Usually, when we travel or even more when we plan to live in another country, we think about everything: tickets, lodging, plans, and places to visit, but have you thought about how important it is to ensure your health? It is advisable to have a health insurance policy, not only to comply with the requirements of the Colombian government but also because our health and welfare should always be a priority, especially if we are in a foreign country.
The Colombian government recommends, and in some cases requires, a health policy when entering the country. Although the Colombian health system stands out for having good coverage and guarantees initial emergency care to the entire population, it is the responsibility of the foreigner to ensure their physical and mental health during the whole time of their stay in the country.
This blog tells you why it is essential and how you can obtain a health policy with coverage in Colombia.
What is a Health Insurance Policy?
A health policy is a contract with an insurance company whose intention is to guarantee the medical and integral assistance of the contracting party, covering the costs of care according to the selected plan.
Why is it essential to have a health insurance policy in Colombia?
On the one hand, the Colombian government recommends that tourists present a health policy or medical insurance when they enter the country, which will cover them during their stay. In addition, with the new Resolution 5477 of 2022, most foreigners who want to start the Colombian visa process must present a health policy with the following characteristics:
- That it has coverage throughout the Colombian territory.
- It must guarantee protection against all risks, including death and repatriation.
- Be valid during the entire stay in the country.
Now, why is it important? The truth is that nobody plans to get sick or have an accident, but what is certain is that we will need medical attention at some point. Health policies cover these eventualities representing benefits such as:
- Receive quality medical care.
- Have 24/7 protection.
- Have peace of mind throughout your stay.
- Save money and time.
- Obtain more outstanding guarantees in case of an accident, illness, or unexpected events associated with health.
Why is it mandatory to have a Health Insurance Policy for the Colombian visa application?
Although the health policy is a mandatory requirement for certain types of visas such as Tourism, Digital Nomad, Student, Retirement, and Volunteer, among others, the Colombian government may request this requirement for any visa even if it is not stipulated in the specific requirements of Resolution 5477.
What happens to foreigners who already live in Colombia and have EPS?
Those foreigners affiliated with the Social Security System must consider that at the moment of renewing the visa, the Colombian government may request a health policy as a requirement to continue the application.
Can a foreigner with a type M Retirement visa be affiliated with the EPS?
According to Resolution 5477 of 2022, holders of type M Retirement visas will not be allowed to affiliate with the Colombian Social Security System, so they must have a mandatory health policy whenever they wish to apply for a new visa.
Get your health policy in Colombia
In Colombia, several insurance companies offer health policies with excellent coverage, with different plans that adapt to your budget and needs and that are also approved by the Colombian government to start your Colombian visa process.
Assist card
It is a global company in comprehensive travel assistance, founded in Switzerland in 1972, but currently has direct service in more than 190 countries.
This insurer is one of the biggest providers with high-quality standards, not only in health but also with various plans and complementary services for travelers, such as:
With Assist Card, you can access different plans, all valid for Colombian visa processes:
AC 35 Plan
This plan includes great benefits in medical assistance and traveler’s insurance in case of lost luggage and service in case of theft.
AC 60 Annual Plan
This plan is recommended for those with short or long-stay trips worldwide. It complies with all Schengen requirements for entry and stay in the European Community and complies with all the characteristics required by the Colombian government for the Colombian visa application.
AC 150 Annual Plan
This plan stands out for being one of the most complete. It also has remarkable benefits such as personal accident insurance, assistance to pregnant women, coverage for sports accidents, and many more.
AC 250 Plan
This plan is the most complete of Assist Card’s portfolio, with a maximum global coverage of USD 250,000.
Student Plan
Designed for students who require a stay outside their country of origin from 90 to 360 days for verifiable study purposes.
Ensure your health wherever you are, avoid unnecessary expenses, and avoid risking your well-being and the risk of not complying with the requirements demanded by the Colombian government for your Colombian visa processes.
endorsed by the Colombian government for visa applications.
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