If you’re planning a trip to Europe and need to apply for a Schengen visa, one thing you may have learned of by now is Schengen travel insurance. Not only is it a visa requirement for anyone applying, but it also gives important financial protection in the event of medical emergencies and potential accidents while you’re overseas.
It can be helpful to understand why this type of insurance is mandatory and how to select the right policy that can save you time, stress, and money.
Legal requirements for Schengen visa applicants
Schengen travel insurance isn’t optional for travelers applying for Type-C Short-Stay Schengen visas. Per Schengen visa rules, every single applicant (regardless of Nationality or age) has to provide proof of insurance that covers at least €30,000 in emergency medical costs, hospitalization, and repatriation. The insurance policy (companies like Insurte offer travel Schengen travel insurance) has to be valid for the entire duration of your journey and recognized by all member countries. There are currently 29 countries in the zone.
The main purpose of this requirement is to make sure that travelers don’t become a financial burden on the host country’s healthcare system. It is also to ensure that you can get the care you need without falling victim to debilitating bills.
Whether you visit France, Germany, or any of the other Schengen countries, your policy has to meet those minimum standards.
If you don’t get compliant Schengen travel insurance, your Schengen visa application will be denied.
How to get the most out of your insurance
Accidents really do happen when we least expect them. Imagine being in Barcelona, for example, and you take a misstep, which results in a broken ankle. Without the right travel insurance, your hospital bills could cost you hundreds to thousands. Proper coverage ensures that your policy handles those qualifying costs.
Now, there are minimum requirements for your Schengen visa insurance policy, but that doesn’t mean those are the only benefits you can have.
There are many different benefits and guarantees that you should consider, on top of the minimums. For example, some policies include guarantees for things like lost luggage or stolen passports. This type of coverage can be extremely helpful, especially when traveling to somewhere like Europe.
How to buy the right policy
- Compare insurance providers: Look for companies that specialize in Schengen travel insurance and have a 100% online process. This ensures you can get what you need easily and quickly, without being on hold or emailing back and forth for days on end.
- Check coverage limits: Make sure your policy meets or exceeds the minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Duration: The insurance must cover your entire stay in the Schengen Area. Make sure the dates on your policy align with those on your visa application.
- Read the exclusions: Read the fine print to avoid any surprises. It’s important that you know exactly what your coverage, well, covers. Read the exclusions ahead of time and pay special attention to the medical and sports sections (if applicable).
- Timing: Purchase your policy before your Schengen visa appointment, as you will be required to show proof of insurance when you apply.
Schengen travel insurance really is more than a visa formality.
It’s protection for unforeseen events that could really put a damper on your trip. By understanding the legal requirements and following a few helpful tips when purchasing your policy, you can be sure you have the policy you need.
About Insurte
Insurte brings together two complementary areas of expertise: deep experience in the insurance industry and knowledge of emerging web technologies and evolving customer habits. From this fusion came a shared conviction — to challenge traditional ways of protecting travelers by providing the simplest, most accessible and up-to-date travel and health insurance abroad.
Covering all travelers and all destinations, Insurte is built to deliver peace of mind. Backed by a team of experts, the company offers customized travel and health insurance solutions for everyone, everywhere.
For more information, visit insurte.com.
Media Contact
Clément Goubon
cgoubon@insurte.com
