The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the EHIC after Brexit. It gives you access to state healthcare in EU countries at local rates — but it doesn't cover private treatment, repatriation, cancellation, or any destination outside the EU. For any internship outside the EU, you need proper travel insurance.
What Cover You Actually Need
✅ Non-negotiables
- Medical expenses (minimum £2m cover)
- Emergency medical evacuation / repatriation
- 24/7 emergency assistance line
- Personal liability cover
- Baggage and personal belongings
💡 Strongly recommended
- Work-related accident cover
- Cancellation & curtailment
- Trip interruption
- Laptop / tech equipment (specify value)
- Mental health cover
- Internship as "work": Some policies exclude claims that arise during paid employment. Make sure your policy covers internships specifically.
- Adventure activities: If your destination involves surfing, diving, or hiking, you may need an upgrade.
- Pre-existing conditions: Declare everything — non-disclosure can void your claim.
- High-value items: Standard baggage cover is often capped at £500 total. Specify your laptop separately.
Recommended Providers & Rough Costs
SafetyWing
Designed specifically for long-term travellers and remote workers. Flexible monthly subscription, covers medical and evacuation. Popular with interns and young professionals. Doesn't cover the USA well — get a different policy if going to America.
World Nomads
Covers adventure activities and internships. Good 24/7 support. Widely used by UK students on work placements. Two tiers (Standard and Explorer) — Explorer is worth it if you plan to do any activities abroad.
Allianz Care
Strong medical cover including mental health. Good for European destinations and longer placements. Some visa applications (e.g. Spain student visa) require insurance from a provider like Allianz — check your specific visa requirements.
Check your university policy first
Many UK universities provide basic travel insurance for students on approved placements. Check with your international or placement office before buying separately — you may already have cover, or you may need to top it up.
Insurance by Destination
EU Countries
GHIC covers state healthcare. Still get private cover for repatriation, cancellation, and belongings. Some visas require specific insurance levels — Spain student visa requires minimum €30,000 medical cover.
USA
Healthcare costs are extreme. A single A&E visit can cost £5,000+. Get comprehensive cover with at least £2m medical — and check that your J-1 visa requirements are met (specific minimum coverage levels apply).
Southeast Asia (Bali, Bangkok)
State healthcare is unreliable. Private hospitals are excellent but expensive. Cover evacuation to Singapore or Bangkok if interning in more remote areas. Adventure activity cover strongly advised.
South Africa
Private hospitals are good; state hospitals are not. Essential to have cover. Security and personal liability cover is worth adding given petty crime risk in some areas.
Questions about insurance for your placement?
Our team can advise on what cover you need for your specific destination and visa requirements. We've helped hundreds of UK students navigate this.
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