Do You Need Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa

 

Schengen visa is significant for non-European travellers heading to any Schengen country. It enables them to enjoy borderless travel among member states for up to 90 days within 6 months. To secure this visa, it is imperative to present the necessary documents, including valid international travel insurance during the application process. Failure to do so may result in being denied entry.

In this blog, we will delve into the significance of Schengen travel insurance as one of the pivotal requirements for obtaining approval for a Schengen visa.

Is Travel Insurance Required for Schengen Visa?

A Schengen international travel insurance plan is obligatory for individuals outside of Europe intending to visit any Schengen country. Obtaining a visa for any recognised Schengen countries is contingent upon providing evidence of possessing the relevant insurance, such as multi-trip travel insurance. This policy alleviates the financial burdens related to unexpected emergencies during your journey.

Depending on the policy chosen, additional benefits and coverage options may be available, such as trip cancellation, trip delay, lost baggage, and emergency medical expenses coverage.

Note that it is crucial to carefully review the policy details, coverage limits, exclusions, and claim procedures before finalising your insurance plan.

Benefits Of Schengen Travel Insurance

Schengen travel insurance provides coverage for various benefits, some of which are outlined below:

1. Instant Visa Letter

Once you buy Schengen travel insurance, you will promptly receive a visa letter as an email attachment in the confirmation email or via a downloadable link on the insurance provider’s website. This international travel insurance letter can be presented to the Consulate during your visa appointment, facilitating the visa application process.

• Emergency Medical Evacuation / Repatriation

This valuable benefit covers the costs associated with necessary travel arrangements if you encounter a situation where you need to return home earlier than planned due to covered reasons. The recognised reasons in your insurance, such as multi-trip travel insurance, may include the unfortunate death of a close relative or significant damage to your primary residence, such as flooding.

• Return of Mortal Remain

In the tragic event of your passing during your trip, this benefit comes into play to assist your family in repatriating your body back to your home country or arranging for a local cremation, depending on your family’s preference.

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment:

Suppose you suffer from accidental death or lose one or more limbs during your trip. In that case, this benefit of your international travel insurance provides a lump sum payout to you or your family, depending on the policy terms. Certain insurance plans may offer higher coverage if the accident occurs while travelling on a common carrier, such as an aeroplane, train, or bus.

Some Common Schengen Travel Insurance Exclusions

Schengen travel insurance typically offers coverage for a range of situations, but there are specific exclusions that applicants should be aware of before purchasing a policy. 

• One crucial aspect is the coverage for covid-19 medical expenses available in some Schengen insurance plans. It’s important to note that the amount and benefits provided for covid-19-related issues may vary among different insurers. 
• Any international travel insurance does not generally cover pre-existing diseases. Additionally, the policy does not cover costs incurred for routine check-ups or diagnoses, hospital admissions during pregnancy, and medical expenses related to infertility and external congenital conditions.
• Moreover, any genetic abnormality known to the insured when purchasing the policy, such as multi-trip travel insurance, is not covered. 
• Non-allopathic medicines, including alternative or traditional treatments, are not eligible for reimbursement. 
• Schengen travel insurance does not extend to cover certain personal expenses, such as the purchase of contact lenses, spectacles, and hearing aids. Plastic and cosmetic surgeries, such as procedures performed solely for aesthetic purposes, are also excluded from coverage.
• In terms of medical emergencies resulting from specific activities, some general exclusions are laid by the insurance, such as multi-trip travel insurance. Costs incurred due to substance abuse, self-inflicted injuries, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and AIDS/HIV-related treatments are not generally covered by the policy.
• Any loss or damage resulting from the insured person’s breach of the law is also not eligible for reimbursement from the Schengen travel insurance.
• Moreover, the insurance policy does not provide coverage for any significant loss or damage resulting directly or indirectly from war, terrorism, or civil war.
• Lastly, international insurance, such as multi-trip travel insurance, does not generally offer coverage for loss or damage arising from participation in hazardous sports or activities where the likelihood of injury is inherently high.

Tips to Choose Your Schengen Travel Insurance

Finding affordable Schengen travel insurance for Europe will be easier by following these valuable tips. 

• Firstly, it is essential to compare various travel insurance plans available in India. Reputable online websites often list Schengen visa insurance options, allowing you to find the most budget-friendly one.
• Shopping online for international travel insurance is recommended, as it saves money and time by eliminating certain distribution costs. Watch for website sales and discounts, as insurers occasionally offer promotional deals.
• Looking for coverage, instead of only the price, is always recommended. It might seem pricey, but you will be glad for the proper investment you made before starting your journey.
• When selecting add-ons on any insurance, such as multi-trip travel insurance, be cautious and choose only those relevant to your travel activities. For instance, if you plan on participating in adventure sports, purchasing additional coverage for injuries related to such activities is always recommended.

Conclusion

Schengen travel insurance is indispensable for non-European travellers planning to visit the Schengen area. Beyond mandatory, this international travel insurance provides vital financial security and peace of mind during the journey. Travellers can confidently explore the Schengen countries with benefits such as emergency medical coverage, repatriation, and instant visa letter facilitation. However, considering the policy’s exclusions, including pre-existing conditions and high-risk activities, is crucial. By carefully selecting a suitable insurance plan and understanding its details, travellers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip within the Schengen zone. 

 

Photo x Thamyres Silva