Newz Desk, Durgapur: Overseas travel insurance is witnessing a steady rise in adoption among Indian travellers, driven by heightened risk awareness and increasing medical expenses abroad in the post-pandemic period. What was once considered optional is now increasingly seen as a vital safeguard for international journeys.
According to data from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), nearly 96.7 lakh individuals were covered under overseas travel insurance policies in 2024–25, with premium income from the segment reaching ₹1,267 crore. This represents a sharp increase compared to 2018–19, when just over 50 lakh travellers were insured.
Industry experts attribute the trend to rising healthcare costs overseas, where even minor medical treatment can cost several times more than in India. In addition, frequent flight disruptions, delays and cancellations have highlighted the financial risks of travelling uninsured.
Tanmoy Bakshi- Branch Manager of a private general insurance company, pointed out that leisure travellers form the largest segment opting for overseas insurance. However, demand is also growing among business travellers, students, long-term professionals and senior citizens. “Older travellers are emerging as a key segment, seeking specialised medical coverage and reliable emergency assistance,” he said.
Leisure travellers form the largest segment opting for travel insurance, while demand is also growing among business travellers, students and senior citizens. The growth aligns with a strong rebound in outbound travel from India, with overseas departures crossing three crore in 2024.
Despite not being mandatory for all destinations, overseas travel insurance is increasingly becoming a standard part of travel planning for Indians, reflecting a more cautious and prepared approach to international travel.
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