Traveling to Schengen countries can be an exciting experience, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. One of the most important things to consider before embarking on your journey is getting a Schengen health travel insurance policy. This article will cover everything you need to know about Schengen health travel insurance, including its benefits, coverage, and requirements.
What is Schengen Health Travel Insurance?
Schengen health travel insurance is a mandatory insurance policy that covers medical expenses, emergency hospitalization, and repatriation of remains in case of death. It is required for all foreign visitors entering any of the 26 Schengen countries in Europe.
The Schengen area is a group of European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. The countries that make up the Schengen area are Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. If you plan to visit any of these countries, you need to have a Schengen health travel insurance policy.
Benefits of Schengen Health Travel Insurance
Having a Schengen health travel insurance policy comes with various benefits. Firstly, it gives you peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of any medical emergencies that may occur during your trip. Secondly, it is a requirement for obtaining a Schengen visa, which is necessary for travel to these countries. Thirdly, it provides you with financial protection in case of unexpected medical expenses, which can be quite high in the Schengen countries.
Coverage of Schengen Health Travel Insurance
A Schengen health travel insurance policy typically covers the following:
- Medical expenses up to €30,000
- Emergency hospitalization
- Repatriation of remains in case of death
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Loss or theft of personal belongings
It is important to note that the coverage may vary depending on the policy and the insurance provider. Therefore, it is essential to read the policy document carefully before purchasing the policy.
Requirements for Schengen Health Travel Insurance
In order to obtain a Schengen visa, you need to have a Schengen health travel insurance policy that meets the following requirements:
- Minimum coverage of €30,000
- Covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation of remains
- Covers the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area
- Covers all Schengen countries you plan to visit
- No deductible or excess
Where to Get the Best Deals on Schengen Health Travel Insurance
There are several insurance providers that offer Schengen health travel insurance policy. However, it is advisable to compare the policies and rates offered by different providers before making a purchase. Some of the best places to get the best deals on Schengen health travel insurance policies are:
- Insurance comparison websites such as InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth
- Travel insurance companies like World Nomads, Allianz, or AXA
- Your travel agency or tour operator
How to Apply for Schengen Health Travel Insurance
Applying for Schengen health travel insurance is a straightforward process. You can either purchase the policy directly from the insurance provider’s website or through an insurance broker. Before applying, make sure you have all the necessary information, including your travel dates and the countries you plan to visit. You will also need to provide your personal details, such as your name, address, and date of birth.
FAQs
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Do I need Schengen health travel insurance? | Yes, if you plan to visit any of the 26 Schengen countries in Europe. |
What does Schengen health travel insurance cover? | It covers medical expenses up to €30,000, emergency hospitalization, repatriation of remains in case of death, emergency medical evacuation, and loss or theft of personal belongings. |
What are the requirements for Schengen health travel insurance? | Minimum coverage of €30,000, covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation of remains, covers the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area, covers all Schengen countries you plan to visit, and no deductible or excess. |
Where can I get the best deals on Schengen health travel insurance? | You can get the best deals on Schengen health travel insurance policies from insurance comparison websites, travel insurance companies, or your travel agency or tour operator. |
How do I apply for Schengen health travel insurance? | You can either purchase the policy directly from the insurance provider’s website or through an insurance broker. |
Conclusion
Schengen health travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for foreign visitors planning to travel to any of the 26 Schengen countries in Europe. Having the proper insurance coverage not only ensures that you are prepared for any medical emergencies that may occur during your trip, but it is also a requirement for obtaining a Schengen visa. Make sure to do your research and compare policies and rates before purchasing the policy from an insurance provider or broker.