Finland, known for its breathtaking landscapes, top-tier healthcare system, and strong social services, is a favored destination for immigrants seeking quality of life, education, and work opportunities. However, whether you’re traveling for study, work, or migration, having travel insurance is not just recommended—it is often mandatory.
For immigrants, travel insurance serves as a protective shield against unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss of belongings. This guide explains why travel insurance is essential, what it covers, how to choose the right one, and the top providers in Finland.
What Is Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is a type of policy designed to protect travelers from unforeseen risks while traveling or living temporarily in a foreign country. For immigrants, it ensures you’re covered during the initial phase of relocation—before gaining access to Finland’s public health system or residence-based benefits.
Why Do Immigrants Need Travel Insurance in Finland?
Travel insurance is critical for immigrants for the following reasons:
- Visa Requirement: For most visa types (especially Schengen visas), proof of valid travel insurance is mandatory.
- Healthcare Access: Before registering with the Finnish social security system (Kela), immigrants may not have access to subsidized healthcare.
- Protection Against Emergencies: Covers medical costs, emergency evacuation, and repatriation.
- Trip Protection: Helps recover costs from cancelled flights, lost baggage, or trip interruptions.
- Peace of Mind: Offers financial protection and stress relief while adjusting to a new environment.
What Travel Insurance Covers
| Coverage Area | Details |
| Medical Expenses | Doctor visits, hospitalization, surgeries, prescriptions |
| Emergency Evacuation | Costs to transfer you to the nearest hospital or return to home country |
| Trip Cancellation/Interruption | Refunds for pre-paid travel in case of emergencies |
| Lost or Stolen Belongings | Compensation for lost baggage, passports, or personal items |
| Accidental Death or Disability | Compensation in case of permanent injury or death during travel |
| Liability Insurance | Covers costs if you cause injury or damage to another person or property |
| COVID-19 Coverage (Varies) | Includes quarantine, testing, and hospitalization related to COVID-19 |
Types of Travel Insurance for Immigrants
| Type | Best For |
| Single Trip Travel Insurance | One-time travel to Finland (short stays, tourist visa holders) |
| Multi-Trip Insurance | Frequent travelers between Finland and home country |
| Long-Term Travel Insurance | Students, workers, or immigrants staying 6 months+ |
| Schengen Travel Insurance | Required for Schengen visa applicants (minimum €30,000 coverage) |
| Comprehensive Expat Insurance | For long-term immigrants needing wide health and travel cover |
Top Travel Insurance Providers in Finland
| Provider | Highlights |
| Europ Assistance | Schengen visa-compliant, strong emergency and medical support |
| If Insurance | Well-established in the Nordics, flexible plans for immigrants |
| Fennia Insurance | Travel and health coverage with Finnish customer support |
| Allianz Travel | International coverage, multilingual service, COVID-19 protection |
| AXA Schengen | Affordable Schengen-compliant insurance, widely accepted for visas |
| Globy | Specializes in international student and expat insurance |
| SwissCare | Online application, great for digital nomads and immigrants |
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance
| Factor | What to Consider |
| Coverage Amount | Ensure it meets visa requirements (minimum €30,000 for Schengen visa) |
| Policy Duration | Match with your travel/visa period |
| Medical Coverage | Prioritize hospitalization, COVID-19, and pre-existing condition cover |
| Emergency Support | 24/7 assistance, multilingual support |
| Cost vs Benefits | Don’t just choose the cheapest—review what’s actually covered |
| Claims Process | Easy claim filing, preferably online with quick turnaround |
| Network of Hospitals | Choose providers with strong medical networks in Finland |
Step-by-Step: How to Get Travel Insurance for Finland
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type and Stay Duration
Check if your visa requires mandatory travel insurance (Schengen, student, etc.)
Step 2: Compare Insurance Plans
Use comparison websites or visit provider sites directly.
Step 3: Choose the Plan That Suits You
Select based on your length of stay, budget, and needs.
Step 4: Purchase Online
Most insurers allow you to apply and pay online with instant certificate generation.
Step 5: Print Insurance Certificate
This document will be needed when applying for a visa or entering Finland.
Cost of Travel Insurance in Finland
| Duration | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| 1 Week | €10 – €25 |
| 1 Month | €30 – €70 |
| 3 Months (Schengen Visa) | €75 – €150 |
| 6 Months | €150 – €300 |
| 1 Year | €300 – €600+ |
Costs vary based on age, coverage, and health condition. Students may get discounted packages.
Rights and Responsibilities of the Insured
Your Rights:
- Access to emergency medical care
- Claim reimbursement for covered losses
- Support from your insurance provider
- Clear terms and transparency
Your Responsibilities:
- Provide honest information when applying
- Understand what is and isn’t covered
- Contact your insurer promptly in case of incidents
- Keep documentation (receipts, reports, etc.) for claims
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
| Policy not accepted for visa | Always choose Schengen-compliant insurers |
| Language barriers during emergencies | Pick insurers with multilingual assistance |
| Claim denial | Read terms clearly and maintain records for every expense |
| Lack of coverage for pre-existing issues | Choose comprehensive plans or declare conditions in advance |
Tips for a Successful Experience
- Always buy insurance before leaving your home country
- Print and carry a physical copy of your insurance certificate
- Store emergency numbers in your phone
- Choose a policy that covers COVID-19 and hospitalization
- Ask your insurer about the claim process before you travel
- If staying longer, consider upgrading to expat or health insurance
What to Expect With Travel Insurance in Finland
With a valid travel insurance policy:
- You’ll receive timely medical assistance when needed.
- Your visa application is more likely to be approved.
- You’ll be reimbursed for disruptions, like delayed luggage or trip cancellations.
- You’ll have access to multilingual customer support and hospital referrals.
Insurance does not mean free healthcare—it means you’ll be covered financially when emergencies occur.
Finland is a fantastic destination for immigrants, but navigating healthcare and travel-related risks without coverage can be financially and emotionally draining. Travel insurance is not just a visa requirement—it’s an essential safeguard for a stress-free journey.
By choosing the right policy from a trusted provider, you’ll be better prepared for the unexpected. As you transition into life in Finland—whether for work, study, or family—having the right travel insurance plan means you’re protected from day one.
