“Travel is best enjoyed without the baggage of worries.”
Imagine traveling to a new country to relax and enjoy, but all the joy from the new experiences gets overshadowed by the worries of having nothing to rely on in case of emergencies. No one wants that, right? This is where travel insurance comes into play.
But do you know, that travel insurance is not a matter of choice if you wish to visit the Schengen countries? But why is it that, and what should be the procedure if you want to visit there? If you are also curious to know the answers to these questions, this is the place for you. Stay tuned as I tell you all about the Schengen travel insurance!
Why is Travel Insurance Mandatory for a Schengen Visa?
Before delving into other requirements and procedures, let me first tell you why exactly travel insurance is mandatory for a Schengen visa. Well, it is to prove that you are financially backed by Schengen travel insurance when traveling to any of the 29 Schengen nations.
This is in accordance with the regulation framed by the European Parliament for visitors traveling to any of the Schengen nations. Having a travel medical policy when visiting Schengen countries ensures that you are medically covered in case of a medical situation that may require treatment or even hospitalization, which is outrageously expensive in these countries.
DO YOU KNOW? As of 2025, the global travel insurance market is worth $23.51 billion, and it is projected to reach$98.74 billion by 2033.
What Does Schengen Travel Policy Mean?
Schengen travel policy provides financial coverage related to medical and travel expenses to non-EU individuals visiting the nations within the Schengen region in Europe. It is mandatory for travelers who need a visa to enter the Schengen zone.
During the application for a Schengen visa, you have to provide the necessary evidence that you are adequately insured concerning healthcare expenses.
Schengen Travel Insurance Requirement List for Indians
Here is all you’ll need to submit as an Indian traveler:
Your travel insurance sum insured must be at least EUR 30,000.
Your travel policy coverage should extend to all countries within the Schengen region.
Your travel policy should include coverage for accident-related hospitalizations, medical emergencies, and medical repatriation expenses.
Schengen Visa Travel Insurance – Key Features
When looking for Schengen travel insurance, there are a few things that you must check for to ensure a smooth traveling experience, these include:
Dental treatment coverage
Medical expenses that include evacuation and transportation
These will not only prove to be of significant help in case of emergencies but will also keep you free of unnecessary worries while traveling, providing you peace of mind.
How to Purchase a Travel Policy for a Schengen Visa?
Now that you know the significance of Schengen travel insurance, the next question arises, ‘How to purchase this travel policy?’ Well, it is most convenient to purchase this policy through an online process by following these steps:
Step 1 – Visit the insurer’s website.
Step 2 – Look for the page where you can apply for a Schengen travel policy.
Step 3 – Carefully fill in the important details, including your email address, phone number, and travel destination.
Step 4 – Select the travel plan that aligns with your itinerary and proceed accordingly.
Step 5 – Go through the premium details and submit your personal information, including nominee details and passport number.
Step 6 – Make the payment, and your policy is ready.
Following these six simple steps, you will be able to purchase a travel policy for your Schengen visa.
INTERESTING TIDBIT A common misconception about travel insurance is that you only need it if it is mandated by the country you are visiting, regardless of this entry requirement, travel insurance can offer useful coverage.
How to Claim a Schengen Travel Policy?
In case of an unfortunate event/need, here is how you can claim your Schengen travel policy:
First, register your claim within 24 hours of the incident’s occurrence.
Next, you will have to submit all the required documents to your insurer.
After this, your claim will be investigated and approved, and the payment will be made via NEFT payment.
This is how you will have some support to rely on in a difficult situation in a faraway country.
Conclusion
Traveling to the Schengen countries opens up avenues for different activities you can engage in to create beautiful memories on your trip. Whether you want to travel back in time in Italy or Greece or enjoy the architectural beauty of France and Spain, having a Schengen visa travel insurance ensures you fulfill the mandatory requirement and have a fruitful and relaxed holiday experience, without having to fret anything in case things go south.
