance mandatory as well.