Discovery Health, Momentum, Bonitas, Medshield — none of these cover you outside South Africa (with very limited exceptions for emergencies). A single hospital stay in the USA can cost R500,000–R3,000,000. In the UK, EU, and Asia costs are lower but still significant without coverage. International travel insurance is non-negotiable.
What Your Insurance Must Cover
Essential (Non-Negotiable)
- Medical expenses — minimum R1.5M for USA
- Emergency evacuation to South Africa
- Hospitalisation and surgery
- 24/7 emergency assistance line
- Repatriation in case of death
Strongly Recommended
- Trip cancellation / curtailment
- Personal liability
- Luggage and personal effects
- Travel delay cover
- Dental emergencies
Recommended Insurers for SA Students
World Nomads
Specifically designed for travellers from South Africa. Covers internship activities. Widely accepted for Schengen visa applications.
- Available to South African passport holders — not all insurers are
- Covers adventure activities and work placements
- Accepted for Schengen visa medical insurance requirement
- 24/7 emergency assistance in English
Momentum Outbound Travel Insurance
From a familiar SA brand. Good option if you want local support and ZAR billing.
- SA brand — easy to deal with from home base
- Good medical and emergency evacuation limits
- Check exclusions for pre-existing conditions
Cigna Global / SafetyWing (for longer stays)
For internships of 3+ months. Purpose-built for expats and long-term international workers.
- Best for 6–12 month placements
- Comprehensive global medical — excellent for USA and UK
- Direct billing to hospitals — no out-of-pocket first
Insurance Requirements by Destination
EU / Schengen (Barcelona, Paris, etc.)
Travel insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 medical cover is REQUIRED for your Schengen visa application. Without it, visa refused. Get this sorted before your embassy appointment.
USA (New York)
US healthcare is the most expensive in the world. R1.5M minimum cover required for your J-1 visa. Single ER visit can cost R40,000–R100,000. Do not travel to the USA without comprehensive insurance.
UK (London)
NHS covers emergencies for some visa holders. For longer stays, an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is built into your visa fee. Additional top-up insurance still recommended for dental and repatriation.
Bali / Bangkok / Dubai
Private healthcare is good and relatively affordable. Still get insurance — one motorbike accident in Bali could cost R30,000+ without cover. Medical evacuation from Bali to SA is R150,000+.
Insurance guidance included in our service
We point you to the right insurance for your destination, ensure it meets visa requirements, and help you understand exactly what you are covered for. Join free to get started.
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