Last updated: October 2026
Travelling from London to Europe by Eurostar? Travel insurance is not a specific requirement created by Eurostar or the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), but appropriate travel insurance is still an important part of preparing for a European trip.
UK travellers may also be asked to provide evidence relating to their trip when passing through border control. For example, GOV.UK advises that French border authorities may ask travellers to show proof of travel insurance, sufficient funds, accommodation and a return or onward ticket.
This guide explains how the new EES border procedures affect Eurostar passengers, where travel insurance fits in, and what to check before travelling by train to Europe.
Eurostar Travel Insurance at a Glance
EES introduces new digital border procedures but does not itself create a new requirement to purchase travel insurance.
Depending on your destination, border officials may ask for evidence relating to your stay, including proof of travel insurance.
A GHIC or valid EHIC can help with access to state healthcare but does not replace appropriate travel insurance.
Review current entry requirements, Eurostar guidance and your insurance documents before your journey.
What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EU’s Entry/Exit System, known as EES, is a digital border system for non-EU nationals travelling to participating European countries for short stays.
Eurostar advises that EES has been gradually introduced since 12 October 2025. It applies to many non-EU nationals, including British citizens travelling for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period, unless an exemption applies.
EES is not a visa or travel authorisation and there is no separate fee or advance application. Where registration is required, the process takes place as part of border control at the departure station.
Do You Need Travel Insurance to Travel on Eurostar?
Travel insurance is not automatically mandatory simply because you are travelling by Eurostar, and it is not a requirement created by EES.
However, the entry requirements for your destination still apply. GOV.UK advises that when entering France, border officials may ask you to:
- Show proof of travel insurance demonstrating that you can cover emergency costs
- Show that you have sufficient funds for your stay
- Provide evidence of your accommodation
- Show a return or onward ticket
Entry requirements can vary according to your destination, nationality and circumstances, so always check the latest official advice before travelling.
See the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice service for current information.
Why Travel Insurance Can Still Matter for a Eurostar Trip
Travelling by train may feel simpler than flying, but many of the same travel risks can still apply. Depending on the policy selected and the circumstances of a claim, travel insurance may provide protection for:
Emergency Medical Expenses
Eligible emergency medical treatment abroad and medically necessary repatriation may be covered, subject to the policy terms and limits.
Cancellation & Curtailment
Cover may be available if an insured event means you need to cancel your trip or return home early.
Baggage & Personal Belongings
Eligible loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal belongings may be covered within the applicable benefit and item limits.
Travel Disruption
Your policy may provide benefits for certain eligible travel delay or missed departure events, subject to the circumstances and qualifying periods set out in the Policy Wording.
Does a GHIC Replace Travel Insurance?
No. A UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), or a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), can provide access to certain state-provided healthcare during eligible European trips.
However, these cards do not replace travel insurance and will not provide the same range of protection for areas such as cancellation, baggage or medically necessary repatriation.
Read our GHIC vs Travel Insurance guide →
What About LeShuttle Passengers?
The EU’s EES rollout also affects eligible passengers travelling through other Channel routes, including LeShuttle. The way EES is introduced can differ by operator and passenger type, and implementation is being phased.
If you’re driving through the Channel Tunnel, check the latest LeShuttle and official government guidance before travelling rather than assuming the Eurostar process will be identical.
Regardless of how you cross the Channel, consider whether your travel insurance is suitable for your destination, journey and planned activities.
Travel Insurance for a Eurostar Trip with Covered2Go
A Eurostar journey can be covered under a suitable travel insurance policy in the same way as other eligible European trips, provided your destination, trip duration and circumstances fall within the terms of your policy.
Depending on the policy selected and the circumstances, Covered2Go travel insurance may provide protection for areas including:
- Eligible emergency medical expenses and repatriation
- Cancellation and curtailment
- Baggage and personal belongings
- Eligible travel delay or missed departure events
- 24-hour emergency medical assistance
Eurostar Travel Insurance FAQs
Is travel insurance mandatory for Eurostar in 2026?
Travel insurance is not a specific requirement imposed simply because you are travelling by Eurostar, and EES itself does not introduce a new insurance requirement. However, destination entry rules still apply. For example, French border control may ask travellers to provide proof of travel insurance showing that they can cover emergency costs.
Is travel insurance part of EES?
No. EES is a digital border system used to record the entry and exit of eligible non-EU travellers. It is separate from any destination-specific requirement to provide evidence of travel insurance.
What should travel insurance for a Eurostar trip include?
The right cover depends on your individual trip. Areas to consider include emergency medical expenses, cancellation and curtailment, baggage, travel disruption and any sports or activities you intend to take part in.
Do I need travel insurance for a day trip to Paris?
Travel insurance is not automatically mandatory because your trip is short. However, unexpected illness, cancellation, lost belongings or disruption can still occur on a day trip, so consider whether appropriate cover would be suitable for your circumstances.
How early should I arrive for Eurostar?
Eurostar advises passengers to arrive at the recommended time shown on their ticket. This allows time for ticket, security and border checks and any applicable EES procedures.
Where can I check the latest entry requirements?
Check the UK Government Foreign Travel Advice for your destination and review Eurostar’s current travel-document and border guidance before departure.
Before Your Eurostar Journey
The introduction of EES means border procedures for UK travellers are continuing to evolve, but it is important not to confuse the new digital border system with travel insurance requirements.
Before travelling, check the current entry requirements for your destination, follow the arrival guidance shown on your Eurostar ticket and make sure any travel insurance you purchase is appropriate for your trip.
Travelling to Europe?
Explore Covered2Go travel insurance and choose cover that suits your destination, trip and individual needs.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice or immigration advice. Entry requirements can change, so always check current official guidance before travelling. Travel insurance cover is subject to eligibility, benefit limits, excesses, terms, conditions and exclusions. Please read the current Policy Wording and your Certificate of Insurance.
