The Detail Most People Get Wrong
A pre-existing medical condition isn't automatically excluded from travel insurance — it needs to be specifically disclosed and assessed by the insurer, who will either cover it (sometimes for an extra premium), exclude just that condition, or in some cases decline overall cover. Assuming it's excluded without asking, or not disclosing it at all, are both mistakes that can void an entire claim.
What Counts as Pre-Existing
Generally, any condition you've experienced symptoms of, sought treatment for, or been prescribed medication for within a specified period before buying the policy (commonly the past 12 months, though this varies by insurer) — including conditions that feel minor or well-managed, like high blood pressure or a healed injury.
The Disclosure Process
Most insurers run pre-existing conditions through a medical assessment (often an online questionnaire) at the time of purchase, which determines whether the condition is automatically covered, covered for an extra premium, specifically excluded, or requires a decline of cover for that condition. This needs to happen before you buy, not after a claim.
Why Non-Disclosure Is Riskier Than You'd Think
If you don't disclose a relevant condition and later need to claim for something connected to it — even indirectly — the insurer can decline the entire claim, not just the part related to the condition. The honest premium for a disclosed condition is almost always better than a declined claim for an undisclosed one.
A Few Practical Tips
- Complete the medical assessment for every traveller on the policy, not just yourself, if you're booking for a family or group
- If one insurer excludes or declines your condition, it's worth trying another — assessment outcomes for the same condition genuinely vary between insurers
- Specialist travel insurers exist specifically for travellers with significant pre-existing conditions, and can sometimes offer cover mainstream insurers won't
This page is for educational purposes and isn't personalised financial advice. Premiums, terms and eligibility vary by insurer, destination and individual circumstances — always check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Smartraveller advice before travelling.