Travel medical insurance
If you’re planning to travel abroad for work, study, or tourism, travel medical insurance will give you more than just peace of mind: it’s often a mandatory requirement, especially if you’re applying for a Schengen visa. Learn more about what travel medical insurance is, why it’s important, and how it fits into your visa application process.
Why you should have insurance when travelling
Travelling to another country exposes you to new experiences, and sometimes, unexpected health issues or accidents. Without insurance, medical care abroad can be expensive and complex to access. Travel medical insurance is designed to protect you from those risks by covering emergency medical expenses while you are outside your home country. It ensures you’re not financially burdened in the event of illness, injury, or hospitalisation during your trip.
Insurance requirements for a Schengen visa
If you’re applying for a Schengen visa, travel medical insurance is not optional: it’s one of the mandatory documents you must submit with your application. According to the Schengen visa requirements:
- Your insurance must cover at least €30,000 in medical expenses, including hospitalisation and repatriation.
- It must be valid throughout the entire Schengen Area.
- It must cover the entire duration of your intended stay.
Without meeting these conditions, your visa application may be refused.
What should travel medical insurance cover? Travel medical insurance usually includes coverage for:
Emergency medical treatment
Hospitalisation and surgery
Medical repatriation
24/7 emergency assistance
Start your journey confidently
Travel medical insurance is a small investment that provides essential protection and is a critical requirement for many visa applications. Whether you’re heading to Europe or another part of the world, securing the right coverage will guarantee you a safer, more compliant journey.
Visit the Insurte website to find an insurance policy adapted to your needs, from a selection of the world’s top international insurers.
TLScontact references this link for information purposes only and does not promote any insurance company products, nor provide any regulated activities regarding the insurance products referenced through the link on this website. TLScontact does not accept any liability arising from the purchase or use of the insurance services by any person.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do I need travel medical insurance for my visa application?
If you’re applying for a Schengen visa, travel medical insurance is mandatory. Other countries may have similar requirements. Always check the official visa guidelines for your destination.
Can I use regular health insurance instead?
Generally, no. Most domestic health insurance plans do not provide adequate coverage abroad, and they do not meet the Schengen visa requirements. You must purchase specialised travel medical insurance.
How can I show proof of travel medical insurance for my visa application?
Your insurer should provide a certificate of coverage that outlines the policy number, coverage amount, validity dates, and geographical area of coverage. This document must be submitted with your visa application.
Is travel medical insurance refundable if my visa application is refused?
Some insurers offer refunds if your visa is denied, provided you submit proof of the refusal (such as the embassy’s rejection letter). Be sure to check the refund policy when purchasing your plan.