If you are planning to visit any of the 26 countries that make up the Schengen area, you are required to have travel insurance as a part of your visa application. However, the cost of travel insurance can be a concern, especially if you are already on a tight budget. In this article, we will explore how to find the cheapest travel insurance for Schengen visa, without compromising on the quality of coverage.
The cheapest travel insurance i know is allianz
Understanding Schengen Visa Requirements
Before we dive into finding the cheapest travel insurance for Schengen visa, let’s first understand the requirements set by Schengen visa authorities. To apply for a Schengen visa, you need to have travel insurance that meets the following criteria:
Coverage Amount
The minimum coverage amount required for a Schengen visa is €30,000. This coverage should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area.
Coverage Type
Your travel insurance policy should cover medical emergencies, including repatriation in the event of death, as well as accidents and illnesses.
Coverage Area
Your travel insurance policy should be valid in all Schengen countries, as well as cover the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area.
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa
Now that you know the requirements for travel insurance for Schengen visa, let’s look at some tips to find the cheapest option:
Compare Multiple Insurance Providers
Do not settle for the first insurance provider you come across. Compare multiple providers and their offerings to find the best deal. You can use online comparison tools to save time and effort.
Look for Special Deals and Discounts
Some insurance providers may offer special deals and discounts that can help you save money. Look out for such offers and take advantage of them.
Opt for Basic Coverage
If you are on a tight budget, consider opting for basic coverage that meets the Schengen visa requirements. You can always add extra coverage if you can afford it later.
Avoid Unnecessary Add-Ons
Insurance providers may offer add-ons, such as coverage for adventure sports, that you may not need. Avoid such add-ons to save money.
Consider Duration and Frequency of Travel
If you are a frequent traveler or planning a long trip, consider buying an annual travel insurance policy. This may be more cost-effective than buying a separate policy for each trip.
Check with Your Credit Card Provider
Some credit card providers offer travel insurance as a part of their benefits. Check if your credit card provides such coverage and if it meets the Schengen visa requirements.
Conclusion
Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for a Schengen visa, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. By following the tips mentioned above, you can find the cheapest travel insurance for Schengen visa that meets your needs. Remember to compare multiple providers, opt for basic coverage, and avoid unnecessary add-ons. Also, consider the duration and frequency of your travel and check with your credit card provider for travel insurance benefits.
FAQs
- Is travel insurance mandatory for a Schengen visa? Yes, travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for a Schengen visa.
- What is the minimum coverage required for a Schengen visa? The minimum coverage required for a Schengen visa is €30,000.
- Can I find cheap travel insurance for Schengen visa? Yes, you can find cheap travel insurance for Schengen visa by comparing multiple providers and opting for basic coverage.
- What is the best way to compare travel insurance providers? You can use online comparison tools to compare multiple travel insurance providers and their offerings.
- What if my travel plans change after purchasing travel insurance for Schengen visa? If your travel plans change, you should inform your insurance provider as soon as possible. Depending on your policy, you may be able to modify or cancel your coverage.
- Can I buy travel insurance for Schengen visa after arriving in the Schengen area? No, you cannot buy travel insurance for Schengen visa after arriving in the Schengen area. You must have travel insurance that meets the Schengen visa requirements before arriving in the Schengen area.
- How do I know if my travel insurance policy meets the Schengen visa requirements? Check your travel insurance policy documents carefully to ensure that it meets the minimum coverage amount, coverage type, and coverage area required for a Schengen visa.
- Do I need to provide proof of travel insurance when applying for a Schengen visa? Yes, you need to provide proof of travel insurance that meets the Schengen visa requirements when applying for a Schengen visa.
- What happens if I do not have travel insurance that meets the Schengen visa requirements? If you do not have travel insurance that meets the Schengen visa requirements, your visa application may be rejected. Even if your application is approved, you may face financial and legal consequences if you have a medical emergency during your stay in the Schengen area.
In summary, finding the cheapest travel insurance for Schengen visa is possible by comparing multiple providers, opting for basic coverage, and avoiding unnecessary add-ons. Always ensure that your travel insurance policy meets the Schengen visa requirements and provide proof of coverage when applying for a visa. In case of any changes to your travel plans, inform your insurance provider as soon as possible. By following these tips, you can enjoy your trip to the Schengen area with peace of mind.