Travel insurance cover and tips for expats
Cover for expats worldwide for medical emergencies, sports and activities, trip cancellations, and more.
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World Nomads travel insurance is designed for adventure seekers who understand that living and working in other countries and among different cultures is a great privilege, and an education. Your decision to move abroad is a big one, considering the benefits of travel insurance may be beneficial for you and your loved ones.
What expats should keep in mind?
We've put together this expat tips checklist to help you plan before you set off on your next working holiday. Please note, benefit limits, terms and conditions apply depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you’ve selected.
- Change is constant, embrace it. Despite detailed planning pre-departure, things can change. We know how important flexibility is when abroad, so you can buy a policy before you leave home or while traveling for as long, or as little, as you need. If you decide to stay longer in a place than you thought you would or decide to change direction on a whim, we are happy to extend your policy and help you choose the right level of cover for your needs.
- Vaccinations are not new. For years, there have been rules in place for travelers regarding immunizations against serious illnesses, and the COVID-19 pandemic is no different. When planning your expat experience, check with embassies, global health bodies (such as the World Health Organization, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, etc) and government authorities of the countries you're hoping to visit about their entry requirements. Some countries now require proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test result (usually taken 48-72 hours before arrival). Read our COVID-19 Travel Insurance article and keep your vaccine and test records with you – they’re as important as your passport these days.
- Not all country entry rules are the same. We know the rules for entry to our own country, but what is acceptable in one country might not be the case in another, so do your research pre-departure. Check the entry rules and regulations for the places you plan to visit. The last thing you want to do is arrive somewhere new to you, only to be turned around for not having the correct paperwork or because you decided to travel to a country that had a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning in place.
- It’s not too late to buy travel insurance once you’ve set off. If you’ve been so busy that insurance is an after-thought, it’s never too late. World Nomads offers insurance for travelers between 18 and 65 (up to 69 years for US residents). Our policies are available to most nationalities who are working or traveling outside of their Country of Residence. You can buy a policy online using a credit card, and this can be done even after you’ve left home, but there are some exceptions, so check your policy details before purchasing.
- If you plan on driving overseas, do your homework. Driving in another country can be a big deal and at times quite scary, especially when the road rules differ, so make sure you know the requirements. Check the licensing rules (you may need to apply for an international driving permit depending on which country you’re from). Our Explorer Plan policy may be able to help with rental car excess if you’re involved in an accident, but you need to be correctly licensed, adhere to local laws, and have taken out a rental policy with the car hire company.
- If you’re a digital nomad, ensure you’re travel ready. Most expat travelers today don’t leave home without their tech devices – we’re talking digital cameras, laptops, air pods, drones etc. Aside from helping to document your travels, they’re not cheap and should be properly protected. At World Nomads, our policies may cover a wide range of everyday gadgets, but how we do that and how much we insure them for depends on the plan you choose. Terms and conditions apply.
- Adventure travel is fun, but also risky. Expats are an adventurous bunch, so it’s not surprising that many exciting activities will rate high on the to-do list. Our plans include cover for more than 150 activities globally – everything from backpacking to kayaking, hiking, and bungee jumping, but not all are covered under every plan, so read the full list here. You may need to pay an additional premium for higher-risk activities.
- Travel cover doesn’t replace international medical insurance. While we may offer cover for overseas emergency medical expenses, any treatment must be certified as medically necessary by an authorized medical practitioner or paramedic overseas and agreed by our Emergency Assistance Team. Your employer or host should take care of your medical cover. We also have some exclusions when it comes to pre-existing conditions. Our Emergency Assistance Team is available 24/7 in case of emergencies.
This is not a full list of what's covered. There are benefit limits and terms and conditions that apply. You should read your policy wording in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it.
For more answers related to travel insurance coverage please visit our Help Center or if you have a specific question about World Nomads travel insurance contact us.
You’re in safe hands with World Nomads
Check out our True Claims video to get a behind the scenes look at how we can help you when something goes wrong.
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance – and it’s often cheaper than you might think! Featuring coverage for more than 150 activities, you can get a quote online at www.worldnomads.com. All the information we provide about travel insurance is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states, or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
Did you know travel insurance covers...
- Trip cancellation
- Emergency medical
- Evacuation and repatriation
- Lost or damaged gear
- Delayed baggage
- Death overseas
- Terrorism
- And more...
You can also buy away from home or buy more cover if you extend your trip. Plus, you can claim online anytime, anywhere in the world.
True Claims Stories
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Luggage lost?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Digital Nomads
Protecting UK travellers’ tech gear on the go
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Ahhh, the life of a British digital nomad…the world’s literally your workplace. But even the idyllic life of working in coffee shops and beachside huts can present risks. What would your work life look like without your laptop or phone? Stolen or damaged tech, and even sudden illness can derail your plans—and your productivity. Travel insurance could protect your lifestyle, both personally and professionally.
- Why should I consider travel insurance when travelling as a digital nomad?
- Does travel insurance for digital nomads cover my tech?
- What are the benefits of World Nomads travel insurance when working abroad?
- What's not covered by travel insurance for digital nomads
- Frequently asked questions
Why should I consider travel insurance when travelling as a digital nomad?
As a UK-based digital nomad, life abroad offers endless freedom, but it’s not without risks. Your tech gear’s crucial to keeping you connected, and an unexpected setback—like a stolen laptop in Bangkok—can disrupt the entire flexcation experience. With travel insurance, you can keep working from anywhere, knowing you have a backup plan for any adventure (or misadventure) that comes your way.
Does travel insurance for digital nomads cover my tech?
Imagine editing a video from a scenic spot in Bali, only to have your gear damaged in a sudden downpour, or losing your phone during a busy layover in Tokyo….not ideal, right? From shooting content on the go to managing client calls abroad, your digital workspace deserves to be protected, because well…it’s paying for your downtime play.
World Nomads offers two policies—Standard and Explorer—that may cover reimbursing your tech devices if they are stolen, lost or damaged while under your supervision. Both policies provide coverage for a wide range of valuables and gadgets, including:
- Photographic equipment
- Binoculars, telescopes
- Computers and/or accessories (including laptops, games and gaming consoles)
- PDA’s and tablet devices (including iPads and eBooks)
- Video cameras
- Audiovisual equipment (including portable speakers and headphones)
- DVD players
- Mobile phones
- Drones and satellite navigation devices.
Travellers tip: Always hang onto your receipts—hard copies or digital—for any gadgets you buy before or during your travels. They’ll come in handy if you need to make a claim. And don’t forget to make copies of your travel documents, ID cards, credit cards, and any other important info you’re taking on the road.
What are the benefits of World Nomads travel insurance when working abroad?
Medical Coverage and Emergency Medical Assistance
Being a digital nomad means being free to roam but also being prepared for the unexpected. World Nomads offers emergency medical coverage (up to £5,000,000 Standard Plan and £10,000,000 Explorer Plan) for when life throws you a curveball—from hospital visits to urgent care, and even repatriation back to the UK if necessary.
Cover for more than 150 sports and activities
Life shouldn’t be all work and no play, especially when the world is literally your playground. If you’re a Brit who loves chasing thrills during work breaks, picture this: co-working at Dojo Bali and then stepping straight onto Echo Beach for a quick surf session. Heaven, right? With World Nomads, there is cover available for more than 150 sports and activities—just in case those waves get a bit gnarlier than expected. Just be sure to select the right policy to cover the level of activity you’ll be participating in, and declare at the point of sale.
Annual Multi-Trip (AMT) Policy
Our Annual Multi-Trip (AMT) Policy offers the flexibility that frequent movers crave. Imagine working from a Parisian café one week, then logging into a Singaporean co-working space the next—all covered under one travel insurance policy. It’s the perfect fit for digital nomads who thrive on short, globe-hopping adventures. But if your plans involve staying in one place for a longer stretch, a Single Trip policy might be the way to go. Not sure which option suits your working holiday best? Compare Annual Multi-Trip vs Single Trip Travel Insurance here.
Air Doctor
World Nomads Powered by Air Doctor offers digital nomads seamless access to a global network of trusted medical professionals. Through the Air Doctor app, you can effortlessly locate and book appointments with qualified doctors who speak your preferred language, ensuring you receive timely medical care wherever your work takes you. This free service enhances your travel experience by.removing the need to navigate foreign healthcare systems for non-urgent medical issues.
Smart Delay
Flight delays are a hassle, especially when you’re a digital nomad flying out of Heathrow or Manchester, juggling work commitments and travel plans. With Smart Delay, you’ll gain access to the airport lounge if your flight is delayed by 90 minutes or more—perfect for unwinding, grabbing a bite, or catching up on work comfortably.
Travellers tip: Cyberattacks and identity theft are real threats when you’re on the move. Keep your data safe: use strong passwords, encrypt your laptop, and install antivirus software, skip public Wi-Fi where you can.
For more digital nomad tips, check out our article, 6 Travel Tips for Digital Nomads. Or if you’re ready to pack the geat and go, get a quote today and make that digital nomad dream a reality.
What's not covered by travel insurance for digital nomads?
Sorry, but even the best travel insurance has its limits. Here’s what’s not on the list:
- If you leave your gadgets (like laptops, phones, cameras, or tablets) unattended in a car, boat, tent, camper trailer, or with a common carrier, it’s on you (you need to protect it, mate).
- Electronic malfunctions (you can take that up with the manufacturer).
- Theft or damage incurred when your valuables and gadgets are checked in with your luggage.
- Items you can't prove that you own (for example, you don't have a record of purchase).
- Didn’t file a report with local authorities or venue reps when something got stolen or lost? We can’t help with that claim.
This is not a complete list of what's covered and not covered. Other terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read your Policy Wording carefully. If you’re unsure if something is covered or how to claim it, contact us, and we’ll let you know.
Bag snatched in Latvia.
It was my final day in Riga, Latvia. In my small bag I keep all my valuables, because hostels can't always be reliable with safekeeping. It contained my new GoPro, Iphone, digital camera, laptop and hard drive, plus my emergency money (200 euros). I planned on using my cameras and computer for editing later that afternoon. The coast was amazing and, as it got late, I decided to take the train back to Riga city. As I was getting off the train, down the vertical steep steps, I had my bag snatched off my shoulder. In seconds, the doors closed and the train pulled off. Telling authorities on the platforms immediately, they could not assist and referred me straight to the police. Feeling helpless, I went to the police where I was kept for hours, because of English barriers and translations of documents. I walked out just after midnight with my report. A day trip I won't forget soon.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about digital nomads travel insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team
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What are the requirements to get a digital nomad visa?
Each country has specific requirements, but generally, digital nomad visas require proof of income, travel insurance, and accommodation plans. Some may also require a valid employment contract or proof of self-employment. Be sure to check each country’s specific requirements before applying.
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Do I need travel insurance for a digital nomad visa?
Yes, most digital nomad visas require proof of travel insurance or health insurance that covers you for the entire duration of your stay in a foreign country.
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If my electronics have an expired warranty, can I claim if they malfunction?
Our policies don’t include coverage for device malfunction or wear or tear.
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How do my items get depreciated?
Electronics age and get knocked about. Depreciation is the amount deducted from your overall claim based on wear and tear of the item. The amount can depend on the type of item and how old it is.
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Why won't you cover my tech devices if they're checked in with an airline
Electronics are fragile, and checked-in luggage can easily be damaged.
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What if I don’t have receipts for all of my items?
You can file a claim but still need to show proof of ownership. Read our Help Center article for more info on what to do if you don’t have documentation.
Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads
Learn how your tech could be covered while you're working or traveling overseas.
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As featured in:
If anything positive has come out of the COVID-19 pandemic it’s that people are looking for new ways to work while travelling. If you’re planning on leaving Ireland and adopting the digital nomad lifestyle then, as well as your laptop and passport, you may want to pack travel insurance just in case the unexpected happens.
Travel insurance: how are my electronics covered?
Our policies offer cover for a wide range of gadgets including:
- Photographic equipment
- Binoculars
- Telescopes
- Computers and/or accessories (including laptops, games and gaming consoles)
- PDA’s and tablet devices (including iPad’s and eBooks)
- Video cameras
- Audio visual equipment (including portable speakers and headphones)
- DVD players
- Mobile phones
- Drones and satellite navigation devices.
How much we cover your items for depends on your plan. We cover:
- When your gear is stolen when its under your supervision
- Tech devices destroyed by a fire or a natural catastrophe
Note: depreciation and wear and tear will be considered when calculating the claim settlement value of your electronic items (depreciation will not be applied to items listed as 'high value items' and you have paid the additional premium).
Whether you’re plugging into your social network or working remotely in a hub, we can help you protect your valuables and devices. Our six tips could help you travel safely and keep your gear secure.
- Tip 1: keep receipts: Always keep receipts (hard or digital copies) of any gadgets bought before and during your travels in case you need to make a claim. You should also make copies of your travel documents, ID cards, credit cards, and other personal information that you’re taking with you on the trip.
- Tip 2: get proof in writing for any lost or damaged gadgets: If a common carrier (e.g. airline, bus company or hotel) has lost, delayed or damaged your gear you must notify them right away and get a record of the incident to support your claim. Our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team may be able to help you negotiate the local administration if you don’t speak the local language.
- Tip 3: report theft to the local police: If your baggage or valuables are stolen, you need to report ASAP to the local police authority and to the common carrier, service provider or any other local authority. If you don’t, it could affect your claim.
- Tip 4: protect your devices: With cyberattacks now commonplace, make sure your devices are protected to secure sensitive work data, banking details and more. Your laptop should be encrypted with strong passwords, a lock screen, and with antivirus or anti-malware software. Avoid using public WIFI hotspots, and never leave sensitive information or devices in your rental car or an unattended hotel room. If you must leave anything behind, make sure it is locked up in a safe.
- Tip 5: use a digital nomad visa: As the Covid-19 pandemic encouraged the remote working trend, many countries are offering digital nomad visas (a document or program that gives a traveller the legal right to work remotely while residing away from their country of residence). Countries offering digital nomad visas include - Costa Rica, Portugal, Estonia, and Malta, and the list is growing
- Tip 6: prepare for trip delays: As a digital nomad you may be travelling between places by air or road or both. Travel insurance can help if your flight is delayed by more than 12 hours.
Does my travel insurance cover my tech?
Watch the video to learn how our travel policy can provide cover for all of your tech gear during your travels.
What's not covered by travel insurance?
Some of the main exclusions include:
- When you leave your gear unattended
- Electronic malfunctions (you can take that up with the manufacturer)
- Theft or damage incurred when your valuables and gadgets are checked in with your luggage
- Items that you can't prove that you own (for example, you don't have a record of their purchase)
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. Other terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read your Policy Wording carefully. If you’re not sure if something is covered or how to claim, contact us and we’ll let you know.
Bag snatched in Latvia.
It was my final day in Riga, Latvia. In my small bag I keep all my valuables, because hostels can't always be reliable with safekeeping. It contained my new GoPro, Iphone, digital camera, laptop and hard drive, plus my emergency money (200 euros). I planned on using my cameras and computer for editing later that afternoon. The coast was amazing and, as it got late, I decided to take the train back to Riga city. As I was getting off the train, down the vertical steep steps, I had my bag snatched off my shoulder. In seconds, the doors closed and the train pulled off. Telling authorities on the platforms immediately, they could not assist and referred me straight to the police. Feeling helpless, I went to the police where I was kept for hours, because of English barriers and translations of documents. I walked out just after midnight with my report. A day trip I won't forget soon.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about valuables and gadgets. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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If I've not specified my items, why do they get depreciated?
Electronics age and get knocked about. Depreciation happens to match the claim with the item's current value, not cost price.
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If my electronics are out of warranty, can I claim if there's a malfunction?
The policies excludes cover where there's an electronic malfunction.
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Why won't you cover my electronics if they're checked-in with an airline?
Because electronics are fragile and checked-in luggage can easily be damaged. They are also targets for theft.
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What if I don't have receipts for all of my items?
You'll need to show a proof of ownership - enough evidence to 'tip the balance' if you're lodging a claim.
