When you hear that a Visa credit card includes travel insurance, you might think Visa itself is providing the coverage—but that’s not exactly how it works. Visa doesn’t directly offer travel insurance; instead, the coverage is provided by third-party insurance companies, like CHUBB, which partner with Visa and the banks that issue your credit card.
That means the specific travel insurance benefits you get will depend on your credit card issuer, not just the fact that it’s a Visa card. Different banks (like TD, RBC, or Scotiabank) or financial institutions may offer different levels of coverage on their Visa cards, even if they all use the same insurance provider.
For example, a basic Visa card may only include purchase protection insurance, while a Visa Infinite or Visa Infinite Privilege card might offer trip cancellation, medical emergency coverage, lost baggage protection, and more. Some cards even have additional coverage that the issuing bank has negotiated separately.
It’s important to check the fine print on your specific Visa card to see what’s covered, what isn’t, and whether you need to pay for your trip using your Visa card to activate the insurance.
So while Visa cards can be a great way to get built-in travel protection, your actual insurance coverage depends on the bank that issues the card and their agreement with CHUBB or other insurers.
What might your Visa travel insurance cover?
Many Visa credit cards in Canada offer travel insurance to help protect you from unforeseen circumstances, but how much coverage and which coverages you have will depend on which Visa credit card you have and your credit card issuer. Here’s an overview of the common coverage types you might find:
Emergency medical insurance
If you face a medical emergency while traveling, this coverage can take care of eligible medical expenses. For instance, some cards provide up to $2 million in coverage for unexpected medical illnesses or injuries during out-of-province trips, valid for up to 25 days.
If a medical emergency requires you to be transported back home, Visa’s coverage may include emergency medical evacuation or repatriation costs. In extreme cases, repatriation insurance can also cover the return of remains.
Trip cancellation insurance and trip interruption insurance
Life is unpredictable. If you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to a covered reason, this insurance can reimburse non-refundable travel expenses. Coverage amounts and conditions vary by card, so it’s essential to review your specific card’s details.
Flight delay insurance and delayed baggage insurance
Delays happen. If your flight is delayed beyond a specified period (e.g., over four hours), you may be eligible for reimbursement of reasonable expenses like meals and accommodations. Similarly, if your baggage is delayed, you could be covered for essential purchases.
Lost baggage insurance
If your luggage is permanently lost, Visa travel insurance may reimburse you for the value of your lost items, such as clothing, electronics, and travel essentials.
Auto rental collision/loss damage insurance
Renting a car? Many Visa cards offer coverage for rental vehicle damages due to collision or theft, eliminating the need for additional insurance from the rental company. Typically, this covers rentals up to 48 consecutive days.
Personal property and personal money insurance
If your luggage, personal belongings, or even cash are lost or stolen while traveling, some Visa cards reimburse you for the value of the items. This can include clothing, electronics, passports, and other essential travel items.
Buyer protection insurance
Visa doesn’t just protect you while traveling—it also protects your purchases. With Buyer Protection Insurance, eligible purchases made with your Visa card are covered against theft, accidental damage, or loss for a certain period (usually 90 to 120 days from the purchase date).
- Extended warranty – Some Visa cards double the manufacturer’s warranty (up to one additional year) when you buy electronics, appliances, or other eligible items with your card.
Before your next trip, check with your Visa card issuer to understand the travel insurance benefits available to you.
Benefits of Visa credit card insurance
Having a Visa credit card in Canada comes with more than just convenience—it also offers valuable insurance benefits that can protect you, your family, and your purchases, whether you’re at home or traveling. Here’s why Visa’s built-in insurance can give you peace of mind:
Coverage for your whole family
If you’re traveling with your spouse and children, they’re covered, too. Many Visa credit cards include family travel insurance, so you don’t have to buy separate policies. Whether it’s medical emergencies, trip delays, or lost baggage, your loved ones are protected when you pay for your trip with an eligible Visa card.
Protection wherever you go
Visa’s insurance benefits aren’t just for travel—they also work in your home country and abroad. Whether you’re shopping locally or taking a vacation overseas, you’ll have coverage for unexpected events like medical emergencies, lost luggage, and trip cancellations.
Purchase protection
Bought something valuable? Visa’s purchase protection insurance covers your purchases—including gifts—against damage or theft worldwide. If something you buy with your Visa card gets stolen or accidentally damaged, you may be eligible for a refund or replacement.
High coverage limits
Visa offers some of the highest insurance limits in the industry, depending on your card level:
- Up to $500,000 for Visa Platinum Business and Visa Signature Business cards
- Up to $750,000 for Visa Signature cards
- Up to $2.5 million for Visa Infinite cards
How to check your Visa credit card travel benefits
Before you travel, it’s always a good idea to check what travel insurance coverage and benefits your Visa credit card offers. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make sure you know exactly what’s covered.
1. Review your Visa card’s terms and conditions
Start by checking your credit card agreement or the benefits guide provided by your bank. Many banks list Visa card benefits on their website, including details about travel insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranties.
2. Log into your online banking or Visa benefits portal
Some banks provide an online benefits summary where you can view your Visa card’s coverage. You may also find travel insurance details in your account under the “Credit Card Benefits” or “Insurance” section.
3. Call your credit card issuer
Finally, if you were unsuccessful with the previous steps and are unsure about specific coverage details, call the customer service number on the back of your Visa card. Ask about:
- What travel insurance coverage you have
- What specific coverage limits your card has
- Whether you’re required to pay for your trip or purchase in full with your Visa card to activate coverage
Visa travel insurance limits and exclusions
While Visa travel insurance can provide valuable protection during your trip, it’s important to understand that not everything is covered. Like any insurance policy, there are limitations and exclusions that could impact your claim. Knowing these in advance can help you avoid surprises and plan accordingly.
Pre-existing medical conditions
Most Visa credit cards with travel medical insurance do not cover pre-existing medical conditions unless you meet specific requirements. Some cards may provide coverage only if your condition has been stable for a certain period (e.g., 90 to 180 days) before your departure.
Age restrictions on medical coverage
Many Visa credit cards offer comprehensive emergency medical coverage, but it often comes with age limits. For example:
- Coverage may be limited or unavailable for travelers over 65 or 75 years old.
- The number of covered travel days may be reduced for older travelers.
If you’re a senior traveler, consider purchasing additional travel medical insurance to ensure full coverage.
Long trips
Most Visa travel insurance policies only cover trips up to a certain number of days—typically between 10 to 31 days. If your trip exceeds this limit, you may not be covered unless you purchase a top-up insurance plan.
Unused and partially used travel costs
Trip cancellation and interruption insurance may not fully reimburse you for unused travel expenses, particularly if:
- You cancel your trip for a non-covered reason (e.g., a change of plans).
- You fail to book refundable flights or accommodations when possible.
High-risk activities and adventure sports
Visa travel insurance may exclude coverage for injuries related to high-risk activities such as:
- Skydiving, bungee jumping, or scuba diving beyond a certain depth
- Off-piste skiing or snowboarding
- Mountaineering or extreme hiking
If you plan to engage in adventure sports, you may need to buy specialized travel insurance.
Visa’s travel insurance offers great protection, but it’s crucial to read the fine print for complete coverage details. If your trip involves high-risk activities, long durations, or pre-existing medical conditions, consider supplementing your coverage with standalone travel insurance.
How to make a claim through Visa travel insurance
If something goes wrong during your trip—whether it’s a medical emergency, lost luggage, or a trip cancellation—you’ll want to file a claim through your Visa travel insurance. The process can vary slightly depending on your credit card issuer, but here’s a general guide to help you navigate the steps.
1. Check your coverage and eligibility
Before filing a claim, confirm that your Visa credit card includes the coverage you need. Review your card’s insurance policy to ensure:
- The incident falls under a covered reason (e.g., medical emergencies, trip delays, lost baggage).
- You meet any eligibility requirements, such as paying for your trip with your Visa card.
If you’re unsure, check your credit card provider’s website or call the insurance benefits provider listed on your card’s terms and conditions.
2. Notify the insurance provider as soon as possible
For emergency medical claims, call the insurance provider’s emergency assistance number immediately—this number is usually on the back of your Visa card. Many policies require you to contact them before receiving treatment (except in life-threatening situations).
For trip cancellations, delays, or baggage claims, most insurers require notification within a set period (e.g., 48 hours). Delays in reporting may affect your claim approval.
3. Gather required documentation
To support your claim, you’ll need to provide detailed documentation. Requirements may include:
- Medical claims – Hospital bills, doctor’s diagnosis, proof of medical treatment
- Trip cancellation/interruption – Proof of cancellation (e.g., doctor’s note, airline statement), receipts for pre-paid expenses
- Flight or baggage delays – Airline confirmation of delay, receipts for emergency purchases
- Lost/stolen baggage – Airline baggage claim report, police report (if stolen)
Always keep copies of everything and request official statements from airlines, hotels, and medical providers.
4. Complete and submit the claim form
Most credit card issuers allow you to submit a claim online through their insurance provider’s website. Some may require you to mail forms instead.
- Fill out the claim form completely—missing information can delay processing.
- Attach all supporting documents (receipts, reports, invoices).
- Keep a copy of everything you submit for your records.
5. Follow up on your claim
After submitting your claim, expect processing times of 1–4 weeks, depending on the complexity. If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe:
- Follow up with the insurance provider to check on your claim status.
- Be prepared to provide additional information if requested.
Once approved, reimbursement is usually issued via direct deposit or check. If denied, you can ask for a detailed explanation and, if necessary, file an appeal with additional documentation.
Contact Home Trust for details
Not sure which Home Trust Visa credit card is right for you? Need more details about travel insurance, purchase protection, or foreign transaction fees? We’re here to help!
Whether you’re looking for a cashback card with no annual fee, a card to help build your credit, or a travel-friendly Visa with no foreign transaction fees, Home Trust has options to fit your needs.
Our team is ready to answer any questions and help you find the perfect Visa card for your lifestyle. Reach out today and start enjoying the benefits of a Home Trust Visa credit card.
