Quick Answer: Schengen Travel Insurance Requirements
Travel medical insurance is a mandatory requirement for a Schengen visa, not an optional extra. A policy that does not meet the specification is treated as no policy at all, and the application is refused.
Three things must all be right: the minimum medical cover amount, validity across the entire Schengen area, and cover for the full period of stay. Getting one wrong invalidates the document. Requirements.co.za is an independent information website. It is not an embassy, insurer or visa agency, and nothing here is immigration advice.
Who This Requirement Applies To
This guide is for South African applicants for any Schengen short-stay visa.
For the general position on visa insurance across destinations, see Travel Insurance Requirements for Visa.
Eligibility Requirements
The specification is common across Schengen countries, though individual consulates may add requirements.
Applicant type
- Minimum medical cover. A specified minimum amount applies. Confirm the current figure rather than relying on a published number.
- Emergency medical and repatriation. Cover normally must include emergency medical treatment and repatriation of remains.
- Territorial validity. The policy must be valid throughout the Schengen area, not only your main destination.
- Period. Covering the entire intended stay, commonly with a margin either side of your travel dates.
- Named insured. Each traveller needs cover in their own name, including children.
- Insurer acceptance. Some consulates accept only policies from recognised insurers or with local representation. Confirm before buying.
Documents You May Need
Submit the policy certificate, not a receipt or booking confirmation.
Required proof
- Policy certificate naming the insured person.
- Confirmation of the medical cover amount and inclusions.
- Statement of territorial validity covering the Schengen area.
- Dates of cover matching the intended travel.
Steps to Apply or Prepare
Confirm the current minimum cover and any insurer requirements with the consulate you are applying to.
Buy a policy meeting the specification, checking amount, territory, dates and inclusions line by line.
Submit the certificate showing those details, and carry a copy while travelling.
Costs, Processing Times and Validity
Premiums vary by age, duration and cover level. Many insurers offer policies refundable if a visa is refused, so check the terms before buying a non-refundable policy.
Common Mistakes and Delays
Common mistake
- Cover below the specified minimum amount.
- Territorial cover limited to the main destination rather than the whole area.
- Cover that does not extend either side of the travel dates.
- Submitting a payment receipt rather than a policy certificate.
- Assuming a credit card or medical aid travel benefit meets the specification.
Where to Confirm Official Requirements
Confirm the current specification with the embassy, consulate or official visa application centre of the country you are applying to, since each sets its own detail within the common rules. The Official Requirements Sources South Africa page links to the responsible bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel insurance compulsory for a Schengen visa?
Yes. It is a mandatory requirement, and a policy that does not meet the specification is treated as no policy.
How much cover do I need?
A specified minimum applies, normally including emergency medical treatment and repatriation. Confirm the current figure with the consulate.
Must it cover the whole Schengen area?
Yes. Cover limited to one country is not sufficient.
Does my medical aid count?
Only if it meets the specification and can be evidenced in the required form. Check rather than assume.
Where can I confirm the requirement?
Confirm with the embassy or official application centre you are applying to.