If you are planning to travel or move to the European Union (EU), one of the essential things to do is to have insurance to keep you protected.

However, getting insured while abroad can be tricky, especially when you are not familiar with the laws and policies governing EU insurance. Here are ten key things to remember when purchasing EU insurance from abroad.

1. Do Your Research

Before buying any insurance policy, it’s essential to research various insurance providers and compare rates, coverage, and benefits.

You can ask for recommendations from friends or family members, check insurance comparison websites, or consult with an insurance agent for guidance.

2. Choose the Right Type of Insurance

Evaluate your needs and opt for the insurance policy that suits your situation. For instance, travel insurance may cover losses incurred during your travels such as trip cancelations, lost luggage, medical emergencies, etc.

At the same time, health insurance may cover treatment costs, medical procedures, and hospitalization, among other benefits.

3. Check Policy Coverage

Thoroughly check the policy coverage for the specific insurance type you are buying, including the detailed benefits of each plan.

For travel insurance, you may want to check the covered travel destination, delays and cancellations, and the maximum amount of the coverage benefits.

4. Be Aware of the Policy Terms and Conditions

It’s crucial to read and understand the policy’s terms and conditions before signing the agreement.

Pay attention to the policy details such as various exclusions, deductibles, and any other important clauses that determine the policy’s payment and extent of coverage.

5. Know Your Rights and Obligations

Be familiar with your rights and obligations as an insured person under EU insurance policies. For instance, you should know what information is necessary to provide to insurers, how to make a claim, and the process of renewing or canceling the policy.

6. Check the Insurer’s Reputation

Choose an insurance company with a reputation for excellent customer service, fair claims settlement, and a history of timely payments. You can read online reviews or check the company’s ratings to ensure you make the right decision.

7. Look for International Insurance Providers

Some insurance providers specialize in offering international insurance policies.

These companies have experience in providing insurance to individuals moving overseas or traveling abroad and are familiar with the specific legal requirements and policies in different EU countries.

8. Verify the Insurance Provider’s Legitimacy

Ensure that the insurance provider is licensed to operate and offer insurance policies in the EU country or countries you are visiting. You can check their registration and authorization details from the EU insurance regulator website.

9. Compare Rates and Payment Options

Compare insurance rates from different providers and choose the affordable and flexible one. You may also want to check the payment options, such as monthly, quarterly, or yearly premiums, and choose the one that best suits your budget and needs.