Visa Requirements Travel Insurance
Travel insurance that meets Schengen visa requirements and other mandatory insurance regulations worldwide.
Schengen visa insurance — check your coverage optionsSchengen Visa Insurance Requirements
Your travel insurance must meet these specific criteria for a Schengen visa application.
Minimum €30,000 Medical Coverage
Insurance must cover at least €30,000 (or equivalent) for medical emergencies
All Schengen States
Policy must be valid across all 27 Schengen countries
Emergency Repatriation
Must include coverage for repatriation due to medical emergency or death
Entire Duration
Coverage must span your entire visa validity period
Zero Deductible
Many consulates require no excess/deductible on medical claims
Recognized Insurer
Policy must be from an insurer accepted by the consulate
27 Schengen Countries
Your visa insurance must cover all these countries regardless of which ones you intend to visit.
Note: The UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria are not part of the Schengen Area. Separate entry requirements may apply.
Protect Your Journey
Many Schengen countries require proof of travel insurance for visa applications.
Schengen visa insurance — check your coverage optionsWe receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Other Countries Requiring Travel Insurance
Beyond Schengen, several countries require or recommend travel insurance for entry.
Russia
Travel insurance mandatory for tourist visa
Min. coverage: €30,000
Cuba
Medical insurance required on arrival
Min. coverage: Varies
Ecuador
Health insurance required for entry
Min. coverage: $30,000
UAE (Dubai)
Insurance recommended, sometimes required for visas
Min. coverage: Varies
Thailand (certain visas)
Insurance required for some visa types
Min. coverage: Varies
China
Insurance may be required for certain visa types
Min. coverage: Varies
Requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate before travel.
How to Get Insurance for Your Visa Application
Check Requirements
Review the specific insurance requirements for your destination country's visa.
Purchase Appropriate Insurance
Choose a policy that meets all mandatory requirements (coverage amount, geographic scope, repatriation).
Request a Certificate
Obtain an official insurance certificate from your insurer showing all required details.
Submit with Application
Include the insurance certificate with your visa application documents.
Keep Until Return
Maintain your insurance throughout your trip—you may be asked to show proof of insurance on arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Schengen visa insurance?
Schengen visa insurance is travel insurance that meets the specific requirements of European consulates for Schengen visa applications. It must provide minimum €30,000 medical coverage, include repatriation, and be valid across all Schengen countries for your entire stay.
What are the exact Schengen visa insurance requirements?
Schengen visa insurance must: 1) Provide minimum €30,000 medical/emergency coverage, 2) Cover all Schengen states, 3) Include emergency medical repatriation, 4) Cover the entire visa duration plus recommended extra days, 5) Have no or low deductible (some consulates require zero excess).
Do I need travel insurance for a Schengen visa?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Schengen visa applications from most nationalities. Without valid insurance documentation meeting all requirements, your visa application will be rejected.
When do I need to buy Schengen visa insurance?
Purchase insurance before your visa appointment. You need to submit the insurance certificate as part of your application documents. Many insurers provide instant certificates suitable for visa applications.
What document do I need from the insurance company?
You need an insurance certificate or letter showing: policyholder name, coverage period, geographic coverage (all Schengen states), medical coverage amount (min €30,000), repatriation coverage, and the insurer's contact details.
Do UK/US/Canadian citizens need Schengen visa insurance?
UK, US, Canadian, and Australian citizens currently enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days and do not need visa insurance. However, travel insurance is still highly recommended. Note: ETIAS authorization will be required from 2025.
What is ETIAS and will I need insurance?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is a visa waiver program starting in 2025 for visa-exempt travellers. While ETIAS itself does not require insurance, travel insurance remains recommended for all travellers.
Which countries require mandatory travel insurance for entry?
Besides Schengen visa requirements, some countries including Cuba, Ecuador, Russia (tourist visa), and certain Southeast Asian countries for specific visa types require proof of travel insurance. Requirements change, so always check before travel.
What if my visa is for multiple entries?
For multiple-entry Schengen visas, you need insurance that covers the duration of your first intended stay. For subsequent entries, you may need to purchase additional insurance for each trip.
Can I use my existing travel insurance for a visa application?
Your existing policy may work if it meets all Schengen requirements. Check: coverage amount (€30,000 minimum), geographic coverage (all Schengen states), repatriation coverage, and policy validity dates. Request a certificate from your insurer.
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Protect your trip
Many Schengen countries require proof of travel insurance for visa applications.
- Medical emergency coverage
- Trip cancellation protection
- Lost luggage assistance
We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Our team understands the specific insurance requirements for visa applications worldwide.