Specialised Travel Insurance Policies for Indian Students: Address Visa, Job Loss Risks

Indian Student Travel Insurance: Providing Peace of Mind Amid Rising Challenges

For many students, studying abroad is a thrilling and transformative experience, as they select universities that align with their ambitions and offer the potential to shape their futures. However, this journey is not without its challenges, especially for Indian students who must navigate complex visa regulations and uncertain employment prospects in foreign countries. Recent data highlights the intensifying difficulties, with over 1,024 Indian students in the U.S. experiencing visa revocations or SEVIS status terminations since March 2025, leading to abrupt disruptions in their academic and career paths.

The F-1 visa rejection rate for Indian applicants rose by 20% in 2025, following a 40% increase in 2024, further exacerbating the challenges students face. As a result, many students dealing with visa or job loss are burdened by unexpected costs, including accommodation and return travel expenses. To address these concerns, Indian insurance companies have introduced specialised travel policies that offer protection against risks such as visa revocation, job loss, and emergencies. These policies provide a comprehensive safety net, enabling students to focus on their education without the constant worry of unforeseen disruptions.

These student-specific insurance policies not only cover issues like visa cancellations but also unemployment after graduation, offering cost-effective and tailored protection. With an increasing number of Indian students pursuing higher education in countries such as the U.S., the UK, Canada, and Australia, the demand for comprehensive insurance coverage has risen substantially. Traditional international insurance policies, often expensive and unsuitable for Indian students, have led domestic insurers to offer more flexible and affordable alternatives, ensuring that students can navigate their studies with confidence and financial security.

Indian student travel insurance is significantly more affordable, typically costing about one-third of what global policies charge. For instance, a $100,000 medical policy abroad can be much more expensive than one offered by an Indian insurer. Meet Kapadia, the head of travel insurance at Policybazaar, highlighted the growing demand for Indian student travel policies, noting a trend of increasing numbers of students heading to Germany, Ireland, and Australia. Insurers such as Bajaj Allianz and ICICI Lombard have reported a rise in students opting for domestic insurance policies with additional coverage options.

Aashish Sethi from Bajaj Allianz pointed out that many students are now seeking comprehensive packages that include coverage for job loss, counselling, and emergency family visits. Additionally, Priya Deshmukh from ICICI Lombard noted the growing demand for destination-specific add-ons, particularly those that address post-study employment gaps. This shift demonstrates a clear understanding of the evolving needs of Indian students abroad and the importance of tailored, affordable insurance solutions to support their academic and professional journeys. The growing demand for student-specific insurance policies reflects the increasing complexity of studying abroad, offering students peace of mind and financial security as they navigate both their education and the uncertainties of living in a foreign country.

Editor's Note:

The introduction of specialised travel insurance policies for Indian students marks a significant step forward in addressing the unique challenges they face while studying abroad. With rising visa rejection rates, job uncertainties, and the financial strain caused by sudden disruptions, these policies offer much-needed security. By covering critical issues such as visa revocation, unemployment, and emergencies, insurers are providing students with a safety net that allows them to focus on their studies without the looming anxiety of unforeseen complications. This targeted approach demonstrates a growing understanding of the specific needs of international students and is a welcome relief to those navigating the complexities of life in a foreign country. In addition to offering essential coverage, these policies are notably more affordable than traditional international insurance, which often fails to cater to the financial realities of Indian students. By providing cost-effective alternatives, Indian insurers are ensuring that students have the protection they need and are making it more feasible for them to secure their futures without compromising their education. 

Skoobuzz asserts that as more Indian students head to destinations like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, these policies will become an indispensable part of their journey, empowering them to focus on their academic and professional aspirations with confidence and peace of mind.