Medigap's foreign travel emergency benefit: 80% after $250, up to $50,000

How the foreign travel emergency benefit in Medigap Plans C, D, F, G, M and N works, its limits, and when you still need travel insurance.

Original Medicare generally does not pay for care outside the United States. Several Medigap plans fill part of that gap with a foreign travel emergency benefit.

The benefit

Available in Plans C, D, F, G, M and N.
Covers emergency care that begins during the first 60 days of a trip outside the U.S.
You pay a $250 deductible per year, then the plan pays 80% of the billed charges.
$50,000 lifetime maximum.

Plan payment after the $250 deductible at 80%, capped at the $50,000 lifetime limit.

What it does not cover

Routine or planned care abroad.
Emergencies starting after day 60 of a trip.
Medical evacuation home, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Amounts above the lifetime limit.

When to add travel medical insurance

For long trips, cruises, or travel to countries with expensive private hospitals, a separate travel medical policy with evacuation coverage is worth pricing. Many are inexpensive for short trips, though premiums rise with age.

Medicare Advantage abroad

Some Medicare Advantage plans include worldwide emergency coverage, often with their own limits. Check the Evidence of Coverage before travelling.

Within the U.S.

Medigap works anywhere in the United States with providers who accept Medicare. For people who split time between states, see our snowbird guide.

Questions people ask

Does Medicare cover me abroad?

Generally no, with rare exceptions; some Medigap plans add limited emergency coverage.

Which Medigap plans include foreign travel coverage?

C, D, F, G, M and N.

How much does the benefit pay?

80% after a $250 yearly deductible, up to $50,000 lifetime.

Is medical evacuation covered?

No. Consider separate travel insurance.

Independent educational site. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government, the federal Medicare program, or any insurance company. Figures are 2026 amounts published by CMS unless noted; check Medicare.gov for your situation.