Do COVID Booster Shots Affect Travel Insurance Coverage?

Question

If I get a COVID booster shot in the U.S., will it affect my Travel Medical Insurance coverage?

Answer

Many snowbirds (and some other travellers) are planning to get their COVID booster shots while in the U.S.

However, a number of snowbirds are wondering if receiving a COVID booster shot while travelling will negatively impact their travel medical insurance coverage.

Here are the facts when it comes to getting a COVID booster shot in the U.S. and how it might affect your travel insurance coverage:

  • Most travel insurance companies have taken the position and that if you receive a COVID booster while travelling, any adverse reaction or side-effects you experience as a result of your booster shot will be covered and receiving a booster shot will not invalidate your coverage.
  • However, some travel insurance companies have taken the position that if you receive a COVID booster while travelling, any adverse reaction or side-effects you experience related to your booster shot will not be covered, and in some cases, your entire policy may be invalidated.

Snowbird Advisor Insurance’s position

At Snowbird Advisor Insurance, we are pleased to advise our clients that all of our insurance partners have taken the position that receiving a booster shot while in the U.S. will not negatively affect your travel medical insurance coverage.

Accordingly, adverse reactions and side-effects related to COVID booster shots will be covered and receiving a COVID booster while travelling will not invalidate your coverage.

If you are obtaining your travel insurance from another provider, we strongly suggest you inquire about their coverage policies related to receiving COVID boosters while travelling.

Disclaimer: The material provided in the Snowbird Advisor Insurance Learning Centre is for informational purposes only and does NOT constitute insurance, legal, financial or other advice, and should not be relied on as such. If you require such advice, you should speak with a qualified professional to assist you.