Venice
A romantic city of gondolas, canals, St. Mark’s Square, and historic palaces, famous for its art and unique charm.
Do I Need Travel Insurance for Schengen countries?
Yes, Travel insurance for Schengen countries is mandatory if you are applying for a Schengen visa and the policy must meet the meet the Schengen requirements, including a minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage (approx. $50,000) for emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. If you do not need a visa then travel insurance is optional yet it is still highly recommended due to potential high medical costs for foreigners.
Who Needs to Apply for Schengen Visa?
Before traveling to Schengen country, it is essential to purchase Schengen visa travel insurance to meet the visa requirements.
You need to apply for a Schengen visa:
- If you are not a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland
- If you plan to stay in Schengen country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or visiting family.
⚠️ Exceptions may apply depending on the nationality of the traveler, as some countries have visa exemption agreements with the Schengen Zone.
How Do I Apply for a Schengen Visa?
To apply for a Schengen Visa, follow these steps:
- Choose the correct visa based on your travel purpose (tourism, business, etc.).
- Fill out the Schengen visa application form.
- Gather required documents, including valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation and financial means, flight reservation
- Book an appointment with the Schengen consulate or visa center.
- Submit your application, biometric data, and documents at the consulate.
- Pay the visa application fee
- Processing usually takes around 15 days.
- Pick up your approved visa from the consulate.
What Are the Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Requirements?
Travelers who need a Schengen visa should buy travel insurance satisfying Schengen visa requirements:
- Travel insurance coverage of 30,000 Euros (~USD $35,171 as of September 2025)
- The policy must be valid in all 29 Schengen countries.
- Coverage for medical repatriation and emergency medical care.
- The policy must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area.
- The policy should offer 100% coverage with no excess/deductible.
💡 Tip: Always carry a digital and printed copy of your policy, as you may be asked for proof at border checks or during visa processing.
What Are the Common Schengen Travel Insurance Mistakes Leading to Visa Rejection?
Avoid these common errors that lead to Schengen visa rejections:
Coverage Below €30,000
- Schengen rules require minimum €30,000 medical coverage (approx. $50,000) (this includes emergency medical treatment & repatriation).
- Travel insurance for Europe policies with lower coverage than this €30,000 are automatically rejected.
Not Covering All Schengen Countries
- The travel insurance must be valid in all 29 Schengen states.
- Some travelers buy country-specific insurance (e.g., only for Germany), which is not accepted in the Schengen states consulates.
Traveler insurance Not Covering Entire Stay
- The Europe travel insurance policy must match the correct entry and exit dates.
- If your travel insurance for Europe ends even 1 day earlier than your return ticket, your Schengen visa application can be refused.
Buying Non-Schengen Compliant Plans
- Some cheap travel for Europe plans exclude repatriation (return of remains in case of death) or exclude pre-existing emergency treatment.
- Schengen visa officers check for these exclusions carefully.
Unrecognized / Non-Approved Insurance Providers
- Consulates prefer international insurance companies that are well recognized in the Schengen region.
- Unfamiliar or unapproved providers may cause rejection.
Submitting Fake or Cancelled Policies
- Some travelers submit “dummy” insurance and cancel it after printing.
- Consulates cross-check this data, and if invalid, the visa is denied and can even lead to a travel ban.
Mismatch Between Travel Dates & Insurance Dates
- Even a 1–2 day mismatch between flight booking and travel insurance validity can lead to rejection.
- It is recommended to add a buffer day before arrival and after departure.
Not Carrying Proof of Travel Insurance
- Sometimes applicants forget to attach the Schengen visa compliant Travel insurance certificate with the application.
- Only payment receipt is not enough—you need the official Schengen visa travel insurance confirmation letter.
Which Is the Cheapest Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?
The cheapest Schengen visa insurance is Atlas International Insurance plan, starting at just $1 for a day. Schengen visa travel insurance cost depends on factors, such as the provider, the length of stay, age of the applicant, and the level of coverage required. It is advisable to compare the benefits of cheapest Schengen travel insurance before buying a plan that meets Schengen consulate requirements.
Which Are the Best Travel Insurance Plans for Schengen Visa?
Affordable coverage for medical emergencies and travel mishaps in Europe.
Policy Maximum?
$50,000 - $1,000,000
Medical Evacuation?
Up to $1,000,000
Pre-existing coverage?
Acute onset covered up to policy maximum (under 70 yrs)
Repatriation of Remains?
Up to $50,000
Comprehensive medical protection for stress-free European travel.
Policy Maximum?
$50,000 - $1,000,000
Medical Evacuation?
Up to $500,000
Pre-existing coverage?
Covers Acute onset of pre-existing conditions under 79 years
Repatriation of Remains?
Up to $50,000
Best travel insurance for medical and trip emergencies across the Schengen Area.
Policy Maximum?
$50,000 - $1,000,000
Medical Evacuation?
100% up to $1,000,000
Pre-existing coverage?
Unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition upto 70 years
Repatriation of Remains?
Up to $500,000
* The price shown is for a 7-day trip with a $50,000 maximum coverage and a $0 deductible for a 30-year-old traveler.
How Much Does Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Cost?
Europe Schengen travel insurance Cost in 2025Schengen insurance cost ranges between $8 to $15 per week for a 25-year-old traveler with a $50,000 medical maximum and $0 deductible.
All the insurance plans listed below
- Meet Schengen visa requirements
- Are accepted by Schengen embassies/consulates worldwide
- Include a downloadable visa letter immediately after purchase
| Insurance Plans | Provider Network | Cost | How to download Visa letter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlas International | No PPO | $8 | WorldTrips insurance ID cards via Client Zone |
| Patriot International Lite | IPA Network | $10 | IMG insurance ID cards from My IMG |
| Atlas Premium International | No PPO | $11 | WorldTrips insurance ID cards via Client Zone |
| Travel Medical Global Choice | Wellabroad.com | $11 | Seven Corners insurance ID cards via Client Zone |
| Safe Travels International |  |
$15 | Trawick International insurance ID cards via Client Zone. |
Source: American Visitor Insurance ®
Cheapest travel insurance for Schengen Visa
Review Schengen Visa insurance plan benefits.
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How Do I Get a Certificate Showing I Have Travel Insurance When Applying for a Schengen Visa?
To get a certificate showing you have travel insurance when applying for a Schengen Visa, follow these steps:
- Choose a Travel Insurance Provider: Select a travel insurance policy on American Visitor Insurance that meets the Schengen visa requirements (coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, including repatriation).
- Buy the Insurance: Buy the policy on American Visitors Insurance online which provides Schengen-compliant travel insurance.
- Receive the Certificate: After purchasing, you will receive a travel insurance certificate, which includes details like the policy number, coverage dates, and coverage amounts.
- Download or Request the Certificate: You can download the certificate from the insurance provider. Ensure the certificate is issued in English or the official language of the country you’re applying to, and that it clearly meets the Schengen visa travel insurance requirements.
Schengen Visa Travel Insurance for Europe Visitors
The Schengen Agreement, first signed on June 14, 1985 by five European Union members , has now expanded to include 29 European countries with a combined population of over 450 million. These countries have officially removed border controls, allowing international travelers to move freely across their mutual borders.
If you plan to visit Europe, having the right Schengen visa travel insurance is mandatory. While American Visitor Insurance is best known for travel insurance to the USA, we also provide affordable travel insurance for Europe designed to meet all Schengen visa insurance requirements.
List of travel insurance companies for schengen visa USA
We work with leading providers offering Schengen-compliant medical insurance for international travelers:
These plans meet the Schengen visa insurance requirements, including the mandatory €30,000 coverage for medical expenses, emergency care, and repatriation. They are available for travelers of all nationalities, including those applying for a Schengen visa from the USA.
Best Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Reviews
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What Does Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Cover?
- Satisfies Visa requirements: Schengen visa insurance satisfies consulate requirements.
- Medical evacuation: Emergency medical evacuation expenses to nearest available facility if needed.
- Health care expenses: Covers emergency medical expenses for accidental injury or illness.
- Repat of remains: Offers coverage for repatriation of remains expenses to home country in case of death.
- Pre-existing conditions: Travel insurance offers coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Reviews
Reviews, Ratings and Experiences from our customers
Karen
"I am always appreciating good business conduct and when I am coming back here for the longer time span."
Margaret
"Thank you for your prompt response. Your prompt response will be highly appreciated."
Connie
"Thank you American Visitor Insurance! You went way beyond what I would expect from an insurance company."
What is the new travel authorization ETIAS requirement for US citizens traveling to Schenghen countries?
US citizens traveling to Schenghen countries should apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System).
- ETIAS is not a visa, but a pre-travel clearance, similar to the US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
- It allows short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or transit.
- The application is completed online and is usually approved quickly.
⚠️ Important: While ETIAS itself does not mandate travel insurance, it is strongly recommended to buy Schenghen travel insurance on American Visitor Insurance, as most US health insurance plans do not provide coverage outside USA.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Schenghen countries?
US citizens are advised to buy Schenghen travel insurance even if it is not mandatory for short travel, it is mandatory only for travel of more than 90 days and need a travel visa.
Travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage will protect the traveler in the event of trip delay, cancellation of flights, loss of baggage as well as any medical emergency or accident that the US citizen can face while in Schenghen countries.
Some US citizens travel insurance plans also have the option of 'Cancel for Any reason' (CFAR) by providing a refund of up to 75% of the trip cost if one cancels the trip for any reason. Having reliable travel insurance will ensure that the travelers can recoup the trip expenses which can be significant in the case of cruises, airline ticketing and hotel reservations should they face adverse circumstances during travel.
Do U.S. Citizens Need a Long-Term Schengen Visa for Europe?
US citizens who want to stay in any of the 29 Schengen countries for more than 90 days in a 180 day period need a Long Stay Visa. One of the requirements for this visa is proof of medical insurance with medical expenses coverage up to €30,000 (~USD $34,035 as of May 2025) which is valid during the whole stay in the Schengen countries.
The insurance company should provide a visa letter stating coverage amounts for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation while in Europe (or 'unlimited' if there is no limit of coverage).
American Visitors Insurance offer the best Europe long stay travel insurance for US citizens designed by top US insurance providers. International travel insurance plans vary based on the different coverage benefits offered. Travelers can compare coverage benefits and buy the plan that best fits their coverage needs.
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Schengen medical insurance, Cheap Schengen travel insurance
Europe Travel Insurance for Senior citizens
Best Travel insurance for older travelers visiting the Schengen countries
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Compare Schengen Visa Travel Insurance
Atlas International
Insurance
Per Month
- Policy Maximum#1
- Deductible#2
- Schengen visa letter
Available from client zone - Covers complications of pregnancy in the first 26 weeks of gestation
- Acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage is available within the age of 79
Patriot International Lite
Insurance
Per Month
- Policy Maximum#1
- Deductible#2
- Schengen visa letter
Sent immediately after purchase - Does not offers coverage for pregnancy
- Acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage is available within the age of 70
Safe Travels International Insurance
Per Month
- Policy Maximum#1
- Deductible#2
- Europe visa letter
Sent immediately after purchase - Covers Emergency Medical Treatment of Pregnancy
- Covers unexpected recurrence of pre-existing conditions up to the age of 89 years
Travel Medical Choice Insurance
Per Month
- Policy Maximum#1
- Deductible#2
- Europe visa letter
Sent immediately after purchase
shopping_cart Purchase Now
Not Available in#3
Maryland, Washington, New York, South Dakota, Colorado.....
Maryland, Washington, New York, South Dakota, Colorado.....
#1 Policy Maximum is the maximum eligible medical expenses that the plan will cover.
#2 Deductible is the amount of expenses that must be paid out of pocket before an insurer will pay any expenses.
#3 Europe travel insurance for US residents Click here to read more »Why Should I Buy Schengen Visa Insurance on American Visitor Insurance?
We serve as a trusted marketplace for Schengen travel insurance with over 20 years of experience, helping you easily compare top-rated plans that meet Schengen visa requirements.
- Side-by-Side Plan Comparison: With American Visitor Insurance, you can easily compare Schengen visa travel medical insurance plans, costs and benefits from top insurers - all in one place.
- Visa-Compliant & Comprehensive Protection: All plans meet Schengen visa requirements and include coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, accidents, repatriation, and unforeseen health issues abroad.
- Affordable & Transparent Pricing: Get the best price directly from the insurer — no hidden fees. Receive an instant quote and purchase your policy online quickly and hassle-free.
- Expert Support & Assistance: Our licensed customer support team is available 24/7 to
- Guide you through plan selection and online applications
- Help with policy renewals or extensions
- Assist with cancellations if travel plans change
- Support filing insurance claims
- Peace of Mind While Traveling: Enjoy your trip to the Schengen Area knowing you are protected with trusted insurance coverage.
What Are the Different Types of Schengen Visas?
1. Schengen Visa (Type A)
Non Schengen country citizens who are transiting through or waiting from a connecting flight in the international terminal in a Schengen nation airport is issued an A visa. It is also commonly known as the airport transit visa.
2. Schengen Visa (Type B)
The Schengen type B visa is for trips of less than five days and is with the qualifier “transit”.
3. Schengen Visa (Type c)
- A single-entry visa which entitles the visa holder to a single entry into the Schengen region.
- A double-entry visa entitles the visa holder to two entries to the Schengen region during the visa’s periods validity.
- A multiple-entry visa entitles the visa holder to as many entries and exits from the Schengen region as desired.
4. Long Stay visa or Type D Schengen visa
The following are valid reasons for the Type D Schengen visa : vacations or personal visits, work-related travel, study related travel, to participate in a training program, to complete an internship
What Are the Popular Tourist Destinations in Europe?
Paris
Paris, France's capital, is a major European city and a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture.
Amsterdam
There's more to Amsterdam than its notorious coffee shop culture and Red Light District. Spend the day biking along the city's canals and stylish streets.
Visiting Europe
Satisfy Schengen visa insurance requirements.
Know more »
Schengen travel insurance, Schengen health insurance - FAQ's
1. Which travel insurance is best for Europe?
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.
2. Is travel insurance necessary for Schengen visa? Is it mandatory to have medical insurance for Schengen visa?
Yes, Europe travel insurance is mandatory for applying for the Schengen visa according to Schengen agreement medical coverage by Consulates. The mandatory Schengen visa travel insurance requirement is a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros. You can find the best insurance for Schengen visa on our website
3. How can I get Schengen visa medical insurance? How can one buy travel insurance Schengen visa?
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.
4. Who offers best travel insurance for Schengen visa? Who provides Schengen Travel Insurance? Which insurance provider is best for a Schengen visa?
We work with many popular and top rated US insurance providers. These insurance companies offer best travel medical insurance coverage for Schengen visa. These Schengen visa insurance plans satisfy requirements as mandated by the consulate, offer comprehensive travel medical insurance coverage and zero deductible Schengen insurance coverage. The top insurance providers that offer popular Schengen visa insurance are International Medical Group Travel Insurance, Seven Corners Travel Insurance, WorldTrips Insurance and Trawick International Travel Insurance.
5. What is covered under Schengen travel medical insurance? What does Europe Travel Insurance policy usually cover?
Best travel medical insurance for Schengen visa covers the cost incurred from
- Hospitalization expenses dues of sickness of injuries
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Flight delay
- Baggage delay or loss
- Acute onset of pre-existing conditions
- Maternity in first 26 weeks
6. How do I get cheap Schengen visa travel insurance? How to find cheap travel visa insurance for Europe?
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.
7. Can I cancel my Schengen travel insurance?
Yes, you can cancel your Schengen travel insurance, but the terms and conditions and refund policy will vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy you purchased. If you ask for cancellation after the insurance start date, you may only receive a partial refund depending on how long you have had the policy and if you've already made any claims.
If you need to cancel your Schengen travel insurance, you should contact your insurance provider directly to inquire about the cancellation process and refund policy.
8. Who must buy travel medical insurance for Schengen visa?
A traveler from any of the Schengen visa required countries visiting any of the Schengen country for less than 90 days is required to buy short term travel medical insurance to apply for Schengen visa. It may be individuals, business travelers, family members. For travelers from Schengen visa exempted countries, planning to stay in Schengen countries for more than 90 days need to buy long term travel medical insurance for Long stay Europe visa.
9. Can I apply for a Schengen visa if my passport expires in two months?
No, you cannot apply for a Schengen visa if your passport expires in just two months. One of the strict requirements for a Schengen visa is that your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure from the Schengen Area, and it should also have been issued within the last ten years with at least two blank pages available. If your passport expires in two months, even if your trip is short, the consulate will reject your application because it does not meet the minimum validity requirement. In this situation, you should first renew your passport and then apply for the visa, as this will ensure your application is accepted for processing.
10. Can I travel to multiple Schengen countries with one Schengen visa?
Yes, the standard Schengen visa allows you to travel between all 29 Schengen member countries as long as you don’t exceed the maximum stay period of the visa.
11. When is the best time to book an appointment for my Schengen visa application?
Earliest You Can Apply
- Up to 6 months before your travel date (9 months for seafarers).
- This is especially helpful if you’re traveling during busy tourist seasons (summer or Christmas).
Latest You Should Apply
- At least 15 calendar days before travel (this is the legal minimum).
- But embassies strongly recommend applying 3–4 weeks before travel to avoid last-minute issues.
Ideal Timing
- 6 weeks to 2 months before travel → This balances processing time, document prep, and appointment availability.
- Some consulates (France, Spain, Italy, Germany) have long appointment waiting lists, so booking early is key.
12. How do I know if my travel insurance for Europe will be accepted for a Schengen visa?
The plans available on American Visitor Insurance satisfy Schengen visa requirements. Here’s a simple guide to show you the kind of insurance that gets approved versus the mistakes that often lead to rejections:
| Visa-Friendly Insurance | Risky Insurance Choices |
|---|---|
| Starts on the exact date of departure | Starts after arrival in Schengen |
| Comes with an official PDF certificate showing policy number & coverage dates | Only a screenshot or incomplete confirmation email |
| Clearly states “Schengen Area” coverage + repatriation clause | Missing repatriation, hospitalization, or territorial coverage wording |
| Provides minimum €30,000 ($50,000) medical coverage | Coverage is below €30,000 (or $50,000) or not specified |
| Certificate available in English | Certificate only in a non-EU language without translation |
Always double-check that your Europe travel insurance certificate clearly mentions the Schengen Area, and meets the €30,000 ($50,000) minimum coverage amount, territory (Schengen Area), and dates that match your full trip before submitting your visa application. The Schengen travel plans on American Visitor Insurance satisfy Schengen visa requirements.
What Does Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa Usually Not Cover?
Travel health insurance for Schengen visa usually provides coverage for injury, sickness and unplanned medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains in case of death. However, there are certain situations and items that are not covered by Schengen Visa insurance. These include:
1
Pre-existing medical conditions
Schengen Visa insurance usually excludes or provides limited coverage for any medical conditions that existed prior to the start of the policy. This means that if you have a pre-existing medical condition, any medical treatment related to that condition may not be covered.
Schengen Visa insurance usually excludes or provides limited coverage for any medical conditions that existed prior to the start of the policy. This means that if you have a pre-existing medical condition, any medical treatment related to that condition may not be covered.
2
Treatment for chronic illnesses
Most Schengen Visa medical insurance plans do not cover ongoing treatment for chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease. These conditions are generally excluded from coverage, so if you require ongoing treatment for a chronic illness, you may need to look for a specialized insurance policy.
Most Schengen Visa medical insurance plans do not cover ongoing treatment for chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease. These conditions are generally excluded from coverage, so if you require ongoing treatment for a chronic illness, you may need to look for a specialized insurance policy.
3
Non-emergency medical treatment
Schengen travel insurance is designed to cover medical emergencies and unexpected illnesses. It typically does not cover preventive care such as routine medical check-ups, vaccinations, or elective treatments.
Schengen travel insurance is designed to cover medical emergencies and unexpected illnesses. It typically does not cover preventive care such as routine medical check-ups, vaccinations, or elective treatments.
4
Extreme sports and adventure activities
Many Schengen Visa health insurance policies exclude coverage for extreme sports and adventure activities, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, or scuba diving. If you plan to participate in these activities during your trip, you may need to buy additional coverage.
Many Schengen Visa health insurance policies exclude coverage for extreme sports and adventure activities, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, or scuba diving. If you plan to participate in these activities during your trip, you may need to buy additional coverage.
5
Mental health conditions
Schengen visa insurance generally do not cover mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety. If you require treatment for a mental health condition during your trip, you may need to seek out specialized coverage.
Schengen visa insurance generally do not cover mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety. If you require treatment for a mental health condition during your trip, you may need to seek out specialized coverage.
What Is Europe Medical Insurance for Schengen Visa?
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Traveling to Schengen states
Tourism and travel insurance information for visiting Schengen countries.
Click here to read more »US citizens traveling to Europe
Vacation and travel insurance information for US citizens visiting Europe.
Click here to read more »Long term Europe visa medical insurance
Insurance Information for Long term Europe Visa.
Click here to read more »Best travel insurance for Schengen visa
Tools to find the best Schengen visa travel insurance.
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