Post
by jotter » Wed Dec 12, 2012 5:14 pm
There is no clear guideline on 'comprehensive' when it comes to private policies, particularly given that truly comprehensive private health insurance doesn't exist in the UK, so the UKBA exercises discretion on a case-by-case basis. If your Italian policy has wording to prove a reciprocal arrangement for elsewhere in the EU for visits to the doctor, hospital, etc (i.e. you pay up front in the UK and can claim the money back from your Italian insurer), this will help your case, so it would be a good idea to include a covering letter drawing the caseworker's attention to that and ensure that you include both the original policy and an English translation of at least the main page of the policy showing the key details.
Alternatives:
1. If you have a European health insurance card from Italy, this is fine as proof of CSI for an initial registration certificate application as long as you are a relatively recent arrival. The only thing to note there is that it may not be accepted if you apply after living in the UK for some years.
2. Purchase a UK-based private health insurance policy
3. Are you sure it's even worth your while to apply for a registration certificate?
