Last updated: January 2026
While planning a trip, the last thing you want is to get sick or injured before or during your trip. Unfortunately medical problems can come unexpectedly and can complicate your travel insurance claims. In these cases, a sick note is important to make sure that you are covered by your travel insurance.
In this blog we are going to learn about sick notes for travel insurance and answers to some frequently asked questions about it.
What Is A Sick Note For Travel Insurance?
A sick note for travel insurance, also known as a doctor’s note or a medical certificate, is a written statement by a licensed healthcare professional that says you are unfit to travel due to your illness or injury.
It usually includes information about your medical condition, how severe it is, and if you are able to go ahead with your planned trip.
Travel companies often require this document to process your claims related to illness, injury or other medical problems that are preventing you from travelling.
Sick Note vs Medical Report vs “Fit to Travel” Letter (Quick Clarity)
- Sick note / medical certificate: usually confirms you are not fit to travel (unfit to travel) for a defined period, due to illness or injury. Many insurers explicitly accept/require a medical certificate completed by your doctor for cancellation claims.
- Medical report / letter (often from abroad): if you need medical care while overseas, insurers commonly ask for a report / letter from the treating doctor / dentist abroad confirming the illness / injury and treatment.
- Fit to travel certificate: sometimes requested by airlines/tour operators or for return travel after a medical event. Requirements vary by provider and are not identical to travel insurance evidence. Always check what your insurer (and carrier) specifically needs.
Why You Might Need A Sick Note For Travel Insurance Claim:
There are many situations that can require a sick note to validate your travel insurance claims. These situations may include;
- Trip cancellations
- Delays or interruptions to your trip
- Medical treatment during your trip
- Travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions
In practice, What Insurers Often Mean by “Medical Evidence”?
Depending on your policy and claim type, insurers frequently request a combination of:
- Medical evidence (medical certificate / doctor’s note; or treating doctor’s report abroad)
- Proof of travel and costs (booking invoice, travel tickets, itinerary, cost breakdown)
- Proof of cancellation/refunds (cancellation invoice showing refunds due for unused parts)
- Receipts for expenses incurred (medical, dental, taxi, ambulance, extra accommodation, etc.)
What Should a Sick Note Include?
FAQs About Sick Notes For Travel Insurance:
You can get a sick note by visiting your healthcare provider in-person or you can get a sick note online depending upon the policy of the travel insurance company. Check with your insurance provider about their specific requirements.
Yes, in most cases you will need a doctor’s note to claim travel insurance. When you file a claim for illness related cancellations or medical expenses, the insurance company usually requires a proof from a licensed medical professional that you are unable to travel.
To claim travel insurance for sickness, you’ll have to follow these steps;
1. Notify your insurance company as soon as you realise that your sickness will prevent you from travelling.
2. Get a doctor’s note as proof of your sickness.
3. Submit documentation along with required forms to your insurance company.
4. Wait for the claim decision.
Yes, airlines often accept online sick notes (or medical certificates) as valid documentation for flight cancellations due to medical reasons, though specific policies may vary according to the airline.
Yes, you can get a sick note to cancel a holiday if your illness or injury makes it impossible for you to travel.
