Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa: What You Need to Know

Planning a European adventure? 

Whether you’re a full-on digital nomad, a backpacker with a Eurail pass or just ready for a much-needed holiday, there’s one thing you’ll definitely need if you’re not from the EU: a Schengen Visa.

And with that comes the inevitable “do I really need travel insurance?” question.

Simply put? 

You can’t afford to overlook it. 

If you are applying for a Schengen visa, it’s essential that you get travel insurance that includes travel health insurance (aka travel medical insurance). 

Yet understanding Schengen travel insurance doesn’t need to be complicated. 

Whether you’re embarking on a short trip or a longer stay, the right insurance will keep you covered and give you the freedom to roam without constant worries.

In this article, we’ll examine:

• Why you need travel insurance
• What it should cover
• And how to choose the best policy so you can focus on enjoying your time in Europe.

What is the Schengen Area?

The Schengen Area is a group of 27 European countries that have abolished internal borders, making it incredibly easy for travellers to hop from one country to another without the hassle of multiple passport checks.

The Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985, has since become one of the cornerstones of European travel. It includes most EU countries and a few non-EU nations, such as Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland. 

However, some EU countries, like Ireland, are not members of Schengen, and some Schengen countries are not EU members, so it’s essential to double-check the complete list before you plan your trip.

While the Schengen Area makes travel across Europe easier than ever, if you’re not a national of an EU or Schengen member state, you will need a Schengen Visa to enter. 

And to secure that visa, you need to have travel insurance.

Why you need travel insurance for a Schengen visa

First things first: it’s not optional. 

Travel insurance is a legal requirement if you’re applying for a Schengen Visa. The policy must provide a minimum coverage of €30,000 and be valid for the entire length of your stay in the Schengen Area. 

Without proof of insurance, your visa application may be denied, no matter how perfectly you’ve planned the rest of your trip.

But beyond ticking an important box on your application form, travel insurance is your essential safety net. 

From flight cancellations and lost baggage to unexpected medical issues, the right plan can save you in a big way when it comes to out-of-pocket expenses. 

Healthcare in many European countries can be extremely expensive for non-residents, and without insurance, even a minor accident like a broken bone could result in bills that run into thousands of euros.

But beyond the legalities and financial risks, skipping travel insurance means forfeiting peace of mind. 

Travelling without the right insurance in place is like walking a tightrope without a safety net. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Paris or hiking the Alps, knowing you’re covered allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience, rather than worrying about the “what ifs.”

Why is travel insurance so important?

Travel is all about adventure and discovery, but even the best-laid plans can hit unexpected bumps. 

Whether you’re settling into a new life abroad or hopping from city to city as a digital nomad, things don’t always go smoothly. That’s where travel insurance comes in. It’s your trusted backup when life throws the unexpected at you.

Yet travel insurance is also a requirement when applying for a Schengen Visa for five very good reasons:

1. Trip cancellations: If something happens before your trip, such as an unexpected illness or a family emergency, travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses. Similarly, if you need to cut your trip short, your policy can cover cancellation fees, accommodation costs and much more.
2. Baggage loss and theft: Digital nomads will often pack gear that is worth thousands —laptops, cameras and gadgets galore. If any of these go missing, your travel insurance should reimburse you for the loss, making it easier to replace the essentials and get back to business as quickly as possible.
3. Medical coverage: No one plans on getting sick or injured during their travels, but if it happens, you don’t want to be caught off guard by sky-high medical bills. In most European countries, medical expenses can be expensive for non-residents, so having health travel insurance for Schengen visa (aka medical travel insurance) ensures you’re covered for any emergency care, doctor visits, or hospital stays you might need.
4. Emergency evacuation and repatriation: In the unlikely event that you need to be evacuated — whether it’s due to a severe illness or an unforeseen emergency — your insurance can cover the cost of getting you back home safely. This kind of coverage is truly invaluable.
5. General protection: Whether it’s a flight delay or a minor hiccup in your travel plans, having insurance gives you a safety net. When things go off the rail, it’s much better to be covered than to have to scramble for solutions.

How to choose the right travel insurance for your Schengen visa

It’s clear that travel insurance is a must for your Schengen Visa, but how do you choose the right one? 

Picking the right travel insurance for your Schengen visa is hugely important — it makes sure you meet all the visa rules and keeps you covered if anything goes wrong with your health or money while you’re travelling.

1. Meet the minimum coverage requirements: Be sure to check that your insurance policy covers at least €30,000 in medical expenses and repatriation. This is the minimum requirement, and anything less won’t cut it for your visa application.
2. Compare policies: There are plenty of travel insurance providers, but not all policies are created equal. Compare coverage, exclusions, and prices from different providers to find a policy that best fits your needs as an expat or digital nomad.
3. Look for 24/7 support: When you’re travelling and away from home, you want an insurance provider that offers around-the-clock support. You don’t want to be scrambling around for information in the middle of the night when something goes wrong, so choose a provider that’s easy to contact in case of emergency, wherever you are.
4. Know the exclusions: Every insurance policy has exclusions — things that aren’t covered. Common exclusions usually include pre-existing medical conditions, high-risk activities like extreme sports, or travelling to countries with political instability. Make sure you understand what your policy covers and what it doesn’t, and ask questions if you’re not sure..
5. Consider your needs: If you have a chronic health condition or you’re planning to engage in certain higher-risk activities such as skiing or scuba diving, make sure your insurance covers those specific situations before you travel. Extra coverage might cost you a little more up-front, but it can save you a lot of time, money and stress in the long run.
6. Check for country-specific requirements: Some Schengen countries may have specific insurance requirements. Double-check the specific visa rules for the country you’re applying to and make sure your insurance ticks all the boxes.
7. Look at the claims process: If you do need to make a claim, you’ll want a smooth and easy process. The best insurance providers will give you the help you need with efficient and easy claims handling, so you’re not stuck with unnecessary bureaucracy when you need help most.

Your travel safety starts here

Travel insurance for your Schengen Visa is a vital step in preparing for a smooth and worry-free journey through Europe. 

Whether it’s medical coverage, trip cancellation, or emergency evacuation, the right travel insurance ensures you’re protected no matter what unforeseen events may arise during your trip. It’s essential for your safety and peace of mind while exploring the Schengen Area.

Don’t leave your travel plans to chance. Make sure your trip is covered from every angle by securing the right insurance policy.

Take the first step towards a safe, enjoyable trip. Your next adventure begins with Feather.