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COVID-19 frequently asked questions

We’ve put together some frequently asked questions about the impact of COVID-19.

 

The guidance covers all of our travel policies: HSBC Premier, HSBC Premier (retained Jade benefits), HSBC Private Banking Account, HSBC Private Banking MasterCard, HSBC Select and Cover, HSBC Insurance Aspects, HSBC Gold MasterCard and HSBC Platinum Credit Card.

 

Effective March 2023.

Latest update

The rules for travel can change unexpectedly in relation to COVID-19 restrictions, both in the UK and abroad. Before booking any trip, it's important to make sure you fully understand the financial risks, and book with flexible options wherever possible.

Travel insurance protects you against unforeseen and unexpected events, but not all situations are covered. Please make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your booking and your travel insurance policy.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice

Under the terms of the policy it is essential you check Foreign travel advice for your destination before you book a trip or purchase your travel insurance (whichever is later).

FCDO travel advice provides COVID-19 guidance and tells you about the risks of travelling abroad. Their advice is constantly being reviewed, and they may advise against non-essential travel to some countries and territories. It can also advise you on the different entry requirements for certain countries – for example, you might need a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination to enter.

Telling us if you’ve had COVID-19

It’s important that you check the 'Your health' section of your policy documents:

  • every time you're about to book a trip
  • again before you travel

You must make sure you've told us everything we need to know about the health of each insured person.

Before booking a trip

Before booking your trip you'll need to tell us if you or any insured person on the policy has been diagnosed with an illness, injury or disease within the last 12 months.

If you or anyone covered by your policy has previously tested positive for COVID-19, then you’ll need to tell us about this if you have:

  • been prescribed medication by your doctor for COVID-19
  • visited hospital or A&E for COVID-19, or
  • been referred for investigations or treatment for COVID-19

If this applies to you or anyone covered by your policy, you’ll need to tell us and we’ll ask you some medical screening questions to confirm if we can cover the condition. You should check the 'Your health' section of your policy documents.

HSBC Select and Cover:

You won't be covered for any COVID-19 related conditions if:

  • you were admitted or had treatment in a hospital or out-patient clinic as a result of having COVID-19 in the 3 months prior to booking your trip, or
  • you're awaiting treatment or the results of investigations regarding COVID-19

You should check the 'Your Health' section of your policy booklet to find out what cover you have for other existing medical conditions before you book a trip.

Frequently asked questions

Here you’ll find answers to your specific questions around COVID-19. Please read through all the questions so you’re clear what exclusions and restrictions apply, as more than one scenario may be relevant to you.

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