A Schengen visa is a permit that allows you to travel freely between 27 European countries. Whether you're planning a business trip or a long vacation, one of the essential requirements for obtaining this visa is medical insurance, this is as per Regulation (EU) 2009/810 of the European Parliament. The compulsory travel medical insurance must cover emergency medical care, hospitalization and repatriation (including in the event of death). In this article, we will learn more about the necessity of travel insurance for obtaining a Schengen visa and the specific requirements that must be met.
Requirements for Travel Insurance to Obtain a Schengen Visa
Not all travel insurance policies will qualify for a Schengen visa. Your travel insurance must meet specific criteria to be accepted
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Minimum Coverage Amount: The policy must offer a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.
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Validity Across Schengen Countries: The insurance should be valid in all 27 countries within the Schengen area.
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Coverage Duration: The insurance must cover the entire duration of your stay in Europe.
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Civil liability: Schengen visa travel insurance must cover at least €10,000 in personal liability.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for a Schengen Visa?
The cost of travel insurance for a Schengen visa varies based on several factors
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Age of the Traveler: Age is a critical factor in determining the insurance premium. Generally, older travelers are required to pay higher premiums. This is because older individuals are more likely to encounter health issues, posing a higher risk to insurers, who then charge more to mitigate this risk.
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Duration of the Trip: The length of your stay in the Schengen area significantly affects the cost of insurance. Insurance companies typically calculate the cost on a daily basis. Thus, the longer you plan to stay, the more you will pay for your insurance policy. A longer trip increases the chance of potential incidents, leading insurers to charge higher premiums.
Conclusion
Travel insurance is indeed compulsory for Schengen visa approval. The policy must meet specific requirements regarding coverage amount, validity across Schengen countries, and duration of coverage. Additionally, the cost of travel insurance is influenced by the traveler’s age and the length of the trip. By ensuring your travel insurance meets these criteria, you can smoothly navigate the visa application process and enjoy a worry-free trip to Europe.
