Do I need insurance to travel abroad?
Technically, no, but in reality, it's better to have it. Why? The border guard may ask for it. According to the Schengen rules, you either need to have money for treatment or insurance. If you don't have a policy, they may check whether you have enough money in case of illness. If there are doubts that you will be able to pay for medical care, you may be refused entry.
How does this happen in practice?
- sometimes they don't ask anything;
- sometimes they check the reservation, funds, insurance.
Without a policy, they may advise you to buy one or not to enter at all.
Insurance = your safety.
This is a sign that you are responsible for traveling and will not create problems for the country's medical system. It is especially important if:
- you are traveling for the first time;
- you do not have a reservation for accommodation;
- you have little money in cash or on a card.
Conclusion: crossing the border without a health insurance policy is possible, but risky.
Travel safely!