Insurance in the United Kingdom:
Protection for Your UK Internship
An internship in the United Kingdom promises valuable experience but also requires careful preparation after Brexit – especially regarding insurance coverage. For the Temporary Work GAE Visa, private health insurance is strictly mandatory. Unlike US programs, you must personally arrange this protection in the UK before the sponsor issues your visa certificate.
Why Private Insurance is Mandatory
The British Home Office and sponsors like BUNAC & JENZA require all participants to provide proof of comprehensive international insurance. This is not just about local medical treatment, but primarily about fundamental risks. An EHIC card alone does not cover the services required in the UK by the sponsor, such as repatriation in an emergency.
Minimum Requirements of the Sponsors
To ensure your proof of insurance is accepted in the partner portal, the following criteria must be confirmed in writing:
- Medical Coverage: At least $100,000 USD (or equivalent).
- Repatriation: Full coverage for return transport in case of illness as well as for the transport of remains in case of death.
- Period: The policy must apply seamlessly from the first to the last day of your stay in the UK.
IHS Fee vs. Additional Insurance
For internships lasting longer than 6 months, the mandatory state Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) also applies.
While this fee (approx. £1,035/year) grants you access to the British National Health Service (NHS), it never covers repatriation to your home country. For this reason, sponsors strictly require additional private insurance for your stay in the UK, despite the IHS payment.
Common Questions about UK Insurance
Does the sponsor accept documents in other languages?
Is my statutory health insurance sufficient?
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