If you’re planning a trip to Europe, securing Schengen travel insurance is an essential part of the visa application process. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or study, you need a policy that meets the minimum coverage required by Schengen embassies. Fortunately, there are plenty of cheap travel insurance for Schengen visa applicants that are budget-friendly yet fully compliant with visa rules.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand the basics of Schengen visa insurance, show you how to find the cheapest travel insurance for Schengen visa, and recommend some of the most affordable providers for 2025.
Why You Need Travel Insurance for a Schengen Visa
Travel insurance is not just a recommendation but a strict legal requirement for anyone applying for a Schengen visa. The European Union mandates that all Schengen visa applicants must provide proof of compliant travel medical insurance as part of their application. Without this, your visa application will be automatically rejected, regardless of other supporting documents.
Official Requirements for Schengen Visa Travel Insurance
To meet Schengen visa regulations, your travel insurance policy must adhere to the following criteria:
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Minimum Medical Coverage: The policy must offer at least €30,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses. This includes costs for urgent hospital treatment, emergency medical aid, and medical repatriation (return to your home country for medical reasons or in the event of death).
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Geographical Validity: The insurance must be valid in all 27 Schengen countries for the entire duration of your intended stay. The policy should explicitly state coverage for the “Schengen Area” or list all member states.
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Coverage Period: The insurance must cover you from your date of entry to your date of exit from the Schengen Area. Even a single day without coverage can result in visa denial.
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Comprehensive Benefits: The policy must include emergency medical care, hospitalization, medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains. Additional benefits often covered are return of a minor, accidental death or disablement, and dental emergencies.
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Insurance Certificate: You must submit an official certificate from the insurer, showing your name (matching your passport), coverage dates, policy number, and a statement of Schengen compliance. This certificate must be included in your visa application and may be requested at border control during your travels.
Why Is Travel Insurance Mandatory?
The Schengen visa insurance requirement, established by the Schengen Visa Code (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009), serves several key purposes:
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Protects Public Health Systems: It prevents the public health systems of Schengen countries from incurring costs for treating uninsured travelers.
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Ensures Traveler Safety: It guarantees that travelers will receive adequate medical care if they face illness or accidents while abroad.
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Covers Emergency Costs: It provides financial protection for both the traveler and the host country in the event of emergencies, including costly medical evacuations or repatriation.
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Reduces Visa Fraud: The requirement for an official insurance certificate helps consulates verify that applicants are prepared for emergencies and are less likely to overstay or become a burden on the state
Cheapest Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa: What to Look For
When searching for cheap travel insurance for Schengen visa, don’t just go for the lowest price. Make sure the policy:
- Meets the €30,000 medical coverage requirement
- Is accepted by the Schengen consulate/embassy
- Covers repatriation and emergency medical expenses
- Provides 24/7 emergency assistance
Many budget-friendly policies offer comprehensive coverage tailored to meet Schengen visa criteria.
Top Providers Offering the Cheapest Schengen Travel Insurance in 2025
Our company offers one of the most affordable Schengen visa travel insurance options that meet embassy requirements:
AXA Schengen Low Cost Plan
- Price: Starts from €X for 7 days
- Coverage: €30,000 medical expenses, repatriation
- Accepted by all Schengen embassies
- Digital insurance certificate available for visa applications
AXA offers some of the cheapest travel insurance for Schengen visa, with policies starting under €25. The “Low Cost” plan covers all Schengen visa requirements and is accepted by all consulates.
How Much Does the Cheapest Schengen Travel Insurance Cost?
The price of cheap travel insurance for Schengen visa typically ranges from:
- €20 to €50 for trips up to 10 days
- €40 to €70 for trips up to 30 days
- Longer durations or extended coverage will increase the price slightly, but basic compliant plans remain affordable.
Tips for Finding Affordable Schengen Visa Travel Insurance
- Compare multiple providers: Use comparison tools or visit provider websites directly.
- Buy online: Many insurers offer discounted rates for online purchases.
- Check embassy lists: Some embassies list recommended or recognized insurance providers—choose one from that list.
- Avoid unnecessary extras: If you only need basic Schengen visa coverage, avoid policies with extras like trip cancellation unless required.
Is Cheap Schengen Visa Insurance Reliable?
Absolutely! As long as the policy meets the Schengen visa medical insurance requirements, affordable plans are just as reliable as premium ones. Always verify that:
- The insurer is recognized by Schengen embassies
- You receive a certificate of insurance to submit with your visa application
- There’s 24/7 emergency assistance included
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is the Cheapest Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa in 2025?
AXA Schengen’s Low Cost Plan and Europe Assistance offer some of the cheapest policies starting at €20-€22 for short stays.
Can I Buy Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa Online?
Yes. Many providers like AXA, Allianz, and MondialCare allow you to purchase travel insurance online and immediately download your insurance certificate.
Does Cheap Travel Insurance Meet Schengen Visa Requirements?
Yes, as long as it provides the minimum €30,000 medical coverage, repatriation, and covers all Schengen countries.
Is It Safe to Buy Low-Cost Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?
Yes, as long as you purchase from reputable, embassy-recognized insurance companies.
Final Thoughts
Finding the cheapest travel insurance for Schengen visa doesn’t mean compromising on quality or coverage. Providers like AXA, Europe Assistance, and Allianz offer affordable, compliant policies that ensure smooth visa approval and peace of mind while traveling.
Ready to secure your Schengen visa? Choose a cheap travel insurance plan today and enjoy your European adventure worry-free!
