India bans Russian insurers from direct deals with clinics

India has prohibited Russian insurance assistance companies from cooperating directly with local commercial clinics starting in 2026, a move that has effectively blocked direct contracts and payment guarantees for medical services.

The development was reported by the Association of Tour Operators of Russia, which said the restriction has complicated interactions between Russian insurers and Indian healthcare providers. The changes initially caused delays in notifying insured Russian travellers and created difficulties in processing medical payments, although industry representatives say companies have since adjusted to the new framework.

The issue drew particular attention following the death of a Russian tourist in India. Her insurance provider initially requested that medical expenses be paid independently, and the hospital reportedly refused to release the body until outstanding bills were settled. Representatives of Euroins Travel Insurance explained that overseas medical treatment is normally paid through assistance companies, meaning the traveller should not have been required to cover the costs personally.

According to industry sources, the ban on direct cooperation with Russian assistance firms was introduced in 2026 and is believed to be linked to sanctions. As a result, Indian clinics increasingly require upfront payment from patients. Previously, similar restrictions applied only to state-run medical institutions.

Euroins later confirmed the incident as an insured case, stating that all medical expenses would be covered and that repatriation of the tourist’s body would be organized at the company’s expense. While the new system is not expected to affect the quality of medical care, Russian insurers will need to revise contractual arrangements with Indian clinics to adapt to the updated rules.

By Tamilla Hasanova