Repatriation insurance: what it covers and how to claim

Reviewed by the AirAmbulance.org editorial team · Updated 6 November 2026 · Editorial policy

Repatriation insurance pays to bring you home when you fall ill or are injured abroad, once you're stable enough to travel, by air ambulance or with a medical escort.

Evacuation vs repatriation

• Evacuation moves you to the nearest hospital able to treat you, sometimes in another country.
• Repatriation brings you home, or to a hospital near home, once you can travel.
• Some policies cover both; others only one.

Typical terms

• The insurer's assistance team usually needs to approve and arrange the transport.
• A doctor must confirm repatriation is medically necessary or appropriate.
• Many policies also cover repatriation of remains; check limits and conditions.

Using it

• Call the insurer's 24/7 assistance number as early as possible.
• Ask the treating hospital for a medical report.
• Don't book a flight yourself before the insurer agrees, or you may not be reimbursed.

General information only, not medical, legal or insurance advice. Rules, coverage and prices change; confirm with your provider and insurer.