Statement Regarding the Current Situation in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza Strip On October 8, 2023, Israel formally declared war on Hamas. Subsequently, the Government of Canada issued an “Avoid all non-essential travel” advisory for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

With these recent events, we know there may be questions about travel insurance underwritten by The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company (“Manulife”) and by its wholly owned subsidiary, First North American Insurance Company (collectively, “Manulife Financial”). How this impacts Manulife Travel Insurance customers

What does this mean?

On October 21, 2021, the Government of Canada lifted their blanket advisory to “Avoid Non-Essential Travel” that was in effect from March 13, 2020 and introduced a “COVID-19 – Travel Advice” statement.

The Travel Advisory to “Avoid All Cruise Ship Travel” outside of Canada still remains in effect

What does this mean?

• If you have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days before the start of your trip and the Canadian Government travel advisory for your destination does not instruct to “Avoid All Travel” or “Avoid Non-Essential Travel” due to COVID-19,

• If you are fully vaccinated against COVID 19 before your coverage effective date, you will be offered up to $5,000,000 CAD for emergency medical expenses related to COVID 19

• Trip Interruption benefits now available only if your original trip duration is 31 days or longer, before any extensions. It is not available if your original trip duration is 30 days or less

• Emergency medical expenses related to COVID 19 are now covered if you are on a cruise an