The best travel insurance plans for Argentina in 2025
- The best travel insurance plans for Argentina
- Current Travel Safety in Argentina
- Travel insurance requirements for Argentina
- Why take out travel insurance for Argentina?
- What should travel insurance for Argentina cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Argentina
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Argentina
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Argentina?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Argentina: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Argentina covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage during your trip.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is legally mandatory for Australian travellers to enter Argentina as of July 1, 2025.
3. Minimum coverage: Your policy must cover medical, hospitalisation, and repatriation costs to meet entry requirements.
4. Healthcare cost: Private hospital stays in Argentina can cost foreign visitors over AUD $500 per night.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Argentina typically costs between AUD $40 and AUD $80.
6. Good to know: Petty crime is common, so ensure your policy covers theft of personal belongings.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 42 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Argentina.
The best travel insurance plans for Argentina
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.65M | A robust plan for all trips to Argentina. - very high medical cover - strong repatriation - few exclusions |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.65M | Great for travel security in Argentina. - high medical limits - 24/7 helpline - cancellation protection |
| Tourist Card | AUD 820k | Practical and clear for tourists in Argentina. - solid medical cover - emergency help - competitive pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.15M | Balanced offer for those staying abroad. - high overseas coverage - hospital and rescue included - global network |
| Globe Partner | AUD 490k | Dependable for essential needs. - core health benefits - civil liability - practical for medium-length trips |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 820k | Simple, efficient for Argentina stays. - basic and emergency cover - quick payout - limited exclusions |
- very high medical cover
- strong repatriation
- few exclusions
- high medical limits
- 24/7 helpline
- cancellation protection
- solid medical cover
- emergency help
- competitive pricing
- high overseas coverage
- hospital and rescue included
- global network
- core health benefits
- civil liability
- practical for medium-length trips
- basic and emergency cover
- quick payout
- limited exclusions
Current Travel Safety in Argentina
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to exercise normal safety precautions in Argentina, though a higher degree of caution is recommended in specific areas such as Rosario due to local crime and violence.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime is frequent in larger cities, especially in busy tourist districts of Buenos Aires such as La Boca, San Telmo, and Palermo, where bag-snatching and pickpocketing occur routinely.
- Health risks: dengue, Zika, and chikungunya are prevalent in northern areas and even in Buenos Aires during outbreaks. Medical care quality varies, and state hospitals may deny free treatment to non-residents.
- Legal obligations: health insurance covering your entire stay is mandatory for entry as of July 2025. Proof will be required by airlines prior to travel.
- Cultural awareness: yellow fever vaccination is required when travelling to Misiones and Corrientes provinces, with evidence checked at border crossings or airports.
Travel insurance is legally mandatory to enter Argentina. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Travel insurance requirements for Argentina
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for travellers from Australia to enter Argentina.
As of 1 July 2025, all foreign visitors must present a valid travel insurance certificate covering healthcare, medical consultations, hospitalisation, emergency coverage, repatriation and 24/7 assistance for the entirety of their stay. Proof of insurance is checked by airlines at check-in, and entry will be refused if you do not have compliant cover.
The insurance must be valid in Argentina and recommended coverage includes both medical expenses and emergency evacuation.
Why take out travel insurance for Argentina?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement for visiting Argentina.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Argentina.
In Argentina, foreigners must rely on private clinics such as Hospital Alemán or Swiss Medical in Buenos Aires, where medical services and hospitalisation can be costly. Public hospitals often deny free care to non-residents, especially outside major cities.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Argentina.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Hospital Alemán | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 650,000 ARS (about AUD 7,900) | up to 1,000,000 AUD |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 350,000 ARS (about AUD 4,250) | up to 1,000,000 AUD |
| I need to be repatriated | 4,000,000 ARS (about AUD 48,500) | up to 1,000,000 AUD |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 850,000 ARS (about AUD 10,300) | up to 1,000,000 AUD |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Argentina cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Legally required |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Pays for emergency medical care, doctor visits, surgery, hospitalisation, and medication. Recommended limit: AUD 500,000 or more for Argentina. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Covers medical transport to Australia or nearest suitable hospital after a serious accident or illness. Recommended limit: AUD 350,000 minimum. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🛏 Hospitalisation | Daily room, intensive care, and specialist fees in private clinics. Recommended limit: AUD 250,000 or more based on care costs in Argentina. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚕 Ambulance fees | Covers private and emergency ambulance transport within Argentina. Recommended limit: AUD 15,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 💊 Cover for prescribed medication | Reimburses costs of prescribed medicines when hospitalised or following a consultation. Recommended limit: AUD 2,500. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| ✈️ Early return and trip interruption | Pays for changes to flights or urgent return in case of serious incident or family emergency. Recommended limit: AUD 8,000. | 🔴 Highly recommended |
| 🎒 Baggage loss/theft | Compensation for checked baggage lost, stolen or delayed during the trip. Recommended limit: AUD 3,000 per trip. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 🚫 Third-party liability | Covers damages caused unintentionally to others or their property (excluding vehicles). Recommended limit: AUD 1,000,000. | 🟡 Optional |
Recommended limit: AUD 500,000 or more for Argentina.
Recommended limit: AUD 350,000 minimum.
Recommended limit: AUD 250,000 or more based on care costs in Argentina.
Recommended limit: AUD 15,000.
Recommended limit: AUD 2,500.
Recommended limit: AUD 8,000.
Recommended limit: AUD 3,000 per trip.
Recommended limit: AUD 1,000,000.
Travel insurance requirement for Argentina
Travel insurance is legally required for all Australian travellers entering Argentina from 1 July 2025. The policy must cover medical expenses, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of AUD 350,000. The certificate should be in English or Spanish and valid for your entire stay.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers limited coverage, with low limits and multiple exclusions. For full protection, it is safer to choose a trusted insurer. You can compare top options on HelloSafe and purchase online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Argentina
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 55 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 95 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 150 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 350 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
Good to know
The cost of your mandatory travel insurance for Argentina depends on several factors. Be sure to consider your age, the duration of your stay, your destination(s), the level of cover required, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Keeping these in mind is crucial to finding a policy that suits your needs and budget.
How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Argentina
Here are some suggestions to optimise the cost of your travel insurance to Argentina while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧑 Traveller’s age | Insurers often increase rates for older travellers, especially over 60. | The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. Always compare providers. |
| ✈️ Trip duration | Longer stays increase total premium and risk exposure in Argentina. | Buy insurance only for the duration of your trip, and check policy extensions if you change plans. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Argentina requires coverage for healthcare, hospitalisation, and emergencies. | Select the minimum cover required by Argentine law and avoid extras you do not truly need. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travellers | Family or group policies can be more cost-effective for multiple people. | Choose a group policy where possible if you are travelling with family or friends. |
| 🍏 Medical history | Pre-existing conditions may limit coverage or increase rates. | Declare only relevant pre-existing conditions and compare specialist policies if you require specific coverage. |
| 💳 Payment method | Some payment cards include overseas travel insurance or discounts. | Check if your bank card provides any travel insurance and compare standalone travel policy costs. |
| 🕒 Advance booking | Last-minute insurance can cost more and limit your options. | Book your travel insurance as soon as your trip is confirmed to access early-bird prices and more choices. |
Important
Travel insurance is mandatory for entering Argentina. Make sure your policy covers: medical and hospital expenses (minimum AUD 100,000), emergency evacuation, repatriation, and 24/7 assistance. Airlines check this document before boarding.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Argentina?
It is entirely reasonable to consider if your current insurances, like those from your credit card or the Australian public health system, might protect you during your trip to Argentina. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, especially with the new requirements in Argentina. Only travel insurance meets Argentina’s mandatory entry rules for Australians.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Argentina? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | No coverage for medical expenses, hospital care, repatriation, or emergencies outside Australia. | Travel insurance can reimburse up to AUD 500,000 in medical care and emergencies plus 24/7 assistance. |
| Private health insurance (e.g., Bupa, Medibank, NIB) | Limited coverage | Some plans cover basic medical overseas, usually capped at AUD 50,000. Excludes evacuation and non-emergency care. | Travel insurance covers higher costs (up to AUD 1,000,000) including theft, evacuation, and repatriation. |
| Classic credit card (ANZ First, Westpac Lite, NAB Low Rate) | Limited coverage | May cover trip cancellation, baggage, or medical emergencies but typically under AUD 20,000 and with many exclusions. | Travel insurance covers higher claim limits, pandemic disruptions, and pre-existing conditions are an option. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Platinum, Westpac Black, NAB Qantas Rewards) | Limited coverage | Better medical and trip coverage, but often capped at AUD 100,000. Strict activation and proof needed, many exceptions for claims. | Travel insurance offers up to AUD 1,000,000 for medical and emergencies plus evacuation and 24/7 support. |
Example
Hiking in Patagonia, Liam suffered a serious fall, requiring a medical evacuation and surgery costing AU$40,000. His CommBank credit card's complimentary insurance had a low limit, and his Bupa health fund didn't cover him abroad. He faced a crippling debt for what was meant to be the trip of a lifetime.
Expert advice
Many bank card and health insurance policies exclude crucial cover like trip interruption for a relative's illness or death. Scrutinise your policy's fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to take out dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Argentina?
No, Australians do not need a visa for tourist visits to Argentina of up to 90 days. You must have a valid Australian passport with at least six months’ validity. A return ticket or evidence of onward travel will also be required upon arrival.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Argentina?
To arrange travel insurance for Argentina, compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the cover amounts and pay special attention to specific guarantees and exclusions, especially medical evacuation and pre-existing diseases. Buy your chosen policy online and receive your insurance certificate, which you must present at check-in and entry.
What should my travel insurance for Argentina include?
Your policy should cover emergency medical and hospital care, as well as 24/7 assistance, medical evacuation, and repatriation. Argentina’s requirements also include proof of coverage for COVID-19 and tropical diseases. Ensure the insurance provides cover amounts of at least AUD 100,000 for medical expenses and includes a certificate in English.
Can I buy travel insurance after booking my flight?
Yes, travel insurance can be purchased either when you book your trip or at any time before you leave Australia. However, it is advisable to buy insurance as soon as you book flights and accommodation to ensure you benefit from any cancellation or interruption coverage.
What happens if I do not have travel insurance when flying to Argentina?
Airlines will check your insurance certificate at check-in, and entry officials may also require proof upon arrival in Argentina. Without valid travel insurance, you risk being denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at the Argentine border. In case of emergencies, you will also be responsible for all medical costs.
Is travel insurance expensive for trips to Argentina?
Costs depend mainly on your age, length of stay, and required medical coverage. For most Australian travellers, the price of a standard policy with at least AUD 100,000 coverage ranges from approximately AUD 70 to AUD 190 for a two-week trip. Extras such as adventure sports and extended coverage can increase the premium.
Do I need a visa to travel to Argentina?
No, Australians do not need a visa for tourist visits to Argentina of up to 90 days. You must have a valid Australian passport with at least six months’ validity. A return ticket or evidence of onward travel will also be required upon arrival.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Argentina?
To arrange travel insurance for Argentina, compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the cover amounts and pay special attention to specific guarantees and exclusions, especially medical evacuation and pre-existing diseases. Buy your chosen policy online and receive your insurance certificate, which you must present at check-in and entry.
What should my travel insurance for Argentina include?
Your policy should cover emergency medical and hospital care, as well as 24/7 assistance, medical evacuation, and repatriation. Argentina’s requirements also include proof of coverage for COVID-19 and tropical diseases. Ensure the insurance provides cover amounts of at least AUD 100,000 for medical expenses and includes a certificate in English.
Can I buy travel insurance after booking my flight?
Yes, travel insurance can be purchased either when you book your trip or at any time before you leave Australia. However, it is advisable to buy insurance as soon as you book flights and accommodation to ensure you benefit from any cancellation or interruption coverage.
What happens if I do not have travel insurance when flying to Argentina?
Airlines will check your insurance certificate at check-in, and entry officials may also require proof upon arrival in Argentina. Without valid travel insurance, you risk being denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at the Argentine border. In case of emergencies, you will also be responsible for all medical costs.
Is travel insurance expensive for trips to Argentina?
Costs depend mainly on your age, length of stay, and required medical coverage. For most Australian travellers, the price of a standard policy with at least AUD 100,000 coverage ranges from approximately AUD 70 to AUD 190 for a two-week trip. Extras such as adventure sports and extended coverage can increase the premium.
