Schengen Travel Insurance: Requirements & Best Options 2026

Why Travel Insurance is Mandatory

Travel insurance isn't optional for Schengen visa applications - it's a strict requirement. The Schengen Visa Code requires all applicants to have adequate travel medical insurance as a condition for visa issuance.

This requirement protects both you and the Schengen countries from medical costs during your stay.

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Minimum Requirements

Coverage Amount

• Minimum: €30,000 (or equivalent)
• Recommended: €50,000+ for better protection

Geographic Coverage

• Must be valid in all 29 Schengen countries
• Including countries you're not planning to visit
• Pan-Schengen or worldwide policies work

Duration

• Must cover entire duration of your stay
• From arrival date to departure date
• Add a few extra days for safety

What Must Be Covered

Mandatory Coverage:

1. Medical emergencies - Illness, accidents

2. Hospital treatment - Inpatient and outpatient

3. Emergency medical evacuation - Transport to hospital

4. Repatriation of remains - In case of death

5. Urgent return home - Family emergency coverage

Recommended Additional Coverage:

• Trip cancellation
• Lost luggage
• Flight delays
• Personal liability
• Legal assistance

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Cost Estimates

Prices vary based on age, trip length, and coverage:

By Trip Duration

| Duration | Budget Policy | Standard Policy | Premium Policy |

|----------|--------------|-----------------|----------------|

| 1 week | €10-15 | €15-25 | €30-50 |

| 2 weeks | €15-25 | €25-40 | €50-80 |

| 1 month | €25-40 | €40-70 | €80-150 |

| 3 months | €60-100 | €100-180 | €200-350 |

By Age Group

| Age | Premium Increase |

|-----|------------------|

| 18-35 | Base rate |

| 36-50 | +10-20% |

| 51-65 | +30-50% |

| 66-75 | +80-150% |

| 75+ | May need specialist provider |

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Where to Buy

Insurance Companies

Many international insurance companies offer Schengen-compliant policies:

Global Providers:

• Allianz Global Assistance
• AXA Assistance
• Europ Assistance
• Mondial Assistance
• Generali Global Assistance

Online Platforms:

• World Nomads
• SafetyWing
• Battleface
• Heymondo
• IATI Seguros

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Ready to Apply?

Don't let insurance be a roadblock. Our team helps you choose the right policy and ensures it meets all Schengen requirements.

Start your visa application today!