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Travel insurance is one of those things people skip until they need it. A hospital visit abroad, a lost bag or a cancelled flight can cost far more than the policy would have. For some destinations, it is not even optional.
When insurance is compulsory
Schengen countries require medical coverage for the whole stay, and the visa will not be issued without proof of it. Some other countries ask for it too, or at least strongly advise it. Always check the checklist of the embassy you are applying to.
What a good policy usually covers
- Emergency medical treatment and hospital stays
- Medical evacuation or repatriation if it becomes necessary
- Trip cancellation or interruption for covered reasons
- Lost, stolen or delayed baggage
- Personal liability, for the rare case where you cause damage to someone else
Schengen minimums
The Schengen rules ask for a minimum medical coverage amount that is valid in all Schengen states, plus coverage for emergency treatment and return home. The policy dates must match your travel dates, and the insurer has to be accepted by the embassy. Check the current minimum on the official website, as it can change.
Questions to ask before you buy
- Does the policy cover the exact countries and dates of my trip?
- What is the deductible, meaning how much do I pay first?
- Are pre-existing conditions covered?
- Is there a 24 hour helpline, and does it work from abroad?
- Will the embassy accept this insurer?
Cheap is not always better
A very cheap policy may have low limits or long lists of exclusions. Read the summary of cover, not just the price. For a family trip or an older traveler, it is worth paying a bit more for better medical limits.
Buy it at the right time
For a visa application, you usually need the policy before you submit. For other trips, buy it as soon as you book, so that cancellation cover starts early. Keep a printed copy and a saved copy on your phone, together with the insurer’s emergency number.
Popular visa checklists
Need a hand with your application?
If you would rather have someone check your file before you submit it, message our team on WhatsApp (+92 336 4444 999). You can also browse our visa pages for country wise requirements, or look at our flight and hotel help if you need bookings sorted too.
Visa rules, fees and processing times change often. Always confirm the latest details on the official embassy or government website before you apply.
