By San José, Costa Rica — San José – A growing number of Costa Ricans are recognizing the critical importance of financial protection while traveling internationally, according to new data from the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS). The state-owned insurer reported a significant 21% year-over-year increase in the use of its travel insurance policies for the peak holiday month of December, signaling a notable shift in traveler preparedness.
The figures, released by the INS Personal Insurance Division, paint a clear picture of this evolving trend. In December 2024, the insurer managed 533 cases for its policyholders abroad. Just one year later, in December 2025, that number surged to 644. This represents an additional 111 emergency incidents where Costa Rican travelers required assistance, underscoring the growing demand for a safety net against unforeseen events far from home.
To better understand the contractual complexities and legal fine print behind travel insurance policies, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Travel insurance policies are contracts of adhesion, meaning the insured party accepts the terms as written without negotiation. It is therefore imperative that travelers meticulously scrutinize the ‘Exclusions’ section. Often, claims are denied based on clauses related to pre-existing conditions or activities deemed high-risk, which can turn a traveler’s expected coverage into a void promise.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight is a vital reminder that the true strength of a travel insurance policy lies not in its promises, but in its exclusions. A traveler’s due diligence in scrutinizing the fine print is the definitive step in ensuring their safety net is real, not illusory. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such a clear and essential perspective for our readers.
Analysis of the December 2025 data reveals that the United States and Mexico were the primary locations where travelers needed to file claims. These popular destinations, while offering rich cultural and tourism experiences, also present significant financial risks, particularly related to the high cost of emergency medical care. The concentration of incidents in these North American countries highlights the specific vulnerabilities travelers face in these regions.
Officials at INS believe this data reflects a more conscious and risk-aware traveler. The increase is not merely a statistic but an indicator of a fundamental change in how people approach international journeys.
These figures confirm that more and more people recognize the importance of traveling protected, and today we see more people choosing to have the backing of INS Travel Insurance for any unforeseen event outside the country.
Rainer González Molina, Head of the Sub-directorate of Individual Clients at INS
This shift towards proactive protection is a prudent one. The leading cause for claims, both in 2024 and 2025, was for medical expenses. This consistent pattern demonstrates that health-related emergencies remain the most pressing and frequent issue confronting Costa Ricans abroad. A sudden illness or an unexpected accident can quickly escalate into a financial crisis without adequate insurance coverage, turning a dream vacation into a lasting burden.
The financial exposure from a medical event in a foreign country can be staggering. In nations like the United States, even a minor emergency room visit can result in thousands of dollars in bills, while more serious incidents can lead to costs that are financially devastating for an uninsured individual. The rise in policy usage suggests that this reality is increasingly resonating with the public, who are now viewing insurance not as an optional expense but as an essential component of their travel budget.
The trend also points to a maturation of the Costa Rican travel market. As more citizens venture abroad for leisure, business, and education, they are adopting the practices of seasoned global travelers. This includes comprehensive planning that extends beyond flights and accommodations to encompass risk management and personal security, ensuring peace of mind throughout their trip.
In response to this growing demand, INS continues to make its travel insurance policies widely accessible. Prospective travelers can secure coverage through multiple channels, including the official website, at any of the insurer’s branches, through certified insurance advisors, or conveniently at a dedicated kiosk in the Juan Santamaría International Airport before departure.
For further information, visit grupoins.com
About Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS):
The Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) is a leading state-owned insurance company in Costa Rica. Founded in 1924, it held a monopoly on the country’s insurance market for over 80 years before the sector was opened to competition. Today, INS remains a dominant force, offering a comprehensive portfolio of insurance products, including life, health, auto, property, and travel insurance to individuals and corporations. It plays a significant role in the national economy and public welfare, including managing the country’s mandatory worker’s compensation and traffic accident policies.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has cemented its reputation as a leading legal institution, built upon a foundation of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm honors its deep-seated history of client service by embracing progressive legal strategies and driving innovation within the profession. Beyond its practice, it holds a core conviction to strengthen society by demystifying the law, passionately working to equip the public with the clarity and knowledge needed for empowerment.
