Whether you’re flying to Jeddah for Umrah, London for family, or Paris on a Schengen tour, travel insurance is now a visa requirement in most cases β and a smart move even where it isn’t. Here’s the 2026 guide for Pakistani travelers.
Do you need travel insurance?
- Schengen visa β mandatory β¬30,000+ medical cover.
- UK visitor visa β recommended, not mandatory.
- US visa β not mandatory but strongly advised.
- Umrah/Hajj β Saudi authorities require basic health cover included with visa.
- Turkey, UAE, Malaysia β not mandatory but common for family travelers.
What does travel insurance cover?
- Emergency medical & hospitalization abroad
- Medical evacuation / repatriation
- Trip cancellation & delay
- Lost baggage & passport
- Personal liability
- Accidental death & disability
Indicative premiums (2026)
| Destination | 10-day cover | 30-day cover |
|---|---|---|
| Umrah (Saudi Arabia) | Rs 2,800 | Rs 5,600 |
| Schengen Europe | Rs 3,800 | Rs 8,900 |
| UK | Rs 4,200 | Rs 9,600 |
| USA / Canada | Rs 6,400 | Rs 15,000 |
| Southeast Asia | Rs 2,600 | Rs 5,300 |
Special note on Umrah / Hajj
Saudi Arabia now bundles basic health insurance into the Umrah visa fee, but the coverage is limited to inpatient emergency and public hospitals only. For private hospital access, dental cover and lost baggage, buy a separate Pakistani travel policy on top.
Top travel insurance providers in Pakistan
- Adamjee Insurance β Schengen approved, 24/7 assistance.
- EFU General β extensive network.
- Jubilee General β good digital claims.
- TPL Insurance β instant online purchase, ideal for last-minute travel.
- IGI General β solid mid-market plans.
Buying travel insurance β checklist
- Match the sum insured to your destination’s visa requirement.
- Confirm 24/7 emergency assistance in your local language.
- Check pre-existing condition clause β usually excluded.
- Ask for the certificate in English + French/German for Schengen embassies.
- Print + email + save on phone.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy travel insurance after leaving Pakistan?
Generally no β you must be in Pakistan at time of policy issue.
Is Covid-19 covered?
Most 2026 policies now cover Covid-19 medical treatment. Confirm in writing before purchase.
Does the policy start on the visa date or travel date?
Coverage starts on the travel start date you enter β not the purchase date.
Get an instant travel quote β talk to an advisor or view travel plans.