What is the Minimum Coverage Required for a Schengen Visa?

If you’re a United States (U.S.) citizen or a Green Card holder planning to visit one or more of the 29 countries in the Schengen Area, obtaining the right travel insurance is essential. Schengen travel insurance is a mandatory requirement when applying for your Schengen Visa, ensuring that you’re protected in case of any unforeseen incidents during your trip. But what exactly does your insurance need to cover?

Schengen travel insurance requirements

To obtain a Schengen Visa, your travel insurance must meet several critical criteria, as mandated by the European Parliament’s Regulation (EC) No. 810/2009. These rules ensure that travelers like you are adequately protected during your stay in Europe. Here's what you need to know:

1. Minimum Medical Coverage: Your policy must provide at least €30,000 (or the equivalent in dollars : arround $33,000) in coverage for any medical expenses that may arise during your stay. This coverage applies to urgent medical attention, emergency hospital treatment, and any medical evacuation if you need to return to the U.S. due to a medical emergency. With AXA, your travel insurance covers you starting from $50,000.
2. Coverage Across All Schengen Countries: Even if you plan to visit only a few countries within the Schengen Zone, your travel insurance must be valid across all 29 countries in the area. This ensures that if your plans change or you travel between multiple countries, your coverage will still apply.
3. Duration of Coverage: The insurance must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area. Whether your trip is a week or several months, your travel insurance should cover the entirety of your visit, including entry and exit dates.
4. Emergency Medical Evacuation: Your policy must include coverage for any situation that requires you to be evacuated to the U.S., whether due to medical emergencies or in the unfortunate event of death during your trip.

These requirements are non-negotiable for securing a Schengen Visa, and your application will not be approved without travel insurance that meets these minimum standards.

Why is Schengen travel insurance Important?

Traveling to Europe is an exciting experience, but it’s essential to be prepared for any unexpected events that may occur.

By having travel insurance that meets the Schengen Visa requirements, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you’re covered in case something goes wrong. Whether it's a quick hospital visit for a minor illness or more serious medical attention, your Schengen travel insurance ensures that these emergencies don’t become financial burdens.

AXA Schengen travel insurance plans for U.S. residents

With our easy-to-use online system, you can quickly get a quote and purchase the insurance you need to fulfill your visa requirements, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.

Here’s a breakdown of the plans we offer:

1. Essential: Starting at $26 per week, this plan is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still need essential coverage. It offers the required minimum of $50,000 in medical coverage for all Schengen countries, as well as evacuation in case of a medical emergency. The plan also includes up to $500 for dental expenses, providing additional support for unexpected dental care. This plan is ideal for short trips or for travelers who need basic protection.
2. Advantage: For $33 per week, this plan offers enhanced coverage, ideal for families or travelers planning more adventurous activities during their trip. It covers medical expenses up to $100,000, ensuring that even more significant emergencies are fully handled. The plan also includes up to $500 for dental expenses, providing extra peace of mind for unexpected dental care. Additionally, this plan provides coverage for children under 18 and protection for loss of important documents or items, which is especially helpful if you’re carrying valuable belongings.
3. Annual: If you’re a frequent traveler, our Annual Plan is a great option. For $314 per year, it offers coverage for multiple trips throughout the year. This plan includes the same benefits as the Advantage, with up to $100,000 in medical coverage and up to $500 for dental expenses, ensuring protection for unexpected medical and dental needs. It’s designed to accommodate business travelers or individuals who regularly visit Europe. You’ll never have to worry about purchasing new coverage for each trip, saving you time and hassle.

Key Benefits of AXA Schengen travel insurance

When you choose AXA, you’re not just meeting the Schengen Visa requirements – you’re getting value-added coverage designed with your needs in mind.

• Up to $100,000 in medical coverage for urgent care, hospital visits, and more.
• $500 for dental expenses, ensuring that dental emergencies are also covered.
• Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains, ensuring that you can return home if needed.
• 24/7 emergency assistance services, providing you with access to support whenever and wherever you need it, whether for a medical emergency or assistance with your travel plans.

Why Choose AXA for Your Schengen travel insurance?

AXA is a trusted provider with extensive experience offering travel insurance to U.S. residents. Our policies are designed to be flexible and easy to purchase online, ensuring that you meet all Schengen Visa requirements with minimal hassle. We offer transparent pricing, meaning no hidden fees or unexpected costs. What you see is what you pay.

Should your Schengen Visa application be denied for any reason, AXA offers refunds in most cases. Simply provide the necessary documentation to show why your visa was refused, and we’ll work with you to refund your insurance fees.

How to Purchase Your Schengen travel insurance?

Getting your Schengen travel insurance with AXA is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Get a Quote: Use our online platform to enter your travel details and receive a personalized quote based on your trip length and needs.
2. Choose a Plan: Select from our Base Plan, Plus Plan, or Annual Plan, depending on the level of coverage you require.
3. Purchase and Download: Once you’ve chosen your plan, complete your purchase online. You’ll receive a certificate of insurance immediately, which you can include with your Schengen Visa application.

By following these simple steps, you can be on your way to securing the Schengen Visa and embarking on your European adventure with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or family visits, AXA Schengen travel insurance offers the right protection for your journey. Meeting the Schengen Visa insurance requirements doesn’t have to be complicated. With our flexible plans, transparent pricing, and U.S.-focused options, AXA ensures that you’ll have the coverage you need to enjoy your trip worry-free.