TORONTO — PassportCard wants to work with, not against, traditional travel insurance companies as it aims to “revolutionize the way the customer experiences how their claim is managed,” says PassportCard’s Country Manager, Canada, Gary Andrews.

PassportCard is looking to break into the Canadian market following launches in Israel and Germany. The UK-based company says it offers real-time claim handling so clients have “no out-of-pocket expenses, no paperwork and no long claim process”. Claim handling is facilitated by a debit card provided to the client. When clients are travelling and need medical help, they call a 24/7 customer care line and the claim is settled immediately in real time. The debit card is topped up and the client can proceed to the medical provider and get treatment, without the need for claim forms later on.

PassportCard is looking for Canadian partners, says Andrews. He wouldn’t name names, but said he’s in talks with potential partners and hopes to announce agreements in the next few months. “The Canadian travel insurance industry is stale. We’re coming in to disturb and innovate,” he said.

Traditional travel insurance claims take 45 days to settle, and an average of 13 steps. “We can settle the claim in three steps and 15 minutes,” said Andrews.

Travel agents who sell PassportCard to their clients receive commission each time the client tops up the card. It’s generally used for out-patient and out-of-pocket claims, he added.

PassportCard’s website has been updated to include information for the Canadian market. For more details see passportcard.com.