How to get Travel Insurance in Nigeria

How to get Travel Insurance in Nigeria

Introduction

Traveling offers new opportunities—business expansion, academic pursuits, cultural experiences, spiritual pilgrimages, and more. However, with these opportunities come risks: medical emergencies, flight cancellations, lost luggage, or even political unrest. That’s where travel insurance comes in. It serves as a financial safety net, providing peace of mind before, during, and after your journey.

In Nigeria, more travelers are recognizing the value of travel insurance—especially with visa application requirements, increased international movement, and growing awareness of global risks. Yet, many still don’t know how to access reliable travel insurance, what it covers, or how to make claims when emergencies arise.

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to get travel insurance in Nigeria, covering the types, coverage, providers, legal regulations, claims process, and essential travel tips.

1. What is Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is a contract between a traveler and an insurance provider, where the insurer agrees to offer financial protection against unexpected events during a trip in exchange for a premium.

1.1 Key Components of Travel Insurance:

• Medical coverage (e.g., emergency treatment abroad)

• Trip protection (e.g., cancellations, delays)

• Luggage loss/theft protection

• Repatriation and evacuation

• Personal accident and liability

• Covid-19 coverage (optional)

2. Why You Need Travel Insurance in Nigeria

2.1 Visa Requirements

Travel insurance is mandatory for visa applications to:

• Schengen Zone countries

• United Kingdom

• Canada

• United States (for some categories)

• Saudi Arabia (Hajj/Umrah)

• South Africa, UAE, etc.

2.2 Medical Emergencies Abroad

Healthcare overseas can cost thousands of dollars. Travel insurance covers hospitalization, medication, and emergency transport.

2.3 Flight Issues and Losses

Flight cancellations, delays, or missed connections are common. Insurance compensates for these disruptions.

2.4 Peace of Mind

When traveling with insurance, you are protected against major risks—reducing stress and boosting confidence.

3. Types of Travel Insurance Available in Nigeria

3.1 Single-Trip Insurance

• Covers one journey (e.g., Lagos to London and return)

• Ideal for short vacations, business trips, or events

3.2 Multi-Trip or Annual Plan

• Covers multiple trips within 12 months

• Suitable for frequent flyers or business executives

3.3 Student Travel Insurance

• Covers Nigerians studying abroad

• Includes tuition interruption, medical coverage, and emergency return

3.4 Schengen Travel Insurance

• Minimum €30,000 coverage

• Mandatory for Schengen visa applications

• Must be valid in all 27 Schengen countries

3.5 Family or Group Travel Insurance

• Covers multiple travelers under one plan

• Cheaper and more convenient for family holidays

3.6 Pilgrimage Travel Insurance

• Designed for Hajj, Umrah, and Israel pilgrimages

• Includes medical coverage, spiritual assistance, and repatriation

4. What Travel Insurance Covers

Coverage depends on your insurer and policy type. However, standard policies usually include:

4.1 Medical Benefits

• Emergency hospitalization

• Doctor consultations

• Prescriptions and diagnostic tests

• Emergency dental care

• Repatriation of remains

4.2 Trip Inconveniences

• Flight cancellations or delays

• Missed connections

• Loss of passport or documents

• Cancelled accommodation

4.3 Baggage and Personal Items

• Lost or delayed baggage

• Theft of belongings

• Damaged items during travel

4.4 Legal Assistance

• Legal costs if you’re involved in an incident abroad

4.5 Optional Add-Ons

• Covid-19-related coverage

• Adventure sports coverage

• Electronic gadgets insurance

5. What Travel Insurance Does Not Cover

• Pre-existing health conditions (unless declared and accepted)

• Traveling against medical advice

• Self-inflicted injuries

• Undeclared high-risk activities

• Trips to sanctioned or war-risk countries

6. How to Get Travel Insurance in Nigeria: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Identify Your Travel Needs

Ask yourself:

• What is the purpose of your trip?

• Which countries are you visiting?

• Are you traveling alone or with family?

• Do you need student or pilgrimage-specific insurance?

Step 2: Choose a Licensed Travel Insurance Provider

Top Travel Insurance Companies in Nigeria:

1. AXA Mansard Insurance

2. Leadway Assurance

3. Mutual Benefits Assurance

4. Cornerstone Insurance

5. AIICO Insurance

6. Custodian and Allied Insurance

7. Hygeia HMO (Travel Plan)

8. Old Mutual Nigeria

9. Saham/NSIA Insurance

Confirm that the company is licensed by NAICOM and recognized by embassies.

Step 3: Compare Plans and Coverage

Compare:

• Coverage limit (especially for visa requirements)

• Policy duration

• Medical coverage

• Luggage and trip protection

• Cost of premium

Step 4: Fill Out Application Form

You’ll need:

• Valid Nigerian passport

• Destination details

• Travel dates

• Visa copy (if applicable)

• Age and health disclosures

Step 5: Pay Your Premium

Payment can be made:

• Online (card, transfer)

• At the insurance office

• Via authorized agents or brokers

Step 6: Receive and Print Insurance Certificate

• You’ll get an insurance certificate and policy document

• Submit this with your visa application or carry it while traveling

7. How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost in Nigeria?

Costs vary by destination, age, and duration.

Note: Covid-19 add-on may cost extra.

8. Buying Travel Insurance Online in Nigeria

Most providers allow you to buy insurance from your phone or laptop.

Steps:

1. Visit insurer’s website (e.g., www.axamansard.com)

2. Select travel insurance

3. Input destination, travel dates, and traveler info

4. Review coverage and premium

5. Make payment

6. Download your certificate instantly

9. How to Make a Travel Insurance Claim

Scenarios You Can Claim For:

• Medical emergencies abroad

• Trip cancellation due to illness or death

• Loss of baggage or belongings

• Delayed flights

Required Documents:

• Copy of insurance policy

• Travel ticket and boarding pass

• Police or medical report

• Original receipts of expenses

• Claim form from insurer

Claim Process:

1. Notify your insurer immediately

2. Submit documents via email or portal

3. Await verification

4. Receive compensation (cash or reimbursement)

Tip: Some insurers offer cashless treatment through partner hospitals abroad.

10. Tips for Choosing the Right Travel Insurance

• Choose embassy-approved providers

• Always read the fine print

• Know your deductible (out-of-pocket limit)

• Don’t hide health conditions

• Opt for worldwide coverage if you’re visiting multiple countries

11. Avoiding Fraud and Fake Travel Insurance

Warning Signs:

• No physical office or website

• No NAICOM registration

• No clear claims process

• Unbelievably low premiums

• No official certificate

Always buy from NAICOM-approved insurers and avoid black-market agents.

12. Legal Regulation of Travel Insurance in Nigeria

12.1 NAICOM

• The National Insurance Commission regulates insurance companies.

• Check their website for a list of licensed providers: www.naicom.gov.ng

12.2 Nigerian Immigration Service

• May require proof of travel insurance for outbound travelers.

12.3 Foreign Embassies

• Insist on insurers that meet their minimum standards.

13. Specialized Travel Insurance Plans

13.1 For Students

• Covers academic interruption

• Emergency medical evacuation

• Loss of tuition

13.2 For Pilgrims (Hajj, Umrah, Israel)

• Spiritual coverage

• Medical support in Mecca/Medina

• Repatriation in case of death

13.3 For Nigerians in Diaspora

• Inbound plans to cover visits home

• Local hospital access in Nigeria

• Evacuation to their foreign base if necessary

14. Travel Insurance vs. Health Insurance

15. Travel Insurance FAQs

Q: Is travel insurance mandatory for Schengen visa?
Yes. Minimum coverage of €30,000 is required.

Q: Can I buy travel insurance last minute?
Yes, but it must cover the full duration of your trip and be active before departure.

Q: Can I get a refund on unused travel insurance?
Some providers offer partial refunds—check the policy terms.

Q: What if I have a medical condition?
Disclose it during application. Some insurers may offer coverage with extra premiums.

Conclusion

Travel insurance is not just a visa requirement—it’s your personal safety net. Whether you’re a student, tourist, business traveler, or pilgrim, getting the right travel insurance guarantees peace of mind and protects you from unforeseen costs abroad.

The good news is that getting travel insurance in Nigeria is easy, affordable, and available online. Choose a trusted provider, ensure your policy meets embassy requirements, and travel confidently.

Travel Without Worries – Get the Right Travel Insurance Today!

Whether you’re applying for a Schengen visa, going for study abroad, heading on a business trip, or embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage, travel insurance is not just a requirement—it’s your peace of mind.

At Chaman Law Firm, we help individuals, families, students, and corporate travelers across Nigeria get reliable, embassy-approved travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more.

Avoid fake agents, visa delays, or invalid policies. Let our team guide you from policy selection to certificate issuance—quickly, legally, and affordably.

📞Phone:  08065553671, 08096888818

✉ Email: chamanlawfirm@gmail.com

📍 Address: 115, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Allen Junction, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

🌍Click here to learn more about Chaman Law Firm

🛫 Travel Smart. Travel Covered. Let Chaman Law Firm Help You Get the Right Insurance—Fast and Legit.