Travellers caught out by upcoming changes to requirements for visiting the UK are unlikely to be covered by insurance, says the Insurance and Financial Services Ombudsman.
"Travel insurance usually won't cover situations where a traveller doesn't meet passports or visa requirements and can't travel," said Ombudsman Karen Stevens.
"We commonly see travel insurance claims denied because of this. If someone can't board a flight because they don't have the correct passport or visa, that can turn out to be an expensive situation."
Earlier this month, it was reported British dual citizens travelling to the UK will need to use a UK passport, rather than their New Zealand passport, from February 25. Children of dual nationals would also need a UK passport.
Prior to the change, dual nationals have been able to visit with their New Zealand passport, meaning some have now scrambled to apply for a new British passport in time for their travel, which would require a payment of £94.50/$220.
On Wednesday, the British High Commissioner to New Zealand Iona Thomas acknowledged the change had been "met with questions" from travellers.
She confirmed the requirements would be necessary from February 25 under the UK's new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.
From January 8 last year, Kiwis without an immigration status or visa in the UK have been required to get an ETA before flying, which would cost $37.
The Ombudsman said a similar change next year was also coming for the EU.
"These are new, unfamiliar, requirements and it’s understandable travellers may not be aware of them," said Stevens.
“Airlines won’t generally make their customers aware of entry and passport requirements, it really is the responsibility of the traveller to make sure they know what they need.”
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Stevens added it was now "really important" for travellers to take the time to confirm what they need before they go, to allow time to get the necessary documentation.
"Travel insurance is generally pretty good at covering mishaps and unexpected disruptions, but this is a common exclusion that people need to be aware of," she said.
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