Yes, you may still be eligible for CoverForYou travel insurance if you've spent more than six months outside the UK, provided you remain a permanent UK resident and meet our other policy eligibility requirements.
Spending an extended period abroad does not automatically mean you are no longer a UK resident. However, your individual circumstances may need further consideration.
How does time spent abroad affect my eligibility?
I've spent more than 183 days in the UK
If you've spent more than 183 days (approximately six months) in the UK during the previous year, you will generally meet our standard residency guidelines.
You must also satisfy our other eligibility requirements, including being registered with a UK doctor (GP).
I've spent fewer than 183 days in the UK
If you've spent fewer than 183 days in the UK, you may still be eligible for cover.
However, your residency status can be more complicated, particularly if you divide your time between countries or have been living abroad for an extended period.
The key requirement is that you continue to maintain permanent UK residency.
What if I'm unsure about my residency status?
If you're uncertain whether you remain a UK resident, we recommend:
Reviewing your residency circumstances, including where your permanent home is established.
Checking the relevant UK residency guidance to help understand your position.
Seeking professional advice, if necessary, from a qualified legal or tax adviser.
You can also review the UK Government's guidance on residence status.
Please note: Tax residency and eligibility for travel insurance are not necessarily the same. CoverForYou cannot provide legal or tax residency advice.
Can I still purchase a policy if I've been abroad for more than six months?
Yes, provided you can confirm that you remain a permanent UK resident.
If, after reviewing your circumstances or obtaining professional advice, you're satisfied that you meet our permanent UK residency requirements, we can issue a policy provided you also meet all other eligibility criteria.
These include:
Permanent UK residency: Your main permanent home must remain in the United Kingdom.
UK GP registration: You must remain registered with a UK general practitioner.
Other policy requirements: You must satisfy the remaining eligibility conditions applicable to your policy and trip.
Important: Maintaining UK residency does not override other policy requirements, including restrictions on purchasing cover after a trip has already begun.
Need help confirming your eligibility?
If you're unsure how our insurance eligibility rules apply to your circumstances, please contact CoverForYou before purchasing your policy.
Our team can explain our residency requirements, although we cannot determine your legal or tax residency status.
Please note: All insurance cover is subject to your policy's terms, conditions, exclusions, eligibility requirements and any applicable excess.