Travel insurance guide
Schengen Travel Insurance Guide
All Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa applicants must hold travel medical insurance that meets EU coverage standards. This guide explains the requirements, what counts as compliant coverage, and how to compare policies.
What your policy needs to cover
- Minimum medical coverage of €30,000 (approximately USD 33,000).
- Valid throughout the entire Schengen Area (all 29 member states).
- Covers medical emergencies, hospitalisation and emergency repatriation, including repatriation in case of death.
- Valid for the full duration of stay and intended trips. Multi-entry applicants should cover the first planned trip.
- Provided by a recognised insurer with policy documents in English or the language of the consulate.
Many Schengen visa applicants are required to provide travel medical insurance that meets Schengen coverage requirements (minimum €30,000 medical coverage, valid across all member states). Verify the latest requirements through official government sources before applying.
Protect Your Trip with Travel Insurance
Travel insurance may help cover medical emergencies, trip interruptions, lost baggage, and other unexpected travel expenses while abroad.
- Medical emergencies
- Trip interruption
- Lost baggage
Real-world examples
10-day Paris trip — Indian national
A short-stay tourist visa applied for at the French consulate. Required: €30,000 coverage policy covering October 1–14, valid in all Schengen states.
Multi-entry, business — Nigerian national
A 1-year multi-entry Schengen visa for repeated business visits to Germany. Insurance must cover the first trip; renew before subsequent trips.
Frequently asked questions
Is travel insurance mandatory for a Schengen visa?
Yes. Submitting proof of travel medical insurance meeting the €30,000 / multi-state requirement is a mandatory step for nearly all Type C visa applications.
Can I buy insurance after visa approval?
No. Insurance must be in place at the time of application and valid for the full intended stay.
Do EU citizens need it?
EU/EEA/Swiss nationals do not need a Schengen visa or this insurance, but private travel insurance is still strongly recommended outside their home country.
More travel insurance guides
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