Russian Visa hasn't arrived on time, insurance advice?

Touchofclass77

Hi Guys,

Basically my flight to Moscow is on Thursday, yet my Tourist Visa (which was supposed to arrive Friday) is still not here. I've contacted the embassy who say it has been dispatched to the courier and will 'probably' be here by tomorrow.

This of course isn't entirely reassuring, and I thought I'd prep myself on what, if any, insurance I can claim should the worst come to the worst and the visa doesn't arrive in time for my trip.

I've looked at my travel insurance policy and seen that I have £3,000 'cancellation cover'. If I did have to cancel my trip:

1. Would I actually be eligible for any insurance money with this situation?

2. What sort of things does the 'cancellation cover', well, cover?

3. Is there anything I should be doing now in order to prepare for a possible insurance claim?

I'd really appreciate any help.

Many Thanks,
Tom

dmg24

It is very unlikely that you would be covered. Arranging a visa is the same as arranging a passport, it is assumed that the traveller has things in hand before booking travel (although I know things are never simple with Russia!).

Cancellation cover is mainly for illness, and in some cases, redundancy.

lisyloo

You need to look at your policy for exact details but cancellation cover would pay out if you were ill and couldn't travel, or a close family member died shortly beforehand or was seriously ill and it was not appropriate to travel.
It does not cover for "disinclination" i.e. simply changing your mind.

I would be suprised if you were covered for late delivery by a courier or late application of a visa or delayed visa processing, but all policies have their own terms and condition.

Touchofclass77

Hmm, doesn't look good then does it. Ok thanks for that, I'll just have to keep my fingers crossed it arrives!