“What happens if I get sick while on vacation?”
“Who arranges my return journey if I am unable to travel home on my own?”
“What is a medically necessary repatriation, and how does it work?”
Many Austrians ask themselves these questions before traveling, especially when planning long-haul trips or activity holidays. The good news is that with the right travel insurance and a little preparation, you are well protected even in an emergency. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about repatriation transport, explained simply and with practical tips.
The most important points at a glance
- A repatriation transport brings you safely back to Austria after an accident or illness while traveling.
- Transport can take place by airplane, train, or ambulance. Depending on your medical condition, medical accompaniment may also be necessary.
- The costs of repatriation transport can be very high. An air ambulance flight can easily cost more than €10,000.
- Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers the cost of medically necessary treatment within the EU but does not cover repatriation transport.
- A good travel health insurance policy covers the cost of repatriation transport and organizes everything for you.
What does repatriation transport mean and when is it necessary?
Repatriation transport brings you safely back to Austria after an illness or accident abroad, either with or without medical assistance. A distinction is made between two types:
- Medically necessary repatriation transport: When adequate treatment abroad is not possible or your recovery can be better ensured at home.
- Medically non-essential repatriation transport: When you are fit to travel but require assistance during the journey home. This may be the case, for example, if your mobility is limited following an accident.
Good to know: Insurance terms often use the term “medical repatriation” as well. This refers to the same service: organized transport using an appropriate medical means of transportation and, where necessary, medical assistance following an illness or accident abroad.
The goal is always to ensure that you return safely to Austria under suitable medical conditions.
How much does repatriation transport cost without insurance?
The cost of repatriation transport can vary considerably depending on your health condition, the mode of transport, and the travel destination.
- Repatriation on a scheduled flight with medical assistance often costs several thousand euros.
- Medical transport by air ambulance can cost more than €10,000.
- For distant destinations or particularly complex operations, costs can even reach six-figure amounts.
- Austrian statutory health insurance providers do not cover the cost of repatriation transport to Austria.
Without additional insurance coverage, you must bear these costs yourself. The Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (BMEIA) therefore recommends taking out travel insurance that covers all relevant risks.
Our tip: Europäische Reiseversicherung’s CompleteCover plan organizes repatriation transport and covers the costs if it is medically necessary. If repatriation is medically justifiable, it can also be arranged upon request under certain conditions.
Returning to Austria: What does the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) cover abroad?
Many Austrians rely on the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) while traveling. However, it does not cover all expenses:
- The EHIC is located on the back of your Austrian e-card. It allows you to receive medically necessary treatment in EU member states as well as Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
- However, the EHIC does not cover private healthcare services or the cost of repatriation transport to Austria.
- The EHIC is not valid in non-EU countries, such as the United States, Turkey, or Egypt.
Important: The European Health Insurance Card provides important basic coverage for travel within Europe. However, the costs of repatriation transport to Austria are not covered. This exclusion also applies to some travel insurance benefits included with credit cards.
What should you do if you experience a medical problem abroad?
If you become ill or have an accident while abroad:
- Contact a doctor's office or hospital immediately.
- In emergencies, call the local emergency number, which is often 112.
- Inform your travel health insurer as soon as possible.
The medical professionals at your insurance company, together with the treating doctors on site, will determine whether repatriation transport is necessary and how it should be arranged.
Overview of the different types of repatriation transport
1. Repatriation without medical assistance (not medically necessary)
Typically used for minor injuries, such as:
- Sprains
- Bone fractures (for example, an arm or wrist fracture)
- Cases following outpatient treatment
Possible means of transport include:
- Taxi
- Ambulance or medical transport vehicle
- Train
- Scheduled airline flight
If you cannot travel independently, arrangements are made to make the journey home as comfortable as possible. For example, you may be provided with seating that allows you to elevate an injured leg or additional space for a cast. Medical personnel can accompany you if required.
2. Repatriation with medical assistance (medically necessary)
Required in cases of serious illness or when vital organs are affected, for example:
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Strokes
- Severe but stabilized illnesses
Transport may take place by:
- Ambulance or emergency medical vehicle
- Scheduled flight with medical assistance
- Stretcher transport when required
A physician or member of nursing staff accompanies you, monitors your condition, and administers medication if necessary.
3. Repatriation by air ambulance
An air ambulance is used in particularly serious cases, such as:
- Severe multiple injuries
- Illnesses occurring in countries with inadequate medical care
This is how air ambulance repatriation works:
- A specially equipped aircraft with a medical team on board, including emergency physicians and nursing staff
- Direct transfer from the hospital to the aircraft and onward to the receiving hospital in Austria
- Continuous medical care throughout the flight, comparable to treatment in an intensive care unit
What happens to your fellow travelers and luggage?
- Travel companions: An insured accompanying person may travel home with you.
- Minor children traveling with you: A caregiver can collect your children and accompany them home.
- Luggage: Your travel baggage will be transported safely back home.
Travel with peace of mind: prevention tips
The EHIC alone is not sufficient protection in an emergency. You also need travel health insurance. Make sure it includes:
- Medically necessary repatriation transport
- Medically non-essential but justified repatriation transport
- Air ambulance transport for severe cases
- Return transport for travel companions and luggage
- A 24/7 emergency assistance center or emergency app
Especially for long-haul travel, it is important to have travel health insurance that also covers countries without social security agreements with Austria, such as the United States, Australia, and parts of Asia. Even simple medical treatments in these countries can be very expensive.
Our tip: Annual travel insurance can be worthwhile if you travel several times a year. It provides year-round protection for all trips taken during the insurance period.
Conclusion: Travel safely with the right protection
Medical repatriation transport is not something to worry about. It is a sign of good planning. With Europäische Reiseversicherung’s CompleteCover and a clear understanding of what to do in an emergency, you can enjoy your trip with confidence. Comprehensive Protection offers extensive coverage, including medical treatment abroad in the event of illness or accident, repatriation transport, search and rescue costs, and trip cancellation benefits. This allows you to travel with peace of mind, wherever your journey takes you.