TL;DR
Travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition requires full disclosure at the point of application. Failure to disclose any condition, even one considered minor or well-controlled, can void the entire policy including cover for unrelated claims. Specialist medical travel insurers typically offer better terms than standard comparison site policies for complex conditions.
Last reviewed: June 2026 | Sources: FCA, ABI
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Insurance Key Facts: Travel Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions Disclosure: all conditions must be declaredFailure to disclose: voids entire policySignposting duty: insurers must refer if unable to coverSpecialist market: better terms than standard policiesRegulator: FCA |
What pre-existing condition means in travel insurance
Most travel insurance policies define a pre-existing condition as any medical condition that has been diagnosed, treated or investigated before the policy start date, or for which symptoms have been experienced even if no formal diagnosis has been made. This definition is broader than many policyholders realise and typically includes conditions considered stable or well-managed.
The risks most people do not check before buying
Non-disclosure voids the entire policy, not just the related claim. If you fail to disclose a condition and make a claim for an entirely unrelated reason, the insurer can investigate the application and, on finding an undisclosed condition, void the whole policy. A broken leg claim can be declined because high blood pressure was not disclosed, even though the two are unrelated.
The FCA's signposting requirement does not guarantee cover. From 2023, FCA rules require travel insurers to signpost consumers they cannot cover to specialist providers or to the Money and Pensions Service directory. This is a referral obligation, not a guarantee that cover is available or affordable.
Annual multi-trip policies require disclosure of conditions arising during the policy year. A condition diagnosed after an annual policy starts must typically be reported to the insurer mid-term. Failure to do so can void subsequent claims under that policy year.
GHIC does not replace travel insurance for pre-existing conditions. The Global Health Insurance Card provides access to state healthcare in eligible countries at local rates. It does not cover repatriation, cancellation, or treatment costs above state provision levels, and does not cover pre-existing conditions that require treatment abroad.
What to verify before buying
Complete a specialist medical screening with a travel insurance provider that specifically covers your conditions rather than opting for a standard policy with exclusions. Obtain written confirmation of exactly what is and is not covered for each disclosed condition. Keep a record of all disclosures made at application.
Where to complain
If an insurer voids a claim citing non-disclosure and you believe full disclosure was made, the Financial Ombudsman Service can investigate. Keep records of all disclosure made at application.
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Disclaimer This article is for information only and does not constitute regulated financial advice. Always verify current terms with relevant providers and seek regulated advice for your specific circumstances. Kael Tripton Ltd is an independent editorial publisher and is not regulated by the FCA. |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to declare conditions that are well controlled by medication?
Yes. Most policies require disclosure of conditions regardless of how well controlled they are. Well-controlled diabetes, hypertension and similar conditions must be declared. Failure to disclose is misrepresentation regardless of disease control status.
What is the Money and Pensions Service travel insurance directory?
The MaPS directory lists specialist travel insurers for people who have been declined standard cover or found it too expensive. It is available at moneyhelper.org.uk and lists providers who specifically underwrite complex medical conditions.
Can an insurer refuse to cover me at all?
Yes. Insurers are not obliged to provide cover and can decline applications. If declined, the FCA signposting rules require the insurer to direct you to the MaPS directory. Some conditions may make obtaining travel insurance very difficult or expensive.
Does travel insurance cover mental health conditions?
Standard travel insurance often excludes or limits cover for mental health conditions. Some specialist providers offer cover for mental health conditions including cancellation due to mental health episodes. Disclose all mental health diagnoses and treatment at application.
What is a GHIC and how does it differ from the old EHIC?
The Global Health Insurance Card replaced the European Health Insurance Card for UK residents post-Brexit and provides access to state healthcare in EU countries and some others. It does not provide the same cover as the old EHIC in all circumstances and does not replace travel insurance.
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Sources FCA: Travel Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions |
