If you need a Schengen visa, travel medical insurance is mandatory. Your application can be refused if the policy does not meet the official minimums. The rules are simple once you know them, and the right policy usually costs much less than people expect.
Quick Answer
- Minimum coverage: €30,000 for a short-stay (Type C) Schengen visa.
- Must cover: emergency medical care, hospital treatment and repatriation, including repatriation of remains.
- Must be valid: in all Schengen countries, for your whole stay.
Official Requirements in Detail
| Requirement | Short-stay visa (Type C) |
|---|---|
| Minimum medical coverage | €30,000 |
| Covered events | Urgent medical care, emergency hospital treatment, repatriation for medical reasons and in case of death |
| Territory | Valid in all Schengen member states |
| Duration | The entire stay; for multiple-entry visas, at least the first planned trip |
Some countries set higher amounts for long-stay national visas. For example, Latvia lists €42,600 for long-stay visas. Always check the embassy or consulate where you apply.
How to Choose a Policy
- Check the coverage amount: at least €30,000, or higher if you can.
- Check the deductible: a low or zero deductible avoids surprise costs.
- Confirm the dates: match your exact travel dates, with a day or two of buffer.
- Check that it names repatriation clearly in the certificate.
- Get an official certificate in English or the local language, showing your name, dates, coverage and the Schengen area.
- Read the exclusions: pre-existing conditions, sports and pregnancy are often limited.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices depend on your age, trip length and the insurer. Short trips for young travelers are usually inexpensive, while longer stays and older travelers pay more. Compare several insurers that issue Schengen-compliant certificates.
Can You Use Credit Card Travel Insurance?
Sometimes, but only if the card insurer issues a certificate that clearly states the €30,000 coverage, Schengen-wide validity, repatriation and your travel dates. Many consulates refuse vague card benefit summaries, so a dedicated policy is safer.
Common Mistakes
- Policy dates shorter than the planned stay.
- Coverage valid only in one country instead of the whole Schengen area.
- Missing repatriation coverage.
- Buying cheap travel insurance that covers trip cancellation but not medical costs.
- Forgetting to extend coverage if you extend your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do visa-free travelers need insurance?
It is not usually required at the border, but it is strongly recommended. Medical bills abroad can be very high.
Do I need insurance for a multiple-entry visa?
Yes. You usually need to show coverage for your first trip and keep valid insurance for each later trip.
Can I buy insurance after the visa is approved?
No. You must submit proof of insurance with your application.
The Bottom Line
Choose a policy with at least €30,000 of medical coverage, Schengen-wide validity, repatriation and dates that cover your full stay. A clear certificate makes your visa application smoother.
Disclaimer: This article is general information only. Requirements can change and may differ by consulate; always check the official embassy or consulate website.
Sources: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia: Travel medical insurance.