Food and waterborne illnesses

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Northern Ireland. However, be cautious with shellfish and seafood from unregulated sources, and practice good hygiene when trying local delicacies like potato bread and traditional foods.

Travellers diarrhea

Generally uncommon due to high hygiene standards, but sudden dietary changes or trying rich local foods may cause minor digestive upset.

Insect-borne illnesses

While rare, midges (small biting flies) can be prevalent in summer, particularly in rural and coastal areas. Use insect repellent and cover exposed skin during outdoor activities.

Allergies

Pollen levels can be high during spring and summer months. Those with hay fever should bring appropriate medications.

Australia's reciprocal health care agreement with the UK

In order for the Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement between Australian and the UK to cover your medical costs in the UK, including Northern Ireland, medical care must be:  

• Medically necessary care that can’t wait until you get home to Australia,  

• In the National Health Service (NHS) system  

• Within 6 months after you arrive to the UK.  

The RHCA covers the following types of medical costs:

• Care from an NHS doctor or nurse at a GP surgery (you need to register there as an NHS patient)

• Care in a public ward of an NHS hospital

• Out-patient care at an NHS hospital

• Ambulance travel to an NHS hospital or other NHS facilities

• Prescription medicine if the doctor treats you as an NHS patient (there is a small fee for this)

The RHCA does not cover the following types of medical costs:

• Non-subsidised medicine from pharmacies

• Prescription medicines if you’re not an NHS patient

• Any dental services

Fast Cover's medical benefits

Fast Cover’s international travel insurance policies include:

• overseas 24/7 emergency medical assistance,

• overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses,

• overseas emergency dental, and

• overseas emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

to help cover you if you become unexpectedly injured or sick while in Northern Ireland.*

Travel insurance for existing medical conditions

If you have an existing medical condition, Fast Cover may be able to provide some cover.* You’ll need to complete a medical screening process online or call our Aussie based sales team. To find out more about our medical screening process, and how the policy will apply in relation to an existing medical condition, please read and consider the PDS for eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits that apply.

Check Northern Ireland's medication regulations

Consult the UK Home Office for current regulations on bringing prescription and over-the-counter medications into Northern Ireland.

Obtain a permit for restricted medications

Certain controlled substances require special permits. Apply well in advance through the appropriate UK authorities if your medication requires special clearance.

Carry documentation

Bring original prescriptions, a letter from your doctor explaining your medical condition and medication requirements, and keep medications in their original packaging.

Travel limits

Generally bring no more than three months' supply of prescription medications. For controlled medications, limits may be stricter (typically 30 days' supply).