Most Canadians unaware travel advisories can affect insurance coverage: survey

A survey commissioned by Global Affairs Canada suggests most Canadians are not aware that federal travel advisories can affect the validity of their travel insurance and have only a limited understanding of the consular services available to them while travelling abroad.

The research, conducted by market research firm Strategic Counsel and submitted to Global Affairs Canada in March, found that while awareness of consular services exists, many Canadians are unfamiliar with what embassies and consulates can (and cannot) do in emergencies.

“Awareness of consular services exists, but familiarity is often self-described as low or partial,” the report says.

As reported by the Canadian Press, the online survey of 1,850 Canadians was conducted in January and examined public awareness of consular services, travel advisories and other information Ottawa provides to help travellers prepare for international trips.

Results were weighted to reflect Canadian demographics, although the non-probability sampling method means there is no margin of error.

Advisories & travel insurance

One of the survey's most significant findings relates to travel insurance.

Just 28 per cent of respondents knew that changes to the risk level assigned to a destination in Canada's travel advisories can affect travel insurance coverage, potentially resulting in insurers partially or fully denying claims.

More than half (56 per cent) were unaware of this, while 16 per cent said they were unsure.

The survey also found widespread misconceptions about the scope of Canada's consular assistance.

Only one-third of respondents knew that Ottawa can provide financial assistance in exceptional emergency situations, such as loans to help Canadians evacuate dangerous areas, while 43 per cent were unsure.

There was also confusion about services the government does not provide.

While 39 per cent correctly understood that Ottawa does not pay for burials or the repatriation of human remains, 42 per cent were unsure.

Similarly, just over half (52 per cent) knew Canadian embassies do not help citizens find employment overseas, while 36 per cent were uncertain and 12 per cent incorrectly believed they do.

The report also found that although Canadians are generally receptive to travel advice, few make checking government travel information a routine part of trip planning.

Global Affairs Canada encourages Canadians travelling abroad to register with its Registration of Canadians Abroad service, which enables embassies to send travellers safety updates by email or text message during emergencies, including security incidents, natural disasters or political unrest.

The survey also suggests there is uncertainty about who qualifies for consular assistance.

Some 38 per cent of respondents believed permanent residents are eligible to receive services, reflecting broader public perceptions following recent government-assisted evacuations in which Ottawa has extended support beyond Canadian citizens to include permanent residents and family members.

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