The cover you may need
You may need specialist Russia insurance, particularly if you plan to visit or work in regions of the North Caucasus or near the borders of Ukraine. Of course, this is the world’s largest country and not all areas of the country are equally dangerous – make sure your Russian insurance is appropriate for where you are going.
| Accident and Evacuation | |
|---|---|
| Kidnapping and Ransom | |
| Political Risk |
Since the Ukrainian revolution in February 2014, relations between the Russian government and the West have been tense, however this doesn’t seem to have impacted on visitors, except those involved in the current crisis. Travel to the border areas with Ukraine is ill advised unless you have made appropriate security arrangements and procured the right insurance. This may need to include provision for war and terrorism and possibly kidnap and ransom.
Due to tensions with separatists in the North Caucasus, some areas of the Russian Federation have seen regular suicide bombings (mostly in the republics of Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia) and targeted assassinations. Unexploded mines are widespread in these areas and kidnapping for ransom is common. However, terrorist incidents are possible throughout Russia, including Moscow. Visitors need to be cautious in public places, on public transport, and in crowds.
Your Russia insurance should cover you for these eventualities as well as for theft and loss. Pickpocketing and robbery are common, and often carried out by groups of children using distraction techniques. Drink spiking followed by robbery and assault has been reported – do not accept food and drinks from strangers, or leave drinks unattended. Traffic police are known to stop motorists and demand on-the-spot cash fines. There are also reports of criminals posing as officials – always ask to see ID.
Healthwise, the risks include food poisoning, TB, rabies, and tick-borne encephalitis. Consuming untreated water greatly increases the risk of getting sick. There has been an increase in rabies in the Sverdlovsk region.
British nationals are entitled to free treatment in Russian hospitals, but be aware that treatment is likely to be limited. Most expats living in Russia carry expat medical insurance with the option for evacuation and treatment in higher standard European hospitals should it be required.
The Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO) in the UK regularly updates its advice to British travellers about immediate risks.