img travel insurance for schengen visa

• International Medical Group(IMG)
• Schengen Visa Travel Insurance

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance for Europe by IMG

Schengen visa insurance quote, what does schengen visa travel insurance cover, satisfies visa requirements, doctor visit, medical evacuation, health care expenses, repat of remains.

Pre-existing conditions

Testimonials - From Our Customers

I had a no-problem trip but Seven corners was easy to deal with in the securing of the travel insurance and dealing with a few issues prior to departure.

I have always gotten a quick response with a live person. I placed a claim, we will see it their payment to me is as good as their customer service is.

Good policy options and pricing. Like to purchase high coverage for medical without covering full cost of trips - like the options Seven Corners provides.

IMG plans offering Schengen travel insurance plans

Patriot international lite, patriot international lite travel brochure links.

• People outside their home country whose destination excludes the United States or its territories.
• This plan can be renewed up to 24 months.
• Patriot International Lite insurance can be extended for a minimum of 5 days up to a 12 months period, until reaching a maximum of 24 continuous months.
• Prior to the end of each period of coverage purchased, you will receive renewal information.
• You have the option to renew online or you may complete a paper renewal form.
• Each insured person must only satisfy one deductible and coinsurance within each 12 month period of coverage.
• Covers up to maximum limit, under the age of 70 years.
• Acute onset of a pre-existing condition - Emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $25,000 maximum limit for up to age 70.
• A medical maximum of at least €30,000 (the equivalent being about $50,000 USD) with coverage for accidents and $0 for deductible, sudden illness for the entire length of stay.
• A repatriation benefit.
• An emergency medical evacuation benefit.
• The insurance provider must have an office in Europe.

The Traveler can purchase an optional rider at the time of application. The optional riders provide additional coverage for a minimal charge.

Available for those up to the age of 65 years.If you are a thrill-seeking traveler who enjoys life's more adventurous activities, you may want to consider adding supplemental coverage to your plan. The Adventure Sports Rider provides coverage for injuries sustained during certain extreme sports that would otherwise be excluded from your insurance policy.

• Age 0-49 years: $50,000 certificate period
• Age 50-59 years: $30,000 certificate period
• Age 60-64 years: $15,000 certificate period

Groups may purchase the Chaperone/Faculty Leader Replacement Rider in the event that an insured person who is designated as a Chaperone/Faculty Leader by the sponsoring organization has an unexpected death of a relative, a medical emergency, or the substantial destruction of the principal residence in his/her home country, which causes the insured person to have to cancel or interrupt travel, this plan covers reimbursement up to $3,000 for the expense of a round trip economy airline ticket for a replacement Chaperone/Faculty Leader. (avaliable on group plans)

The AD&D rider will pay you or your beneficiaries up to $400,000 if your death or dismemberment is the direct result of an accident. This optional coverage is available for the primary insured person only. This coverage is in addition to the Accidental Death and Dismemberment already included in the plans. Coverage must be purchased for a minimum of three months.

Cell phones are essential when traveling internationally to keep you safe, connect with friends and family back home, and to take photos of your travels. Device protection provides coverage for repair or replacement of your cell phone if it is lost, stolen, or accidentally damaged during your trip-so you can continue your trip uninterrupted and stay digitally connected wherever you are in the world.

*Rider option is available in select countries on individual plans only.

Should something unexpected happen before or during your trip, this rider can protect you from financial losses with coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, travel delay benefits, and more. While all Patriot plans include benefits for return travel, the Trip Cancellation, Interruption, & Travel Delay Rider provides coverage for trip cancellation, travel delay, and trip interruption perils.

If you are prevented from taking your trip for a covered, unforeseen reason, travel insurance can reimburse up to 100% of your prepaid, non-refundable payments or deposits that would otherwise be forfeited.

**Rider option is available on individual plans for U.S. residents only.

IMG Schengen Travel Insurance - Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can buy Patriot International insurance as it satisfies the Schengen visa requirements as mandated by the European consulates and also offers the Schengen visa letter as required by the Schengen state consulates. Patriot International Lite travel insurance also offers visa letter in French if required.

Visitors Care is a fixed benefit plans and most affordable plan by IMG. This plan has specific benefit limits for different covered medical expenses. These benefit limits are not the same as the plan medical maximum.

International Medical Group (IMG) is an Indiana based company offering travel insurance products since 1990. IMG has over 320 employees and offers over 25 travel insurance products for travelers to the US as well as for US citizens traveling overseas.

International Medical Group (IMG) has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau since 2005 and has an A- rating.

• Preventive care like routine health checks, physical examinations, inoculation, vaccination
• Regular treatment for pre-existing conditions
• Maternity coverage if conception occurs before purchase of visitor health insurance

There is no single Schengen travel insurance plan which will work best for all travelers to Europe. The best Schengen visa travel insurance plans will vary from traveler to traveler depending on their unique needs. While some Europe travelers will look for the cheapest Schengen visa insurance cost specifically to satisfy the Schengen visa requirements, others will look for the most comprehensive Schengen travel insurance coverage.

The price will be higher if you need health insurance for Europe travelers with pre-existing conditions. It is recommended to compare different low cost Schengen visa travel insurance plans based on price as well as the different benefits coverage options. Europe travelers should also read different Schengen travel insurance reviews before buying a Schengen visa travel insurance plan.

Travelers to Europe applying for the Schengen visa can buy Schengen visa travel insurance on American Visitor Insurance. While it ironic to buy travel insurance for Europe on American Visitor insurance, we offer several international travel insurance plans that specifically satisfy Schengen visa requirements as mandated by Schengen state consulates.

Our compare Schengen visa insurance quote facility lists a range of cheap travel insurance that satisfy Schengen visa insurance requirements. After buying the Schengen travel medical insurance on our website travelers can immediately download the required Schengen visa letter to be used while applying for the Schengen visa.

The cheapest Schengen travel insurance is surely dependent on the travelers' requirements. The traveler will have to do research online to find the cheapest travel insurance for schengen visa based on his or her requirements. It is advisable to compare cheapest travel medical insurance for Schengen visa before buying the cheap travel medical insurance for Schengen visa that satisfies Schengen consulate requirements.

IMG travel insurance features

Frequently asked questions.

Frequently asked insurance question for International Medical Group.

IMG Initial Precertification

Initiate Pre Certification for International Medical Group Insurance Plans.

IMG Rx-listing

Rx-listing for International Medical Group Insurance Plans.

Schengen Visa Letter

After the purchase of Schengen Visa travel insurance a letter required by the Schengen consulates can be obtained.

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IMG Cancel for any reason travel insurance

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Patriot International travel insurance by IMG

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Visitors Care insurance plan from International Medical Group (IMG)

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International Medical Group(IMG) Insurance related coverage

IMG Patriot group insurance

Travelling in groups? Get coverage from IMG Patriot Group travel insurance!.

IMG Pre-existing conditions

Need coverage for the IMG acute onset of pre-existing conditions insurance?

IMG high-limit medical coverage

It is best suited for travelers expecting first-class medical coverage..

IMG Standard comprehensive plan

Provides coverage for for foreign residents as visitors to the USA.

IMG Insurance Restrictions

IMG Insurance is not offering coverage for residents of Belarus, Russia, or Ukraine and travelers visiting Belarus, Russia, or Ukraine

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Choose the plan that meets your needs and spend more time enjoying your international experience not worrying about your insurance coverage.

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What type of coverage do you need?

• Vacation / Holiday
• Visitor / Immigrant
• Student / Scholar
• Employer / Business Traveler
• Expat / Global Citizen
• Mission / Social Good
• Marine Captain / Crew
• Flights / Airfare
• Cruises / Excursions

Travel Medical Insurance

Temporary coverage for accidents, sicknesses, & emergency evacuations when visiting or traveling outside of your home country.

Popular Plans

International health insurance.

Annually renewable international private medical insurance coverage for expats and global citizens living or working internationally.

Travel Insurance

Coverage designed to protect you from financial losses should your trip be delayed, interrupted, or cancelled.

Enterprise Services

Meet your duty of care obligations with confidence, knowing your travelers are safe, healthy, and connected wherever they may be in the world.

What type of organization do you represent?

• Corporations
• Insurance Companies
• Educational Institutions
• Mission Organizations
• Maritime Industries
• Government Agencies
• Non-Profit Organizations

Medical & Travel Assistance

Your travelers can access 24/7 global support should they need medical attention, travel assistance, or medical transport services.

Global Workers' Compensation Case Management

Rest assured knowing you have an experienced team who is committed to reducing your costs, moving your files forward, and serving as an international resource for all your work injury claims.

Security Assistance Services

Keep your travelers safe, no matter where they are, with real-time alerts and intelligence on safety, health, political, and other global risks.

Insurance Administrative Services

You’ll have experts to guide you through all things related to your health care plan needs, from enrollment to claim reimbursement.

Protect Your Trip Investment with iTravelInsured Travel Insurance Plans

What is travel insurance.

Travel insurance is a great way to protect your financial investment for your trip. Travel benefits can provide coverage for prepaid, non-refundable trip costs and some plans also offer limited medical benefits.

Travel Insurance may provide coverages such as:

• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• Baggage and person effects
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Accident and sickness medical expenses

Do I need travel insurance?

There are many reasons why you should consider travel insurance. While trip cancellation coverage is not mandatory, some countries require proof that a traveler has travel medical coverage before allowing entry. For more information on finding the right plan for you, check out "How to Choose the Best Travel Protection Plan for You" .

Factors to consider:

• Could you afford to lose your non-refundable, pre-paid travel expenses in the case of your trip being cancelled due to an unforeseen event (ex: death of a family member)?
• Are you traveling to a destination that may be affected by severe weather?
• If you were to get sick or injured on the trip, would you be unable to pay out of pocket for the necessary healthcare?
• If your flight is delayed, would you seek reimbursement for the inconvenience and additional charges such as change fees?
• If your luggage is lost or stolen, could you afford to replace the missing baggage or personal effects?

Our recommended plans:

The iTravelInsured Travel SE and iTravelInsured Travel LX plans are our most popular and recommended plans for domestic and international destinations. Travel protection is available whether traveling on a cruise, tour, or vacation abroad. These plans also includes coverage for additional kennel fees caused by a travel delay.

In addition providing the highest level of benefits, what also sets the iTravelInsured Travel LX plan apart is the optional Cancel For Any Reason coverage it also provides.

Trip Protection

Medical coverage, itravelinsured travel se.

• Trip interruption benefit up to 150% of trip cost
• $250,000 medical expense coverage for unexpected illnesses & accidents while traveling
• COVID-19 treated the same as any other illness
• $500,000 coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Trip delay coverage up to $2,000 after delay of 12 hours
• Travel Protection Plan consists of travel insurance and other non-insurance travel assistance service
• Trip cancellation benefit up to 100% of trip cost

iTravelInsured Travel LX

• Optional Cancel for Any Reason benefit
• Trip cancellation benefit up to 100% and interruption up to 150% of trip cost
• $500,000 medical expense coverage for unexpected illnesses & accidents while traveling
• $1,000,000 coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Trip delay coverage up to $2,500 after delay of 6 hours
• Travel Protection Plan consists of travel insurance and other non-insurance travel assistance services
• Cancel/Interruption for Any Reason benefit available as optional upgrade

We've got you covered

Rest assured knowing IMG is there with you, wherever your travels take you, providing worldwide coverage, international claims specialists, and access to 24-hour emergency assistance services with multilingual capabilities.

We specialize in many common travel protection areas so you can travel with global peace of mind:

• Trip Cancellation - One of the most common reasons for purchasing travel insurance is to protect your financial investment in the event you have to cancel your trip. Having travel insurance with a trip cancellation benefit can help you to avoid losing the money you’ve invested in a trip you can no longer take.
• Travel Insurance for Flights - Whether the airline loses your bags, your flight gets delayed or cancelled, or a host of other unexpected issues, having travel insurance can provide financial protection when something goes wrong and makes your trip more expensive.
• Travel Insurance For a Cruise - Unlike other vacations, it’s likely for cruise-goers to have paid for most of their vacation before ever stepping foot on the ship. With travel insurance, you can insure your prepaid, non-refundable cruise, flight, and other trip costs so that you’re covered in case the unexpected happens before or during your travels.
• Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Insurance - Cancel For Any Reason coverage is a travel insurance benefit that allows you to get partially reimbursed for cancelling a trip for a reason not otherwise covered under your plan. You can quite literally cancel a trip for any reason, and still get some of your money back.
• Travel Insurance for Pet Owners - Travel protection plans with specific benefits for pet owners. We also understand it's just as important to look out for your pets when you're not traveling, which is why we've partnered with Fetch so you can give your dog or cat the care they need without ever worrying about the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out answers to some of our commonly asked questions.

Do you know if any type of travel insurance coverage is included with your credit card? How about your health care policy? Maybe your homeowner’s plan? Medicare?

Travel insurance is designed to provide coverage where none exists, or at least fill in major gaps that exist in other types of insurance programs. Coverage gaps are caused by a complete absence of coverage, deductibles, exclusions, coinsurance or co-payment penalties. Review your personal credit card, health, homeowner’s and other insurance programs that you already own to make an informed decision about the purchase of travel insurance.

Check your other insurance carefully to understand what benefits are offered with your credit card and how those benefits are activated. Airlines, cruise lines, hotels, tour operators have cancellation penalties. A discussion with your travel agent will help you become aware of your financial exposure should the unexpected happen.

Protect your financial investment with an iTravelInsured plan.

The perils protected against are listed in your plan document. These perils are similar to the trip cancellation perils except they provide coverage once you depart for your covered trip. The insured is reimbursed for unused non-refundable travel arrangements plus additional transportation costs.

Coverage begins at 12:01 a.m. on the day after the date the appropriate payment for this plan is received. This is your “Effective Date” and begins the trip cancellation benefits. Most other coverages begin when you depart on the first travel arrangement for your trip.

To be eligible for trip cancellation reimbursement, you must cancel your trip due to one of the reasons covered in your plan. You may add Cancel for Any Reason coverage to our LX plan. This allows you to cancel for any reason not otherwise covered by your plan and receive a partial refund. Additional terms apply.**

It is best to check all of your existing insurance policies before traveling abroad so that you're aware of how you're covered and where you have gaps in your existing coverage.

Protect your trip, travel expenses, & health

Get a quick & easy quote today to see prices and find your plan.

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International Medical Group (IMG) Travel Insurance Review – Is It Worth It?

Christine Krzyszton

Senior Finance Contributor

306 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 98 U.S. States Visited: 45

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3134 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Why Purchase Travel Insurance

Why purchase travel insurance from img, travel insurance and covid-19, types of policies offered by img, how to get a quote, the value of travel insurance comparison websites, to credit card travel insurance, to other travel insurance companies, to point-of-sale coverage, how to file a claim with img, everything else you need to know, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

It’s been especially important to protect our travel investments recently. You’ve likely had to cancel at least 1 trip in the past couple of years, and there’s still the uncertainty of whether future trips could face the same fate.

As a result, seeking out travel insurance that’s both affordable and provides the right combination of coverage has become an essential element of the trip-planning process versus a mere afterthought.

When it comes to purchasing travel insurance , it can be difficult to know where to start. Whether you conveniently buy the coverage offered when you purchase your trip, compare travel insurance companies and policies in-depth, or rely on your credit card with travel insurance , having as much information as possible can be helpful in making a decision on travel insurance.

Today we’re going to focus on 1 specific travel insurance company, International Medical Group, Inc. (known as IMG or IMGlobal). We’re also going to talk briefly about travel insurance in general, give you some tips on finding the best travel insurance value, and provide some direction when faced with the decision of whether you need to purchase coverage.

We’ll get to our review of IMG in short order, but let’s start by briefly discussing why you’d want to consider purchasing travel insurance.

Travel insurance provides protection for economic loss should unexpected covered events occur prior to and during your travels. The more money you have at risk, the greater the need to consider travel insurance.

If you’re simply purchasing a domestic flight and hotel for a weekend away, you may not need to purchase travel insurance.

However, if your trip includes a lot of non-refundable expenses or your itinerary is complex (increasing the chances that something could go wrong), you’ll want to be fully protected.

In addition, if your trip includes potentially dangerous sports activities , you’re visiting remote locations, or if you will not have medical insurance during your travels, you’ll also want to strongly consider travel insurance.

Here are some sample situations where travel insurance could provide protection:

• You’re on safari, become seriously ill, and need to be evacuated to the nearest hospital.
• There is severe weather, your flights are canceled and you must stay at a hotel overnight before continuing your trip.
• An immediate family member passes away causing you to cancel your trip.
• You’re skiing, fall, and break your leg.
• There is a flood, your home becomes uninhabitable, and you must cancel your trip.

Bottom Line: If your trip is expensive, has a complex itinerary, you’re visiting a remote location, or you need medical coverage during your travels, you should consider a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

There are a lot of companies from which to select when purchasing travel insurance. The bottom line, however, is whether the company is financially sound, can pay its claims, offers a policy that is affordable, and has coverage matching your needs.

IMG checks all those boxes as a leading provider of international health insurance, travel medical insurance , and comprehensive travel insurance. The company’s parent company, SiriusPoint America Insurance Company, is rated A- (Excellent) by prominent insurance financial rating company A.M. Best . Additionally, IMG has been around for over 25 years, so you know you’re dealing with an established company.

IMG has also been accredited by the Better Business Bureau since 2005 and has an A- rating. The company has had 59 complaints in the past 3 years, the majority of which were concerns with products/services typical of other insurance company complaints, including claims processing.

Whether IMG has the exact policy that matches your needs and is affordable for you requires more research. We’ll be digging deeper into examples of its policies and pricing later in this article.

First, however, let’s talk about COVID-19 and how IMG may provide related coverage.

In the light of the pandemic, we’ve all become more aware of the need for travel insurance. Perhaps you’ve had to cancel a trip due to the fear of getting ill while traveling, or borders were shut down, making it impossible to travel to your destination.

Unfortunately, travel insurance does not cover these situations unless you have purchased Cancel for Any Reason insurance . This add-on to your travel insurance policy offers protection when you feel the need to cancel for any reason . The coverage can be expensive and only 50% to 75% of your trip expenditure will be covered.

Many travel insurance companies include coverage for COVID-19 for medical coverage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and trip delay. Some companies exclude COVID-19.

IMG treats COVID-19 as any other illness on the company’s iTravelInsured travel protection plans. It also offers a Cancel for Any Reason insurance add-on, depending on the policy you select. IMG may exclude coverage from some of its medical plans if your destination is designated as having a Level 3 warning by the Department of State (DOS) or the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

Bottom Line: Travel insurance does not cover voluntary trip cancellations due to fear of getting ill or cancellations for borders that have been shut down due to COVID-19. You would need to purchase Cancel for Any Reason insurance to have coverage. IMG offers this add-on option with some of its plans. 

IMG offers 25 different insurance plans, ranging from basic travel medical insurance, comprehensive travel insurance, cruise and sports coverage, international medical insurance, and more.

The company is known for its international medical insurance offerings , including plans for visitors to the U.S. (including non-U.S. citizens, students, and exchange visitors). U.S. citizens traveling abroad will find several comprehensive travel insurance plans that include medical coverage or plans that have strong medical coverage with ancillary travel insurance.

The company also offers insurance that complies with Schengen visa requirements, specialized plans for government service workers, for marine captains/crew, and for those doing mission work.

Let’s look at a comparison snapshot of a few of the most popular plans offered by IMG and some of the coverage combinations you can expect to find.

This is just an overview of the core coverage offered by 3 of IMG’s travel insurance plans. Descriptions are abbreviated and are meant for comparison only.

Bottom Line: IMG offers a large variety of plans that allow you to select the type and level of coverage you prefer. In addition to comprehensive travel insurance plans, the company offers travel medical plans for visitors to the U.S. and plans for U.S. citizens when traveling both internationally and in the U.S.

Obtaining a quote from IMG for your trip is simple. You’ll need to provide your age, where you reside, and your primary trip destination. You’ll also need to provide the dates of your trip and the total cost of your trip.

Once you hit submit, you’ll receive an instant quote for several different plan options. You can compare coverages, pricing, and then select the plan that fits what you’re looking for.

You can then purchase the plan and coverage will start on the date you selected.

You will have 10 days to review the plan. If you’re not satisfied, you will receive a full refund.

Bottom Line: You can receive an instant quote on the IMG website by providing minimal information. You can also immediately purchase the policy and be covered for the date you selected. 

Chances are we wouldn’t purchase a new vehicle without shopping around to find the best value. Fortunately, comparing travel insurance policies to find the best value requires a lot less effort.

Travel insurance comparison websites simplify the process making it easy to compare dozens of companies and hundreds of policies, all in a few minutes.

You’ll need to input your trip and traveler information including where you reside, the cost and dates of the trip, whether you want an annual multi-trip policy, and the date you wish coverage to begin.

Also, all of these comparison sites offer click-through links to COVID-19 coverage information for each featured company.

Here are some of the best travel insurance comparison websites to get you started:

• Squaremouth — Squaremouth compares a wide variety of policies, including annual plans that cover every trip you take within a 1-year period, medical travel insurance, single-trip coverage, and plans that cover sports/special activities.
• Insure My Trip — Insure My Trip is a good source for comparing comprehensive single- or multi-trip plans that include medical coverage.
• TravelInsurance.com — While the site does not compare medical-only plans, it offers comparisons of comprehensive travel insurance plans.
• AARDY.com — We like AARDY as it does a great job of comparing dozens of highly rated travel insurance companies. We don’t like having to provide our email in order to obtain a quote, however.

Bottom Line: Travel insurance comparison websites help you compare the best companies and policy options in a minimal amount of time. You can also purchase the policy after your search and receive immediate coverage. 

How IMG Compares

Let’s look now at how IMG compares to the complimentary travel insurance coverage on your credit cards, to other travel insurance companies, and to the point-of-sale travel insurance offerings you might find when purchasing flights or travel packages.

Here’s how IMG compares:

If your trip is simply a flight and a short hotel stay, the travel insurance that comes with your credit card could provide you with all the coverage you need.

Once your trip becomes more complex, or more expensive, the need for travel insurance becomes greater. In either of these situations, or if you need medical coverage for your trip, the coverage that comes on your credit card will not be sufficient.

One important element is that most of the coverage provided on your credit card is secondary , meaning you must file a claim with other insurance first. You could potentially have to deal with the travel provider, the credit card company, any other insurance that may cover the loss, and the claims administrator.

Having a comprehensive travel insurance policy, like those sold by IMG, could simplify the process, especially for a complex trip involving several providers.

To learn more about the best credit cards for travel insurance , we invite you to check out our informative article.

Bottom Line: The travel insurance that comes complimentary on your credit card may be sufficient enough to cover a simple trip, perhaps just consisting of a flight and hotel. Expensive, more complex trips, or those requiring medical coverage, will be better served by purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy. 

Using a travel comparison website like the ones mentioned previously allows you to compare companies and policies quickly .

While plans and prices will vary widely depending on your trip and personal criteria, we created a quote based on a single-trip, 1 week in length, involving a traveler 40 years of age, with a total trip cost of $2,000.

The above quote does include CFAR insurance. But even without it, IMG came out higher than most competitors. Policy coverage was identical in most cases but IMG did offer $1,000,000 evacuation coverage, $10,000 in search-and-rescue coverage, and coverage for rented sporting equipment.

When we look at travel medical coverage plans, IMG becomes more competitive (using our limited example). You will find some travel insurance coverages are also provided, making this option a consideration if you’re looking for a medical-specific plan.

Your criteria could change the comparisons entirely. That’s why a travel insurance comparison website is an essential tool when seeking out the best value in travel insurance.

Bottom Line: While our limited comparisons showed IMG plans as being higher than the competitors, this may not be the case for your specific trip and policy preferences. Plans that focused on medical coverage tended to be more competitive. Always compare options to find the best value for you. 

The coverage options provided at checkout when you purchase a flight, vacation package, or other travel, can be limited. Additionally, the coverage is focused on cancellation and interruption coverage and only for the specific reasons listed.

To illustrate how IMG would stack up against point-of-sale coverage, we looked at the coverage and cost of insuring the same flight as the point-of-sale coverage above. For just a few dollars more, with IMG you would have emergency medical and evacuation coverage, and trip delay coverage. The point-of-sale plan covers just trip cancellation/interruption for up to 100% of the trip cost.

Bottom Line: In our limited example, even a budget policy purchased from IMG offers more coverage than a point-of-sale policy of a similar price. Always compare prior to purchasing, as rates will vary based on trip criteria. 

If you need medical treatment during your travels, in many cases IMG can work directly with the medical provider. But if you also need to file a medical claim, the best way to get started is to complete the online claim form .

As the filing of a claim for a baggage delay can be quite different than filing a medical claim, and the documentation required will certainly differ, you’ll want to begin by using a claim form designed for your specific type of loss.

You can select the associated form on the company’s claim center website . Each individual claim form lists the unique required documentation you will need to submit for that type of claim.

You can also contact the company by calling 866-243-7524, 317- 655-4500, or 317-655-9796. On each claim form, there is also an address, phone number, fax number, and email that may differ depending on the type of claim.

Be aware that there are deadlines for reporting claims and submitting all of the required documentation and these timeframes can differ depending on the type of claim.

Bottom Line: The best way to submit a claim is by completing the online claim form specific to the type of claim, which is available on the company’s claim center website. On the claim form you will find the associated phone number, address, email address, and fax number to help facilitate your claim should you need this additional information. 

Be aware that some of the plans IMG offers may provide secondary coverage versus primary coverage. This means that you must first file a claim with any other insurance that may apply.

You can feel comfortable purchasing a policy from IMG as you’ll have 10 days from the date of purchase to review the plan and get a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

We were able to obtain a quote for travelers up to and including age 99. Coverage levels and pricing vary by age.

While we have focused on individual travel and medical insurance in this article, IMG does have an Enterprise division that provides services to corporations and other organizations.

IMG is a good choice as a travel insurance company due to its financial stability and the fact it has been in business so long. However, you’ll need to compare plans and pricing with competitors to make sure the company provides the best value for you personally when purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance plan.

If you’re looking at insuring a single trip of short duration, the company can provide solid value over point-of-sale policies by delivering more coverage for similar economic outlay.

Additionally, the company’s travel medical insurance plans with primary coverage could provide you with solid medical coverage during your travels for minimal cost.

For more information on the basics of purchasing travel insurance , the best travel insurance companies , and how travel insurance works with COVID-19, visit our additional articles on these topics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is img a good travel insurance company.

Yes. IMG is an established company backed by highly rated companies. The company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A- rating.

Does IMG sell Cancel for Any Reason Insurance?

Yes. Cancel for Any Reason insurance is available as an add-on to some of the plans offered by IMG. However, just like other travel insurance providers, there’s a limited window of time to purchase the coverage. There are also limits on the percentage of trip costs that are covered.

What is IMG visitors insurance?

IMG offers several levels of medical plans for visitors to the U.S. These plans can cover students and visitors traveling on J-1 and J-2 visas, including non-U.S. citizens.

How can I contact IMG?

You can reach IMG by calling 866-243-7524, 317- 655-4500, or 317-655-9796. If you are out of the U.S., you can call collect.

You can also reach the company via email at [email protected] or by mail at International Medical Group, Inc., P.O. Box 88500, Indianapolis, IN, 46208.

Does IMG cover COVID-19?

IMG treats COVID-19 the same way it treats any other illness on many coverages including medical, trip interruption, trip cancellation, and trip delay.

You may also have the option to purchase Cancel for Any Reason insurance on some of its plans.

Be sure to check the specific policy prior to purchasing for related COVID-19 coverage.

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5 Tips for Buying Schengen Visa Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

1. Decide which type of insurance you’d like

2. get multiple quotes, 3. use this as an opportunity to maximize credit card bonus points, 4. double-check the policy before purchasing, 5. consider using a credit card that provides trip insurance instead of buying a new policy, if you’re looking to buy travel insurance for a schengen visa.

Travel insurance can be a very important accompaniment to your trip, especially when you’re traveling throughout multiple countries. Europe is a prime example of this, where the border-free Schengen zone allows you to traverse multiple countries without passing passport control. Finding Schengen visa travel insurance isn’t always simple, however, and you’ll want to ensure that you have coverage regardless of your location.

There are plenty of things to think about before buying travel insurance when traveling throughout Europe, including: the coverage you’re looking for, how you’ll be paying and whether your credit card already offers insurance.

Let’s take a look at Schengen travel insurance and five easy tips for making sure you’re good to go — no matter where you travel within the region.

Although there aren’t generally any Schengen visa travel insurance requirements, there are multiple types of travel insurance coverage available depending on your needs. Consider carefully the type of coverage you’re looking for. Common types includes:

Travel medical insurance .

Trip interruption insurance .

Cancel for any reason insurance .

Trip cancellation insurance .

Lost luggage insurance .

Rental car insurance .

Accidental death insurance .

Emergency evacuation insurance.

Note that the U.K. left the Schengen zone a few years ago, so you’ll want to double-check whether coverage in the U.K. is valid for your travel insurance policy.

» Learn more: Is travel insurance worth it?

It’s always in your best interest to get multiple quotes before purchasing insurance. The amount you’ll pay will be heavily dependent on the type of coverage you receive, its length and any deductibles that you may have.

Cancel For Any Reason insurance, or CFAR, allows you to recoup most or all of your nonrefundable costs — no matter why you’ve chosen not to travel.

There are plenty of different websites that’ll allow you to compare different insurance plans such as TravelInsurance.com or SquareMouth.com (a NerdWallet partner), which will gather together multiple quotes in one easy search.

There are several details you’ll need to have on hand when looking for quotes. These include:

The total cost of your trip.

Your destination.

Your dates of travel.

The number of travelers.

The age of travelers.

Where you live.

When you booked your trip.

Once you’ve got all your information gathered together, it’s simple to find a policy that fits your need for travel insurance in the Schengen zone on one of the comparison websites.

» Learn more: What is travel insurance?

If you’re planning a vacation to Europe, hopefully you’ve already acquired a travel credit card or two. However, cards that focus on travel rewards won’t necessarily optimize insurance purchases.

» Learn more: How to choose a credit card for Europe travel

In this case, you’ll want to double down on rewards with a card that’ll maximize everyday spend. These cards will give you bonus points on all purchases, no matter their category. Great options for this include:

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Earn 2x Capital One Miles per dollar spent on all purchases.

Citi Double Cash® Card : Earn 2% cash back in the form of Citi ThankYou points on all purchases: 1% when you make your purchase and another 1% when you pay your bill. Plus, through the end of 2024, cardholders can get 5% cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked through the Citi Travel portal .

Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Typically earn 1.5% cash back on all non-bonus category purchases.

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express : Earn 2 American Express Membership Rewards on the first $50,000 in purchases each year. Terms apply.

Pair your Chase Freedom Unlimited® card with a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card card or Chase Sapphire Reserve® card to unlock the full suite of Chase Ultimate Rewards® transfer partners. This strategy is sometimes referred to as the Chase Trifecta .

While you likely won’t be earning a ton of points for your travel insurance purchase (unless your costs are exorbitantly high), maximizing your earnings is always a good idea. Don’t leave money on the table.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. This is probably no great revelation, but it’s definitely something of which you’ll want to be aware.

This is especially pertinent when it comes to the current travel climate in the COVID-19 era. While you may purchase a health insurance plan that covers most medical costs, it may specifically exclude those incurred by COVID-19. And even if it does reimburse you for any hospital costs, it may not pay for a forced quarantine in the event of illness.

These are things you’ll want to check for when buying travel insurance for any trip. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of your policy carefully, and if there’s very specific coverage you’re looking for (such as that offering protection in the event you catch COVID-19), you can often use search filters to narrow down your options.

» Learn more: Is there travel insurance that covers COVID quarantine?

One great feature of travel credit cards is the complimentary trip insurance they often provide. In order for your trip to be eligible for coverage, you’ll need to use the card to pay for your trip. In exchange, however, you can receive some pretty powerful benefits without needing to pay out of pocket.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card card, for example, provides primary rental car insurance. This means that when you decline the insurance offered at the counter, your entire rental will be covered against collision up to the actual value of the rental car.

What’s most powerful about this feature is that, as primary, it comes before your own personal insurance — possibly saving you expensive premium jumps and claims on your policy.

Other cards that include powerful travel insurance protection such as interruption, cancellation or baggage coverage include The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card. Terms apply.

» Learn more: The cheapest flights to Europe on points

It makes sense to purchase travel insurance in many circumstances, especially with the uncertainty in today’s travel world. Take advantage of these five tips to make sure you’re properly prepared for your trip — whether you’re heading to France, Finland or any of the over two dozen Schengen countries.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa

Last updated on December 19, 2023

Welcome to the ultimate guide for finding the best travel insurance for Schengen visa ! Whether you’re planning a dream vacation or a business trip to Europe, having the right travel insurance is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the key factors to consider, provide a list of the top 10 travel insurance companies, and offer valuable tips to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!

Importance of Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa:

Before we explore the specifics of finding the best travel insurance for Schengen visa, let’s understand why travel insurance is essential. Travel insurance serves as a safety net, providing financial protection and peace of mind during unforeseen circumstances. Whether it’s trip cancellation, medical emergencies, lost baggage, or travel delays, travel insurance ensures you are covered in such situations. Without proper insurance, you may be exposed to significant financial risks and inconveniences. Now, let’s delve into the Schengen visa and why travel insurance is a vital component.

What is a Schengen Visa and Why Do You Need Travel Insurance?

A Schengen visa is a type of visa that allows travelers to visit 26 European countries participating in the Schengen Area without the need for individual visas for each country. This includes popular tourist destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and more. To obtain a Schengen visa, one of the mandatory requirements is proof of travel insurance with specific coverage.

Related: 10 Best Travel Insurance Companies in Germany

The Schengen visa requirements state that the insurance must cover medical emergencies and repatriation expenses with a minimum coverage of €30,000 ($35,000). It should also be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area. This requirement highlights the importance of having the right travel insurance that meets the Schengen visa criteria. Now, let’s explore the factors you should consider when choosing the best travel insurance for Schengen visa.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa

1. types of coverage.

When evaluating travel insurance options, it’s crucial to understand the types of coverage offered. Typically, travel insurance policies include:

• Medical coverage: Covers medical expenses incurred during your trip, including hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and doctor’s visits.
• Trip cancellation and interruption: Provides coverage if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances like illness, natural disasters, or travel advisories.
• Lost baggage and personal belongings: Protects you in case your baggage gets lost, stolen, or damaged during your journey.
• Travel delays and missed connections: Provides compensation for additional expenses incurred due to flight delays or missed connections.

2. Medical Coverage

As mentioned earlier, Schengen visa requirements mandate a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies. It is advisable to opt for travel insurance that offers comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency medical evacuation to your home country and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions if applicable.

3. Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Unforeseen circumstances can disrupt your travel plans, forcing you to cancel or return home earlier than expected. It’s essential to have travel insurance that covers trip cancellation and interruption, providing reimbursement for pre-paid expenses and additional costs incurred.

4. Pre-existing Medical Conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, it’s crucial to find travel insurance that offers coverage for such conditions. Some insurers have specific policies tailored to cover pre-existing medical conditions, ensuring you receive the necessary medical attention if required while abroad.

5. Coverage Limits

Review the coverage limits of different insurance policies to ensure they meet your specific needs. Consider factors such as medical coverage, baggage coverage, and trip cancellation coverage. Opt for higher limits if you are traveling with high-value items or have substantial prepaid expenses.

6. Premium and Deductible

The cost of travel insurance varies based on factors such as your age, trip duration, coverage limits, and the insurance provider. Compare the premiums and deductibles of different policies to find the best balance between affordability and coverage.

7. Reputation and Customer Reviews

Research the reputation of the insurance companies you are considering. Read customer reviews to gain insights into their claims process, customer service, and overall satisfaction. Choose insurers with a positive track record and reliable customer support.

Now that we have explored the key factors to consider, let’s delve into the top 10 travel insurance companies that offer excellent coverage for Schengen visa.

Top 10 Travel Insurance Companies for Schengen Visa:

1. axa assistance.

AXA Assistance  is a well-known and widely accepted insurance provider that offers specific travel insurance plans tailored to meet the requirements for Schengen Visa applications. Their Schengen Visa-compliant insurance policies typically cover emergency medical expenses, repatriation, and other necessary health-related expenditures up to a minimum of 30,000 euros, as required by the Schengen area countries.

2. Allianz Global Assistance

Allianz Global Assistance is another reputable insurance provider that offers comprehensive travel insurance plans suitable for Schengen Visa applications. They provide specific travel insurance policies tailored to meet the requirements set by the Schengen area countries for visa applications.

3. Travel Guard

Travel Guard is a well-known travel insurance provider that offers various travel insurance options, including plans that meet the requirements for Schengen Visa applications. Their travel insurance plans typically cover essential aspects required for Schengen Visa applications, such as:

• Coverage for emergency medical expenses meeting the minimum required amount of 30,000 euros.
• Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.
• Trip cancellation or interruption coverage.
• Baggage loss or delay coverage.
• Travel assistance services.

Travel Guard’s Schengen Visa-compliant insurance policies are designed to fulfill the specific requirements of travelers applying for a Schengen Visa and are recognized by embassies and consulates of Schengen countries.

4. Europe Assistance

Europe Assistance is a notable insurance provider that offers Schengen-compliant travel insurance plans suitable for various durations and coverage needs.

Their travel insurance plans generally cover the necessary requirements for Schengen Visa applications, including:

• Coverage for emergency medical expenses meeting the minimum required amount (typically 30,000 euros).

Europe Assistance’s Schengen Visa-compliant insurance policies are tailored to meet the specific requirements set by Schengen area countries and are accepted by embassies and consulates of Schengen countries.

5. Generali Global Assistance

Generali Global Assistance is recognized for offering comprehensive travel insurance plans that fulfill the requirements for Schengen Visa applications. Their travel insurance policies typically cover the necessary aspects mandated for Schengen Visa applicants, including:

• Coverage for emergency medical expenses meeting the minimum required amount (usually 30,000 euros).

Generali Global Assistance designs its travel insurance plans to meet the specific requirements set by the Schengen area countries and is generally accepted by embassies and consulates of Schengen countries when applying for a Schengen Visa.

6. InsureandGo

InsureandGo is a reputable travel insurance provider that offers various travel insurance options, including plans that meet the requirements for Schengen Visa applications.

Their travel insurance policies typically cover the essential aspects necessary for Schengen Visa applications, such as:

InsureandGo designs specific travel insurance plans tailored to meet the specific requirements set by Schengen area countries and are generally recognized by embassies and consulates of Schengen countries when applying for a Schengen Visa.

7. Seven Corners

Seven Corners is a well-known travel insurance provider that offers various travel insurance plans suitable for Schengen Visa applicants. Their insurance policies typically cover the necessary aspects required for Schengen Visa applications, including:

Seven Corners designs specific travel insurance plans tailored to meet the requirements set by Schengen area countries and is generally recognized by embassies and consulates of Schengen countries when applying for a Schengen Visa.

8. World Nomads

World Nomads is a popular travel insurance provider that offers travel insurance plans suitable for various travel purposes, including meeting the requirements for Schengen Visa applications.

Their travel insurance policies typically cover essential aspects required for Schengen Visa applications, such as:

• Coverage for adventure activities and sports (available in some plans).

World Nomads designs its travel insurance plans to align with the specific requirements set by the Schengen area countries and is generally recognized by embassies and consulates of Schengen countries when applying for a Schengen Visa.

9. STA Travel

STA Travel is a travel agency that offers comprehensive travel insurance plans, and some of their insurance options are suitable for Schengen Visa applications.

STA Travel typically provides travel insurance that covers essential aspects required for Schengen Visa applications, including:

Their travel insurance plans are designed to meet the specific requirements set by the Schengen area countries and are generally accepted by embassies and consulates of Schengen countries when applying for a Schengen Visa.

10. AXA Schengen

AXA Schengen is a reputable travel insurance provider known for offering travel insurance policies that comply with the requirements for Schengen Visa applications.

Their travel insurance plans typically cover the essential aspects necessary for Schengen Visa applications, such as:

AXA Schengen designs its travel insurance policies to align with the specific requirements set by the Schengen area countries and is generally recognized and accepted by embassies and consulates of Schengen countries when applying for a Schengen Visa.

How to Compare Travel Insurance Quotes and Plans:

When evaluating different travel insurance options, it’s essential to compare quotes and plan details to make an informed decision. Follow these steps to compare travel insurance quotes effectively:

1. Gather quotes from multiple insurance providers based on your coverage requirements.

2. Compare the premiums, deductibles, and coverage limits offered by each insurer.

3. Review the terms and conditions of each policy to understand the exclusions and limitations.

4. Consider the reputation and customer reviews of the insurers to gauge their reliability.

5. Evaluate any additional benefits or special features offered by the insurance plans.

6. Comparing travel insurance quotes and plans allows you to find the most suitable coverage at the best price while considering your specific needs.

Tips for Finding the Best and Most Affordable Travel Insurance:

Choose the right coverage for your needs.

Assess your travel requirements and choose a policy that provides the necessary coverage. Avoid overpaying for coverage you don’t need, but also ensure you have adequate protection for potential risks.

Bundle Your Travel Insurance with Other Types of Insurance

To save money, consider bundling your travel insurance with other insurance policies you may already have. Check with your existing insurance providers to see if they offer discounted rates for multiple policies.

Take Advantage of Discounts and Promotions

Insurance companies often offer discounts and promotional offers. Keep an eye out for such deals, as they can help you secure affordable travel insurance without compromising on coverage.

Consider Annual Travel Insurance for Frequent Travelers

If you travel frequently, consider opting for annual travel insurance instead of single-trip policies. Annual plans can offer substantial savings and convenience for frequent travelers.

Read and Understand the Policy Terms and Conditions

Before finalizing your travel insurance, carefully read and understand the policy terms and conditions. Pay attention to exclusions, claim procedures, and coverage limitations to avoid any surprises during a claim.

Now, let’s explore the best travel insurance options for specific situations to help you find the perfect coverage for your unique needs.

The Best Travel Insurance for Specific Situations:

Best travel insurance for families.

Seven Corners offers the best travel insurance options for families, providing comprehensive coverage for all family members. Their policies include coverage for children and options to extend coverage for additional family members.

Best Travel Insurance for Seniors

World Nomads specializes in travel insurance for seniors and offers tailored plans to address their specific needs. Their policies provide comprehensive medical coverage and additional assistance for seniors.

Best Travel Insurance for Medical Conditions

For individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, Travel Guard offers the best travel insurance options. They have tailored policies that cover relevant medical conditions, ensuring travelers receive the necessary coverage.

Best Travel Insurance for Adventure Travelers

InsureandGo caters to adventure travelers by offering comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for adventurous activities such as hiking, scuba diving, and winter sports. Their policies ensure you are covered during your thrilling adventures.

Best Travel Insurance for Students

For students embarking on international adventures, 10 Travel Insurance provides the best travel insurance options. Their policies offer comprehensive coverage, including medical coverage, trip cancellation, and personal belongings protection. Student-friendly rates make it an ideal choice.

Congratulations! You now have a comprehensive understanding of finding the best travel insurance for your Schengen visa. Remember to prioritize coverage types, coverage limits, and reputation when comparing travel insurance quotes. Take advantage of discounts, consider bundling, and read policy terms and conditions carefully. By following our expert tips, you will find the perfect travel insurance that protects you during your Schengen visa travel adventures. Safeguard your trip, relax, and enjoy the journey with peace of mind!

FAQs about Travel Insurance for a Schengen Visa:

What is Travel Insurance for a Schengen Visa?

Travel Insurance for a Schengen Visa is a mandatory requirement for individuals visiting the Schengen Area. It provides health coverage and other essential benefits during their stay, meeting the specific criteria set by Schengen countries.

What does a Schengen Visa Travel Insurance policy cover?

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance typically covers emergency medical expenses, repatriation of remains, emergency medical evacuation, and minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies. It might also include coverage for trip interruption, loss of luggage, and personal liability.

How much coverage is required for Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance should have a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies, including hospitalization, emergency medical treatment, and repatriation of remains.

Which insurance companies offer Schengen Visa-compliant travel insurance?

Several reputable insurance providers offer Schengen Visa-compliant travel insurance, including AXA Assistance, Allianz Global Assistance, Europeiska Insurance, Travel Guard, AXA Schengen, Generali Global Assistance, STA Travel, Visa Schengen Insurance, InsureandGo, and Seven Corners, among others.

How can I purchase Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance can be purchased directly from insurance companies’ websites, travel agencies, or third-party insurance providers. Ensure the policy meets Schengen Visa requirements regarding coverage amount, duration, and specific inclusions before purchasing.

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Schengen Visa Travel Insurance (2024 Guide)

Josh Lew is a travel journalist and writer based in the midwestern U.S. He has been active for the past decade, covering airlines, international destinations and ecotourism for sites like TravelPulse and TreeHugger. He currently contributes to content writing agency World Words.

Sabrina Lopez is an editor with over six years of experience writing and editing digital content with a particular focus on home services, home products and personal finance. When she is not working on articles to help consumers make informed decisions, Sabrina enjoys creative writing and spending time with her family and their two parrots.

The Schengen area is an alliance of 27 European countries that allows border-free travel. It covers most of mainland Europe, including 23 European Union countries and four members of the European Free Trade Alliance.

Travel insurance is a requirement for the Schengen visa application process. You need at least €30,000 (US$32,800) in coverage in case you need medical attention during your stay in Europe, and you have to purchase coverage and obtain a certificate showing insurance to include with your visa application. Read on to learn more about the unique requirements of a Schengen visa and the role travel insurance plays in the application process.

Which Insurance Provider is Best for Schengen Visa?

Use the table below to compare the top recommended choice for travel insurance for a Schengen visa.

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

Quotes Collected

Rating Factors

Is Insurance Required for a Schengen Visa?

With a few exceptions, travelers from the U.S. do not need a visa for the Schengen area if staying for 90 days or less. Americans visiting for over three months, permanent residents without citizenship and foreign nationals traveling from the U.S. will need a Schengen visa if they are citizens of a country without a visa-free arrangement with Schengen countries.

The countries in the Schengen area are: Austria , Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark , Estonia, Finland, France , Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia,  Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland and Romania are currently not Schengen countries.

Travelers from the U.S., Canada , and other visa-exempt countries only have to go through immigration and customs in the first country they visit in the Schengen zone. After that, they can travel to any other nation in the alliance without taking out their passport. For instance, you can fly, drive or take a train from Sweden all the way to Spain on the same visa.

Citizens from visa-exempt countries like the U.S. don’t need a visa or travel insurance to visit Europe. However, because of the high price of healthcare in Europe, travel insurance is still a good idea for visa-free travelers. But note that if you have to visit with a Schengen visa, you need to meet specific health insurance mandates.

Schengen visa holders must have comprehensive health insurance coverage. It should last for the length of their stay in the area (but does not need to cover the duration of the visa).

When you apply for a Schengen visa at the consulate or embassy of the country you plan to visit first or spend most of your time in, they will explain the specifics of the travel insurance requirements. You will need proof of a travel insurance plan for visa approval.

Schengen Visa Insurance Requirements

Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance . However, the policy must have specific features and minimum limits for medical coverage and medical evacuation.

Here is a closer look at the requirements for Schengen visa eligibility.

• Medical emergency insurance
• Repatriation coverage for death
• Medical evacuation insurance if you need long-term care in your home country
• Coverage limits of at least €30,000 (US$32,000)
• Coverage lasting for the entire length of your stay in the Schengen area

The purpose of these requirements is to ensure you can pay for medical treatment without requiring assistance from your host country’s healthcare system.

You need a document from your travel insurance company as proof that you have a visa-compliant policy. This insurance certificate shows that you have met the minimum requirements. It is a vital part of your visa application, and you won’t gain approval without it.

Types of Travel Insurance Policies

Schengen visa insurance plans focus on medical expenses, but travel policies can also offer other protections. Comprehensive travel insurance covers additional risks, including those related to cancellations and delays.

Here is a look at the different travel insurance coverages.

• Medical, evacuation and repatriation coverage is required for visa approval.
• Trip cancellation insurance provides reimbursement if your trip gets canceled due to covered reasons, such as an unexpected illness or injury or a crisis or disaster in your European destination.
• Trip delay and interruption coverages pay for expenses related to delays or incidents that cancel your journey earlier than planned.
• Baggage delay or loss reimburses you for missing items so that you can replace necessities and continue your travels.
• Add-ons to standard policies may include rental car insurance, pre-existing condition coverage and insurance for exclusions from standard insurance like scuba diving or climbing.

Schengen visa applicants can purchase travel insurance with comprehensive coverage to protect the non-medical aspects of their trip. International travel can be expensive, so cancellation insurance and other protections available through a complete travel policy can save you from frustration and financial loss.

Choosing the Right Schengen Visa Insurance

There are several factors to consider when selecting travel insurance.

• Coverage limits are the maximums that the insurer will pay for each claim type. Schengen visas require €30,000 (about $32,800) in medical emergency, evacuation, and repatriation insurance, but you can get a policy with higher limits if you wish.
• Pre-existing conditions are another important factor. Insurers may or may not cover them on a standard policy, but those that do not provide coverage directly may sell waivers that add coverage for your conditions.
• Deductibles are another factor to consider. This amount is an out-of-pocket payment you have to make before the insurer takes over payment. Some low-cost policies have high deductibles.

Finally, you should always get insurance with a reputable company that can provide the necessary documentation for your visa application.

Here are six reputable insurers to consider.

• Travelex offers budget and mid-range plans for international travelers. You can opt for both medical and trip cancellation coverage.
• Trawick International travel insurance offers stand-alone medical and cancellation policies, so you can opt for minimum requirements for your Schengen visa if you wish.
• AIG Travel Guard offers several tiers of travel insurance, all of which offer comprehensive coverage and provide optional add-ons.
• Seven Corners has customizable travel plans that include medical emergency, evacuation, and repatriation coverage necessary for a Schengen visa
• IMG offers stand-alone medical insurance policies and separate plans providing cancellation, lost baggage and delay benefits.

Use our insurance comparison tool to find the prices and coverage details for each of these insurance providers.

Applying for Schengen Visa with Travel Insurance

You apply for a Schengen visa at the consulate or embassy of the country you intend to travel to first or spend most of your time during your stay.

You must purchase a policy that covers the entire duration of your stay and is valid throughout the Schengen area, not just in the countries you plan to visit.

You need proof of insurance to include with the rest of application documents when applying for the visa. This means you need to purchase the insurance before submitting your application. You should only choose insurance companies able to provide the necessary documentation to include with your application.

Additional Expert Tips

There are some other considerations for Schengen visa insurance.

First, you should make copies of your insurance card, policy documents and other information and bring them with you on your trip.

Second, regulations require that you have coverage for the entire duration of your stay. If you have a multi-trip visa, you will need insurance that provides benefits for the entire stay. The best option in these cases is to get an annual or multi-trip policy that meets visa requirements for coverage types and limits.

Before leaving, you should perform a thorough policy review to ensure you have the appropriate coverage. You can consider the potential costs of medical care in your host countries and decide if the coverage you have is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions About Schengen Visa Insurance

Do you need travel insurance to visit schengen countries.

Travelers from visa-exempt countries can visit Europe without insurance, though they would not be protected from medical expenses or cancellations. However, those requiring a Schengen visa need €30,000 worth of medical coverage for approval.

Is Schengen travel insurance refundable?

You would be able to cancel your insurance if your visa application is not approved. Most companies will allow you to cancel the policy and get a full refund if you show evidence that your visa application was not approved.

Does travel insurance cover all of Europe?

Travel insurance for a Schengen visa must cover all 27 countries. However, some travel insurers may require that you specify all the countries you plan to visit to get comprehensive coverage.

What are the benefits of Schengen visa insurance?

In addition to being a requirement for the visa application process, Schengen insurance will cover medical costs if you get sick or suffer an injury during your Europe travel experiences. While travel health insurance is the only necessary policy component for the visa application, you can get additional benefits by purchasing a comprehensive policy.

If you have questions about this page, please reach out to our editors at [email protected] .

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Schengen Visa Insurance Requirements

Navigating Schengen Visa Requirements and Insurance Coverage

The Schengen agreements came into force on March 25, 2001. The Schengen area was designed to create a better flow of goods and people within the shared borders of the countries. It allows people to travel freely through the countries - once the requirement is met for one country, you can travel to the others without needing to go through customs again.

Currently, there are 27 countries that are a part of the Schengen area. The Schengen area covers the majority of European countries except for the United Kingdom and countries such as Romania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Ireland that are expected to be a part to the agreement soon.

If travel to Europe is in your future, then you will want to become familiar with the Schengen areas and requirements for Schengen Visa insurance coverage .

Countries Included in the Schengen Area

The Schengen area includes the majority of EU nations, with the exceptions of Cyprus and Ireland. Additionally, it comprises four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Here is a complete list of the countries included in the Schengen area:

Austria , Belgium , Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark , Estonia, Finland, France , Germany , Greece, Hungary , Iceland, Italy , Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal , Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain , Sweden, and Switzerland.

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Slovak Republic
• Switzerland

Visitors from the listed countries below can stay for up to 90 days within a six-month period without requiring a visa.

All European Union Countries, Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia , Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada , Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica , Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Holy See, Honduras, Hong Kong , Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao, Macedonia, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore , South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates , United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Vatican City and Venezuela.

If you are applying for a Schengen visa, you require special travel medical insurance. This requirement exists whether you are traveling for pleasure or business, in a group or on your own.

Travel insurance must be valid throughout the Schengen area and cover the entire period of stay. Many of the Schengen area countries will require a visa letter (see below) from your insurance company with proof that you meet the coverage requirements. The letter will need to have your complete name (matching your passport) and your date of birth.

Typically, the insurance requirements include:

• A minimum medical insurance requirement is EUR 30,000 - approximately USD 32,800.
• Coverage must be valid within the Schengen region and for the full duration of travel.
• Insurance must include any expenses that might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention and emergency hospital treatment or death.

Be sure to check with your embassy or consulate about any other specific health insurance minimums because they can vary.

For most travelers, the visa and Schengen area visa travel insurance won’t be necessary. Often, travelers will go for less than three months. Even though insurance isn’t a requirement to enter the country, it is still a wise investment.

Travel Medical Insurance for Schengen Visa

Travel Medical Insurance Plans offer temporary health coverage for those in your traveling party. These plans provide coverage for accidents or illness, saving you from large medical bills if you require a visit to the doctor or hospital. Benefits include:

• Freedom to seek treatment with hospital or doctor of your choice
• Maximum Limits from $50,000 to $2,000,000
• 24/7 access to an emergency assistance medical hotline to speak with medical experts
• Deductible options from $0 to $2,500
• Renewable up to 24 - 36 months
• Repatriation and emergency evacuation

When planning your travel, it is important to remember to investigate your insurance plan options and to invest in adequate insurance. By doing so, you can relax and enjoy planning your trip and be calm knowing that you can access any assistance you might need while traveling.

Read:  European Travelers:  Health, Safety, Travel Insurance Advice for Visitors to Europe

Best Travel Insurance Plans for Schengen Visa

We recommend purchasing one of the following travel medical insurance plans to accompany your Schengen Visa.

Best for All Nationalities Traveling Abroad

• Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
• Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
• Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
• 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance

Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance

• Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
• IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
• Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest

Best for US Citizens Traveling Abroad

GeoBlue Voyager Plan

• For U.S. citizens up to age 95
• Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
• 24/7/365 service and assistance

Safe Travels Outbound

• U.S. citizens/residents traveling outside the United States
• Up to $500,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Coverage for up to 180 days

Trip Cancellation Insurance for Schengen Visa

Trip cancellation insurance covers the cost of your trip if you or a member of the traveling party is unable to go on the trip as well as offering the medical coverage required for your Schengen Visa. This type of insurance is especially useful if someone is ill or accidentally injured, if a passport is stolen or if there is a terrorist incident in your destination. An international trip is likely to be expensive or even be a trip of a lifetime. Often, international trips are booked well in advance of the actual vacation. Trip cancelation can cover the cost of the trip, a travel delay or even lost baggage. It is highly recommended to purchase trip cancelation insurance for international vacations.

Best Trip Cancellation Insurance for US Citizens

Safe travels voyager.

• Comprehensive coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and post-departure travel coverage
• Cancel for Any Reason available
• Up to $250,000 in emergency medical coverage

To learn more visit: US Department of State Schengen Visa Advice  or read about Travel Insurance for your International Visa .

Schengen Visa Insurance Letter

One great benefit of the plans listed below is that they automatically generate a Visa Letter that is emailed to you immediately after purchase, along with your insurance policy, insurance cards and other documents. You can use the Schengen Visa Insurance Letter when meeting for your visa at the embassy or consulate offices.

Cost for Schengen Visa Insurance

The insurance expense for your trip to a Schengen country will fluctuate based on the duration of coverage required, your age, and the level of coverage desired. While the Schengen visa specifies minimum requirements, it's advisable to consider purchasing extra coverage, particularly for extended journeys, to safeguard your interests.

Basic Coverage – Rates per Day

This level of insurance provides essential protection that meets the minimum requirements for a Schengen visa. It typically includes short-term coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.

Rates were last updated on April 3, 2024.

Comprehensive Coverage – Rates per Day

This level of insurance provides an expanded array of benefits beyond basic coverage and features higher limits for medical expenses.

Visa Consideration for US Citizens Traveling to Schengen Countries

U.S. citizens traveling to the Schengen area for personal travel or business do not require a visa if they will be spending less than 90 days in a six-month period in the Schengen area countries. While a visa is not required for visits of less than three months, it is still important to check the expiration date on your passport before you travel. The countries in the Schengen area require your passport to be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. The reason for the three-month validity requirement is that some of the countries in the Schengen area will assume that all travelers will stay the maximum three months allowed for visa-free visitors. This requirement may also exist for a flight layover while traveling from a Schengen airport to a non-Schengen destination.

The consequences of not having a passport valid for that length of time could include being refused boarding by your airline at the point of entry or when transferring planes. Additionally, there is the possibility of being denied entry upon arrival. For these reasons, the U.S. Department of State recommends that your passport have at least six months remaining when you travel abroad.

If you plan on spending a prolonged period in the Schengen area, you have two choices. You can enter without a visa for up to three months within each six-month period. However, if you spend three months in the area, you need to wait another three months before you can enter a Schengen country again without a visa. If you plan on spending longer than three months in any Schengen area, then you need to contact the embassy of the country you plan on spending the most time to apply for a visa.

Does Medicare Supplement Coverage Comply with Schengen Visa Requirements?

You need to check the coverage included in your Medicare supplement plan or Medigap policy. Although some Medicare supplement plans do offer foreign medical, they are not as comprehensive as a travel medical plan that would include emergency evacuation, repatriation, trip interruption, etc. Most Medigap plans that cover foreign travel require the patient pay a $250 deductible plus 20% coinsurance. There is also a lifetime benefit maximum of $50,000.

More to Read:

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Visa Traveler

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How to Buy Schengen Travel Insurance from VisitorsCoverage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated: September 8, 2023

VisitorsCoverage is a travel medical insurance broker headquartered in the US. They sell insurance for all international travel including US trips and Schengen Visa. 

VisitorsCoverage’s Europe Travel Plus meets all the requirements of Schengen visa insurance such as the minimum policy cover, copay and visa letter. 

VisitorsCoverage is also the cheapest Schengen travel insurance, costing about $1 per day. 

In this article, you will learn how to buy Schengen travel insurance from VisitorsCoverage and how to cancel and get a refund in case of visa refusal. 

Table of Contents

Documents needed before starting the purchase.

Keep the following documents handy before you start the purchase.

• Your passport
• Your travel dates
• A credit or debit card

Steps to Buy Schengen Travel Insurance

• Go to the VisitorsCoverage Europe Travel Plus page
• Click on the green “Buy” button.

You will be taken to the “Purchase Your Policy” page.

Step 1: Enter Your Trip Details

Enter the following information on the “Purchase Your Policy” page.

Section: Enter your trip details

• Destination Country [ Comment: Select your main Schengen country of application ]
• Citizenship [ Comment: Select your country of citizenship as per your passport ]
• Residence / Home Country [ Comment: Select your country of residence ]
• Coverage Start Date [ Comment: Select the policy start date ]
• Coverage End Date [ Comment: Select the policy end date ]
• Arrival Date [ Comment: Select your trip start date, which can be the same as the coverage start date ]

Destination Country Select the main Schengen country where you will be applying for your visa. For example, if you are applying for a Schengen visa at the France embassy or consulate, select “France” as your destination country.

Section: Enter travel information

• Traveler 1: Date of Birth [ Comment: Enter your date of birth as per your passport ]

Add more travelers and their date of birth by clicking on the + button. 

Section: Where can we email your policy details?

• Email Address [ Comment: Enter the email address where you would like to receive your policy documents ]

Click on the blue “Continue” button.

You will be taken to the “Coverage Details” page. 

Step 2: Choose Your Coverage

Section: Choose your deductible and policy maximum.

• Deductible [ Comment: Select $0 ] 
• Policy Maximum [ Comment: Select at least $50K ] 

Deductible A deductible of $0 will be selected by default. Even then, make sure $0 is selected. $0 deductible is the Schengen visa insurance requirement. If you choose a different amount, the insurance will not be accepted for your Schengen visa. 

Policy Maximum A policy maximum of $50,000 will be selected by default. You can increase your coverage if you prefer. But $50,000 is the minimum requirement for a Schengen visa. 

Section: Do you require any additional coverage?

You can select the below additional coverage if necessary. But these are not required for a Schengen visa.

• Aventure Sports Rider [ Comment: This additional coverage may be beneficial if you plan to engage in adventure sports during your Europe trip ]
• Personal Property and Liability Rider [ Comment: This additional coverage may be beneficial if you prefer to insure your electronics, etc. ]

You will be taken to the “Applicant Details” page.

Step 3: Enter Applicant Details

Section: Provide additional travel information

Traveler 1: Primary Applicant

• First Name/Given Name [ Comment: If your passport has a Given Name, enter the given name here. If your passport has a First name, enter your first name here ]
• Middle Name [ Comment: If your passport has a Middle name, then enter the middle name here. Else leave it blank ]
• Last Name/Surname [ Comment: Enter your last name or surname as per your passport ]
• Gender [ Comment: Enter your gender ]

Traveler 2: 

If you have more than one traveler in your policy, enter their details.

Section: Home Country Address

Enter your current residential address in the following fields. 

• Address 1 [ Comment: Enter address line 1 of your current residential address ]
• Address 2 (optional) [ Comment: Enter Address line 2 of your current residential address ]
• City [ Comment: Enter your city ]
• State [ Comment: Enter your state ]
• Zip/Postal Code [ Comment: Enter your postal code ]
• Country [ Comment: Enter your country ]

Enter your current mobile phone number in the following fields.

• Country Code [ Comment: Enter the country code of your phone number ]
• Mobile Phone Number [ Comment: Enter your mobile phone number ]

Section: Communication Preferences

In this section, select how you would like to receive your purchase confirmation, policy documents and visa letter. 

Email is mandatory, but you can also opt for phone or WhatsApp. 

Section: Provide an AD&D Beneficiary

Enter the information of the beneficiary who will receive the benefits in case of accidental death of the insured. 

• Beneficiary Name [ Comment: Enter the beneficiary’s full name as per their passport or ID card ]
• Relationship [ Comment: Select the relationship of your beneficiary ]

Section: Acknowledgement

Check the box to confirm that you have read and understood the coverage information. 

You will be taken to the “Review and Pay” page.

Step 4: Review Application and Payment

Section: Review the details of your application

Review all the information you have entered so far. Make sure the information is as per your passport. 

Section : Enter your card details

In this section, enter your card details for payment. 

Section : Enter the billing address

In this section, enter the billing address associated with your credit/debit card entered above.

Section : Complete your purchase

In this section, check all three boxes. 

Click on the green “Complete your purchase” button.

Once your purchase is complete, you will receive an email confirming your purchase. 

Steps to Download Visa Letter and Coverage Letter

You can download your visa letter and coverage document from the customer portal dashboard. You only need these two documents as proof of travel insurance for Schengen visa .

To go to the customer portal, you can click on the “Sign In” button in the email. Or you can follow the below steps.

Log into Customer Portal

• Go to the VisitorsCoverage Customer Portal page
• Log in using your Policy ID and Date of Birth or using your Email.

Once you log in, you will see your policy details such as the names, policy types, coverage duration, etc.

Download your Visa Letter

In the “Download Policy Documents” section, click on “Visa Letter” to download the visa letter for your Schengen visa. 

You can also download the coverage letter from IMG International by clicking the “Cover Letter” button. 

Sample Visa Letter from VisitorsCoverage

Sample Coverage Letter from IMG International

Steps to Cancel Your Policy in Case of Visa Refusal

In order to get a full refund, you must cancel your policy before the insurance start date. If your visa is refused, cancel your policy right away to avoid any issues with your refund.

Follow the below steps to cancel and receive a full refund of your policy. 

• Go to VisitorsCoverage Customer Portal

Initiate Policy Cancellation

Within the “My Account” dashboard, click on the “Cancel Policy” button.

Step 1: Cancel Your Policy

• Travel plans changed
• Found a cheaper plan
• Purchased a wrong policy
• Accidentally submitted incorrect information
• Concerned with Coronavirus
• Select the cancellation date [ Comment: Select the most recent date so you can get your refund as soon as possible ]

You will be taken to the “Verify and Submit” page.

Step 2: Verify and Submit

• Are you the primary policy holder? [ Comment: Select “Yes” ]
• Send code to: [ Comment: Select your email from the dropdown ]

Click on the blue “Send Code” button.

Check your email for the verification code.

• Enter your verification code [ Comment: Enter the verification code that you received to your email ]

Click on the blue “Verify” button

Then click on the red “Cancel My Policy” button.

Step 3: Cancellation Success

You will be shown that your policy cancellation request was successfully submitted.

You will also receive emails from VisitorsCoverage and IMG International confirming your cancellation and refund. Save those emails as a reference if you need to contact VisitorsCoverage for any issues with refunds. 

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Medical health insurance.

Information on Medical Health Insurance when applying for a visa.

Every applicant has to submit proof of medical travel insurance covering the entire length of the stay in Europe when applying for a Schengen visa .

There are strict requirements. Please find more information here: Medical Health Insurance PDF / 304 KB

Some medical insurance companies do not cover costs for medical treatment abroad or do not issue letters stating the requirements listed above. In this case, or in the case that you have no medical insurance in the US, you will have to purchase an additional travel insurance

You can find additional insurance companies in your local Yellow Pages or on the internet (search for “health insurance Schengen visa”).

Please bear in mind that some companies offer medical insurance policies only in combination with other kinds of coverage like trip cancellation. Rates depend on the length of the trip, age and number of travelers and the extent of coverage.

Please Note : Although the information on this website has been prepared with utmost care, we can not accept any responsibility for inaccuracies contained herein.

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What Is Schengen Travel Insurance?

Quick answer.

S chengen travel insurance is a specific type of travel insurance policy tailored to meet the travel medical coverage requirements set by the 27 (soon to be 29) European destinations within the Schengen Area. Travelers must present proof of sufficient coverage as part of the Schengen visa application process.

Schengen member countries have abolished their internal borders, allowing more accessible travel within the area. While this is incredibly convenient, some travelers may need a visa to visit Schengen countries. And one of the requirements to obtain that visa is to purchase sufficient travel medical insurance coverage.

Read on to learn more about Schengen visa travel insurance requirements and find the best travel insurance policy for your upcoming trip.

Table of contents

What is schengen travel insurance, schengen countries, visa and travel insurance requirements for the schengen area, key coverages in schengen travel insurance, how to get schengen travel insurance, schengen travel insurance faqs, summary of money’s guide to schengen travel insurance.

Schengen travel insurance is designed for travelers entering the Schengen zone, which comprises 27 (soon to be 29) European nations that have abolished internal borders.

Many visitors, including citizens from non-EU countries like India and China, must obtain a travel visa to enter the Schengen Area. And a requirement for a Schengen Visa is to have insurance covering at least €30,000 (around $32,720) in medical costs.

However, there are exemptions. For example, U.S. citizens and residents of countries such as Canada, Brazil and Mexico don’t need a Schengen visa or travel insurance for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

The Schengen Area consists of a diverse tapestry of countries. Among the member nations are some of the best places to visit in Europe , including France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Greece and the Netherlands.

Here’s the complete list:

Ireland and Cyprus are the only E.U. member states not currently part of the Schengen Agreement.

Having a valid U.S. passport allows you to spend up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area, whether for tourism or business purposes.

Once officially admitted, you can travel freely within the member countries without passing through customs each time. Stays under 90 days don’t require a visa for U.S. nationals, but your passport should be valid for at least six months past your travel dates.

Short stays don’t require travel medical insurance either, though travel insurance may still be worth it . That could be especially true if you plan to participate in adventure sports or other high-risk activities.

Travel insurance generally also covers cancellations and delays. Purchasing a policy could pay off if you’ve booked expensive, non-refundable flights or accommodations and didn’t purchase them with one of the best travel credit cards that offer insurance.

European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

Travel requirements for European Union countries are projected to change by mid-2025. Visa-exempt travelers to all 27 (soon to be 29) Schengen countries and Cyprus will need an ETIAS authorization.

Here’s what you need to know:

• You must complete an online application and pay a small fee for an ETIAS authorization.
• The authorization is tied to your passport and is valid for three years or until your passport expires.
• With a valid travel authorization, you can enter 30 European countries for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
• ETIAS authorization does not guarantee entry into any of these countries. You still have to present your passport and documents at the border.
• The above applies to people from the U.S., Canada and dozens of other countries, so check the E.U.’s official travel website or your country’s embassy for more information. An ETIAS is not a visa and doesn’t mandate travel medical insurance.

Schengen visa requirements

You’ll need a visa if you’re from a visa-exempt country, like the U.S., and planning to stay in the Schengen Area beyond the 90-day threshold. Regardless of the length of the stay, nationals traveling from certain countries always require a visa.

Determine which Schengen country you’ll spend most of your time in and check with their official tourism or embassy website for instructions on applying for a visa. The embassy will inform you about the required documentation and instructions to meet their regulations.

Schengen visa processing time can vary depending on your country of origin and your destination country, so be sure to start the process as early as possible.

Besides the application form, the following are required to obtain a Schengen visa:

• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after departure.
• Passport photo: You must submit a picture of yourself that complies with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.
• Travel medical insurance: You must carry at least €30,000 (approximately $32,720) in coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization and repatriation that’s valid in the entire Schengen Area for the duration of your stay.
• Documentation: You must provide evidence of the purpose of your visit through supporting documentation, demonstrate you have the financial means to cover expenses and accommodations and show intent to return to your home country after the stay.
• Fingerprints: Most, but not all, applicants will be required to submit their fingerprints along with their application.

Consulates of particular countries may require additional documentation.

Understanding what travel insurance covers can help you plan a worry-free journey. While plans and coverage options vary by company, here’s a breakdown of what Schengen travel insurance generally covers.

• Medical expenses: Travel medical insurance covers the cost of treating unexpected illnesses or injuries you suffer during your trip, up to your policy limits. These include the cost of medications, hospitalization and other essential medical treatments.
• Medical repatriation: Some travel medical policies also include emergency medical evacuation or repatriation, which covers some of the costs of transporting you back home or to a different medical facility to receive necessary medical treatment.
• Repatriation of remains: As the name suggests, this coverage will pay (up to your policy limits) for expenses related to transporting your body or cremated remains to your home country or point of origin.
• 24/7 Travel Assistance: Travel insurance companies generally offer round-the-clock assistance services, including language support, help recovering lost passports or prescriptions and even booking accommodations and medical transportation.

Note that some companies may require you to meet a deductible for the travel medical plan to start paying out.

Other travel-related coverage options

Most travel insurers sell policies covering medical emergencies and travel-related inconveniences such as delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. While you don’t need these coverage options to obtain a Schengen visa, you may still find them worthwhile.

• Trip cancellation and trip interruption: Covers non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to unforeseen events like illness or accidents.
• Baggage loss or delay: Helps cover the cost of replacing essential items if your baggage is lost or delayed by a specified number of hours.
• Delayed flights and missed connections: Provides compensation for additional expenses caused by inconveniences such as delays or missed connections.

It’s easy to buy travel insurance for your Schengen Area trip. Many providers offer policies that fulfill the visa requirement and include additional coverage that can be tailored to your needs.

Here are some steps to help you get the right coverage.

1. Research reputable travel insurance providers

Most travel insurers bundle travel medical insurance coverage with trip cancellation, interruption, and other coverage options. If you only want to satisfy Schengen visa requirements, look for a provider that explicitly markets Schengen travel insurance or offers stand-alone travel medical coverage.

2. Select a plan that meets your needs and get a quote

Remember that you may not need trip insurance beyond the €30,000 in travel medical coverage required for a Schengen visa, so read plan details carefully to avoid buying unnecessary coverage.

It also pays to shop around and get quotes from several insurers, as travel insurance costs between 3% and 14% of the total cost of your trip, depending on the company and policy you choose.

3. Read your policy details

When shopping for travel insurance online, you’ll typically find that most companies include a policy summary or schedule. This document outlines critical details such as the policy’s coverage limits and exclusions. Carefully reading it can help you avoid surprises and frustration if you ever need to file a claim.

If you still have questions after reading the policy summary, contact the insurer before finalizing your purchase.

4. Get to know the claims process

Similarly, reading about your insurance provider’s claims process can save you time and energy in an emergency. Your policy summary should include a list of documents you’ll be required to provide as part of the claims process, which may include receipts and medical bills.

After a covered incident, contact your insurer through the company’s website or mobile app as soon as possible. Most insurers also offer travel assistance services around the clock.

5. Purchase and safeguard your policy

You will need proof of your travel medical insurance plan to apply for a Schengen visa. Keep your insurance certificate in a secure yet accessible location, whether a digital version on your smartphone or a physical printout in your travel folder.

It may also be a good idea to share a copy of your policy with a trusted friend or family member back home so they can contact your insurance provider if you cannot request medical assistance due to an emergency.

Should I get travel insurance for Europe?

Travel insurance, especially within the Schengen Area, is not just recommended but often mandatory. To obtain a visa to visit the Schengen zone, you must show proof of having sufficient travel medical insurance.

How much travel insurance do I need for Europe?

What countries does europe travel insurance cover.

• The first step before you travel to any Schengen country is to determine whether you need a visa and, therefore, mandatory travel medical insurance for a Schengen visa.
• Check with your country’s embassy, Department of Foreign Affairs or the tourism website of the country you plan to visit for specifics about medical travel insurance for Schengen visa requirements.
• You don’t need a visa or international travel insurance if you have a valid U.S. passport and are visiting the Schengen zone for less than 90 days in a 180-day period.
• If you’re a U.S. national planning to visit the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, you must apply for a visa and secure adequate travel health insurance (at least €30,000 in travel medical and repatriation coverage).

© Copyright 2024 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

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Going on a trip abroad is exciting, but emergencies can happen, and if they do, it can be expensive and challenging affair. You can take some of your stress away by booking a travel medical insurance policy with Covid-19 coverage at competitive pricing from global insurers. Don't forget that for Schengen visa applications, travel insurance is mandatory.

Travel Medical Insurance

Emergency medical coverage, including COVID-19 treatment costs.

Competitive pricing from global insurers.

Global medical insurance coverage for evacuation and accidents.

Cancellation and trip delay coverage.

Protection for loss of passport and travel documents.

Frequently asked questions

View all FAQ's

1 . What is Travel Medical Insurance?

Travel Medical Insurance is designed to cover your emergency medical expenses while traveling abroad. In the event of an unexpected illness, injury, or medical condition during your trip, your travel medical insurance plan will reimburse you for the treatment costs, up to the limits specified in the plan.

2. Why do I need Travel Medical Insurance?

Travel Medical Insurance provides coverage for various risks that may arise during your overseas travel, including medical emergencies, COVID-19, and loss of passport. The coverage offered ensures an additional layer of protection against potential financial losses. For more detailed information on the coverage, please refer to the Travel Medical Insurance policy documents.

3. Why should you buy Travel Medical Insurance online?

Purchasing overseas travel insurance online is a convenient way to access a wide range of best plans at competitive prices from global insurers. This allows you to choose a suitable plan without incurring any extra commissions.

4. How much will overseas Travel Insurance cost?

The cost will depend on the kind of overseas Travel Medical Insurance policy you opt for, and it will vary from country to country. Multiple underlying health conditions will determine the final insurance premium you will have to pay.

5. How far in advance should I purchase Travel Medical Insurance?

It's best to purchase travel insurance within the first 14 days of your initial trip.

With Travel Medical Insurance assistance provided by VFS Global, you can book your insurance and submit your visa application together.

Even if you missed purchasing the insurance plan before or during the visa application process, you can still buy Travel Medical Insurance by visiting our website.

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New Schengen Visa rules: Know changes in travel, insurance trends; senior citizens visiting Europe shoots up by 100%

New schengen visa rules ushered in significant changes in travel and insurance trends, with those aged 70 and above visiting schengen destinations doubling. in the upcoming season, 82% of travellers to europe will visit france, switzerland, italy, germany, netherlands, and spain..

New Schengen Visa rules have resulted in a doubling of Europe-bound senior citizens, a survey by insurance broker Policybazaar.com revealed. The new Schengen Visa rules, announced on April 18, have also spurred significant changes in travel insurance trends over the past few days, including a 3-4 per cent surge in users who booked travel insurance policies, as per the Policybazaar survey.

Travellers to Schengen destinations aged 70 and above have doubled compared with last year's figures. A significant rise in travellers declaring pre-existing diseases was also noted.

The most sought-after add-ons for travel insurance included coverage for baggage or loss of belongings, trip cancellation, adventure sports coverage, and pre-existing disease (PED) coverage, as per the report.

Also read: New Schengen visa rules for Indians: This is how you can get multi-entry two-year visa for 29 European countries

Manas Kapoor, business head of Travel Insurance at Policybazaar.com, pointed out a surge among Europe-bound travellers who booked long-term travel insurance, after the new visa rules came into effect.

The survey noted a 3-4 per cent surge in users who booked travel insurance policies for travels that exceeded 45 days in April 2024. “This trend is expected to rise further due to the relaxed visa norms," Manas Kapoor pointed out.

In the upcoming summer season, 82 per cent of Indian travellers to European countries will be visiting popular destinations like France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, and Spain, according to the survey.

The survey found a 15 per cent rise in travellers to Europe who declared pre-existing conditions including Diabetes and Hypertension, compared with last year's figures.

Also read: Indians can now apply for multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity. Check details

But a 40% plunge was recorded in number of travellers buying travel insurance products in Euros.

The new Schengen visa regime entails a stark departure from previous rules. Previously, Indians who wished to travel to one or more European countries were granted Schengen visas for a maximum of three months.

Also read: Schengen visa fee hike: Here’s how costly your trip to Europe can get

Under the new regime, Indians will be granted Schengen visas for two years, thus facilitating their entry to any of the 29 European countries multiple times. This two-year validity is further extendable by 5 years under the ‘cascade regime’. This means Indian tourists can travel and stay in any of these European countries as visa-free nationals for a longer period.

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Travellers book long-term insurance as Schengen visa rules come into play

Travellers have shown a remarkable interest in selecting appropriate add-ons for their travel insurance. riders covering baggage or belongings loss, trip cancellation, adventure sports coverage.

Schengen visa | Photo: Schengen visa information website

EU eases Schengen visa rules for Indians: Costs, processing time explained

Explained: how indians can now get five-year, multi-entry schengen visa, are indians eligible for 5-year schengen visa all you need to know, schengen visa to go online, no need for in-person appearance at consulate, thailand plans schengen-style visa for asia: how does it impact you, venice imposes world's first tourist entry fee: all you need to know, cred introduces offline qr code 'scan & pay' service, kiosks for merchants, rbi directs talkcharge to return funds in ppi- wallets to consumers, risky borrowing: india's household debt has likely surged to all-time high, h-1b visa holders can now sue over fraud-linked visa revocations.

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First Published: Apr 26 2024 | 2:52 PM IST

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