When traveling outside of Israel, it is imperative to be covered by a medical insurance plan. Standard kupat cholim coverage does not apply outside of Israel. If you are visiting a country where you were previously insured, confirm in advance whether your old plan is still valid.
Most standard traveler’s insurance plans do not cover pregnancy-related issues. However, there are specific plans available that do.
Note: Traveler’s insurance must be purchased (a) before your trip and (b) from within the country where the trip originates. For example, traveler’s heading to Israel from the US must purchase a plan from a U.S. provider.
If you are a resident of Israel, you can purchase traveler’s insurance before your trip either through a private agent or via your kupat cholim.
Private Agencies
Traveler’s insurance from private agencies is generally comparable to that offered by the kupot cholim, though rates and terms may vary. One key advantage to using a private agency is that they handle all claim filing and communication with the insurance provider on your behalf – especially helpful for those not fluent in Hebrew.
The following are some available agencies:
| ASA Worldwide Insurance | 02-532-5110 | 718-874-2751 |
| Egert & Cohen Insurance | 02-623-2546 | 050-548-2192 |
| Epstein Insurance | 02-580-8214 | 718-874-8213 |
| Shacharit Insurance | 02-570-0800 |
Note that inclusion in this guide does not constitute a recommendation or affiliation with Chaim V’Chessed.
Traveler’s Insurance via Kupot Cholim
Kupot cholim typically offer traveler’s insurance only to members of Bituach Leumi. If you have a supplemental insurance plan, part of the traveler’s insurance cost may be subsidized.
Meuhedet
Meuhedet offers traveler’s insurance through the Harel insurance company. You can register online or by calling *3833.
Clalit
Clalit offers traveler’s insurance through the Clal insurance company. Clalit Mushlam members receive a 10‒25% discount. The basic plan includes many services, and additional services and extended coverage are available fo an extra fee.
You can register online or by calling *2700.
Leumit
Leumit offers traveler’s insurance through Clal. More information and registration are available online, or by calling *9094 or 03-942-0425.
Maccabi
Maccabi offers a plan called “Maccabi Medi-Clal Olami”, also through Clal. You may register online (only to those with automatic payment plans), or by calling *2627.
