One of the most important parts of submitting a visa application is getting the right Schengen travel insurance.
After all, not just any travel insurance policy will do.
While it’s a mandatory part of any Schengen visa application, that means you should just get the first policy you see. Your coverage will both protect you if you have an accident abroad and also be a crucial (and required) document in your visa application.
Choosing the best policy to include in your Schengen visa application is more than just picking the cheapest option. You need to take into consideration what you get for the cost to make sure that it’s really the best one for you and your needs.
Understanding the differences between your options can save you money and stress, while also still making sure that your travels (and visa application) are protected.
Factors You Should Consider
Coverage Limits
Schengen visa requirements say that all visa applicants have to take out a travel insurance policy that meet specific requirements. First, the policy chosen must offer a minimum of €30,000 for emergency medical costs. On top of that, it also needs to include emergency hospitalization, repatriation, and be valid across every Schengen country for the entire length of your trip. There are currently 29 countries in the Schengen Zone.
While this is the minimum, many travelers choose to pick a policy that has even higher coverage limits. This is a wise decision if you want a little bit more peace of mind.
Cost vs. Value
Pricing is an important thing to consider, of course, but the cheapest option may not always be the best choice. This is why it’s so important to compare policies to see what is included in the premium.
A slightly higher cost for comprehensive coverage could end up saving you thousands of euros in the event of a medical emergency.
Regardless of what you choose, make sure you look for policies that offer a balance of affordability and protection. Also, check to see what deductibles (if any) your policy has.
At a minimum, your policy will need to cover you for the requirements listed above, regardless of cost. If you don’t get a travel insurance policy that meets the requirements, your Schengen visa application will be rejected.
Provider Reputation
When choosing where to buy your insurance, it can be helpful to choose a policy from a big name. A provider with a strong track record and global notoriety can make the purchasing experience and decision feel a little less unknown.
Several companies on the market even specialize in Schengen insurance policies, meaning you can be sure that the policy you choose from them meets the listed requirements.
How to Compare Policies
To make sure you have settled on the absolute best option for you, you should use an online comparison tool that allows you to evaluate and compare multiple providers side by side.
When you do this, there are a few things that are helpful to pay attention to.
Policy inclusions: Take a look at what exactly is covered beyond the Schengen insurance minimums. Are sports covered? What about lost or stolen luggage? Some policies provide 24/7 assistance and support, which can be really helpful when you’re abroad. This type of guarantee gives you an ally no matter where you are during your trip and what questions you have.
Deductibles: Always make sure you understand how much you would need to pay out-of-pocket if you need to make a claim, as higher deductibles may lower premiums but increase your risk. Getting a policy with high deductibles isn’t always the most cost-effective choice, even if it appears that way at first due to a lower premium (i.e., the initial cost of the policy itself).
Flexibility: Can you extend your policy easily if your travel plans change? What if you plan to visit other countries outside of the Schengen Zone (such as the UK)? Are they included? These are important questions to ask before you make your purchase decision.
Customer Support: Look for 24/7 assistance.
How Schengen Travel Insurance Affects Your Visa Application
Your insurance choice is not just about safety. It directly impacts your Schengen visa application. Without it, your Schengen visa application will be denied, if you’re even able to submit it.
At your visa appointment, an attendant will look over your application, including the supporting documents. All of the requested documents, including insurance, must be present at that time. This means that you need to purchase your policy before your Schengen visa appointment.
In order to meet the requirements, it must:
Cover you for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area (and match the dates listed on your visa application).
Meet the minimum €30,000 emergency medical coverage requirement.
Include hospitalization and repatriation in case of an unexpected, severe illness or the tragic event of a death overseas.
It must cover you in every Schengen country (of which there are 29).
If your policy fails to meet these criteria, your visa will likely be denied, which could cause you to delay your trip or even have to cancel it altogether.
This is why selecting the right insurance policy is so important, as well as making sure that your application has been filled out correctly and the information you have provided is accurate.