What criteria do you need to fulfil to be eligible for travel insurance?

Travel insurance policies are generally assessed by age, destination, length of stay and any pre-existing condition. Age may affect the eligibility of the elderly but it also depends on the other factors mentioned above.

Where you are going affects the amount of premium you have to pay. You will be required to pay more if you're going to a country with a relatively higher cost of living (especially medically-related costs) or are known as high risks areas.

In comparison, countries that are not known for political strife or security risks usually attract lower premiums.

Travel insurance is also charged based on the duration of your stay. The longer your visit, the more premium you pay.

What should you do in the event of an emergency?

When you purchase a travel insurance policy, check and see if the insurance company provides an emergency hotline service.

In an emergency, you can contact the medical and emergency assistance hotline for access to medical advice, referrals, medical evacuations and assistance in other matters such as loss of passport or baggage.

It is important that you notify the authorities such as the local police, hotel, airline or transportation terminal authorities of lost or damaged items. Remember also to inform your insurer and then submit the necessary evidence or documents as soon as you can.

* For queries or complaints on general insurance matters, please send your questions to PIAM's Complaints Action Bureau at 3rd Floor, Wisma PIAM, 150, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, 50470 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: 03-2274 7395/9 Fax : 03-2274 5910