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Insurance for Schengen Visa

Mandatory travel insurance requirements for Schengen visa applicants.

Schengen Visa Insurance Requirements

Minimum Coverage
€30,000

For medical expenses

Repatriation
Required

Medical evacuation home

Territory
All Schengen

Must cover all 30 countries

Duration
Entire Trip

Plus extra days recommended

Your Policy Must Cover

  • Minimum €30,000 medical coverage — covers emergency medical treatment and hospitalization

  • Medical repatriation — transport back to your home country if medically necessary

  • Repatriation of remains — in case of death abroad

  • All Schengen countries — valid throughout the entire Schengen Area

  • Entire trip duration — from your entry date to your exit date

Policy Must NOT Have

  • Deductibles or excess higher than €100 (some consulates)

  • Coverage gaps during your trip dates

  • Territory limitations (must cover ALL Schengen countries)

  • Exclusions for pre-existing conditions (if you have relevant conditions)

  • Waiting periods that extend beyond your travel dates

What Proof Do You Need?

When submitting your Schengen visa application, you will need to provide:

  • Insurance certificate or policy document showing coverage details
  • Coverage amount clearly stated (minimum €30,000)
  • Validity dates matching or exceeding your travel dates
  • Territory showing Schengen Area or worldwide coverage
  • Policy holder name matching your passport name

Most Schengen-compliant insurance providers issue a visa letter specifically formatted for embassy submission.

Insurance Cost by Trip Duration

Approximate CostNotes
1 week€15-30Basic coverage
2 weeks€25-50Most common
1 month€40-80Extended travel
3 months (90 days)€80-150Maximum Schengen stay
Annual multi-trip€100-200/yearFrequent travelers

Accepted Insurance Providers

Consulates generally accept insurance from:

  • Established insurance companies in your country or internationally
  • Specialized Schengen insurance providers like AXA Schengen, Europ Assistance, Allianz
  • Some credit card travel insurance if it meets all requirements (verify carefully)

Check with your specific consulate — some have lists of recommended or required providers.

Related Information

Schengen Visa Documents

Complete document checklist

Insurance Requirements

Detailed coverage requirements

Compare Insurance

Find the right policy

Schengen Visa Insurance FAQs

Can I use free insurance from my credit card?
Sometimes, but verify it meets ALL requirements: €30,000 minimum, repatriation coverage, all Schengen countries, and the full trip duration. Many credit card policies do not meet these standards. Get a coverage letter from your card issuer to confirm.
What if my insurance is refused by the consulate?
If your insurance does not meet requirements, your visa application may be rejected or you will be asked to provide compliant insurance. Always check requirements before your appointment and buy from a reputable Schengen-compliant provider.
Do I need insurance for each trip?
Yes, you need valid insurance for each Schengen visa application. For frequent travelers, annual multi-trip policies can be more economical and convenient.
What if I extend my trip?
You must extend your insurance to cover the additional days. Contact your insurance provider before your original policy expires. Traveling without valid insurance can cause problems if you need to make a claim.
Does insurance cover COVID-19?
Most current travel insurance policies include COVID-19 coverage. However, verify this with your provider, as coverage details vary. Some consulates specifically ask about pandemic coverage.
Can I get a refund if my visa is denied?
Many insurance providers offer refunds if your visa is denied (with proof of rejection). Check the refund policy before purchasing. Some providers offer 'visa denial' coverage specifically.

Related Information

Schengen Visa Guide

Complete application guide

ETIAS Guide

Insurance not required for ETIAS

Schengen Area Guide

Countries your policy covers

Check Your Requirements

Find out what you need

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