Yes, Travel insurance for France is mandatory if you are applying for a French visa and the policy must meet the France visa travel insurance 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 France Schengen Visa?
Before traveling to France, it is necessary to buy Schengen visa travel insurance to meet the French visa requirements. You need to apply for a French 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 France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or visiting family.
⚠️ Exceptions: Some non-EU countries have visa waiver agreements with the Schengen Zone, meaning their citizens can enter France without a visa for short stays (usually up to 90 days).
On American Visitor Insurance, you can easily buy France visa medical insurance online to get the visa letter to submit to the French consulate for your visa application. Once your France travel insurance is purchased, you will receive the insurance details with the toll-free number, a virtual ID card, and the French visa insurance letter for your visa application, which serves as proof of coverage.
How Do I Apply for a France Schengen Visa?
To apply for a Schengen Visa to France, 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 French 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 France Travel Insurance Requirements?
Travelers who need a French visa should buy travel insurance satisfying French visa requirements:
💡 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.
Which Is the Cheapest Schengen Visa Travel Insurance for France?
The cheapest travel insurance for France is Atlas International Insurance plan, starting at just $1 for a day. French visa travel insurance cost depends on factors, such as the provider, the length of stay, the applicant's age, 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 France Visa?
* 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 Travel Insurance for France Cost?
Europe Schengen travel insurance Cost in 2025
Schengen 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
The policy maximum options available with this plan are $50K to $2M for people up to the age of 65 For people in the age range of 65 to 79, the options are $50K and $100K and for people above 80 the only option is $10K.
Plan pays Coinsurance 100% after the deductible up to the overall limit.
Atlas International Insurance satisfies Schengen visa requirements and offers comprehensive Europe medical insurance for travelers.
Covers acute onset of pre-existing condition covers up to overall maximum limit, under age 80.(excludes chronic and congenital conditions)
The policy has a medical maximum options available $50k, $100k, $500k and $1M for ages 14 days to 69 years.
The length of coverage is 5 days to 364 days.
Travel Medical Global Choice satisfies Schengen visa insurance requirements.
For the acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage for age range of 14 days to 69 years, $50k coverage is available and for age range of 70 to 79 years, $5k coverage is available .
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 requirements.
What Does Schengen Visa Travel Insurance for France 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.
What Is the Best Travel Insurance for Seniors Vacationing in France?
The best travel insurance for seniors vacationing in France depends on age and visa requirements. At American Visitor Insurance, you can compare top-rated Schengen visa plans designed specifically for older travelers.
All of these plans include a Schengen visa letter, which you can instantly download and print after purchase.
💡 Tip: Prices above are based on a $50,000 policy maximum with $0 deductible to meet Schengen visa requirements. If you don’t need to meet those requirements, you can lower the cost by choosing a higher deductible.
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 Factors Influence the Cost of Best Travel Insurance to France?
The cost of French health insurance for travelers depends on the following:
Age of the traveler: The older the traveler, the more expensive the cost of travel health insurance to France.
The maximum medical coverage selected: The options range from $50,000, up to $1,000,000, the higher the coverage amount, the higher the premium.
The selected deductible: A 'deductible' or ‘excess’ is the amount of the medical costs the customer pays before the insurance plan provides any coverage. Most plans provide several options ranging from $0 to $2500 (travelers over age 60 years may not have the $0 deductible option). The lower the deductible, the higher the premium.
The co-insurance on the plan: 'Co-insurance' is the percentage on medical expenses borne by the customer AFTER the deductible is paid. The cheapest travel health insurance for France visa will have the highest co-insurance.
The Insurance underwriter: There are different underwriters such as AIG, Lloyds, Nationwide, etc. Premium will vary for different underwriter.
Tip: While the cheapest plan may save money upfront, it’s important to balance affordability with adequate protection—especially for medical emergencies abroad.
How Can I Buy the Best Travel Insurance for France?
search Find the Best Plans
Complete the France Schengen visa insurance quote request form by providing details of the traveler and insurance requirements.
balance Compare Options
Compare the price and the benefits of the different French visa insurance options to identify what fits your needs best.
shopping_cart Buy Your Plan
Buy the plan that fits your requirements and budget best by using a credit card and completing the online application.
assignment Review Your Policy
Review the insurance documents & download visa letter is required.
Compare Schengen Visa Travel Insurance
EMAIL RESULTS
refresh
SUBMIT
Please contact our licensed agents at +1 (877) 340 7910 or email, we will provide possible plan options.
🛫 Short-Stay Visas (Schengen Visas – Up to 90 Days)
1. Type A Visa (Airport Transit Visa)
This allows travelers to transit through the international zone of French airports without entering the country.
Required for certain nationalities who are traveling from a non-Schengen country to another non-Schengen country and have to connect through a French airport.
2. Type C Visa (Short-Stay Visa)
This is the most common visa type for short visits, allowing stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in France and other Schengen countries.
It can be issued as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa.
Subcategories of Type C Visa are Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Student Visa and Working Visa.
🏠 Long-Stay Visas (National Visa – Over 90 Days)
1. Type D Visa (Long-Stay Visa)
For individuals planning to stay in France for more than 90 days.
It is typically issued for purposes such as work, study, or family reunification.
Holders of a Type D visa can also travel within the Schengen Area for short stays.
🏠 Visa-Free Travel
Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland do not require a visa to enter France and can stay for an indefinite period.
Nationals from certain countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Japan, can enter France without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days.
What Are the Documents Required for France Visa?
Valid passport (at least 3 months exceeding after the visa period requested)
Travel medical insurance France, France travel insurance - FAQ's
1. How can I get France visa medical insurance?
Travelers to France applying for the Schengen visa can buy France visa travel insurance on American Visitor Insurance. While it ironic to buy travel insurance for France on American Visitor insurance, we offer several international travel insurance plans that specifically satisfy France visa requirements as mandated by Schengen state consulates. Our compare France visa insurance quote facility lists a range of cheap travel insurance that satisfy the France visa requirements. After buying travel medical insurance for France on our website travelers can immediately download the required visa letter to be used while applying for the France visa.
2. What is the procedure to get a visa letter for France?
France visa medical insurance can be purchased online quickly and easily.
The traveler has to provide relevant information (age, travel dates, total amount of coverage desired) in a simple travel insurance for France visa form and click the 'get quote' button.
A list of affordable travel insurance plans with the premium (cost), medical coverage details, and the name of the underwriter will be displayed.
The applicant can then buy the best France visa insurance plan they like by clicking on the corresponding 'BUY' button. Complete the simple application online and pay using a credit card.
On purchasing the Europe travel insurance for France , a traveler will be provided with the insurance details that include a toll free number, a virtual ID card, and a France visa letter that may be presented to the consulate as proof of coverage.
3. Who must buy travel medical insurance for France visa?
A traveler from any of the Schengen visa required countries visiting France for less than 90 days is required to buy short term travel medical insurance to apply for France visa. It may be individuals, business travelers, family members. For travelers from Schengen visa exempted countries, planning to stay in France for more than 90 days need to buy long term travel medical insurance for Long stay Europe visa.
4. Who offers Schengen health insurance for France?
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 and offer comprehensive travel medical insurance coverage. The top insurance providers that offer popular Schengen visa insurance for France are International Medical Group, Seven Corners, WorldTrips and Trawick International.
5. What is covered under France visa travel insurance?
Best travel medical insurance for France 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. Which are the EU countries that are not part of the Schengen region?
The following European countries are not part of the Schengen zone : Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Cyprus, Georgia, Ireland, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Turkey, Ukraine, The United Kingdom and the Vatican.
7. What is the difference between European Union (EU) and the Schengen states?
The Schengen region is a travel zone of several European countries where citizens can travel freely within this region without a visa, while the European Union is an economic and political union of several European countries.
8. If my France visa is denied, can I cancel my travel insurance plan?
Yes, you can cancel your travel insurance plan if your France visa is denied. There should be full reimbursement if you cancel before the travel dates.
However, if you cancel after the start date, the premium may be refunded on a prorated basis with a cancellation fee, but only if no claims have been submitted.
It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the policy while buying it, and to contact the insurance provider if you have any questions or concerns. If you need to cancel your policy due to a visa denial, you may need to provide proof of your visa denial to the insurance provider.
France Visitor 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 travelling to France?
US citizens traveling to France 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 travel insurance for France on American Visitor Insurance, as most US health insurance plans do not provide coverage outside USA.
What is the best travel Insurance for US citizens traveling to France?
France is among the most popular travel destinations for US citizens. France is popular for its Museums, Art, theatre, food, wine and has some of the most attractive scenery in the world. The country is known for its fairy-tale castles; world’s legendary museum Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the cathedral of Notre-Dame, the French Riviera and Disneyland makes the country a popular tourist destination.
There are thousands of Americans who visit France each year for a holiday and many to visit their family and friends. France has been receiving visitors from the US dating back to the 19th century who have been vacationers, students, expats and business men and it is no surprise that millions of US travelers come to France annually. US Citizens can enter France without a visa for up to 90 days for tourist and business purposes. US travelers need to show proof of a return ticket and sufficient funds to stay.
Traveling to France for vacation is a lot of fun! However US travelers must remember that any unforeseen risks while traveling outside the home country can lead to spending a lot for recovering from it whether it is sickness or injury. It is crucial to carry trip cancellation insurance which covers unexpected trip expenses, trip cancellation and interruption along with the medical expense coverage for unforeseen events.
Do US Citizens Need a Long Term Visa to Stay in France?
US citizens planning to stay in any of the 29 Schengen countries for more than 90 days within a 180 day period are required to apply for a Long stay (type D) visa. One of the requirements for this visa is proof of valid medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 (around US $34,035 as of May 2025), which is valid during the whole stay in the Schengen countries.
The insurance provider 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. Get Quote »
Do US Green Card Holders Need French Visa?
Yes, US Green Card holders may need a visa to travel to France, if the country of their passport requires a visa for travel to the Schengen countries. Green Card Holders travel insurance for France is required while applying for a French visa. US Green Card Holders can buy travel insurance to satisfy French visa requirements for their visa application on American Visitor Insurance.
Which Is the Best France Travel Insurance for US Seniors With Medicare?
US senior citizens with Medicare need international travel insurance as Medicare offers limited or no coverage outside USA.
Travelling overseas involves risks especially for older travelers and costs of medical evacuation and health care outside the United States is expensive.
Buying Medicare Supplemental International Travel Insurance coverage for older US travelers is strongly recommended.
🌏 GlobeHopper Travel Insurance for Older US Travelers Visiting France
US citizens should realise that Medicare and its supplements provide very little coverage outside US borders.
There is a travel health insurance plan specifically designed for older American travelers.
Indianapolis based International Medical Group (IMG) offers GlobeHopper Senior an affordable overseas travel medical insurance option for US citizens and US permanent residents 65 years and older.
The GlobeHopper Senior plan is available either as
Provides $1 million coverage up to the age of 79 years
Provides $100,000 coverage for travelers 80 years and older
Includes $2,500 cover for sudden unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition
Includes $25,000 coverage for emergency medical evacuation
Travel insurance for France visa
France, a captivating country in Western Europe, is celebrated for its diverse culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes. From the romantic allure of Paris, with its iconic Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and world-famous museums like the Louvre, to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera, France offers a wealth of experiences. The countryside is dotted with charming villages, vineyards in regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy, and majestic castles in the Loire Valley. French cuisine, renowned for its elegance and variety, features delectable pastries, exquisite cheeses, and fine wines.
With its blend of art, fashion, gastronomy, and natural beauty, France remains a top destination for travelers worldwide. French gastronomy, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, is celebrated for its culinary artistry and cultural significance. This prestigious recognition highlights the unique traditions and practices that define French cuisine, including its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients, meticulous preparation techniques, and the importance of communal dining. This recognition by UNESCO underscores the global influence and enduring legacy of French gastronomy in the culinary world.
To obtain a visa for France, you must have travel insurance that covers at least €30,000 in medical expenses, is valid for all Schengen Area countries, and includes emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. France visa health insurance should cover the entire duration of your stay. You can purchase France visa travel insurance satisfying France long stay visa health insurance requirements on American Visitor insurance. Ensure you receive a certificate of insurance that meets these requirements to include in your visa application.
What Are the Popular Tourist Destinations in France?
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a former royal residence built by King Louis XIV located in Versailles, about 19 kilometers west of Paris, France.
Cannes Beaches
During the summer months, colorful parasols line the sandy beaches of Cannes, and beach lovers soak up the sun in classic French Riviera style.
Antibes Beaches
The beach scene on Antibes is legendary, and sun-worshipping tourists have many choices, from large public beaches to private beaches with seaside restaurants.
What Are the Popular Tourist Destination Cities in France?
What are the main International airports in France?
City
Airport Name
IATA Code
Paris
Charles de Gaulle Airport
CDG
Nice
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport
NCE
Paris
Orly Airport
ORY
Lyon
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport
LYS
Marseille
Marseille Provence Airport
MRS
Schengen travel insurance for a French traveler
personHi,
I am a 47 year old Australian citizen with no pre existing health conditions, travelling from Australia to France on 18 November 2025. I am applying for a French 1 year visa which requires travel insurance for the entire duration of stay;
Could you please assist me with the following questions.
What are the various options and costs for travel insurance based on my requirements - could you please forward
Does your insurance cover for the full 364 days?
I will travelling in the Schengen area so I will require travel insurance for this area during the 364 days
Is your insurance approved by French Visa office? If insurance is refused can I get a refund.
I look forward to your reply.
Thanks,
Luisa
personDear Luisa,
Thank you for contacting us for your insurance needs.
To answer your questions specifically.
To see the cost of the plan, you can go to the BUY links that we have provided in the email and get quote
These plans cover for 364 days.
These cover the Schengen countries.
These plans are eligible for travel to France and can be shown in French office.
If you wish to cancel the plan, then you will get full refund if you cancel before the effective date and if cancelled after the plan becomes effective, you will get unused portion of the premium.
For your trip France, you can purchase the Safe Travels Schengen Visa by Trawick International. This plan meets Schengen Visa requirements for Non US Citizens traveling from their home country to Schengen countries but not to USA. This policy can be cancelled before or after the starting date.
Here is the link of the plan in our website: Safe Travels International Insurance from here you can get price quote, read the details and brochure of the plan, and buy the plan.
Please let us know if we can help you in any further.
What Does Travel Insurance for France Visa Usually Not Cover?
Travel health insurance for France 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 French Schengen Visa insurance. These include:
⚕️ 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 condition, any related treatment may not be covered.
💊 Treatment for chronic illnesses
Most Schengen Visa medical insurance plans do not cover ongoing treatment for chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease. Travelers needing long-term care should look for specialized insurance coverage.
🏥 Non-emergency medical treatment
Schengen travel insurance is designed for emergencies. It typically does not cover routine check-ups, vaccinations, or elective procedures.
🏄♂️ Adventure and extreme sports
Many Schengen Visa health insurance plans exclude coverage for high-risk activities such as bungee jumping, skiing, or scuba diving. If you plan to join such activities, consider additional adventure sports coverage.
🧠 Mental health conditions
Most Schengen Visa insurance policies do not include coverage for mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Specialized plans may be needed for such care while abroad.
Schengen Travel Insurance With 30,000 Euro Coverage
Best US Travel Insurance companies for Schengen Visa insurance
You can find reliable Schengen visa insurance providers like International Medical Group(IMG), Seven Corners, WorldTrips, Trawick International insurance.