Introduction
Planning a trip to Europe? If you need a Schengen visa, one of the most important requirements is Schengen visa travel insurance. Without it, your visa application may get rejected.
This guide will help you:
✅ Understand what Schengen visa travel insurance covers
✅ Choose the best travel insurance policy
✅ Avoid common mistakes in your application
✅ Ensure a smooth visa approval process
Let’s dive in!
What is Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?
Schengen visa travel insurance is a mandatory insurance policy required for obtaining a visa to travel within the Schengen Area, which consists of 27 European countries.
Why is it Required?
European authorities require travel insurance to ensure:
✔ You can cover unexpected medical expenses while in Europe.
✔ You won’t be a financial burden on European healthcare systems.
✔ You have coverage in case of medical emergencies, hospitalization, or repatriation.
Who Needs Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?
You must get Schengen visa travel insurance if you are applying for a short-stay visa (Type C) for purposes like:
✔ Tourism
✔ Business trips
✔ Visiting family or friends
✔ Short-term study programs
💡 Exception: If you have a long-term visa (Type D) or residency in a Schengen country, you might not need separate travel insurance.
Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Requirements
For your insurance to be accepted, it must meet these mandatory requirements:
✅ Minimum coverage of €30,000 ($50,000) for medical emergencies
✅ Valid in all 27 Schengen countries
✅ Covers emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
✅ Includes repatriation of remains and medical evacuation
✅ Covers the entire duration of your trip
💡 Tip: If your insurance does not meet these requirements, your visa may be rejected.
What Does Schengen Travel Insurance Cover?
✅ 1. Medical Expenses
- Hospitalization, doctor consultations, and treatments
- Emergency surgeries and medical procedures
- Prescription medications
✅ 2. Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- If local hospitals cannot provide proper treatment, you’ll be transported to another country or back home
- Covers expenses for returning your remains to your home country in case of death
✅ 3. Trip Cancellation Due to Medical Reasons
- If you fall sick or get injured before departure, the policy covers non-refundable trip costs
✅ 4. COVID-19 Coverage (Depends on insurer)
- Covers quarantine costs, testing, and hospitalization
✅ 5. 24/7 Emergency Assistance
- Assistance for medical emergencies, lost passports, or legal troubles
💡 Tip: Always check policy exclusions before purchasing your insurance.
What is NOT Covered?
❌ Pre-existing medical conditions (unless specified)
❌ Extreme sports and adventure activities (unless added as extra coverage)
❌ Cosmetic or elective procedures
❌ Injuries caused by alcohol or drug use
❌ Lost or stolen baggage (may require separate coverage)
💡 Tip: If you plan on doing skiing, hiking, or adventure sports, choose a policy that includes adventure sports coverage.
How to Buy the Right Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?
Follow these steps to choose the best Schengen travel insurance policy:
✅ Step 1: Compare Insurance Providers
- Choose from recognized insurance companies that meet Schengen visa requirements.
- Compare coverage limits, benefits, and exclusions.
✅ Step 2: Check for Direct Billing Hospitals
- Some policies pay hospitals directly so you don’t need to cover the cost upfront.
✅ Step 3: Select the Right Coverage Amount
- Choose at least €30,000 ($50,000) in medical coverage.
- Higher coverage may be needed for expensive medical destinations (like Germany or France).
✅ Step 4: Ensure Coverage for Your Entire Stay
- The insurance should cover your full trip duration in the Schengen zone.
✅ Step 5: Buy the Insurance & Get the Certificate
- Once purchased, you’ll get a Schengen visa insurance certificate, which you’ll need for your visa application.
💡 Tip: If your visa is denied, some insurers offer a refund policy on unused travel insurance.
How to Submit Your Schengen Visa Travel Insurance for Visa Approval?
When applying for a Schengen visa, you must include your travel insurance certificate with your application.
Documents Needed:
📌 Travel Insurance Certificate (PDF or printed copy)
📌 Proof of Purchase & Policy Terms
📌 Visa Application Form
💡 Tip: Ensure the insurance details match your passport information exactly.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Visa Rejection
🚫 Buying insurance that doesn’t cover all Schengen countries – The policy must be valid across the entire Schengen Area.
🚫 Insufficient coverage amount – The minimum requirement is €30,000 ($50,000).
🚫 Not covering the full trip duration – The policy must match your exact travel dates.
🚫 Using unauthorized insurance providers – Always buy from recognized insurers.
Top Travel Insurance Providers for Schengen Visa
Here are some trusted travel insurance companies that offer Schengen visa-compliant policies:
🌍 Allianz Travel Insurance
🌍 AXA Schengen
🌍 World Nomads
🌍 Europ Assistance
🌍 IMG Global Travel Insurance
💡 Tip: Visit their websites to compare policies and get instant quotes.
What to Do If You Need Medical Help in Europe?
Step 1: Find a Hospital
- Use your insurer’s 24/7 helpline to locate a network hospital.
Step 2: Show Your Travel Insurance Certificate
- Some hospitals directly bill the insurer, so you don’t have to pay upfront.
Step 3: Keep All Medical Documents
- Save hospital bills, prescriptions, and medical reports to submit for reimbursement if required.
💡 Tip: In case of emergencies, dial 112 (Europe’s universal emergency number).
Final Thoughts: Is Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Worth It?
Yes! Schengen visa travel insurance is not just a requirement—it protects you from massive medical expenses while traveling.
To ensure a smooth visa approval process, always:
✅ Buy a policy from a trusted provider
✅ Ensure it meets Schengen visa requirements
✅ Check for 24/7 emergency assistance coverage
