Do I Need Europe Travel Health Insurance For My Trip?

Europe beckons with its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. However, ensuring a smooth and worry-free journey requires careful planning, especially when it comes to health. That’s where Europe Travel Health Insurance becomes essential. With SIXT.VN, you can discover why securing the right medical coverage is a vital step for your European adventure. We offer peace of mind and financial security, allowing you to fully enjoy your travel.

1. Understanding Medical Insurance for Schengen Visa

Schengen travel insurance is a mandatory health insurance required for Schengen visa applicants. It covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and medical repatriation within the Schengen Area. Without it, your visa application will be denied.

This insurance complies with the Schengen visa code, ensuring financial protection and peace of mind. It’s specifically designed to protect travelers and is an essential step in the visa process.

Important: Always ensure your travel insurance complies with EU guidelines. Submitting non-compliant coverage can result in visa denial. Double-check with your insurer or embassy before proceeding, or explore Schengen-compliant options.

2. Do US Citizens Need Travel Insurance to Visit Europe?

Travel medical insurance is not mandatory for US travelers visiting Europe but is highly recommended. While US nationals enjoy visa-free travel to Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days, they remain responsible for their healthcare and travel-related risks.

Without travel health protection, US travelers may face:

• High Medical Costs: Healthcare in Europe, though excellent, can be expensive for non-residents, especially in emergencies.
• Trip Interruptions: Delays, cancellations, or disruptions can lead to significant non-refundable expenses.
• Lost Belongings: Stolen items or misplaced luggage can create unexpected hassles.

According to the U.S. Department of State, “The U.S. government does not provide insurance for U.S. citizens overseas. We do not pay medical bills or unexpected medical costs. We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.”

This statement reinforces the critical need for comprehensive travel insurance. It offers financial protection and peace of mind by covering:

• Unexpected medical expenses
• Emergency evacuations or repatriation
• Trip cancellations or interruptions
• Lost or delayed baggage

3. Does Medicare Cover Medical Costs in Europe?

Medicare offers little to no coverage for medical care outside the United States, so if you’re a US citizen or resident planning a trip to Europe, it’s critical to understand. Relying solely on Medicare for your healthcare needs while traveling in Europe could expose you to significant financial risks.

3.1. Rare Exceptions for Medicare Coverage Abroad

Medicare may cover limited services abroad in specific scenarios:

• Emergencies Near US Borders: When a foreign hospital is closer than a US one.
• Travel Through Canada: Emergencies while traveling directly between Alaska and another state through Canada.
• Nearby Foreign Hospitals: If a foreign hospital is closer to your US home than any US hospital, even for non-emergency care.
• Ambulance Services: Emergency transport to a foreign hospital, but only if it leads to inpatient admission.

For more details, visit the official Medicare page.

3.2. Why Medicare Isn’t Enough for Europe Travel

Even with these rare exceptions, Medicare doesn’t meet the healthcare needs of European travel, including:

• Routine care and follow-ups.
• Emergency evacuations or repatriation.
• Comprehensive coverage for accidents or illnesses abroad.

For peace of mind, obtaining comprehensive travel insurance that covers Europe is strongly advised. It’s a small investment that ensures you’re prepared for any medical emergencies or unexpected expenses during your trip.

4. Where Can US Citizens Get Travel Medical Insurance for Europe?

US citizens and residents can purchase travel medical insurance for Europe through reliable providers and platforms, including:

• WorldTrips
• IMG
• Travelex
• TIS
• Trawick International
• AXA
• Allianz Assistance
• Europ Assistance
• Mutuaide

Comparison platforms allow you to evaluate various options from trusted insurers, making it easy to select the best plan for your trip.

5. Do Non-US Nationals Residing in the US Need Schengen Visa Insurance?

Yes, if you are a non-U.S. national residing in the United States and applying for a Schengen visa, you are required to have travel insurance. To meet Schengen visa requirements, your insurance policy must adhere to specific guidelines:

Schengen Visa Insurance Requirements that must be met

6. Schengen Visa Insurance Requirements

According to EU laws, Schengen visa insurance must meet these requirements to be considered valid:

• Coverage of at least €30,000 in medical costs (approximately $33,000).
• Valid in all Schengen Area member states.
• Must cover the entire duration of your stay.
• Include coverage for medical repatriation, emergency medical care, and hospitalization.

7. Why Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Visa Applicants in the US?

According to Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 July 2009, which has been in effect since April 5, 2010:

“… Applicants for a uniform visa for one or two entries shall prove that they own adequate and valid travel medical insurance to cover any expenses which might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, and/or emergency hospital treatment or death, during their stay(s) on the territory of the Member States. The insurance shall be valid throughout the Schengen Area Member States territory and cover the entire period of the person’s intended stay or transit. The minimum coverage shall be EUR 30,000” (…)

8. Which Non-US Nationals Residing in the US Are Required to Have Medical Coverage?

Non-US nationals and passport holders from the following countries must obtain medical coverage when applying for a Schengen visa in the United States:

• Afghanistan
• Algeria
• Angola
• Armenia
• Azerbaijan
• Bahrain
• Bangladesh
• Belarus
• Belize
• Benin
• Bhutan
• Bolivia
• Botswana
• Burkina Faso
• Burma/Myanmar
• Burundi
• Cambodia
• Cameroon
• Cape Verde
• Central African Republic
• Chad
• China
• Comoros
• Congo
• Côte d´Ivoire
• Cuba
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Djibouti
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador
• Egypt
• Equatorial Guinea
• Eritrea
• Eswatini
• Ethiopia
• Fiji
• Gabon
• Gambia
• Ghana
• Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Guyana
• Haiti
• India
• Indonesia
• Iran
• Iraq
• Jamaica
• Jordan
• Kazakhstan
• Kenya
• Kuwait
• Kyrgyzstan
• Laos
• Lebanon
• Lesotho
• Liberia
• Libya
• Madagascar
• Malawi
• Maldives
• Mali
• Mauritania
• Mongolia
• Morocco
• Mozambique
• Namibia
• Nauru
• Nepal
• Niger
• Nigeria
• North Korea
• Oman
• Pakistan
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Qatar
• Russia
• Rwanda
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Senegal
• Sierra Leone
• Somalia
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Sri Lanka
• Sudan
• Suriname
• Syria
• Tajikistan
• Tanzania
• Thailand
• Togo
• Tunisia
• Turkey
• Turkmenistan
• Uganda
• Uzbekistan
• Vanuatu
• Vietnam
• Yemen
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe

US travelers holding passports from countries not mentioned above are not legally required to have valid medical insurance unless they have been denied visa-free entry to the Schengen Area and need to apply for a visa.

US residents looking for a Schengen-compliant medical insurance plan that meets EU embassy and consulate requirements can explore and find the best Schengen travel insurance plan. Budget-conscious travelers can also check out low-cost Schengen Visa Insurance Plans tailored to fit tighter budgets.

9. How to Select the Best Schengen Medical Insurance Plan From the US

When choosing a Schengen visa insurance plan, ensure the provider is licensed and approved by Schengen Embassies and Consulates in the United States, and that the policy meets all specified requirements. Failure to do so may result in the denial of your visa application.

In 2023, Schengen consulates worldwide rejected 1,632,984 visa applications, emphasizing the importance of meeting all requirements, including valid travel insurance, to avoid visa denial.

9.1. Get Free Quotes and Compare Coverage Plans

Browse and compare Schengen travel visa insurance options from trusted providers like AXA, Europ Assistance, Allianz, and Mutuaide. These plans are designed to meet Schengen visa requirements and are accepted by all Schengen/EU embassies and consulates in the United States.

Each provider also offers the convenience of instant certificate downloads after purchase, ensuring you have all necessary documents ready for your Schengen visa application in the US.

Compare and find the best travel insurance plan from the US that suits your budget and travel needs while guaranteeing compliance with EU regulations.

9.2. Featured Schengen Insurance Plans

Here are some popular options to consider:

Traveling over the age of 75? Find Schengen visa health insurance plans for US seniors, offering tailored protection to ensure a secure and hassle-free journey.

10. Obtaining and Submitting the Insurance Certificate

After purchasing a compliant Schengen health insurance policy, the provider will issue a certificate. This document serves as proof of your coverage and is mandatory for your visa application.

10.1. What Does the Certificate Contain?

The insurance document must contain the following information:

• Insurance Company Details: Name and contact information of the provider.
• Policy Information: Policy number and coverage specifics.
• Geographical Coverage: Confirmation that the policy is valid throughout the Schengen Area.
• Personal Details: Your name, passport number, and other identifying information.
• Coverage Benefits: Details of the medical coverage amount and specific inclusions.

10.2. Examples of Insurance Certificates

These examples will give you a clearer understanding of what your Schengen medical insurance certificate should look like and ensure it meets all the visa requirements.

10.2.1. Europ Assistance

Example of a Schengen Insurance Certificate from Europ Assistance

10.2.2. AXA-Schengen

Example of a Schengen Insurance Certificate from AXA

10.3. How to Submit Insurance Proof Document?

You must submit your health protection letter along with the rest of your visa application documents, which the Schengen embassies/consulates in the US may ask you to submit in the following ways:

1. In Person: Some Schengen consulates in the United States might ask you to submit all of your visa application documents, including your Schengen trip protection certificate, in person.
2. Online: A few Schengen countries have made it possible to submit your certificate along with your documents online.
3. By post: Rarely, some Schengen embassies or consulates may ask you to send the documents by post.

Please note that the Schengen embassies recommend you carry a copy of your insurance policy with you when traveling in case you’re asked to show proof of insurance during border crossing.

11. Is Medical Coverage Required for All Schengen Countries?

Yes, the policy should cover all Schengen member states in order to be accepted by consulates.

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

12. How Much Does Schengen Health Insurance Cost?

Schengen travel health insurance can be very affordable, with prices for a one-week policy as low as $20. However, the cost of Schengen medical insurance ultimately depends on several factors—your age, how much coverage you want, the trip duration, and the specific insurer.

In 2023, over 15 million Schengen visas were issued, and all the applicants had to show proof of valid insurance coverage as per EU regulations.

12.1. Purchasing Schengen Insurance Through Comparison Websites

Travel insurance comparison websites allow you to compare and buy travel insurance policies offered by different providers. These sites serve as intermediaries between you and the insurance company as insurance brokers.

So, it’s important to note that comparison sites do not offer travel insurance of their own but sell health insurance policies provided by other insurance companies. They usually have a contract with specific companies and sell the insurance plans those companies offer.

12.1.1. Are Insurance Comparison Sites Legit?

Yes, most insurance comparison sites, especially the popular ones, are legit, and you should have no issues finding a good option for your needs.

That said, insurance scams are highly popular and clever enough that it’s getting harder to tell them apart from legitimate sites.

Here are a few tips to help you identify a good, legitimate travel medical insurance comparison site:

• Check out the insurance companies from which they’re offering you the insurance plans.
• Comb through their site carefully and look for details such as terms and conditions, privacy policy, and licensing or registration details.
• Check out reviews from their clients; some online forums, such as Reddit, TrustPilot, or even Google reviews, can tell you a lot about a company.
• Don’t believe deals that seem too good to be true.

12.1.2. Comparison Sites: Pros and Cons

13. What Is Typically Covered by a European Medical Insurance Policy?

A good travel health insurance policy for the EU/Schengen area should cover the following costs:

• Medical emergency (accident or sickness) while in the Schengen Area
• Emergency evacuation
• Repatriation of remains
• Return of a minor
• Accidental death, injury or disablement benefit
• Overseas funeral expenses
• Dental emergencies

Usually, the insurers cover pregnancy-related expenses if the travel occurs during the first trimester. After that, coverage varies from insurer to insurer.

13.1. What Are the COVID-19 Coverage Requirements?

13.2. What Is Presumably Excluded or Optional?

Every insurer is different; however, there are ones that offer to cover additional costs if necessary. If not, additional insurance must be purchased to cover explicit costs like:

• Preexisting conditions (e.g. Asthma, diabetes)
• Sports with an element of risk (e.g. skiing, scuba diving)
• Travel to high-risk countries (e.g. Due to war, natural disasters or acts of terrorism)
• Acute onset of pre-existing conditions

13.3. What Is Travel Medical Insurance?

Travel health insurance covers medical expenses in case of an injury or unexpected sickness that arises during your trip. Whether you need health protection when traveling to a foreign country depends on the desired destination and your ability to cover any health care needs during your stay.

However, travel medical protection is a must for most people, especially the elderly, who have predetermined medical conditions and are bound to constant therapy or, most importantly, if the traveler’s destination is an underdeveloped region.

Besides medical expenses, it might cover different losses suffered during the trip, including one’s own country and internationally. Unexpected happenings like lost luggage, cancellation of your flight at the last moment, travel agency or accommodation bankruptcy will ruin your trip. Therefore, a travel health and trip protection policy is designed to provide trip cancellation by means of a full or partial refund.

13.4. What Are the Common Restrictions and Limitations?

• Travel insurers don’t cover preexisting conditions internationally.
• Participation in high-risk activities such as extreme sports can be excluded.
• Policies may exclude coverage for injuries caused by war when traveling to an endangered war zone.
• Many policies specify a time limit for coverage.
• Suicide in an international or domestic domain is excluded from any policy for self-inflicted injuries.
• In the case of any substance abuse, drugs or alcohol, domestic or international, the medical expenses won’t be covered by your insurance policy.

14. Trip Cancellation Coverage & CFAR Benefits

Some Schengen health insurance policies include trip interruption coverage but do not offer trip cancellation benefits by default. Trip interruption coverage reimburses the costs of returning home early due to unforeseen events, such as a family emergency. Always confirm with your provider whether they offer additional benefits for trip cancellation or interruption.

14.1. Does Schengen Insurance Include Trip Cancellation Coverage?

Most Schengen visa insurance plans do not have trip cancellation benefits since they’re set up to include only medical coverage as required by the EU guidelines.

To get trip-cancellation benefits, you must buy a separate add-on and use it with your Schengen medical visa insurance.

14.2. What Exactly Does Trip-Cancellation Cover?

Despite its name, a trip-cancellation benefit is limited in what situations it covers you in case you cancel your trip— it usually covers your cancellation only if you have strong reasons such as the following:

• A health emergency that makes it impossible for you to travel to the Schengen Area.
• A death in your immediate family.
• A natural disaster that hinders your trip.
• Unemployment which makes it impossible for you to go on your trip.

14.3. Can You Get CFAR (Cancel for Any Reason) Benefits?

CFAR or “cancel for any reason” type of benefit, which allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and receive reimbursement from your insurance, is not available with Schengen insurance.

However, because Schengen medical insurance plans are designed to meet the EU visa guidelines and are considered a low-cost type of insurance, they don’t come with CFAR benefits, which might increase the cost of the overall policy.

Similar to trip-cancellation, you can buy a separate travel insurance policy which includes CFAR.

14.4. Is Trip Cancellation Benefit Worth it?

The trip cancellation benefit is worth it only in cases where you booked an expensive trip, and it’s non-refundable. In the case of Schengen insurance, because you have to buy it separately, more often than not, it is not worth it.

If you’re really concerned about needing to cancel your trip to the Schengen Area and whether you can get a reimbursement, then we recommend you try to book a trip that has refund benefits built-in.

If you’re in Europe and need to file an insurance claim, make sure you know the steps.

15. FAQ

15.1. How Much Will US Citizens Pay for Trip Protection for Europe?

The cost of travel insurance for Europe depends on factors like trip length, coverage type, your age, and any pre-existing health conditions.

For US travelers:

• A basic travel medical insurance policy for a one-week trip typically costs $25 to $55 per person.
• A comprehensive policy with additional benefits, such as trip cancellation or interruption coverage, may range from $100 to $150 or more per person.

15.2. Can US Citizens Get Free Healthcare in Europe?

In general, US citizens cannot get free healthcare in Europe. Most European countries have nationalized healthcare systems that provide free or low-cost medical treatment to their own citizens and residents, but these services are not typically available to tourists, including those from the United States.

If you need medical treatment while you are in Europe, you typically have to pay out of pocket.

15.3. Are Americans Eligible for an EHIC?

No, US nationals cannot get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). The EHIC is a card issued to citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland, and provides access to public healthcare when cardholders are traveling within these countries. American citizens may be able to get an EHIC only if they are legally residing in an EU country.

15.4. Can I Purchase Travel Insurance for Just a Portion of My Trip?

Yes, you can purchase Europe travel health insurance for just a portion of your trip. Some policies may have a minimum number of days required for coverage, so be sure to check the policy details before purchasing.

15.5. What Countries Does European Travel Insurance Cover for US Citizens?

The European countries covered by most European health insurance policies include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

15.6. Best Medical Insurance Providers for US Travelers

Here are some top-rated providers offering excellent coverage for US tourists and visitors traveling to Europe:

• Tin Leg: Offers comprehensive plans with high medical coverage and trip protection.
• AXA Schengen: Specializes in policies that meet all Schengen visa requirements.
• Travelex Insurance Services: Family-friendly plans that cover children under 17 at no additional cost.
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance: Customizable plans for students, families, and long-term travelers.
• IMG Travel Insurance: Offers flexible plans with up to $500,000 in medical coverage.
• Europ Assistance: Provides 24/7 global assistance with comprehensive medical and trip coverage for the Schengen Area and Europe.

According to CNBC, which evaluated numerous U.S. travel insurance providers based on factors like price, coverage options, and more, here are the top eight travel insurance companies tailored for different purposes:

• Best for Trip Delays: Faye
• Best for Lost Baggage: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for Families: Travel Guard
• Best for Customizable Coverage: American Express
• Best for Trip Cancellations: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for Medical Emergencies: USI Affinity
• Best for Cruise Coverage: Nationwide
• Best for Luxury Travel: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

15.7. Is Health Insurance Required for US Nationals Staying Long-Term in Spain or Germany?

Yes, US citizens planning long-term stays in Spain or Germany and in any other Schengen country—for purposes such as study, work, or residency—are typically required to have private health insurance or enroll in the respective country’s public healthcare system.

15.8. Does a Family Member of an EU/EEA National Need Travel Insurance?

Under certain conditions specified in Directive 2004/38/EC of the European Parliament, immediate family members of EU/EEA nationals might not require travel insurance when applying for a Schengen visa. These conditions include:

• Accompanying or Joining: The family member must either accompany the EU/EEA national on the trip or be planning to join them in the Schengen Area.
• Financial Dependency: The family member might need to be financially dependent on the EU/EEA national.
• Specific Relationships: Exemptions typically apply to immediate family members such as spouses, registered partners, children under 21 (or older if dependent), or dependent parents.

15.9. Should We Choose a Policy With a Zero Eur Deductible?

It is not a strict requirement to get a policy with 0 EUR deductible; however, we strongly suggest that you get one without a deductible to be 100% sure that your Schengen visa application will not be rejected because of the travel insurance policy.

15.10. Are Diplomatic Passport Holders Exempt From the Insurance Requirement?

Yes, holders of diplomatic passports are exempt from the mandatory travel medical insurance requirement. They are not required to provide proof of insurance when traveling to the Schengen Area.

15.11. Is Health Coverage Mandatory for Seafarers Traveling to the Schengen Area?

No, travel medical insurance is not obligatory for seafarers traveling to the Schengen Area. Seafarers are exempt from this requirement based on their professional situation. Their existing medical coverage, obtained due to their work activities, is considered adequate and fulfills the insurance requirement for their stay in the Schengen Area.

15.12. What if I’m Applying for a Schengen Multiple-Entry Visa?

According to Regulation (EU) 2019/1155 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 amending Regulation (EC) No 810/2009, if you are applying for a Schengen multiple-entry visa, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient and valid travel medical insurance that covers the duration of your initial planned visit.

However, it’s important to note that you should maintain valid insurance whenever you plan to travel to the Schengen area in the future.

15.13. Is European Medical Insurance Necessary for Students or Work Visa Applicants?

Yes, if you’re applying for a short-term Schengen visa for study, work, or business, you’ll need valid travel insurance. However, for those seeking long-term visas, the rules and insurance requirements can be different.

15.14. Do Minors Need Medical Protection?

Yes, children applying for a Schengen visa must have travel health protection in place, usually arranged by their parents or guardians. The policy must comply with all the Schengen visa requirements.

Planning a trip to Europe requires attention to detail, and securing adequate europe travel health insurance is paramount. With SIXT.VN, travelers can access reliable information and resources to make informed decisions about their health coverage needs. Ensuring you have the right travel medical insurance not only safeguards your health but also provides financial security, allowing you to fully enjoy your European adventure. Don’t leave home without it; explore your options today and travel with confidence. Contact SIXT.VN now to discover our travel consulting services, airport transfer options, hotel booking assistance, and tour packages designed for an unforgettable Hanoi experience.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358

Website: SIXT.VN