The agreement with AXA Spain will cover medical expenses, and costs arising from extended stays and/or repatriation if a traveller falls ill with Covid-19.

Help will be available both to domestic and overseas tourists, the islands’ ministry of tourism and government confirmed on Thursday (6 August).

It sees the Canaries become the first region of Spain to offer dedicated travel assistance coverage, similar to that outlined this week by Portugal.

"In the unfortunate case of a positive test for Covid-19, this agreement guarantees cover for all related medical expenses, health repatriation, and extension of stays due to quarantine regulations," said the Canaries ministry of tourism.

The ministry, though, also confirmed the cover would not extend to any Covid cases known prior to travel.

Canaries minister for tourism Yaiza Castilla said: “With the introduction of this policy, the Canary Islands further extend their commitment to reinforce and increase the safety and peace of mind of tourists."

AXA will make an exclusive telephone hotline available to the Canary Islands government to service any matters related to the policy.

Protection will take effect from this week and last for 12 months, covering all visitors who did not know they had the virus and do not have personal insurance to cover the costs.