Schengen Visa Insurance – All You Need to Know

If you are planning to travel to Europe, you may need to obtain a Schengen Visa, which allows you to travel within the Schengen area without restrictions. In order to obtain this visa, you will need to provide proof of travel insurance that meets certain requirements. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Schengen Visa insurance, including the requirements, benefits, and frequently asked questions.

What is Schengen Visa Insurance?

Schengen Visa insurance, also known as travel health insurance, is a type of insurance that provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains during your stay in the Schengen area. It is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Schengen Visa.

What are the Requirements for Schengen Visa Insurance?

In order to meet the Schengen Visa insurance requirements, your policy must meet the following criteria:

Criteria
Description
Coverage amount
Minimum coverage of at least €30,000 for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains.
Validity
The policy must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area.
Geographical coverage
The policy must cover all Schengen countries.
Insurance company rating
The insurance company must have a minimum rating of A- by A.M. Best, A- by Standard & Poor’s, or A3 by Moody’s.

It is important to note that these requirements may vary based on the country you are traveling to, so it’s best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit to make sure you meet their specific requirements.

What are the Benefits of Schengen Visa Insurance?

Having Schengen Visa insurance provides you with several benefits, including:

  • Emergency medical coverage in case of illness or injury during your stay.
  • Coverage for emergency medical evacuation if necessary.
  • Repatriation of remains coverage in the event of death.
  • 24/7 medical assistance and support.
  • Peace of mind knowing that you are covered for unexpected medical expenses.

How to Choose the Right Schengen Visa Insurance?

When choosing the right Schengen Visa insurance, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • Coverage amount
  • Validity of the policy
  • Geographical coverage
  • Insurance company rating
  • Price

You should also read the policy details carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered, as well as any deductibles or exclusions. It is recommended to compare policies from different insurance providers to find the one that best meets your needs.

Schengen Visa Insurance FAQs

How long should my Schengen Visa insurance policy be valid for?

Your Schengen Visa insurance policy should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area.

What is the minimum coverage amount for Schengen Visa insurance?

The minimum coverage amount for Schengen Visa insurance is €30,000 for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains.

Can I buy Schengen Visa insurance after I arrive in Europe?

No, Schengen Visa insurance must be purchased before you arrive in Europe.

What happens if I don’t have Schengen Visa insurance?

If you do not have Schengen Visa insurance, your visa application may be denied. Additionally, if you become ill or injured during your stay in the Schengen area, you will be responsible for all medical expenses.

What is the difference between Schengen Visa insurance and regular travel insurance?

Schengen Visa insurance is a specific type of travel insurance that meets the requirements set by the Schengen agreement. It provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains during your stay in the Schengen area. Regular travel insurance may not meet these specific requirements, so it’s important to check the policy details before purchasing.

Conclusion

Obtaining Schengen Visa insurance is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Schengen Visa. Make sure your policy meets the required criteria of coverage amount, validity, geographical coverage, and insurance company rating. Compare policies from different providers to find the one that best meets your needs, and read the policy details carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered. With the right Schengen Visa insurance, you can travel to Europe with peace of mind knowing that you are covered for unexpected medical expenses.