Schengen Travel Insurance

What is Schengen Travel Insurance?

Schengen travel insurance policy is the mandatory insurance for any person travelling to Schengen countries. These are 26 countries and require non-European visitors to have a valid visa to enter their region. One has to buy the required travel insurance for Schengen visa. Thus, before applying for a Schengen visa, the traveller has to buy a Schengen travel insurance plan. The policy not only keeps the visitor safe from any financial emergencies but also ensures that required medical coverage is provided to the insured traveller.

Why Schengen Travel Insurance?

Schengen travel insurance policy offers coverage in all the 26 European countries that belong to the Schengen area. These are - Austria, Czech Republic, Belgium, Luxembourg, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Germany, France, Italy, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Iceland, Malta, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Norway, Netherlands, Slovenia, Poland, Spain, Portugal, Slovakia, Switzerland, and, Sweden. Please note that not all European countries are part of the Schengen territories.

Buying travel insurance policy is necessary to process the Schengen Visa application; however, this should be treated as a necessary safeguard while travelling. While visiting an unknown country, tourists may be exposed to certain contingencies that can ruin their budget. From flight delays to baggage loss to trip curtailments, various other risks may arise but can be covered under a Schengen travel insurance plan.

Things to Know About Schengen Travel Insurance

Take a look at the table below to learn more about this plan’s features:

What are the Requirements of Schengen Visa Insurance?

Schengen visa insurance should meet the following criteria to obtain a valid Schengen visa:

• The travel insurance for Schengen visa should have a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euro.
• It should provide coverage for any unforeseen medical emergencies including medical illness, accidental injury and medical repatriation of remains.
• This medical travel insurance should be valid in all the 26 member Schengen countries that accept Schengen visas.

Travel insurance for Schengen visa will vary with the visa type. For example, there are special Schengen travel insurance plans for students as well.

Schengen Visa: Procedure and Documents Required

The visa can be issued for a single entry, double-entry or multiple-entry visa depending on the purpose of the visit. Please note that a short stay visa is valid for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days for business or tourist purposes, not more than three months.

A resident of India needs to have travel insurance for Schengen visa from India. They can apply for a Schengen visa in India only (permanent resident country). They need to apply for a visa application and schedule an appointment at the consulate of the Schengen destination country that they are planning to visit.

The list of documents that are required while applying for a Schengen visa would also depend on the type of visa one has applied for. Here are some of the documents that need to be submitted while applying for a Schengen visa::

• Duly filled and signed Visa application form
• Valid passport
• Schengen travel insurance policy with the medical cover of minimum €30,000
• Air Tickets
• Round trip itinerary or reservation
• Two recent passport size photographs (35 mm x 45 mm)
• ITR proof for the last 3 years
• Last 6 months’ bank statement
• A letter of declaration for the purpose of travel and duration of stay
• Admission proof if travelling for further studies
• Appointment letter from the employer (if for work purposes)

Schengen visa application needs to be submitted at least 15 days before the trip date. However, it is advised to apply it at least 30 to 60 before the trip. In some cases, the consulate may ask for additional documents.

Types of Schengen Visa

Depending on the duration of the stay and purpose of visiting, there are different types of Schengen visas available. The general requirements are the same but may require additional documents depending on the visa type.

Transportation in Schengen Countries

Travelling within Schengen Countries and entire Europe is actually quite convenient and simple. All the countries have a vast network of buses, trains, planes, and even ride shares to choose from. Within the Schengen zone, one can cross borders without going through passport control checks in each country.

The best way to travel in most of the Schengen countries i.e. Belgium, France, Italy, Netherlands, Switzerland, etc. is by train. Cities such as Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges are great spots for a day trip from Brussels and are accessible by train in under or around one hour. While in Greece trains and ferries are the best.

Within Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Austria, buses are the most convenient mode of transport. While in Germany flights, buses, trains, all make sense depending on the traveller’s budget. Most of the people take up a bike to travel through individual cities in the Netherlands. Even Portugal and Spain are well-connected by trains and buses. Most tourists can get through different cities in the most convenient and cost-effective manner.

Weather in Schengen Countries

Europe is beautiful throughout all the weather and can be visited at any time of the year. Check out the below table with European weather details during all the seasons:

To ensure safety, don’t forget to carry good travel insurance for Europe. Getting sick here would certainly cost more than how much a Schengen travel insurance costs, so make sure to invest in a good plan.

Best Time to Visit Schengen Countries

During summers, the weather is delightfully warm and a perfect time for Indians to explore most of the Schengen countries like France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Greece, and Italy.

Autumn is popularly known as the shoulder season for tourism in Europe. This time of the year is best to visit Belgium, Netherlands, or Sweden. However, the rains are fairly common and the weather can get cold and wet at times. During this time Mediterranean Europe including Italy, Spain, France, Croatia, and Greece remains quite busy and expensive.

During the winter the temperature can drop down to -10 degrees in Poland. It can be biting cold but it is the most mesmerising time of the year for visitors to enjoy the Christmas feels all around. Moreover, the cost of flights and hotels is comparatively cheaper during this time of the year.

Spring is also a good time to visit Schengen countries. The weather is neither too hot nor too cold, which makes it perfect for sightseeing as Europe is at its peak of beauty during this season. While travelling to these places, travel insurance for Europe will ensure that the visitors are taken care of.

Things to Do in Schengen Countries

From Amsterdam to Italy everyone has their favourite destination and the set of things that they want to do.

While the whole Schengen area consists of 26 countries, it is hard to visit every country on the list. Here are some of the most visited countries with the best things to do:

• France: One of the world's most visited countries, the Eiffel Tower, splendid palaces and castles are among the best places to visit here. Popular places include the Castle of Chambord, the Palace of Versailles and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Spain: With over 40 UNESCO world heritage sites, don't forget to visit Guggenheim Museum, the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens, Barcelona's Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo' and more.
• Italy: Among the oldest and most visited countries, Italy is home to the Colosseum, the Vatican Museum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and numerous historical monuments.
• Turkey:Dating back to 660 BCE, there are many places to visit in Turkey including Ephesus, Cappadocia, Pamukkale and several other places.
• Germany: The country shares borders with several important nations and has a lot to offer. Don't miss the Neuschwanstein Castle, Aachen Cathedral, the Cologne Cathedral and the famous Oktoberfest.

Moreover, there is Buda Castle and Danube River in Hungary, the blue lagoon and Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland. Whether visiting Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and other Schengen cities there are options galore. Simply enjoy the experience and travel carefree with travel insurance for Europe.

Shopping Attractions in Schengen Countries

Europe is considered as one of the most famous shopping destinations. There are different shopping outlets, expensive brand stores, malls, and even second-hand shops to splurge in. Here are some must-visit attractions:

France

The French capital is every shopper's dream destination. Faubourg Saint-Honoré is a must-visit when in Paris. For vintage shopping, the Marais quarter is the place to be. From chocolates to a variety of teas and books there is something for everyone to splurge in.

Italy

Milan is the best shopping place in Italy. Go to Via Montenapoleone and Corso Venezia for all the brands. Also visit Corso Buenos Aires, the longest shopping street with more than 350 stores.

Spain

Passeig de Gracia is one of the most beautiful shopping streets and is home to many luxurious brands. Plaza Catalunya and Portal de L’Angel have several fashionable stores and traditional food cafes. La Rambla is another popular fashion street and is a must-visit for some of the finest shops, food cafes and drinks.

Switzerland

One of the most expensive shopping destinations in Switzerland is Geneva. For a good shopping experience, head towards Bon Genie - Grieder. For chocolate lovers, Chocolatier Auer is the place to be.

Germany

Berlin and Munich are some great cities for joyful shopping. The most popular places are Sendlinger Straße, Kaufinger Straße, and Theatinerstraße. There are budget-shopping options for students as well.

Belgium

It is a shopping paradise and is a popular shopping centre in Europe. From fashion to traditional products to a wide variety of food, visitors will find everything at Avenue Louise, Rue Neuve, and Rue Bailli.

Well, the list can go on. Since every Schengen country has something unique to offer, this list has some of the top shopping destinations during a short stay.

Eating Out in Schengen Countries

There are myriad of eating out options in entire Europe and the Schengen zone is no exception. From Michelin star restaurants to street foods, there are a wide variety of food options that can offer the most delightful experience.

• Palermo is a Michelin star restaurant in Italy and Naples has some of the best Pizzas.
• If in Spain try Girona, Arzak, and Martín Berasategui for some of the best Spanish and a variety of cuisines
• In Prague (Czech Republic) try having lunch at Karlin and experience the best fine dining at La Degustation
• San Sebastian in Spain is another food paradise. Some popular restaurants are Mugaritz, Akellare, and Martín Berasategui.
• The growing culinary scene in Berlin, Germany has opened up delightful eating options for the tourists. There is a plethora of street food, weekend breakfast, and Michelin star options.

There is something special about every Schengen country. Though we have highlighted some of the top-rated eating-out places, feel free to check with the locals for some of the best eating-out joints.

Top Hospitals in Schengen Countries

The cost of medical treatment is quite exorbitant and the currency difference makes it all the more expensive. A Schengen travel insurance policy would cover any unforeseen medical expenses that may arise during the trip. Some of the most advanced hospitals for tourists in the Schengen zone are as follows:

Note: Do check with the insurer if these hospitals are covered under the Schengen travel insurance policy.

Money-Saving Tips in Schengen Countries

A Schengen travel insurance policy can save a lot of money in case of a medical emergency, third-party damage or any accident or loss of belongings. But there are various other ways to save money when travelling to Europe:

• Save Money by Rail: To save the transportation cost, consider travelling by rail. Booking it in advance can save a huge amount of money and can even get great discounts and deals.
• Avail Free Wi-Fi Connectivity: Visitors can access free Wi-Fi everywhere and stay connected without spending a single penny.
• Avoid Museum Fees:Those on a budget can visit museums that do not require a fee. There are particular days when the museum entry is free of cost. Make sure to check the days and plan the visit accordingly to save money.

What does the Schengen Travel Insurance Policy Cover?

Schengen travel insurance provides cover for several things. They are as follows:

• Loss of checked-in baggage
• Delay of checked-in baggage
• Compassionate visit of a family member in case the policyholder falls sick or get hospitalised
• If the policyholder requires financial assistance
• Medical expenses are covered
• In case the policyholder requires emergency medical evacuation
• Repatriation of mortal remains of the policyholder to India
• In case the medical treatment continues in India
• Daily hospital allowances to the policyholder
• Dental treatment in an emergency
• In case the plan gets hijacked
• Delay of trip, cancellation and curtailment is covered
• Missed connection of flight is covered
• Loss of passport is covered
• Accidental death & permanent/total disability of the policyholder Is covered
• Automatic extension of policy period in case the policyholder extends the trip
• Cover for home burglary
• Children return journey is covered

What does the Schengen Travel Insurance Policy Not Cover?

Schengen travel insurance does not cover several things. They are as follows:

• Pre-existing diseases are not covered
• Admission to hospital for routine check-up or diagnosis is not covered
• Medical expenses in case of pregnancy is not covered
• Medical expenses in case of infertility and external congenital conditions are not covered.
• At the time of purchasing the policy, congenital anomaly known to the insured is not covered
• Non-allopathic medicines are not covered
• Plastic and cosmetic surgery is not covered
• Any kind of cost incurred in purchasing contact lens, spectacles, hearing aids, corrective and cosmetic dental surgeries are not covered
• Any expenses incurred in substance abuse, self-inflicted injuries, STDs, and AIDS/HIV are not covered
• Loss or damage caused in war, terrorism, civil war is not covered
• Loss or damage due to breach of law is not covered
• Loss or damage caused in hazardous sports is not covered

Some Schengen travel insurance policies do provide cover for covid-19 medical expenses. However, the covid-19 insurance amount, as well as benefits, vary from insurer to insurer. So, while purchasing a Schengen insurance plan, check the insurance policy documents properly.

Which Nationals Are Required to Purchase Travel Insurance for a Schengen Visa?

All non-Schengen citizens need to apply for a Schengen visa to enter any Schengen region. Following is the list of nations whose nationals must have a valid Schengen visa:

How to Find Cheap Travel Visa Insurance for Europe?

Travelling to Europe is a costly affair and cutting costs can be difficult. However, having travel visa insurance for Europe is the first step in reducing any additional expenses that may arise out of medical emergencies or problems faced abroad. These can be loss of passport, accidentally damaging someone’s property and more. Here are some useful tips to find cheap travel visa insurance for Europe:

• Compare different travel insurance companies in India to find the best plan at the lowest prices. This can be best done through Policybazaar.com where different Schengen travel insurance plans can be compared under a budget.
• Shopping online will save considerable money as well as time spent in buying travel visa insurance for Europe as it eliminates distribution costs and other intermediaries.
• Watch out for sales and discounts going on different sites, sometimes the insurer may offer some discount on the plan as well
• Opt for the low-cost plan variants when buying travel insurance. If the cheaper plans provide necessary coverage, then no need to opt for a more expensive one.
• Choose add-ons carefully. For example, if not interested in adventure sports then there is no need to buy an optional cover for adventure sports.

Entry Essentials to Schengen Countries

To visit any of the 26 Schengen countries, a valid Schengen visa along with Schengen travel insurance is required. Depending on the purpose of visit - be it tourism, business or medical treatment every traveller needs to have a Schengen visa that grants permission to travel within these countries. However, the visa should be obtained before travelling, as it cannot be granted on arrival at the airport.

Similarly, due to the ongoing pandemic, there may be several entry restrictions such as mandatory RT PCR test for COVID-19, testing upon arrival, quarantine requirements and such. It is important to stay updated with the latest developments and plan the European trip accordingly.