About
Marshmallow is a UK car and van insurance company purpose-built for newcomers to the UK. Most traditional insurers ignore any driving experience gained outside the UK, effectively pricing skilled overseas drivers as new drivers. Marshmallow was founded to fix that: its pricing model takes your entire driving history into account regardless of which country you built it in, delivering fairer premiums and average savings of £392. Policies are fully comprehensive and are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Customers can tailor their cover with optional extras such as breakdown cover, legal cover, and no-claims discount protection — paying only for what they actually need. Flexible payment options let policyholders spread costs into monthly instalments and choose their own payment date. Marshmallow supports drivers across all international licence types and provides guidance on UK-specific rules — such as whether you need to swap your foreign licence and the legal obligation to insure a car even when it is not being driven. The mobile app (iOS and Android) lets customers update policy details on the go, access documents instantly, and reach support via Live Chat. Claims and accident support is available around the clock by phone. With over 200,000 customers and an Excellent Trustpilot rating from 25,000+ reviews, Marshmallow is a leading insurtech choice for expats, visa holders, and international professionals making the UK their new home.
Key Features
- Global Driving Experience Recognition: Pricing accounts for your full driving history from any country, not just experience gained after arriving in the UK.
- Customisable Cover: Build your own policy with optional add-ons including breakdown cover, legal cover, and no-claims discount protection.
- Flexible Payment Options: Pay monthly with a self-chosen payment date, or pay annually — with extra support available if you need it.
- 24/7 Claims & Accident Support: Round-the-clock phone support for claims, plus Live Chat and a comprehensive FAQ section.
- Mobile App: Update policy details, access all documents, and contact support directly through the iOS and Android app.
Use Cases
- A skilled driver who recently relocated to the UK from abroad seeking fair car insurance without being priced as a new driver.
- An expat or international professional on a work visa needing fully comprehensive cover that recognises their overseas driving record.
- A spouse visa holder settling in the UK who wants flexible monthly insurance payments with optional add-ons.
- A UK newcomer wanting guidance on local driving laws, licence requirements, and legal insurance obligations alongside their policy.
- A family that has moved to the UK and needs to insure multiple vehicles under a straightforward, app-managed policy.
Pros
- Fairer Pricing for Overseas Drivers: Unique pricing model rewards years of safe driving earned abroad, delivering average savings of £392 versus standard insurers.
- All International Licences Accepted: Covers drivers from any country, removing a common barrier for UK newcomers seeking insurance.
- Highly Rated Customer Service: Excellent Trustpilot rating backed by over 25,000 reviews, with 24/7 phone and Live Chat support.
- Transparent, Modular Cover: Customers pay only for the extras they want, keeping premiums lean and policies relevant.
Cons
- UK Residents Only: Requires a permanent UK address and an intent to spend at least 183 days per year in the UK; tourists and short-stay visitors are not eligible.
- Cars and Vans Only: Coverage is limited to cars and vans — motorcycles, HGVs, and other vehicle types are not supported.
- No Instant Online Claims: Claims must be initiated by phone rather than fully self-served through the app or website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get covered if I'm not a UK citizen?
Yes. You do not need to be a UK citizen — only a UK resident. Marshmallow defines a UK resident as someone who spends, or intends to spend, at least 183 days a year in the UK and has a permanent address there.
How does Marshmallow calculate cheaper prices for newcomers?
Unlike most insurers who only count UK driving experience, Marshmallow's pricing model factors in your entire driving history from any country, so experienced overseas drivers are not treated as beginners.
What level of cover does Marshmallow offer?
Marshmallow offers fully comprehensive cover as standard, which covers damage to you and your car as well as damage to third parties. Optional extras can be added to customise the policy.
Do I need to swap my foreign driving licence for a UK one?
It depends on your licence country and visa type. Marshmallow's website provides detailed guidance on when a swap is required and how to go about it.
Can I pay monthly?
Yes. Marshmallow offers flexible monthly payment plans where you can choose your own payment date, helping you spread costs across the year.
