The Best Schengen Travel Insurance Plans in 2025
- Insurance accepted for a Schengen visa
- Refund if visa is refused (-€15)
- Immediate statement approved by consulates
- Repatriation guarantee after hospitalisation in your country of origin
- 24/7 Assistance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Insurance accepted for a Schengen visa
- Refund if visa is refused (-€15)
- Immediate statement approved by consulates
- Repatriation guarantee after hospitalisation in your country of origin
- 24/7 Assistance
The Chapka - Cap Schengen insurance provides coverage for medical expenses abroad up to €30,000 per insured person with a deductible of €80, which is standard compared to other offers like AVA Assurances - Ava Incoming Classic and Europ Assistance - Visa Schengen - Schengen. Medical repatriation is covered at actual cost, which offers premium coverage similar to Assur Travel - Impact Schengen - Essential and AVA Insurances - Ava Incoming Safe & Health. However, this offer does not cover trip cancellation, liability, loss or theft of luggage, or interruption of stay, making it less comprehensive than offers like ACS - Europax, which includes liability coverage up to €4,575,000 per insured person.
The price of Chapka - Cap Schengen insurance is €58.00, which is more expensive than competing offers such as Assur Travel - Impact Schengen - Essential at €37.00 and ACS - Europax at €30.20. On the other hand, it is cheaper than the AXA - Visa Schengen - Schengen Europe Travel insurance at €81.00.
This offer is suitable for non-European travellers planning a trip to the Schengen area, as it meets Schengen visa requirements with adequate coverage for medical expenses and medical repatriation.
- Insurance approved for the Schengen visa
- Immediate confirmation by email
- Refund requests directly online
- Refunds possible in a currency other than the euro
- Insurance approved for the Schengen visa
- Immediate confirmation by email
- Refund requests directly online
- Refunds possible in a currency other than the euro
The ACS - Europax offer provides coverage for medical expenses abroad up to €30,000 per insured person, with a deductible of €30, which is the same as AXA - Visa Schengen - Schengen Low Cost and Assur Travel - Impact Schengen - Essential, but lower than AXA - Visa Schengen - Schengen Europe Travel and Mondial Care - Visa Schengen - Option Premium, which offer up to €100,000. Regarding legal liability, ACS - Europax offers high coverage of €4,575,000, which far exceeds Mondial Care - Visa Schengen - Premium option, which covers up to €1,500,000. However, ACS - Europax does not offer cancellation insurance, unlike some competing offers that include this guarantee.
The price of ACS - Europax is €30.20, which is competitive compared to AXA - Visa Schengen - Schengen Low Cost at €55.00 and significantly cheaper than AXA - Visa Schengen - Schengen Europe Travel at €81.00. However, it is slightly lower than Mondial Care - Visa Schengen - Option Confort at €34.00.
The ACS - Europax offer is suitable for non-European travellers who need insurance that meets the requirements of the Schengen visa, with excellent coverage for medical emergencies and high liability coverage at a competitive price.
- Insurance accepted for the Schengen visa
- Immediate confirmation by email
- 24/7 unlimited medical assistance by phone
- Insurance accepted for the Schengen visa
- Immediate confirmation by email
- 24/7 unlimited medical assistance by phone
Mondial Care - Visa Schengen - Option Confort offers solid guarantees for non-European travellers visiting the Schengen area, with a medical expenses ceiling abroad of €100,000, higher than ACS - Europax and Assur Travel - Impact Schengen - Essentiel which only offer €30,000. However, private liability insurance is covered up to €1,500,000, less than the €4,575,000 offered by ACS - Europax. Medical repatriation is covered without cost limit, similar to most other offers. However, the offer does not cover luggage, cancellation or interruption of stay, which may be a disadvantage for some travellers.
The price of Mondial Care - Visa Schengen - Option Confort is €34.00, which is competitive compared to other offers such as Assur Travel - Impact Schengen - Premium for €44.00 and AXA - Visa Schengen - Schengen Europe Travel for €81.00, although slightly more expensive than ACS - Europax for €30.20.
This offer is well suited for the non-European traveller who needs high medical cover and adequate liability insurance for a three-week stay in the Schengen area.
- Insurance accepted for Schengen visa
- Immediate certificate approved by consulates
- €3,000 legal assistance
- 24/7 unlimited telephone medical advice
- Insurance accepted for Schengen visa
- Immediate certificate approved by consulates
- €3,000 legal assistance
- 24/7 unlimited telephone medical advice
Mondial Care - Visa Schengen - Premium option offers coverage for medical expenses abroad of €100,000 per insured person, which is higher than the €30,000 of ACS - Europax and equivalent to AXA - Visa Schengen - Schengen Europe Travel. Regarding legal liability, it offers coverage of €1,500,000, less than the €4,575,000 offered by ACS - Europax, but more than most other competitors who do not cover this guarantee. Medical repatriation is covered against actual costs, a standard among premium offers. However, guarantees such as cancellation and baggage cover are lacking, unlike Chapka - Cap Academy, which covers baggage up to €3,000.
The price of Mondial Care - Visa Schengen - Premium option is €47.00, which is competitive compared to Assur Travel - Impact Schengen - Summum at €48.00 and significantly cheaper than AXA - Visa Schengen - Schengen Europe Travel at €81.00. However, it is more expensive than Mondial Care - Visa Schengen - Option Confort at €34.00 and ACS - Europax at €30.20.
This offer is suitable for non-European citizens travelling in the Schengen area, as it meets the requirements for a Schengen visa and provides adequate medical cover and liability cover.
- Insurance accepted for the Schengen visa
- Refund in case of visa refusal (-€15)
- Immediate certificate approved by the consulates
- 24/7 repatriation assistance
- Insurance accepted for the Schengen visa
- Refund in case of visa refusal (-€15)
- Immediate certificate approved by the consulates
- 24/7 repatriation assistance
Chapka - Cap Europa provides coverage for medical expenses abroad up to €70,000 per insured, with a deductible of €80, which is lower than ACS - Globe Partner and Mondial Care - World Travel which offer €300,000 and €300,000 respectively, without any deductible for the first and €50 for the second. Regarding medical repatriation, Chapka - Cap Europa covers the actual costs, similar to ACS - Globe Traveller and Mondial Care - World Travel. However, Chapka - Cap Europa does not cover luggage, unlike ACS - Globe Traveller which offers coverage of €2,000 per claim, and Mondial Care - World Travel which offers €1,000. Furthermore, cancellation insurance is not covered by Chapka - Cap Europa, while ACS - Globe Traveller provides coverage up to €9,000 per insured.
Chapka - Cap Europa is suitable for travellers journeying around the world for a year who prioritise medical coverage and repatriation, but they may encounter limitations due to the absence of coverage for luggage and cancellation.
- The best Schengen travel insurance plans
- What Is Schengen Travel Insurance?
- The price of Schengen travel insurance
- What does Schengen travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of Schengen travel insurance
- Why take out Schengen travel insurance?
- How to choose the right Schengen travel insurance
- Schengen Travel and Your Existing Insurance Policies
- FAQ
Schengen travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Schengen travel insurance is required medical cover for visiting Europe's Schengen Area, meeting specific legal entry requirements.
2. Price: A one-week Schengen policy from NZ typically costs between NZ$85 and NZ$150, depending on the provider.
3. Coverage: It covers emergency medical and repatriation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and adventure sports without extra cover.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards, ACC, and Health NZ offer insufficient cover, rarely meeting mandatory Schengen medical expense requirements.
5. Tips: Verify the policy meets the €30,000 minimum, has high repatriation limits, and covers your planned activities.
6. Other useful info: While Kiwis are visa-exempt for short stays, proof of compliant insurance can be requested at border control.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in New Zealand, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best Schengen travel insurance.
The best Schengen travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best Schengen travel insurance plans available for residents of New Zealand in 2025. These policies stand out for their high medical limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions, allowing for peace of mind when travelling through Europe.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | NZ$2.6M | NZ$0 | • Comprehensive legal compliance for Schengen. • Includes medical teleconsultation and digital claims. • Unlimited medical assistance 24/7. • Free multilingual helpline and no age-based premium increase. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | NZ$2.6M | NZ$0 | • Mobile app to contact a doctor instantly. • 24/7 support number included. • Hotel and pet boarding covered in emergencies. • No premium change after age 60. |
| Tourist Card | NZ$1.3M | NZ$130 | • Quick reimbursement for medical claims. • Flexible policy cancellation any time. • Legal support for visa matters. • Recognised for digital nomad support. |
| World Travel | NZ$1.7M (USA/Canada), NZ$0.65M (Europe) | NZ$65 | • Hotel costs due to quarantine covered. • Psychological support benefits. • Emergency assistance for passport loss. • Political evacuation included. |
| Globe Partner | NZ$0.65M | NZ$0 | • Among the most affordable for young adults. • 100% digital enrolment. • Claims tracked via email and SMS. |
| Globe Traveller | NZ$1.3M | NZ$0 | • Valid for long trips up to 12 months. • Premium remains stable after 60 years old. • Multilingual customer service. |
• Includes medical teleconsultation and digital claims.
• Unlimited medical assistance 24/7.
• Free multilingual helpline and no age-based premium increase.
• 24/7 support number included.
• Hotel and pet boarding covered in emergencies.
• No premium change after age 60.
• Flexible policy cancellation any time.
• Legal support for visa matters.
• Recognised for digital nomad support.
• Psychological support benefits.
• Emergency assistance for passport loss.
• Political evacuation included.
• 100% digital enrolment.
• Claims tracked via email and SMS.
• Premium remains stable after 60 years old.
• Multilingual customer service.
The best Schengen travel insurance will depend on your unique needs and destination. Use HelloSafe’s comparison tool to find the right plan for you and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat Is Schengen Travel Insurance?
Schengen travel insurance is a mandatory medical insurance required for visitors to the Schengen Area in Europe.
It must cover at least €30,000 for emergency medical expenses and repatriation, valid throughout every Schengen country for the entire trip period.
This policy must include medical emergencies, hospitalisation and return to New Zealand in case of serious illness or death.
Schengen travel insurance is also known as “Europe travel insurance” or “Schengen visa insurance.”
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out Schengen travel insurance is especially important for travellers from New Zealand:
- To meet Schengen Area entry requirements for New Zealand citizens.
- To cover high medical costs in Europe without personal expense.
- For emergency medical repatriation back to New Zealand, which is costly.
- Because NZ public and private health insurance offers limited overseas cover.
- When your credit card insurance does not meet Schengen requirements.
- If you have any pre-existing medical conditions needing specific coverage.
- When participating in adventure sports like skiing, hiking, or climbing.
The price of Schengen travel insurance
On average, Schengen travel insurance costs between 2% and 4% of your trip’s total price.
| Trip | Trip cost (NZD) | Indicative price per person (NZD) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 days in France (Paris city break) | $2,000 | $40 to $80 |
| 2 weeks in Italy and Spain | $6,500 | $130 to $260 |
| 1 month multi-country tour (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) | $11,000 | $220 to $430 |
| 3 months studying abroad in the Netherlands | $18,000 | $420 to $800 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your Schengen travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer stays increase the total premium.
- age of the traveller: older travellers usually pay more.
- level of medical coverage and deductibles: higher coverage limits and lower deductibles result in higher prices.
- type of insurance plan: additional cover for winter sports, valuables or pre-existing conditions increases the cost.
- specific country visits: medical costs vary across the Schengen zone and this can affect the premium, especially if high-cost destinations are included.
What does Schengen travel insurance cover?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for anyone visiting the Schengen Area from New Zealand for short stays. It ensures travellers meet strict medical coverage and repatriation requirements during their trip.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical care if you fall ill or are injured while in the Schengen zone. | 🔴 Required for Schengen visa. We recommend at least NZ$52,000 of cover, with no deductible or maximum NZ$65. Pre-existing medical conditions, routine care and elective treatments are always excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Covers transport back to New Zealand if your medical condition requires it. | 🔴 Required for Schengen visa. Seek plans offering unlimited cover and no deductible. Traveller refusal, non-medical repatriation, or trips against medical advice are not covered. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental treatment | Covers pain-relief dental care needed urgently during your trip. | Choose at least NZ$650 cover. Deductibles should not exceed NZ$65. Routine checks, cosmetic and orthodontic care are excluded. |
| 🏨 Hospital daily benefit | Pays a set amount per day if you’re hospitalized abroad. | Minimum NZ$100 per day is reasonable. No deductible. Outpatient care and private rooms are generally excluded. |
| 🧑⚖️ Personal liability abroad | Pays if you accidentally cause physical injury or property damage to someone else. | At least NZ$450,000 in cover. Deductible should stay below NZ$130. Family damage, rental items, or deliberate acts are always excluded. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation for luggage that is lost, stolen or damaged during your trip. | Select NZ$1,200 or more in cover. Avoid deductibles above NZ$50. Items left unattended or high-value electronics are often excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Gives a fixed payout if your flight or train is delayed for a long time. | Opt for NZ$200+ after 6 hours delay. Deductibles are rare. Delays under 6 hours, and those without written proof, are excluded. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation | Refunds non-refundable costs if you cancel for certain accepted reasons. | Minimum NZ$1,500 recommended and deductible under NZ$65. Cancellations for fear of travel, work changes, or visa denial are usually excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Covers unused travel costs if you must return to New Zealand early due to emergency. | Minimum recommended cover is NZ$1,200. Deductible should not exceed NZ$65. Non-urgent interruptions or personal choice are not covered. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Pays lawyer fees or bail abroad if needed after an incident during the trip. | Aim for NZ$3,000 for legal costs and NZ$7,500 for bail. Alcohol, criminal activity, or previous legal issues are excluded. |
We recommend at least NZ$52,000 of cover, with no deductible or maximum NZ$65.
Pre-existing medical conditions, routine care and elective treatments are always excluded.
Seek plans offering unlimited cover and no deductible.
Traveller refusal, non-medical repatriation, or trips against medical advice are not covered.
Routine checks, cosmetic and orthodontic care are excluded.
Outpatient care and private rooms are generally excluded.
Family damage, rental items, or deliberate acts are always excluded.
Items left unattended or high-value electronics are often excluded.
Delays under 6 hours, and those without written proof, are excluded.
Cancellations for fear of travel, work changes, or visa denial are usually excluded.
Non-urgent interruptions or personal choice are not covered.
Alcohol, criminal activity, or previous legal issues are excluded.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
Always compare Schengen travel insurance plans on HelloSafe to be sure your needs and visa requirements are met for your trip from New Zealand.
The conditions of Schengen travel insurance
To ensure your Schengen travel insurance protection is active and valid, it must meet a series of key conditions specific to European requirements.
- Timing of purchase: you must purchase your Schengen insurance policy before your departure from New Zealand.
- Compliance with coverage limits: your policy must provide at least €30,000 (about NZ$52,000) for emergency medical and repatriation expenses.
- Geographic validity: your insurance must cover the entire Schengen Area, not just individual countries.
- Coverage period: the insurance must be valid throughout your entire planned stay in the Schengen zone.
- No ongoing travel: you must not already be in Europe when purchasing the policy.
- Correct documentation: you must carry a valid insurance certificate showing all necessary details, often required at border control or for visa applications.
- Exclusion of pre-existing conditions: most policies do not cover ongoing or chronic medical conditions unless specifically endorsed.
- Immediate reporting of incidents: you must notify the insurer promptly if you are hospitalised or need evacuation to activate coverage.
Watch out!
Heads up, Kiwis! Don't assume your bank card's travel insurance is enough for Europe. Many policies fall short of the mandatory €30,000 medical and repatriation cover required for the Schengen Area. Always check your policy to avoid being denied entry or facing massive hospital bills.
Why take out Schengen travel insurance?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers to the Schengen Area and must meet specific legal requirements for medical emergency and repatriation coverage.
Even on short trips, unexpected accidents or illness can lead to significant costs while travelling in Europe.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost in the Schengen Area | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) | $520 NZD | Up to 100%, usually above $52,000 NZD |
| Stitches after a fall | $650 NZD | Up to 100%, usually above $52,000 NZD |
| Consultation and treatment for infection | $390 NZD | Up to 100%, usually above $52,000 NZD |
| Emergency tooth extraction | $780 NZD | Up to 100%, subject to dental sublimit |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalisation | $19,500 NZD | Up to 100%, usually above $52,000 NZD |
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
Schengen travel insurance also protects against other frequent risks: trip cancellation or interruption, lost or delayed luggage, personal liability cover, repatriation assistance and emergency support services. All of these bring further security to your trip.
Good to know
Beyond being a mandatory entry requirement, insurance protects you from crippling costs your ACC won't cover. A medical flight home can exceed $65,000. Insurers like Chapka offer direct hospital billing, so you’re not left out of pocket. Don't risk your European holiday.
How to choose the right Schengen travel insurance
Coverage levels, exclusions and requirements for Schengen travel insurance can differ widely between providers. It is important to compare each policy according to mandated criteria and your personal travel needs, as some options go well beyond the basics.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Schengen law requires at least €30,000 medical coverage for visa applicants. | Make sure your policy meets this minimum, or better, select higher limits for extra safety. Always confirm your cover is compliant. |
| 🏥 Deductible | This is what you pay before insurance applies, and can vary widely by policy. | Prioritize policies with low or zero deductibles for medical expenses. It reduces your out-of-pocket risk. |
| 📜 Policy conditions | Fine print affects what is covered and when the insurer will actually pay. | Read all policy terms, especially exclusions for pre-existing conditions or certain activities. Look for clear and simple rules. |
| 👴 Traveller’s age | Age can affect price and eligibility, particularly for seniors or younger children. | Check if there are age caps or specific rules for older travellers. Choose a senior-friendly plan if needed. |
| 🧑 Traveller profile | A family, solo, or business trip requires different coverage setups. | Select a plan matching your travel party. Family packages can be cheaper and easier to manage than separate contracts. |
| 📆 Trip duration | The policy must match your length of stay in the Schengen Area. | Ensure the insurance covers your whole visit, including any possible delays. Coverage lapses are risky and non-compliant. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Schengen policies must cover all member countries without restriction. | Confirm the coverage area. Every country you enter must be listed, otherwise claims may be rejected. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Some bank cards or health insurers offer partial protection, but usually insufficient. | Compare these with policy requirements. Only standalone Schengen policies usually guarantee full legal compliance. |
| 🏂 Planned activities | Many plans exclude skiing, hiking and adventure sports without an add-on. | Add winter sports or adventure options if necessary. List all planned activities in advance to avoid any claim refusal. |
Schengen Travel and Your Existing Insurance Policies
It is reasonable to wonder whether your current insurance, such as credit card insurance or public health coverage, could replace Schengen travel insurance requirements, but unfortunately this is often not sufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Schengen travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Health NZ) | Never | Covers accidents in New Zealand only, with rare reciprocal agreements. Maximum: NZ$1,000 for some emergency cases. No overseas medical, repatriation, trip interruption, or baggage. These are not included at all. | Travel insurance covers up to NZ$2,600,000 for Schengen medical needs, with repatriation and all legal requirements guaranteed. |
| Private health insurance (Southern Cross, nib) | Almost Never | Limited overseas emergency or for reciprocal countries only. Maximum: NZ$2,000 - NZ$50,000 per trip. No full repatriation, ongoing medical, or trip cancellation. Schengen minimum may not be met. | Travel insurance provides required medical minimum from NZ$52,000 up to millions, covering medical, baggage, and repatriation in Schengen. |
| Classic credit card (ANZ Visa Classic, ASB Classic) | Never | May pay some emergency medical, but only up to NZ$15,000 - NZ$30,000 per trip. No compliance with Schengen law, no repatriation, no trip interruption or liability included. | Travel insurance meets or exceeds all Schengen legal amounts and provides broad guarantees for any emergency, valuables, or missed connections. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Platinum, BNZ Advantage Platinum) | Limited coverage | May include medical care up to NZ$25,000 - NZ$40,000, baggage up to NZ$7,500, but still not Schengen-compliant. No guaranteed repatriation, no hospitalisation guarantee, gaps for travel delays and legal liability. | Travel insurance means repatriation, hospitalization, and all extra Schengen benefits, up to NZ$2,600,000, without gaps for travel disruptions. |
No overseas medical, repatriation, trip interruption, or baggage. These are not included at all.
No full repatriation, ongoing medical, or trip cancellation. Schengen minimum may not be met.
No compliance with Schengen law, no repatriation, no trip interruption or liability included.
No guaranteed repatriation, no hospitalisation guarantee, gaps for travel delays and legal liability.
Expert advice
Bank card and health insurance often exclude key situations like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is Schengen travel insurance mandatory?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for anyone applying for a Schengen visa, regardless of nationality. While New Zealanders generally do not need a visa for stays under 90 days, it is still highly recommended. For example, if you have a medical emergency while skiing in France, proof of insurance may be required by hospitals or authorities.
When is it recommended to purchase Schengen travel insurance?
The best time to purchase Schengen travel insurance is right after confirming your flights and accommodation. Buying insurance early ensures your policy covers cancellations or pre-departure incidents. This way, you are protected not only during your trip but also before your departure if unexpected issues arise.
How do I purchase Schengen travel insurance?
1/ Compare: Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to compare options for Schengen travel.
2/ Check guarantees and exclusions: Carefully review that your chosen policy meets the Schengen area’s specific requirements.
3/ Purchase online: Complete your purchase securely on the provider’s website.
4/ Receive the certificate: The insurer will send you a certificate you may need for border or visa purposes.
Can I purchase Schengen travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can buy Schengen travel insurance after booking your trip, but do so before you travel. Purchasing promptly ensures you meet entry or visa requirements, and you won’t miss out on important pre-trip protection such as cancellation or interruption cover.
How do I make a claim on Schengen travel insurance?
If you need to make a claim, notify your insurer’s assistance team as soon as possible. Collect all documentation, such as medical reports or police statements. Complete the claims form provided by your insurer and submit it with all supporting evidence for review and processing.
Does Schengen travel insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Most Schengen travel insurance policies do not automatically cover pre-existing medical conditions. However, some insurers offer extra cover if you declare your condition and are accepted. Always check your policy terms and contact your provider for clarification on eligibility.
Is winter sports and adventure activity cover included in Schengen travel insurance?
Standard Schengen travel insurance usually excludes winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. If you plan to participate in these activities, select a policy with specific winter sports or adventure activity add-ons to ensure you are fully covered during your stay.
Is Schengen travel insurance mandatory?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for anyone applying for a Schengen visa, regardless of nationality. While New Zealanders generally do not need a visa for stays under 90 days, it is still highly recommended. For example, if you have a medical emergency while skiing in France, proof of insurance may be required by hospitals or authorities.
When is it recommended to purchase Schengen travel insurance?
The best time to purchase Schengen travel insurance is right after confirming your flights and accommodation. Buying insurance early ensures your policy covers cancellations or pre-departure incidents. This way, you are protected not only during your trip but also before your departure if unexpected issues arise.
How do I purchase Schengen travel insurance?
1/ Compare: Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to compare options for Schengen travel.
2/ Check guarantees and exclusions: Carefully review that your chosen policy meets the Schengen area’s specific requirements.
3/ Purchase online: Complete your purchase securely on the provider’s website.
4/ Receive the certificate: The insurer will send you a certificate you may need for border or visa purposes.
Can I purchase Schengen travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can buy Schengen travel insurance after booking your trip, but do so before you travel. Purchasing promptly ensures you meet entry or visa requirements, and you won’t miss out on important pre-trip protection such as cancellation or interruption cover.
How do I make a claim on Schengen travel insurance?
If you need to make a claim, notify your insurer’s assistance team as soon as possible. Collect all documentation, such as medical reports or police statements. Complete the claims form provided by your insurer and submit it with all supporting evidence for review and processing.
Does Schengen travel insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Most Schengen travel insurance policies do not automatically cover pre-existing medical conditions. However, some insurers offer extra cover if you declare your condition and are accepted. Always check your policy terms and contact your provider for clarification on eligibility.
Is winter sports and adventure activity cover included in Schengen travel insurance?
Standard Schengen travel insurance usually excludes winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. If you plan to participate in these activities, select a policy with specific winter sports or adventure activity add-ons to ensure you are fully covered during your stay.
