International Medical Insurance is a mandatory Requirement of the VACorps Program

Having medical insurance throughout your stay in South Africa is a mandatory requirement. If you plan to visit other countries before, during, or after your South African trip, it’s important to confirm that your insurance coverage extends to these destinations as well. Emergencies can happen, and you do not want to be left paying out of pocket for any expenses that might arise as a result.

To guarantee you have the necessary coverage, we strongly advise you to request a clear and detailed copy of the policy you intend to purchase from your insurance provider. Thoroughly review the policy to understand precisely what it encompasses and any aspects it may not cover.

Your insurance policy should encompass the following crucial elements:

1. Emergency (Accidental) Medical Expenses: Coverage for sudden and unforeseen medical costs due to injury is essential.
2. Illness Medical Expenses: Ensure your insurance covers medical expenses associated with unexpected illnesses.
3. Emergency Transportation and Medical Evacuation: Ambulances and emergency transportation to a better equipped hospital (medical evacuation)
4. Burial or repatriation of remains
5. Baggage and Personal Effects: Safeguard your belongings against loss or damage during your travels, especially your electronics

Existing Medical Insurance

If you currently possess insurance, thoroughly review your policy to confirm it covers travel to South Africa and any other destinations you intend to visit. Keep in mind that domestic medical insurance often excludes travel-related medical expenses. Pay particular attention to the fine print in your policy, where you’ll typically discover what is not covered.

Purchasing Medical and Travel Insurance

VACorps does not provide endorsements or specific recommendations for insurance providers. Consequently, it is your responsibility to conduct thorough research to confirm that your insurance coverage complies with the minimum parameters outlined above. When considering your options, keep in mind the type activities you are planning on doing during your trip.  For example, if you intend to scuba dive or horse ride, you need to ensure that your policy provides coverage for those activities.

Below, we have compiled a list of some insurance providers that you may want to consider:

• Battleface 
• Safetywing 
• Heymondo