Planning a trip to Europe? If you need a Schengen visa, travel insurance isn't optional — it's a mandatory requirement for your visa application. This guide explains exactly what's required, which plans qualify, and how to get a compliant policy in minutes.
Quick Answer
Schengen visa applicants must show proof of travel insurance with at least €30,000 ($32,000+) in emergency medical coverage, valid for the full trip duration, and covering all 27 Schengen zone countries. The policy must be obtained before submitting your visa application.
📋 Quick Summary — Schengen Insurance Requirements
- ✓Minimum €30,000 medical & repatriation coverage
- ✓Must cover all 27 Schengen member states
- ✓Valid for the entire duration of your stay
- ✓Must include emergency medical evacuation
- ✓A policy certificate or letter from your insurer required
What Is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is a group of 26–27 European countries that have eliminated passport and border controls at their shared borders. If you hold a Schengen visa, you can travel freely between all member states. Currently, the Schengen Area includes:
Exact Schengen Visa Insurance Requirements
According to the EU Visa Code (Regulation EC No 810/2009), travelers applying for a Schengen visa must provide proof of travel medical insurance that meets all of the following criteria:
- Minimum coverage of €30,000 — for emergency medical treatment, hospital care, and repatriation to your home country.
- Valid in all Schengen member states — not just the main destination country.
- Covers the full duration of your stay — including all entry and exit dates.
- Covers emergency repatriation — costs of transporting you back home if medically necessary.
- Issued by an approved insurer — the insurer must be authorized to do business in your home country or the Schengen area.
What Documentation Do You Need?
When you submit your Schengen visa application, you'll need to include:
- A policy certificate or insurance letter from your insurer
- Your policy number and coverage dates
- Confirmation that coverage is valid in all Schengen states
- Confirmation of the €30,000 minimum benefit
Tower Hill provides instant confirmation documents via email after purchase — you'll have everything you need for your visa application within minutes.
Can I Use My Credit Card Travel Insurance?
Credit card travel benefits are usually not accepted for Schengen visa applications. Here's why:
- Credit card benefits often don't meet the €30,000 minimum medical requirement
- They may not cover all 27 Schengen countries
- They don't provide a standalone insurance certificate acceptable to most embassies
For a guaranteed-compliant policy, use a dedicated Schengen travel insurance plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Schengen insurance if I'm an EU citizen?
EU citizens and residents don't need a Schengen visa and are not subject to the insurance requirement. The requirement applies to non-EU nationals who need a Schengen visa to enter Europe.
Is €30,000 enough coverage for Europe?
€30,000 is the legal minimum. We recommend choosing a plan with higher coverage — €100,000 or more — for better protection. Medical costs in Western Europe can be significant, especially for intensive care or lengthy hospital stays.
What if my trip is extended beyond my policy dates?
You must extend your coverage to match your actual travel dates. Traveling on an expired policy is both unprotected and a visa compliance issue. Contact Tower Hill support to extend your policy before it expires.