What a useful policy should cover
- Emergency and urgent medical care.
- Hospitalisation.
- Medically necessary diagnostics.
- Medical transport or evacuation where covered by the policy.
- Repatriation in covered circumstances.
- 24/7 assistance support.
Motorbikes are a key Vietnam-specific issue
If you plan to ride a scooter or motorbike, seeing the word 'motorcycle' somewhere in the policy is not enough. Check whether the insurer requires a legally valid licence, the correct category, an international permit where applicable, helmet use, and any engine-capacity restrictions. If the riding itself is unlawful, an insurer may rely on that when assessing a claim under the policy terms.
Activities
Diving, surfing, hiking, mountain trips, and other activities may fall into higher-risk categories. Do not buy a basic policy if most of your trip is activity-focused. List what you plan to do first, then look for those activities in the policy wording.
Deductible
A deductible is the part of the cost you pay yourself. A policy with a high deductible may be cheaper, but smaller medical visits can effectively remain entirely your expense. Compare not only the premium but what you would actually pay in a realistic claim.
Direct billing or reimbursement
In one model, the assistance company directs you to a clinic and settles the bill directly. In another, you pay first, collect documents, and claim reimbursement. Before travelling, understand which system applies and how much cash or card capacity you may need if you must pay upfront.
If you get sick or injured
- In an emergency, seek medical help immediately.
- Contact the assistance service as soon as practical.
- Use the recommended clinic if the insurer directs you there.
- Keep medical reports, prescriptions, invoices, and receipts.
- Do not discard packaging or documents until the claim is fully resolved.
Questions and answers
Is travel insurance mandatory for Vietnam?
Entry requirements should be checked separately before travel. Even where a policy is not a formal entry condition, medical insurance remains a practical way to limit financial risk.
Will insurance cover a motorbike accident?
Only if the policy covers it and you meet its conditions, including legal riding and required documents.
What is an assistance company?
It coordinates medical help on behalf of the insurer: clinic selection, approvals, billing, or claim documentation.
Should I call the insurer before seeing a doctor?
For non-emergency care, it is usually useful to contact assistance first. In a life-threatening emergency, medical help takes priority.