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Europe Visa Check

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance

Required coverage and how to choose a policy

Quick Facts

Travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage is mandatory for Schengen Visa applications. The policy must cover the entire duration of your trip.

Minimum €30,000
Coverage All Schengen states
Duration Entire trip
Medical Required

Insurance is Mandatory

Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for all Schengen visa applications. Without valid insurance that meets the requirements, your visa application will be rejected.

The policy must cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation during your entire stay in the Schengen Area.

Insurance Requirements

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Minimum coverage €30,000 For medical expenses
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Valid in All 30 countries Entire Schengen Area
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Must cover Full stay Entry to exit dates
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Typical cost €15-50 For 2-week trip

What Your Policy Must Include

  • Medical coverage: At least €30,000 for emergency medical treatment
  • Hospitalization: Coverage for hospital stays if needed
  • Repatriation: Coverage to return you home if medically necessary
  • Emergency medical evacuation: Transport to appropriate medical facilities
  • Coverage of remains: Repatriation in case of death (some embassies require this)
  • Valid dates: Must cover your entire trip plus a few days buffer

Policy Duration Requirements

Your insurance must be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in the Schengen Area. Many embassies recommend:

  • Coverage should start from your planned entry date
  • Coverage should extend to your planned exit date (or later)
  • Some recommend adding 1-2 extra days as a buffer

If you're applying for a multiple-entry visa, you typically only need insurance covering your first trip. However, requirements vary — check with your specific embassy.

Zero or Low Deductible Preferred

While not always mandatory, many embassies prefer policies with no or low deductible. A high deductible (the amount you pay before insurance kicks in) might raise concerns about whether you can actually access care. Aim for policies with zero or minimal deductible.

Accepted Insurance Providers

Embassies don't typically mandate specific providers, but your insurance must be:

  • From a reputable company: Major insurers or specialized travel insurance providers
  • Recognized internationally: Must be valid and enforceable in the Schengen Area
  • Not from the destination country: Must be issued by a company in your home country or internationally

Popular travel insurance options include World Nomads, Allianz, AXA, and Generali, among others. Many specialized Schengen visa insurance providers exist as well.

What Your Insurance Certificate Should Show

  • Your full name: Matching your passport exactly
  • Coverage dates: Covering your entire trip
  • Coverage amount: At least €30,000
  • Geographic coverage: "Schengen Area" or "Worldwide" or list of countries
  • What's covered: Medical expenses, hospitalization, repatriation
  • Policy number: For verification

How to Submit Insurance Documents

Include the following with your visa application:

  • Insurance certificate/policy document: The official document showing your coverage
  • Proof of payment: Some embassies want to see the policy is paid (not just a quote)

Documents should be in English or the language of the embassy. If in another language, you may need a certified translation.

Related Guides

Documents Checklist

All required documents

How to Apply

Full application process

Visa Cost

Fees and expenses

Insurance FAQs

Can I get insurance after my visa is approved?
No. You must have insurance at the time of application. Insurance is a mandatory document, and applications without it will be rejected. Some companies offer policies that allow cancellation if your visa is denied.
Is my credit card travel insurance sufficient?
Sometimes, but often not. Credit card insurance may not meet the €30,000 minimum, may have high deductibles, or may not cover all required elements. Check the specifics carefully. Most applicants find it easier to buy a dedicated Schengen travel insurance policy.
What if I'm visiting multiple times (multiple-entry visa)?
For multiple-entry visa applications, you typically need insurance covering only your first planned trip. You'll need to get insurance for subsequent trips separately. Some embassies may require a letter stating you'll obtain insurance for future trips.
Can I use travel insurance from my home country?
Yes, as long as it meets all requirements (€30,000 minimum, covers the Schengen Area, includes repatriation, etc.). The policy doesn't have to be from a European company.
What if my visa is denied — can I get a refund on insurance?
Many insurance providers offer refundable policies if your visa is denied. Look for this feature when purchasing. Some offer partial refunds, others full refunds with documentation of the visa denial.

Related Information

Travel Insurance Hub ETIAS Guide Schengen Area Guide Check Your Requirements

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