Here’s our comprehensive guide for purchasing Schengen Visa travel insurance in the UK! In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision and ensure a smooth travel experience.
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What is Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is typically a necessary document requested by embassies during visa applications. It covers various aspects such as medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost baggage, and flight accidents for both international and domestic travels. These policies usually have a specific duration, spanning from departure to return, and come in various types to suit different travel needs.
Why do I Need Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?
Many countries mandate travel insurance for visa applications. For instance, in Schengen countries like Europe, whether traveling for business, pleasure, or study, those entering temporarily from a visa-required country must have insurance for their entire stay. As per the EU Visa Act, Schengen visa applicants must demonstrate valid travel health insurance covering sickness repatriation, emergency medical assistance, and hospitalization or death costs. The insurance must be valid across Schengen member states for the intended stay duration.
What does Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Cover?
Different insurance companies offer various coverage options based on embassy requirements and travelers’ needs. Due to the pandemic, some countries mandate COVID-19 coverage. A comprehensive policy usually includes medical emergencies, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and flight delays. Pregnancy-related expenses are often covered in the first trimester, with coverage varying among insurers thereafter.
What are the Requirements for Schengen Visa Travel Insurance in Europe?
The diverse regulations of your destination country in Europe dictate the need for insurance covering specific elements. For Schengen visas, the medical insurance must meet these criteria:
- Minimum coverage of €30,000 (about US$33,000).
- Valid across all Schengen member states.
- Includes expenses for medical evacuation, urgent medical treatment, emergency hospitalization, and repatriation in case of death.
What Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa can I Buy in the UK?
AXA Schengen
AXA Schengen, part of the AXA Group, offers comprehensive travel insurance tailored for Schengen Visa applicants. As Europe’s leading travel insurance provider, AXA ensures 24/7 assistance. They offer various options to suit different budgets, including the affordable Low Cost Schengen Area Travel Insurance at just €22 per week, meeting visa requirements and covering medical expenses up to €30,000 across all Schengen countries. Additionally, options like European travel insurance and Schengen multi-trip insurance provide enhanced coverage and flexibility for frequent travelers.
Coverwise
Coverwise is a recommended option for Schengen visa travel insurance, offering competitive prices as its main advantage. They provide flexible insurance options including single trip, annual multi-trip, and business travel insurance. Simply select your insurance type, coverage areas, start date, and number of travelers to get a real-time quote. Once you’ve chosen your plan, you can conveniently fill in your details and make payment online to receive your policy.
Post Office
Post Office is also a top choice for Schengen visa travel insurance. Renowned in the travel industry, they’ve won numerous awards and are well-known among UK nationals. Since 2007, they’ve paid over £167 million in claims. To claim, you need to have lived in the UK for at least 6 months and be registered with a GP. Details are available on their travel insurance pages.
Columbus Direct
Columbus Direct, or Columbus Insurance, founded in 1988 and headquartered in London, UK, has insured over 15 million travelers and won multiple awards. It has 28 branches worldwide, serving travelers in 170 countries and employing 1,500 people. Columbus Direct requires UK residency for at least six months for single or yearly travel insurance claims.
Insure and Go
Insure and Go, a UK-based travel insurance company owned by AllClear Insurance, operates in the UK, Republic of Ireland, and Australia. To make a claim, individuals must be currently residing in the UK and have lived there for at least six months. This residency requirement applies regardless of whether a single or annual policy was purchased.
Is Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Available for International Students in the UK?
Yes, travel insurance is available for international students in the UK. Many companies offer policies suitable for Schengen visa applications for UK residents living in the UK for over 6 months. However, some insurers like Sainsbury’s, Topdog, and Go Travel require buyers to be permanent UK residents, making international students ineligible. It’s crucial to check before purchasing to avoid issues with insurance claims upon returning from Europe.
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An incident highlights this issue. An international student purchased travel insurance from a certain company in the UK and lost valuable belongings while traveling in Europe. Upon returning to the UK, he filed a claim with his insurance company. However, the company rejected his claim, citing failure to meet the “identification” requirement. While this may seem unfair, many insurance policies only cover claims from permanent UK residents. Students or workers in the UK lack permanent residency and thus may not receive compensation in case of issues.
Another concerning aspect is the ease of purchasing travel insurance online. Online purchases are straightforward – fill in information and pay. There is no vetting process, so individuals who do not meet nationality or identity requirements can still buy insurance. This insurance may suffice for obtaining a Schengen visa but poses a disadvantage if a claim arises. The insurance company may cite failure to read the policy carefully and refuse to settle the claim. To address concerns about claims, individuals can call the insurance company before purchasing to inquire thoroughly. Inform them of student and visa status to ensure coverage eligibility before making an online purchase.
How to Choose the Right Type of Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa?
Travel insurance comes in various types, so determine your needs to decide which type suits you best. To choose the right type of insurance for a Schengen Visa, consider factors such as the duration of your trip, your travel activities (such as adventure sports), and any specific coverage requirements. Options include single trip, annual multi-trip, backpacker, cruise, and winter sports insurance.
Some companies offer detailed coverage for specific scenarios. Assess your needs and select the most suitable policy accordingly. When contacting customer service, inquire not just about purchasing, but also about eligibility to make a claim in case of incidents during the trip.
How to Find Best Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Providers?
Generally, you can find the best travel insurance provider for your needs by comparing these factors:
- Coverage Options: Examine the coverage options provided by each insurer. Look for coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss or delay, and emergency assistance services.
- Policy Limits and Deductibles: Evaluate the policy limits and deductibles for each type of coverage. Ensure that the limits are adequate to cover potential expenses and that the deductibles are reasonable and fit your budget.
- Cost of Premiums: Compare the cost of premiums for similar coverage across different insurers. Consider whether the premiums are affordable and if there are any discounts available for bundling policies or for certain demographics like seniors or students.
- Customization Options: Check if the insurer allows you to customize your policy to meet your specific needs. This could include adding coverage for high-value items, extending coverage for longer trips, or tailoring coverage for specific destinations or activities.
- Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and ratings from other customers to understand their experiences with each insurer. Look for feedback on the claims process, customer service, and overall satisfaction with the policy.
Additionally, some top UK insurance comparison websites can assist you in finding the best Schengen Visa travel insurance:
- comparethemarket.com
- moneysupermarket.com
- gocompare.com
How to Make a Claim with Schengen Visa Travel Insurance in the UK?
Notify Your Insurance Provider Promptly: As soon as you encounter an incident that requires you to make a claim, such as a medical emergency or loss of belongings, contact your insurance provider immediately. Most insurance companies have a helpline or claims department that you can reach out to 24/7.
Gather Necessary Documentation: Collect all relevant documentation related to your claim. This may include medical reports, police reports (in cases of theft or loss), receipts for expenses incurred, and any other supporting evidence.
Complete Claim Forms: Your insurance provider will likely require you to fill out claim forms detailing the incident and the expenses you are claiming for. Make sure to accurately and thoroughly complete these forms, providing all requested information.
Submit Your Claim: Once you have gathered all necessary documentation and completed the claim forms, submit them to your insurance provider. Pay attention to any specific instructions regarding how to submit your claim, whether it’s online, via email, or by mail.
Follow Up Regularly: Stay in communication with your insurance provider and follow up regularly to check the status of your claim. They may require additional information or documentation, so it’s essential to be proactive in providing any requested updates.
Review Settlement Offer Carefully: Once your claim has been processed, your insurance provider will make a settlement offer based on your policy coverage. Take the time to review the offer carefully, ensuring it accurately reflects the expenses you incurred and is in line with your policy terms.
Receive Payment: If your claim is approved, you will receive payment for the covered expenses as outlined in your policy. Make sure to keep records of all communications and payments related to your claim for your records.
Schengen Visa Travel Insurance FAQ
Yes, Schengen Visa Travel Insurance is mandatory for travelers visiting Schengen countries. It is a requirement for obtaining a Schengen Visa.
Your Schengen Visa Travel Insurance should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area.
Yes, you can purchase Schengen Visa Travel Insurance online from various insurance providers.
No, Schengen Visa Travel Insurance typically covers only a single trip within the Schengen area. If you plan to take multiple trips, you may need to purchase separate insurance policies for each trip.
Yes, Schengen Visa Travel Insurance is still required even if you have private health insurance.
