Do you need insurance for Mexico
For Russians, entry to Mexico depends on how you arrive. If you fly in, you can apply for a free SAE electronic authorization on the website of the National Institute of Migration. It is single-entry and valid only for arrival by air. To enter by land or sea, for example on a cruise ship or from a neighbouring country, you need a regular visa.
Medical insurance is not mandatory for the SAE or for crossing the border. However, passport control may ask for a return ticket, proof of a booking and proof of funds, and the final decision on entry is made by the border officer. A printed policy in your document folder does no harm: it shows that you have prepared for the trip. SAE rules change from time to time, so check them before you fly.
Why travelling to Mexico without a policy is risky
Mexico is a long-haul destination with a long flight and connections. Medical care for tourists is paid, and covering treatment, tests or a stay in a private resort clinic yourself is costly. Medical transport is even more expensive if you need to fly home after a serious illness. A policy covers these costs within the sum insured.
Which policy to choose for Mexico
| Parameter | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Sum insured | The calculator suggests USD 50,000 by default; for a long-haul trip it is better not to reduce it |
| Period | Every day of the trip, from departure to return |
| Territory | Mexico, or a wider territory if your route passes through other countries |
| Deductible | Simpler without one: you will not pay part of the costs of each claim |
| Options | Active leisure, dengue, flight delay, baggage, emergency dental care |
Risks and options for different routes
Cancun and the Caribbean coast
White beaches, hot sun and a warm sea are the classic Mexican holiday. Sunburn, heatstroke and beach injuries happen here all the time. If you plan kitesurfing, surfing or jet skiing on the coast, check whether the insurer's rules class them as active leisure.
Cenotes and diving
Diving into cenotes, underground freshwater sinkholes, and diving on the reefs are the hallmark of the Yucatan Peninsula. For an insurer this is active leisure or sport, and without the matching option an underwater injury may not be an insured event. Select diving when you get a quote.
Volcanoes, mountains and ancient cities
Trips to volcanoes, mountain trekking and long walks around pyramids under the scorching sun require good fitness. If you plan serious climbs, choose a programme with active leisure and check the restrictions in the rules.
Infections and dengue
Stomach infections are a common nuisance for tourists in Mexico, and their treatment is part of basic cover. Dengue is carried by mosquitoes, especially in hot and humid areas; the calculator has a separate Dengue fever option for it.
Connecting flights
The journey from Russia to Mexico usually involves one or more connections. The Flight delay and Baggage options are useful if a connection fails or your suitcase goes missing.
How to choose the sum and programme
Start with medical cover and a sum no lower than the default, then add options for your route. Travellers with chronic conditions should add the corresponding option. If the trip is expensive and paid in advance, look at the Trip cancellation option, described in detail on the page on trip cancellation insurance. Personal accident insurance adds extra protection against injuries.
If you fall ill or get injured
- Call the assistance company on the number in your policy before going to a clinic (except in life-threatening situations).
- Follow the assistance company's instructions: it will approve a clinic and the payment procedure.
- Do not pay for treatment yourself without approval.
- Collect the documents: medical certificates, prescriptions, receipts.
Read more about what to do in the article on insured events.
How to buy Mexico travel insurance on polisre.ru
You can buy a policy online in a few minutes. The quote and purchase go through the Cherehapa service (Polis Re's partner), and the policy itself is issued by the insurance company you choose.
- In the calculator, select Mexico, your travel dates and travellers' ages.
- Choose the sum and options, and compare offers from 16 insurance companies.
- Enter travellers' details in Latin letters, as in their international passports.
- Pay, and the policy will arrive by e-mail.
If you are already in Mexico: some insurers have programmes for people who are already travelling; check the conditions (for example, a waiting period) in the calculator. Planning to continue your holiday on the islands? See the pages on Cuba and the Dominican Republic, and find all destinations in the Travel insurance section.