Most of our policies don’t cover existing medical conditions, so don’t assume you’re covered
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At World Nomads, we believe that having an existing medical condition shouldn't prevent Australians from exploring the world. Whether you're surfing in Bali, road-tripping through New Zealand, or indulging in the culinary delights of Paris, it's crucial to understand how your health status impacts your travel insurance.
This guide will help you navigate coverage options for existing medical conditions.
An existing medical condition is any medical condition which you've had at the time you buy a travel insurance policy with World Nomads. It includes conditions that are:
World Nomads offers two travel insurance plans—Standard and Explorer—both of which automatically cover over 40 common existing medical conditions if you meet the specific coverage criteria. You can find the complete list in the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
Asthma: Covered if you're under 60, haven’t been hospitalized for it in the past two years, and don’t have other respiratory conditions.
Diabetes (Type I & II): Covered if diagnosed more than six months ago, blood sugar levels are stable, there have been no recent complications, and no cardiovascular disease.
Migraines: Covered if you haven’t been hospitalized for them in the last two years.
Epilepsy: Covered if there have been no recent hospitalizations, no medication changes, and no underlying conditions.
Pro Tip: Before buying travel insurance, thoroughly review the criteria for existing medical condition coverage to avoid unexpected expenses.
While travel insurance provides essential protection, it does not cover every medical situation. Exclusions include:
Note: If you purchase insurance after leaving Australia, a 72-hour waiting period applies. Any illness or injury occurring within this period may be classified as an existing medical condition for the duration of your policy.
To travel safely and confidently, follow these expert recommendations:
When you get a travel insurance quote, you’ll be able to compare the coverage of each plan so you may determine the best travel insurance plan for your needs. If you’re unclear about anything at all, get in touch with us, and we’ll help explain it all.
The features and benefits described are a summary of cover only. Cover is subject to the full terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions outlined in the Product Disclosure
Statement (PDS).
You should read the PDS in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Centre or you can ask the customer service team.
I contracted dengue typhoid fevers in Bali. The doctor and medical expenses incurred, were all paid within 10 days of claim, which I submitted by email from Bali. Monies were paid into my bank account - efficient and simple!
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Phone: +61 2 8263 0470 or Phone: +61 2 8292 1470 (reverse charges via an operator from anywhere in the world)
Contact the teamBefore your trip, check the latest government advice for any travel alerts for your destination.