Things You Must Know Before Buying Schengen Travel Insurance

Things You Must Know Before Buying Schengen Travel Insurance
5 min read
12 October 2023

When planning a trip to a Schengen country, one of the most important things to consider is getting the right travel insurance coverage. Visa applicants must purchase travel insurance for Schengen visa application to cover medical costs and other emergencies.

Despite its importance, many travellers often need to pay more attention to getting the right Schengen travel insurance coverage. This i-s why it is crucial to be well-informed and understand what you need to know before buying a travel insurance policy.

Before obtaining Schengen travel insurance, you need to know what it is, what it covers, how to choose coverage, and what to avoid. This post will help you choose Schengen travel insurance.

What Is Schengen Travel Insurance?

Schengen travel insurance is a type of travel insurance coverage specifically designed for travellers visiting the Schengen area. The Schengen site is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passports and other forms of border control at their mutual borders. 

This allows for the free movement of people within the area without additional visas.

Also Read: 5 Wonderful Places To Visit In Norway

Schengen travel insurance covers medical costs and other emergencies. The coverage is a requirement for visa applicants visiting the Schengen area and must meet specific minimum coverage amounts and duration requirements set by the Schengen agreement.

What Are The Requirements For Schengen Travel Insurance?

The Schengen agreement sets the rules for Schengen travel insurance, and visa applicants must meet these rules to get into the Schengen area. These requirements include:

Minimum Coverage Amount

Schengen travel insurance must cover at least €30,000 in medical expenditures and other unexpected events.

Duration Of Coverage

The travel insurance coverage must be valid for the entire duration of the trip and must cover the applicant for the whole of the time they will be spending in the Schengen area.

Geographical Scope

The travel insurance must cover the entire Schengen area, and the policy must be valid for the country or countries the applicant intends to visit.

It's essential to check with the country's embassy or consulate for Schengen travel insurance regulations and advice.

What Should Be Covered In A Schengen Travel Insurance Policy?

A Schengen travel insurance policy should provide coverage for the following:

Medical Expenses

This includes coverage for any medical treatments, hospital stays, or emergencies that may occur during the trip. The policy should also include coverage for medical repatriation or evacuation if necessary.

Trip Cancellations And Interruptions

This covers any expenses incurred due to unexpected cancellations or interruptions of the trip, such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen events.

Lost Or Stolen Luggage

This covers replacing lost or stolen items during the trip, including personal belongings and travel documents.

Emergency Evacuation

This covers the cost of evacuation in a medical emergency or natural disaster.

These are the usual forms of coverage that should be included in a Schengen travel insurance policy, but you should always check with the insurance carrier for a complete list.

Some policies may also offer optional coverage such as personal liability, travel assistance, etc. It is essential to carefully review the policy terms and conditions and make sure that the policy meets all of your travel needs.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Buying Schengen Travel Insurance

When buying Schengen travel insurance for a visa, it is essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to unexpected expenses or coverage gaps. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:

Not Reading The Policy Terms And Conditions

It is essential to review the policy terms and conditions carefully to understand what is covered and what is not. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses or coverage gaps.

Not Choosing The Right Coverage Amount

Ensure the policy covers your travel and meets the Schengen agreement's minimal coverage.

Not Considering Your Personal Needs

Consider your travel plans, including any specific activities you plan to do while in the Schengen area and make sure that the policy provides coverage for these activities.

Not Checking For Exclusions

Some policies may have exclusions for certain activities or situations, such as pre-existing medical conditions or travel to certain countries. Be sure to check for these exclusions before buying a policy.

Not Getting A Policy That Covers The Entire Trip

Make that the policy covers the whole Schengen area, including your destination(s), for the duration of your travel. Avoiding these blunders can help you get the coverage you need for your Schengen travel and protect you from unforeseen charges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Schengen travel insurance is essential to any trip to the Schengen area. It covers medical expenditures, trip cancellations and disruptions, lost or stolen luggage, and other unforeseen events. 

Recommended: Do I Need A Provisional Flight Booking For Visa Processing?

Understand your travel demands, choose the proper coverage amount, read the policy terms and conditions, and avoid frequent mistakes to buy the right Schengen travel insurance policy. 

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