ETA and travel insurance: should you take out insurance before going to the UK?

July 15, 2025

Obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for the United Kingdom does not require travel insurance. However, traveling without insurance can be risky. Here's everything you need to know before you leave in 2025.

1. Is insurance mandatory to obtain an ETA?

No. The UK government 's ETA form does not contain any fields for insurance or any mention of regulatory requirements.

However, this does not mean that insurance is useless . It is highly recommended in several cases.

2. Why buying travel insurance is recommended

Here are the main situations covered by good travel insurance:

Medical expenses abroad : Hospitalization in the UK can be very expensive for non-residents.
Cancellation or interruption of trip : illness, unforeseen family event, etc.
Lost or delayed baggage : very common during connections.
Civil liability : in the event of damage caused to others during your stay.
Assistance and repatriation : essential in the event of an accident or serious situation.

3. Can you travel without insurance with an ETA?

Yes, but this is your own responsibility . Some specific cases may pose a problem:

Some airlines require proof of insurance.
If you are refused entry due to doubts about your financial capacity, proven insurance can work in your favor.
In the event of a medical problem , you will have to pay all costs without assistance.

4. Are there any ETA packages that include insurance?

Yes. Some online services offer assistance packages that include basic travel insurance , covering the most common situations (cancellation, baggage, emergency care).

This can save you time and give you peace of mind.

Tips for choosing your travel insurance for the UK

Check that medical expenses are covered at least €100,000
Make sure liability insurance is included
Choose a plan with medical repatriation
Remember to include baggage and delay coverage
Print a copy of your insurance certificate before leaving

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does the UK require insurance to obtain an ETA?

No, insurance is not mandatory but is strongly recommended by authorities and transport companies.

Can I be denied boarding if I don't have insurance?

Yes, some airlines may require proof of insurance upon boarding, especially for long-haul flights or in cases of high-risk profile.

Is the insurance included in my bank card sufficient?

Often not. Limits are generally low, and some guarantees (cancellation, baggage) are limited. Check the conditions carefully.

Is it possible to purchase insurance after obtaining the ETA?

Yes, insurance can be purchased at any time before your departure, regardless of your ETA application.

What happens if I get sick without insurance?

You will be responsible for all medical expenses, including hospitalizations, emergency care, and medications. These costs can easily reach several thousand euros.