Schengen Travel Insurance

What is Schengen Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance for a Schengen visa is mandatory for anyone travelling to Schengen countries. Entry to these countries is allowed once all the requirements, including the Europe travel insurance for a Schengen visa.

These are 26 countries and require most non-European visitors to have a valid visa to enter their region. One has to buy the necessary travel insurance for a Schengen visa. Thus, before applying for a Europe visa, the traveller has to buy Schengen travel insurance from India. The policy keeps the visitor safe from financial emergencies and ensures that required medical coverage is available to the insured traveller.

Things to Know About Schengen Travel Insurance

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

Why Schengen Travel Insurance from India?

Travel medical insurance for Schengen visas offers coverage in all 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. Schengen visa insurance will be valid in all the nations of its zone. However, it may only work for some European countries.

While buying a travel insurance policy is necessary to process the Schengen Visa application, this should be treated as an essential safeguard while travelling and not a mere formality. While visiting an unknown country, tourists may be exposed to certain contingencies that can ruin their budget.

Having the best travel medical insurance for a Schengen visa will protect them from many issues. From flight delays to baggage loss to trip curtailments, various other risks may arise but can be covered under a Schengen visa insurance plan.

Entry Essentials to Schengen Countries

To visit any of the 26 Schengen countries, a valid Schengen visa and travel insurance (30,000 Euros minimum coverage) is required. Depending on the purpose of the 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, for many nationals, including Indians, a Schengen visa should be obtained before travelling, as a visa on arrival isn’t available.

Since the pandemic, there have been several entry requirements by European countries, such as mandatory RT PCR tests for COVID-19, testing upon arrival, quarantine requirements, etc. Since different Schengen countries have varying entry requirements, checking their official websites for updates and planning the European trip accordingly is vital.

What are the Requirements of Schengen Visa Insurance?

Opting for the best travel insurance for a Schengen visa will meet the official visa requirements and provide peace of mind. Schengen visa insurance should meet the following criteria to obtain a valid visa:

• Coverage of Travel Insurance (30,000 euros): The travel insurance for a Schengen visa should have a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros.
• Extent of Coverage: Europe travel insurance for a Schengen visa should cover any unforeseen medical emergencies, including medical illness, accidental injury and medical repatriation of remains.
• Schengen Visa Insurance Validity: This medical travel insurance should be valid in all the 26 member Schengen countries that accept Schengen visas.

Schengen travel insurance for visas will vary with the visa type. For example, there are also specific Schengen travel insurance plans for students.

Schengen Visa: Procedure and Documents Required

The visa for Schengen countries 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 180 days for business or tourist purposes, not more than three months.

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

The list of documents 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 a minimum €30,000
• Confirmed Flight 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 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, applying it at least 30 to 60 before the trip is advised. In some cases, the consulate may ask for additional documents.

Types of Schengen Visa

Depending on the duration of the stay and the purpose of visiting, different types of Schengen visas are available. Broadly, Schengen visa is divided into four main categories:

• Schengen Visa Type A
• Schengen Visa Type B
• Schengen Visa Type C
• Schengen Visa Type D

Uniform Schengen Visa (the most common Schengen visa) covers categories A, B & C. The general requirements are the same but may require additional documents depending on the visa type. Here is a brief overview:

Transportation in Schengen Countries

Travelling within Schengen Countries and throughout Europe is quite convenient and affordable. All the countries have a vast network of buses, trains, planes, and rideshares. Within the Schengen zone, one can cross borders without passing passport control checks in each country.

• Trains
  The best and cheapest way to travel in most Schengen countries is by train. Countries like Belgium, France, Italy, Netherlands, Switzerland, etc., are most famous for their spectacular scenery, best experienced by train ride. 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 travelling in Greece, trains and ferries are the best.
• Buses
  Buses are the most convenient transport mode in Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Austria. While in Germany, flights, buses, and trains make sense depending on the traveller’s budget.
• Bikes
  Most people take 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 most conveniently and cost-effectively.

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 the best travel insurance for Schengen visa. Getting sick here would undoubtedly 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 summer, the weather is delightfully warm and a perfect time for Indians to explore most 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 pretty common, and the weather can sometimes get cold and wet. Mediterranean Europe remains busy and expensive during this time, including Italy, Spain, France, Croatia, and Greece.

During the winter, the temperature can drop 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 an excellent 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, Europe travel insurance will ensure that the visitors are cared for. Specially if you’re planning some adventure sports then also purchase an adventure sports cover with your Schengen travel insurance policy.

Things to Do in Schengen Countries

Everyone from Amsterdam to Italy has their favourite destination and the set of things they want to do. While the whole Schengen area consists of 26 countries, visiting every country on the list is hard. 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 spots include the Castle of Chambord, the Palace of Versailles and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
• Spain: With over 40 UNESCO world heritage sites, remember 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 sites.
• Germany: The country shares borders with several important nations and has much to offer. Don't miss the Neuschwanstein Castle, Aachen Cathedral, Cologne Cathedral, and Oktoberfest.

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

Shopping Attractions in Schengen Countries

Europe is considered one of the most famous shopping destinations. Different shopping outlets, expensive brand stores, malls, and even second-hand shops exist. Here are some must-visit attractions:

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. Pro-tip: Busy streets and old shopping districts are often teeming with tourists and petty thieves. Stay alert and carry a strong bag. However, if you have the optional of baggage/wallet loss with your Schengen travel insurance, you can take it as a reliable backup.

Eating Out in Schengen Countries

There are many eating-out options in 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 tourist eating options. There are many street food, weekend breakfast, and Michelin-star options.

There is something special about every Schengen country. Though we have highlighted some 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

Medical treatment costs are 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: 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 a medical emergency, third-party damage, 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 massive amount of money and even get great discounts and deals. You will need your visa, travel documents and tickets to get your train tickets.
• Buy Train Pass: You can buy a Eurail pass that can last three months and is available to locals and tourists.
• Book Tickets in Advance: If opting for individual tickets, book tickets in advance as overnight or high-speed trains may be available after a period of time. Also, don't forget to check winter and summer timetables for trains and tourist attractions.
• 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 museum entry is free of cost. Check the days and plan the visit accordingly to save money.

Europe is considerably costly for a lot of Indians and you need to be mentally prepared for that. From food, accommodation, travel and health care, there’s a lot to account for. Keeping that in mind, make sure to buy a good Schengen travel insurance plan that provides sufficient coverage. Try not to buy travel insurance for Schengen visa just because it is mandatory, instead spend some time to find the best possible option among available Schengen visa insurance.

What does the Schengen Travel Insurance Policy Cover?

Schengen visa 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

Please note that while most travel insurance for Schengen Visa provide a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000, the exact benefits vary considerably. Go through their policy wordings and compare different Schengen travel insurance plans before buying one for your trip.

What Does the Schengen Travel Insurance Policy Not Cover?

While there are some things covered by most travel insurance for Schengen visa, the insurer will not cover certain situations. Some of the most common things that aren’t covered by Schengen travel insurance are as follows:

• Pre-existing diseases are not covered
• Admission to the hospital for routine check-ups or diagnosis is not covered
• Medical expenses in case of pregnancy are not covered
• Medical costs in case of infertility and external congenital conditions are not covered.
• At the time of purchasing the policy, a 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, and 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, or 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 coverage 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.

How to Find Travel Visa Insurance for Europe?

Travelling to Europe is costly, and cutting costs can be difficult. However, having Schengen travel insurance for Europe is the first step in reducing additional expenses arising from medical emergencies or problems abroad. These can be the loss of a passport, accidentally damaging someone’s property, etc. Additionally, here are some valuable tips for finding affordable travel visa insurance for Europe:

• Compare different travel insurance plans in India to find the lowest prices. This can be best done through Policybazaar.com, where Schengen visa insurance by different travel insurance companies in India are listed per budget.
• Shopping online will save considerable money and time buying travel visa insurance for Europe. It can eliminate certain distribution costs.
• Watch out for sales and discounts on different sites; sometimes, the insurer may also offer discounts on the plan.
• Opt for the low-cost plan variants when buying travel insurance. If the basic low-cost plans provide the necessary coverage, then no need to opt for more expensive ones.
• Choose add-ons carefully. For example, if you are not interested in adventure sports, there is no need to buy optional coverage for injuries due to adventure sports.