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Compare Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Travel Insurance

Our guide explains which conditions are automatically covered, how insurers assess and price risk, and how to declare conditions when applying. We outline insurer comparisons, case studies, and tips to help you find the right cover.
Updated 27 February 2026

Summary
  • Pre-existing conditions are the single biggest complication in buying travel insurance. A standard policy might cost $200 – adding pre-existing condition cover can push that to $500, $1,000, or more depending on the condition, your age, and where you’re travelling. Yet travelling without cover for a known condition is the riskiest decision any traveller can make.
  • This guide is published to help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect travel insurance. We explain what insurers consider a pre-existing condition, how they assess and price the risk, which conditions are automatically covered (and which aren’t), and what happens when you need to claim.
  • Finding the right policy requires honesty, patience, and comparison. Insurers differ significantly in how they assess conditions, what they charge, and what they exclude.
  • The difference between the cheapest and most expensive quote for the same condition can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars - our over 70s travel insurance comparison shows the significant price range between insurers without even considering pre-existing conditions. For this reason, getting custom quotes well in advance of your travel date is the best way forward.
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Key Findings:
  • Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) offers a straightforward medical assessment process and competitive pricing for travellers with pre-existing conditions
  • Some conditions (mild asthma, controlled blood pressure, certain allergies) are automatically covered by many insurers at no extra cost
  • Failing to declare a pre-existing condition is the most common reason travel insurance claims are rejected in New Zealand
  • The cost of adding pre-existing condition cover varies enormously between insurers – we suggest you always get at least three quotes
  • Travelling without declaring a known condition isn’t just a financial risk – it can leave you stranded overseas with no support, no claims assistance, and no way home

To help you understand how to buy the right policy, our guide covers:
​Advertising Disclaimer: At MoneyHub, we maintain transparency and independence in our reviews and comparisons. While we may have commercial relationships with some insurers featured in this guide, these partnerships do not influence our rankings, recommendations, or the prices you see. Our commitment is to provide New Zealanders with unbiased, trustworthy information to help them make informed decisions based on their needs.
Our View – Southern Cross Offers the Best Starting Point for Travellers with Pre-Existing Conditions
  • If you have a pre-existing condition, we believe your first quote should come from Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI). Their online medical screening is straightforward, their pricing is competitive even after medical loading, and they provide unlimited medical cover as standard – which is non-negotiable when your condition makes a high-cost claim more likely.
  • As a not-for-profit insurer serving New Zealanders since 1961, SCTI reinvests surplus into better coverage rather than shareholder returns. Our readers with pre-existing conditions consistently report positive experiences with SCTI's New Zealand-based claims team – including emergency hospitalisations in the USA.
  • Allianz has a strong offering - unlimited medical cover, a broad medical screening process, and market-leading cancellation cover up to $200,000 – particularly valuable if your condition means there's a higher chance you'll need to cancel.
  • Our View: The difference between insurers for the same pre-existing condition can be hundreds of dollars. Both SCTI and Allianz quote in under 60 seconds – we suggest you get prices from at least both before booking any trip.

What Is a Pre-Existing Condition?

A pre-existing condition is any medical or health condition for which you have been diagnosed, received treatment, experienced symptoms, or sought advice before buying your travel insurance. The definition is deliberately broad – it covers conditions you’re actively being treated for, conditions you’ve had in the past that may recur, and even conditions you’ve only discussed with your GP.

Know This: Insurers don’t just look at conditions you currently have. If you had cancer five years ago and have been in remission since, that’s still a pre-existing condition.
  • If you saw your doctor about chest pain last month and were told it was nothing, the fact you sought advice means it’s technically a pre-existing condition. The safest approach is simple - if in doubt, declare it.
  • The definition matters because failure to declare a pre-existing condition is the single most common reason travel insurance claims are rejected. It doesn’t matter whether you forgot, didn’t think it was relevant, or assumed it was too minor to mention.
  • If the insurer discovers an undeclared condition that’s related to your claim, they can – and routinely do – decline the claim entirely.
  • This can leave you paying tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in overseas medical bills with no support from your insurer.​

Understanding the Types of Pre-Existing Conditions (and How Insurers Categorise Them)

Insurers group pre-existing conditions into categories based on the type of condition, its severity, and the risk it presents. Understanding these categories helps you anticipate how your condition will be assessed and what it might cost to cover. Common pre-existing conditions include:
  1. Heart and Cardiovascular Conditions: This includes angina, heart disease, heart attack history, atrial fibrillation, heart valve conditions, and any history of cardiac surgery or stent placement. Heart conditions are among the most common reasons for expensive overseas medical claims, so insurers assess them carefully. Expect detailed questions about when you were diagnosed, your current medication, and whether your condition is stable.
  2. Breathing and Respiratory Conditions: Asthma (mild through to severe), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and sleep apnoea fall into this category. Mild, well-controlled asthma is often automatically covered, but more serious respiratory conditions will require assessment.
  3. Blood and Circulatory Conditions: High cholesterol, high blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), anaemia, and blood clotting disorders. Controlled high blood pressure and high cholesterol are frequently auto-covered, but a history of DVT or clotting issues will typically require further assessment.
  4. Mental Health Conditions: Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and other mental health conditions are pre-existing conditions that must be declared. Some insurers are more willing to cover stable, medicated mental health conditions than others. This is an area where comparing insurers is particularly important.
  5. Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke history, and migraines (if medicated) fall into this group. The assessment will focus on the severity, frequency of episodes, and stability of treatment.
  6. Diabetes: Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are common pre-existing conditions. Insurers will want to know your HbA1c levels, how you manage the condition (diet, oral medication, or insulin), and whether you’ve experienced any complications.
  7. Cancer: Active cancer, cancer in remission, or a history of cancer – all must be declared. This is one of the more complex conditions to insure, and your coverage and premium will depend heavily on the type of cancer, stage, treatment status, and time since treatment ended.
  8. Musculoskeletal Conditions: Joint replacements, osteoarthritis, chronic back conditions, and recent fractures are relevant if they could require treatment while travelling. A hip replacement six months ago is a pre-existing condition – the risk of complications during travel is real.

Other Conditions: This is a non-exhaustive list. Conditions like kidney disease, liver conditions, autoimmune disorders, allergies requiring an EpiPen, and many others all need to be declared. The rule is simple - if you’ve been diagnosed with it, treated for it, or sought advice about it, declare it.
A MoneyHub Reader's Experience - Why Claims Service Matters as Much as Price
Before comparing prices, it's worth hearing from a reader who has been through the claims process. One of our newsletter subscribers - who travels annually to the USA with pre-existing conditions - shared their experience after reading our guide to travel insurance for those in their 70s or older:

"​Kia Ora, Chris and the MoneyHub team

Thank you so much for publishing your timely report on Comprehensive Travel Insurance for the over-70s/80s. You covered a lot of the ground. My wife and I continually research before our annual family visit to the USA. We agree with your conclusions, having used both Southern Cross Travel Insurance and Allianz Travel Insurance.
You are right on target for how much your premium can escalate for an 80+ with pre-existing conditions.

We openly report our conditions, then “bite the bullet” and pay it - No Insurance, No Travel.

The bit that we can add to your report is the service received in the case of emergency medical treatment, both for hospitalisation for an unplanned accident and a case of a “fake” heart attack. In both situations, we were covered by Southern Cross Travel Insurance, and in both cases, we were extremely impressed with the hassle-free service we received from our NZ - based management team. This extended to them reviewing our treatment outcomes and recommending a delay in our homeward travel plans.

This exemplary service has cemented our loyalty to Southern Cross Travel Insurance. A point to note. Our brother-in-law, who is a physician in the USA, cautioned us on travelling to areas that were more isolated or where treatment costs were known to be particularly high.

Keep up the fantastic work.
Thank you"
(MoneyHub Reader and Newsletter Subscriber)

Our View: This reader's experience reinforces why we suggest getting a Southern Cross Travel Insurance quote first — competitive pricing backed by responsive claims handling from a New Zealand-based team.
Our View – Southern Cross Offers the Best Starting Point for Travellers with Pre-Existing Conditions
  • If you have a pre-existing condition, we believe your first quote should come from Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI). Their online medical screening is straightforward, their pricing is competitive even after medical loading, and they provide unlimited medical cover as standard – which is non-negotiable when your condition makes a high-cost claim more likely.
  • As a not-for-profit insurer serving New Zealanders since 1961, SCTI reinvests surplus into better coverage rather than shareholder returns. Our readers with pre-existing conditions consistently report positive experiences with SCTI's New Zealand-based claims team – including emergency hospitalisations in the USA.
  • Allianz has a strong offering - unlimited medical cover, a broad medical screening process, and market-leading cancellation cover up to $200,000 – particularly valuable if your condition means there's a higher chance you'll need to cancel.
  • Our View: The difference between insurers for the same pre-existing condition can be hundreds of dollars. Both SCTI and Allianz quote in under 60 seconds – we suggest you get prices from at least both before booking any trip.

Conditions That Are Automatically Covered (and Those That Aren’t)

Many travel insurers maintain a list of pre-existing conditions they will cover automatically at no additional charge. These are typically conditions that are well-controlled, haven’t required recent hospitalisation, and present a relatively low risk of generating a claim.

1) Commonly Auto-Covered Conditions
The following conditions are often automatically covered, provided they are stable and well-managed. However, each insurer’s list is different, so always check the policy wording:
  • Mild asthma (no hospitalisation in the past 12 months)
  • Controlled high blood pressure (on stable medication)
  • High cholesterol (on stable medication)
  • Certain allergies (food, hay fever, seasonal)
  • Coeliac disease
  • Controlled hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism
  • Osteoporosis (if no recent fractures)

Know This: “Automatically covered” doesn’t mean you don’t need to declare it. You should still mention any condition during the application process. What it means is that the insurer won’t charge you extra or require a medical assessment for these conditions.

2) Conditions That Typically Require Assessment
The following conditions will almost always require a medical assessment, and may result in additional premiums, exclusions, or declined cover:
  • Heart disease, angina, atrial fibrillation, heart surgery history
  • Cancer (active, in remission, or historical)
  • Diabetes (particularly insulin-dependent)
  • Stroke or TIA history
  • COPD, emphysema, severe asthma
  • Mental health conditions requiring medication
  • Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
  • Kidney disease or dialysis​

How Insurers Assess Pre-Existing Conditions

When you declare a pre-existing condition, insurers evaluate several factors to determine whether they’ll cover it, what they’ll charge, and whether any exclusions apply. Understanding this process helps you prepare for the application and avoid surprises.

What Insurers Want to Know
The assessment typically covers:
  • The exact diagnosis – not just “heart problems” but the specific condition (e.g. atrial fibrillation, mitral valve prolapse)
  • When you were diagnosed – recent diagnoses are considered higher risk than long-standing, stable conditions
  • Current treatment and medication – what you’re taking, dosages, and whether these have changed recently
  • Stability – whether your condition has been stable, worsening, or if treatment has changed in the past 6–12 months
  • Hospitalisations – any recent hospital stays related to the condition
  • Pending tests or treatment – whether you’re awaiting results, referrals, or procedures
  • Prognosis – in some cases, insurers may request information from your GP

The Assessment Process
  • Most insurers use an online medical screening questionnaire that you complete during the quote process. The questionnaire is typically a series of yes/no questions that branch based on your answers. Some insurers use third-party screening tools while others use their own systems.
  • The process usually takes 5–15 minutes per condition. You’ll need your current medication list in front of you, including the names of medications and dosages. If you don’t know these details, check with your pharmacy or GP before starting.

Our Suggestion: Before you start the application, write down every condition you have, every medication you take (including the dose), and when each condition was diagnosed. Having this information ready makes the process smoother and reduces the risk of providing inaccurate information.

How Assessment Outcomes Affect Your Coverage and Premium

After completing the medical assessment, the insurer will reach one of four outcomes. Understanding these outcomes helps you know what to expect and how to respond.

Outcome 1: Covered at No Extra Cost
  • The best outcome. Your condition is accepted and covered under the standard policy with no additional premium.
  • This typically happens with well-controlled, low-risk conditions - you’re fully covered for claims related to your pre-existing condition.

Outcome 2: Covered for an Additional Premium
  • The insurer agrees to cover your condition but charges an additional premium to reflect the higher risk. The additional cost can range from modest (an extra $50–$100 for a well-managed condition) to substantial (hundreds or thousands of dollars for complex conditions, older travellers, or high-cost destinations like the USA).
  • You should get quotes from multiple insurers because the additional premium varies significantly.

Outcome 3: Exclusion Applied
  • The insurer will issue a policy but will exclude your pre-existing condition. This means any claim related to that specific condition will not be covered.
  • You’re still covered for everything else – cancellation, luggage, other medical emergencies – but not for anything connected to the excluded condition.
  • Some travellers accept this if the excluded condition is well-managed and they’re comfortable with the risk.
  • Know This: Exclusions can be broader than you expect. If your heart condition is excluded and you have a stroke overseas (which could be related to cardiovascular health), the insurer may argue the claim falls under the exclusion. Ask the insurer exactly what the exclusion covers before accepting the policy.

Outcome 4: Declined
  • The insurer refuses to offer cover for your condition entirely, or declines to offer you a policy at all. This typically happens when the condition is unstable, recently diagnosed, or considered very high risk.
  • If one insurer declines you, try others – different insurers have different risk appetites, and a decline from one does not mean a decline from all.​

Step-by-Step - How to Declare Pre-Existing Conditions When Applying

Declaring pre-existing conditions doesn’t have to be stressful. We suggest you consider following this process:
  1. Prepare your medical information before you start: Write down every condition, every medication (name and dose), when each condition was diagnosed, any recent changes to treatment, and any recent hospitalisations. Check with your pharmacy if you’re unsure about medication details.
  2. Start the quote process with your preferred insurer: Go to the insurer’s website and begin a quote. You’ll enter your travel details first (destination, dates, number of travellers).
  3. Answer the medical screening questions honestly and completely: You’ll be asked whether you have any pre-existing conditions. Answer yes and provide all requested details. Don’t minimise, guess, or leave anything out. If a question is ambiguous, answer it in the way that provides the most information to the insurer.
  4. Complete any additional medical assessment: For conditions that aren’t automatically covered, you’ll go through a more detailed questionnaire. This is where having your medication list ready pays off.
  5. Review the outcome carefully: Check whether your conditions are covered, excluded, or subject to additional premiums. Read the exclusions section of the policy wording – not just the summary.
  6. Compare with at least two other insurers: The assessment outcome and pricing can vary significantly. An insurer that excludes your condition might be covering it at another insurer for a reasonable premium.
  7. Purchase the policy and keep confirmation: Once you’re happy with the coverage and price, purchase the policy. Save the confirmation email, policy wording, and any documentation showing what conditions are covered. Take these with you when you travel.
Our View – Southern Cross Offers the Best Starting Point for Travellers with Pre-Existing Conditions
  • If you have a pre-existing condition, we believe your first quote should come from Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI). Their online medical screening is straightforward, their pricing is competitive even after medical loading, and they provide unlimited medical cover as standard – which is non-negotiable when your condition makes a high-cost claim more likely.
  • As a not-for-profit insurer serving New Zealanders since 1961, SCTI reinvests surplus into better coverage rather than shareholder returns. Our readers with pre-existing conditions consistently report positive experiences with SCTI's New Zealand-based claims team – including emergency hospitalisations in the USA.
  • Allianz has a strong offering - unlimited medical cover, a broad medical screening process, and market-leading cancellation cover up to $200,000 – particularly valuable if your condition means there's a higher chance you'll need to cancel.
  • Our View: The difference between insurers for the same pre-existing condition can be hundreds of dollars. Both SCTI and Allianz quote in under 60 seconds – we suggest you get prices from at least both before booking any trip.

Scenarios Where You May Not Be Covered

There are situations where getting cover for a pre-existing condition will be difficult or impossible. Being aware of these helps you plan accordingly:
  • Your condition is unstable or has recently worsened: If your condition has changed, your treatment has been adjusted, or you’ve been hospitalised in the past 3–6 months, insurers are likely to decline cover for that condition or charge a very high premium.
  • You’re awaiting test results or a diagnosis: If you’re in the process of being investigated for a condition – waiting for blood test results, a specialist referral, or a scan – most insurers won’t cover you for anything related to the investigation until the results are in and any condition is stable.
  • You’re awaiting surgery or treatment: If you’re on a waiting list for a procedure, insurers typically won’t cover the condition until after the procedure is complete and you’ve recovered.
  • You’ve been advised not to travel: If a medical professional has recommended you don’t travel, this will almost certainly void any claim related to the condition – and potentially your entire policy.
  • You’re travelling for medical treatment: Travel insurance does not cover planned medical treatment overseas. If you’re travelling specifically to receive treatment, standard travel insurance won’t cover it.
  • Your condition has changed since you bought the policy: If you purchase a policy and your condition changes before you travel – new diagnosis, new medication, hospitalisation – you must contact your insurer. Failure to do so can invalidate your cover. Some insurers will reassess; others may cancel the policy and refund your premium.

How to Compare Policies (The Factors That Matter) and Insurers Offering Cover for Pre-Existing Conditions

When comparing travel insurance policies for pre-existing conditions, price is important but it’s not the only factor. Here’s what to evaluate:

1. Coverage Scope
  • Does the policy cover your specific conditions? Are there any exclusions?
  • Some policies will cover your diabetes but exclude your heart condition. Make sure you understand exactly what is and isn’t covered before purchasing.

2. Medical Cover Limits
  • For travellers with pre-existing conditions, unlimited medical cover is essential.
  • A medical emergency related to a pre-existing condition can be extremely expensive – a heart attack in the USA can easily exceed $200,000. Capped medical cover in the hundreds of thousands of dollars is arguably best avoided given the overall increasing cost of healthcare worldwide.

3. Additional Premium
  • What does the insurer charge to cover your conditions? This varies enormously between providers, which is why comparing at least three quotes is essential.
  • Don’t just compare the base policy price – compare the total cost including any pre-existing surcharges.

4. Excess
  • What’s the excess (the amount you pay before the insurer covers the rest) for claims related to your pre-existing condition? Some insurers apply a higher excess specifically for pre-existing condition claims. Check this carefully.

5. Cancellation Cover
  • Can you claim for trip cancellation if your pre-existing condition flares up before travel? Not all policies include this, and for travellers with health conditions, the risk of needing to cancel is higher. Make sure your policy covers cancellation related to your pre-existing condition.

6. Claims Service and Reputation
  • How does the insurer handle claims? A cheap policy from an insurer with poor claims handling can end up costing you more in stress and out-of-pocket expenses than a slightly more expensive policy from an insurer known for responsive service. Look for insurers with New Zealand-based claims teams and a track record of paying claims fairly.

7. Emergency Assistance
  • When something goes wrong overseas, you need an insurer that provides 24/7 emergency assistance. This means someone answering the phone at 3am when you’re in a foreign hospital, coordinating with medical providers, and managing your care. This service is particularly important for travellers with pre-existing conditions.​

Which Insurers Cover Pre-Existing Conditions?

The approach to pre-existing conditions varies significantly across New Zealand’s travel insurance market. Here’s how the major providers handle them:

1. Insurers Who Are Also Underwriters
  • Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) – Offers a straightforward online medical screening process. SCTI covers a wide range of pre-existing conditions and has a reputation for fair pricing. As part of a not-for-profit organisation, SCTI reinvests surplus into better coverage rather than shareholder profits. SCTI provides unlimited medical cover, and their New Zealand-based claims team has strong service reviews from our readers. We suggest starting your comparison with SCTI.
  • Allianz Travel Insurance – Uses an online medical screening process that covers a broad range of conditions. Allianz offers unlimited medical cover and flexible policy options. Their cancellation cover (up to $200,000) is particularly strong for travellers booking expensive trips well in advance.
  • CoverMore (owned by Zurich) – Offers medical screening for pre-existing conditions. Cover-More uses Zurich’s underwriting, and their International Comprehensive Premium policy provides broad coverage.

2. Specialist Insurers Using External Underwriters
  • AA Travel Insurance (underwritten by Allianz) – Offers pre-existing condition screening. Pricing can be higher than going directly to Allianz due to the AA’s distribution margin.
  • Air New Zealand Travel Insurance (underwritten by Zurich) – Offers pre-existing condition assessment. As with AA, pricing may reflect the distribution arrangement.
  • TINZ (underwritten by HDI Global Specialty SE) – Offers medical screening. Can be competitive on pricing for certain conditions and age groups.
  • 1Cover (underwritten by HDI Global Specialty SE) – Offers online medical screening. Uses the same underwriter as TINZ.
  • AMI and State (underwritten by Zurich) – Offer pre-existing condition assessment through their YourCover International policy.
  • Tower (underwritten by Allianz) – Offers pre-existing condition screening through their Comprehensive policy.
  • AMP (underwritten by Allianz) – Offers assessment but pricing tends to be at the higher end of the market.

3. Web-Based Travel Insurers
  • Mix & Match (underwritten by Allianz) – Offers pre-existing condition screening and can be competitive on pricing.
  • Webjet (underwritten by Cover-More NZ / Zurich AUS) – Offers medical screening for pre-existing conditions.

Our Suggestion: Start with Southern Cross Travel Insurance and Allianz, then compare with at least one other provider. The assessment outcomes and pricing can differ significantly between insurers for the same condition, so comparing is not optional – it’s essential.
Our View – Southern Cross Offers the Best Starting Point for Travellers with Pre-Existing Conditions
  • If you have a pre-existing condition, we believe your first quote should come from Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI). Their online medical screening is straightforward, their pricing is competitive even after medical loading, and they provide unlimited medical cover as standard – which is non-negotiable when your condition makes a high-cost claim more likely.
  • As a not-for-profit insurer serving New Zealanders since 1961, SCTI reinvests surplus into better coverage rather than shareholder returns. Our readers with pre-existing conditions consistently report positive experiences with SCTI's New Zealand-based claims team – including emergency hospitalisations in the USA.
  • Allianz has a strong offering - unlimited medical cover, a broad medical screening process, and market-leading cancellation cover up to $200,000 – particularly valuable if your condition means there's a higher chance you'll need to cancel.
  • Our View: The difference between insurers for the same pre-existing condition can be hundreds of dollars. Both SCTI and Allianz quote in under 60 seconds – we suggest you get prices from at least both before booking any trip.

Example Case Studies - What Typically Happens in Practice with Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Cover and Claims

The following examples illustrate how pre-existing conditions play out in real travel insurance scenarios. These are based on common situations – not specific claims.

Example 1: Jane – Well-Controlled Asthma
  • Jane, 55, has mild asthma controlled with a preventive inhaler. She hasn’t been hospitalised for asthma in over five years. When she applies for travel insurance for a trip to the UK, her asthma is automatically covered at no extra charge.
  • She declares it during the application, ticks “yes” to the screening questions, and the system confirms coverage is included. Her premium is identical to what it would be without asthma.

Example 2: Peter – Recently Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes
  • Peter, 62, was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes eight months ago. He’s managing it with metformin and dietary changes, and his HbA1c has stabilised.
  • When he applies for travel insurance for a trip to Fiji, the medical screening asks detailed questions about his diagnosis date, treatment, and recent test results.
  • The insurer agrees to cover his diabetes for an additional premium of $85 on top of the standard policy price. Peter compares three insurers and finds the additional premium ranges from $60 to $180 for the same trip.

Example 3: Margaret – Heart Disease
  • Margaret, 72, has a history of angina and had a stent placed two years ago. Her condition is stable on medication.
  • She applies for travel insurance for a USA trip. The first insurer offers cover with an additional premium of $420. The second insurer excludes her heart condition entirely but offers a cheaper base policy. The third insurer offers cover with an additional premium of $310.
  • Margaret chooses the third insurer because she wants full cover for her heart condition at a reasonable price – the USA is not a destination where she’s willing to take risks on medical costs.

Example 4: Bryan – Undeclared High Blood Pressure
  • Bryan, 68, has high blood pressure managed with medication. He doesn’t declare it when buying travel insurance because he considers it “minor” and “well-managed.” During a trip to Thailand, Bryan suffers a stroke and is hospitalised. When he files a claim, the insurer investigates and discovers his undeclared blood pressure.
  • The claim is declined because stroke is directly related to cardiovascular health.
  • Bryan faces a medical bill exceeding $75,000 with no insurer support - this is the scenario every traveller with a pre-existing condition must avoid.

Example 5: Linda – Awaiting Cancer Treatment
  • Linda, 58, has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is on a waiting list for surgery. She wants to take a holiday before treatment begins. Every insurer she approaches either declines to cover her cancer or declines to offer a policy altogether because she’s awaiting treatment.
  • Linda’s options are to either travel without cancer cover (accepting the risk) or postpone her trip until after treatment when her condition is stable and she can obtain cover. She decides to postpone.

Example 6: David – Multiple Conditions
  • David, 75, has Type 2 diabetes, atrial fibrillation, and a knee replacement from last year. He’s heading to Australia for a family wedding.
  • The medical screening takes about 20 minutes as he works through questions for each condition.
  • The insurer covers all three conditions for an additional premium of $195. David notes that a different insurer wanted $480 for the same cover – reinforcing why comparison matters, especially with multiple conditions.
​Why MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh Personally Uses Southern Cross Travel Insurance - And Why It's Worth Your Attention:

I've used Southern Cross Travel Insurance for every overseas trip I've taken in recent years - from the USA and Switzerland to Thailand, Spain, Japan and plenty of destinations in between. I don't use it because MoneyHub has a relationship with them. I use it because when I compared every major insurer line by line, SCTI's coverage was consistently stronger where it matters most.

For travellers with pre-existing conditions, three things set SCTI apart:
  • Pre-existing medical conditions don’t automatically disqualify you. SCTI offers a straightforward medical assessment process that can extend cover to pre-existing conditions. Other insurers either exclude them outright or charge very high premiums.
  • Unlimited medical cover as standard. For travellers with pre-existing conditions, this is non-negotiable. A capped policy leaves you exposed to exactly the kind of high-cost emergency your condition makes more likely.
  • New Zealand-based claims team with strong service reviews. When you’re in a foreign hospital with a pre-existing condition, you need someone answering the phone who understands your situation. Our reader testimonial above is consistent with the feedback we regularly receive about SCTI’s claims handling.

My view: I've never had a reason to switch insurers, and I've looked. SCTI is popular with MoneyHub readers who routinely share their positive experiences. I suggest getting a SCTI quote.
Christopher Walsh
MoneyHub Founder

10 Must-Know Tips for Buying Travel Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions

  1. Declare everything – no exceptions. Undeclared conditions are the number one reason claims are rejected. Even conditions you consider minor, well-managed, or historical must be declared. The cost of non-disclosure is always higher than the cost of declaring.
  2. Have your medication list ready before you start. You’ll need the name of every medication, the dosage, and what it’s for. Check with your pharmacy if you’re unsure. Incorrect information can invalidate your cover.
  3. Get at least three quotes. The difference in additional premiums for the same condition can be hundreds of dollars between insurers. An insurer that declines your condition might be beaten by one that covers it affordably. Start with Southern Cross Travel Insurance and Allianz, then compare with at least one more.
  4. Buy your policy the day you book your trip. Cancellation cover starts from the moment you purchase. If your condition flares up between booking and travelling, you’re covered for cancellation. Waiting until the week before gives you zero protection for the months in between.
  5. Insist on unlimited medical cover. Medical emergencies related to pre-existing conditions can be extremely expensive. A heart attack in the USA can cost $200,000+. Medical evacuation from the Pacific Islands to New Zealand can exceed $50,000. Capped medical cover is not enough.
  6. Read the exclusions – not just the summary. If your condition is excluded, understand exactly what that exclusion covers. A heart condition exclusion may also exclude stroke, blood clots, and other cardiovascular events. Ask the insurer directly if anything is unclear.
  7. Don’t rely on credit card travel insurance. Most credit card travel insurance policies either exclude pre-existing conditions entirely or have age limits (typically 70 or 80). These policies are not designed for travellers with health conditions. Our guide to credit cards that provide travel insurance has more details.
  8. Notify your insurer if your condition changes before travel. If you’re diagnosed with something new, your medication changes, or you’re hospitalised after buying your policy but before travelling, contact your insurer immediately. Failure to do so can void your cover for the changed condition.
  9. Carry your medical information when you travel. Take a list of your conditions, medications (generic names, not just brand names), dosages, and your GP’s contact details. If you’re hospitalised overseas, this information helps medical staff treat you and helps your insurer process your claim faster.
  10. Consider a multi-trip annual policy if you travel frequently. If you travel more than twice a year, an annual policy can save money and avoids the hassle of completing a medical assessment for every trip. Your pre-existing conditions are assessed once for the year. Our guide to annual multi-trip travel insurance has more details.​​

The Consequences of Not Declaring Pre-Existing Conditions

We include this section because the consequences are severe and not well understood. If you don’t declare a pre-existing condition and later make a claim related to it:
  1. Your claim will almost certainly be declined. The insurer has no obligation to pay a claim connected to an undeclared condition. This applies even if you genuinely forgot or didn’t think it was relevant.
  2. Your entire policy may be voided. In some cases, the non-disclosure is considered a breach of the insurance contract, and the insurer may cancel the policy entirely – meaning you lose cover for everything, not just the undeclared condition.
  3. You’ll bear the full cost of medical treatment overseas. Without insurance, overseas medical costs fall entirely on you. A hospital stay in the USA can run to tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Medical evacuation back to New Zealand is similarly expensive.
  4. You won’t have access to emergency assistance services. Insurance isn’t just about money – it provides access to 24/7 assistance teams that coordinate your care, liaise with hospitals, and arrange transport. Without valid insurance, you’re navigating a foreign medical system alone.

The bottom line: Declaring a pre-existing condition might increase your premium. Not declaring it can cost you everything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pre-existing condition in travel insurance?

A pre-existing condition is any medical or health condition for which you have been diagnosed, received treatment, experienced symptoms, or sought advice before purchasing your travel insurance. This includes conditions that are well-managed, historical, or in remission.

Why do I need to declare pre-existing conditions?

You must declare pre-existing conditions so your insurer can accurately assess the risk and provide appropriate cover. Failure to declare a condition can result in your claim being declined, your policy being voided, and you bearing the full cost of any overseas medical treatment.

How do I declare a pre-existing condition?

You declare pre-existing conditions during the travel insurance application process - most insurers use an online medical screening questionnaire. You’ll be asked about your conditions, medications, treatment history, and stability. Have your medication list ready before you start.

Can I get travel insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?

Most New Zealand travel insurers offer cover for pre-existing conditions, although the terms, conditions, and premiums vary significantly. Some conditions are covered automatically at no extra cost, while others require assessment and may attract additional premiums or exclusions.

Which insurer is best for pre-existing conditions?

We suggest starting with Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) for their straightforward assessment process, competitive pricing, and responsive claims service. Allianz is a strong alternative with unlimited medical cover and flexible options. Always compare at least three insurers because outcomes and pricing vary significantly.

Will my pre-existing condition be covered?

It depends on the condition, its stability, and the insurer. Well-controlled, low-risk conditions like mild asthma or managed high blood pressure are often automatically covered. More complex conditions require assessment and may be covered for an additional premium, excluded, or declined.

What happens if my condition changes after I buy my policy?

If your condition changes, you receive a new diagnosis, or your treatment is adjusted between buying the policy and travelling, you must contact your insurer. Failure to do so can invalidate your cover. The insurer may reassess your conditions and adjust the terms or premium.

What if one insurer declines to cover my condition?

A decline from one insurer doesn’t mean all insurers will decline you. Different insurers have different risk appetites and assessment criteria. If you’re declined, try at least two or three other providers. A specialist insurance broker may also be able to help, though premiums will typically be higher.

Does the reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia cover pre-existing conditions?

The agreement between New Zealand and Australia only covers basic emergency treatment in public hospitals. It won’t cover private care, ongoing treatment, medications, medical evacuation, or any other travel insurance benefits. Travellers with pre-existing conditions should always have comprehensive travel insurance, even for short trips to Australia.

Can I get a refund if my condition prevents me from travelling?

If you purchased your policy before your condition changed or worsened, your cancellation cover should protect you – provided you declared the condition and it’s covered under your policy. This is why buying insurance the day you book your trip is so important.

Should I get a separate policy if travelling with someone who doesn’t have pre-existing conditions?

If you’re travelling with a partner or family member who doesn’t have pre-existing conditions, buying separate policies can be cheaper because the healthy traveller won’t be affected by the medical loading on your policy. Always compare both options – a joint policy versus two individual policies.

Is it worth the extra cost to cover my pre-existing condition?

The additional premium to cover a pre-existing condition is a fraction of what you’d pay if something went wrong overseas. A few hundred dollars extra for cover is cheap compared to a $100,000+ medical bill. As one of our readers put it: “No Insurance, No Travel.”

What is the maximum age for getting travel insurance with pre-existing conditions?

Most New Zealand travel insurers cover travellers up to age 99, including those with pre-existing conditions. However, premiums increase significantly with age, and the range of conditions covered may narrow. Our guide to over 70s travel insurance has detailed pricing comparisons.
Our View – Southern Cross Offers the Best Starting Point for Travellers with Pre-Existing Conditions
  • If you have a pre-existing condition, we believe your first quote should come from Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI). Their online medical screening is straightforward, their pricing is competitive even after medical loading, and they provide unlimited medical cover as standard – which is non-negotiable when your condition makes a high-cost claim more likely.
  • As a not-for-profit insurer serving New Zealanders since 1961, SCTI reinvests surplus into better coverage rather than shareholder returns. Our readers with pre-existing conditions consistently report positive experiences with SCTI's New Zealand-based claims team – including emergency hospitalisations in the USA.
  • Allianz has a strong offering - unlimited medical cover, a broad medical screening process, and market-leading cancellation cover up to $200,000 – particularly valuable if your condition means there's a higher chance you'll need to cancel.
  • Our View: The difference between insurers for the same pre-existing condition can be hundreds of dollars. Both SCTI and Allianz quote in under 60 seconds – we suggest you get prices from at least both before booking any trip.
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