Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a contract between you and an insurance provider that offers coverage for various travel-related risks. It is meant to mitigate the financial impact of unexpected incidents that may occur before or during your trip.

Countries require proof of travel insurance as part of the visa application process mainly for two reasons:

• Financial security: It demonstrates to visa authorities that you have financial protection in place for medical emergencies and other unexpected events, reducing the risk of becoming a financial burden on the host country.
• Travel preparedness: It reassures visa officers that you are prepared for potential issues that might arise during your stay.

Essential coverage to look for in your travel insurance

When applying for a visa, the travel insurance policy should typically include:

• Medical coverage: This covers expenses for medical emergencies, including hospital visits and doctor’s fees.
• Trip cancellation: This reimburses you for non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances.
• Lost or stolen baggage: This provides compensation if your luggage or personal belongings are lost, stolen, or damaged during your travels.
• Travel delay: This covers additional expenses incurred due to delays, such as accommodation or meal costs.
• Emergency evacuation: This covers the costs of transporting you to a medical facility or back home in case of serious health issues or emergencies.

Common exclusions to note

While looking at the common coverage points, it is equally important to be aware of common exclusions in travel insurance policies. These generally include:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: Policies may not cover pre-existing conditions unless specifically included.
• High-risk activities: Activities like skydiving or skiing might not be covered under standard policies.
• Travel to high-risk areas: Some policies exclude coverage for regions deemed high-risk due to political instability or natural disasters.
• Intentional acts: Injuries or losses resulting from intentional or reckless behaviour are generally not covered.

Note: Understanding and providing appropriate travel insurance is a vital part of the visa application process, ensuring that you meet the requirements and are protected during your travels.

Is travel insurance mandatory when applying for a visa?

It depends on the visa requirements of your destination. Check the specific requirements to see if travel insurance is needed.

What are the travel insurance requirements for a Schengen visa application?

The travel insurance must cover €30,000, be valid throughout Schengen, and cover medical emergencies and repatriation for the entire stay.

Can I purchase travel insurance from any provider?

It depends. For some visas, like the Schengen visa, the insurance must be purchased from approved providers listed by the respective government. Otherwise, you can choose any reputable insurance provider as long as the policy meets the visa requirements.

Do I need travel insurance if I have health insurance in my home country?

Yes, travel insurance is often needed for travel-specific risks in a foreign country, which may not be covered by domestic health insurance.