What is Schengen travel insurance – and do I need it?

Before we look at the insurance, it helps to understand what “Schengen” means.

The Schengen Area is made up of 29 European countries that have agreed to allow travel between them without border checks. This includes popular holiday destinations such as France, Spain, Germany, Italy and Greece.

If you’re planning a trip to one of these countries, you might need a visa. And to get a Schengen visa, you’ll need to have travel insurance that meets specific requirements.

What is Schengen travel insurance?

Schengen travel insurance is simply standard travel insurance that meets the rules for getting a Schengen visa. You don’t need a special policy – just one that includes the right level of cover for travel within the Schengen Area.

Who needs Schengen travel insurance?

UK citizens

If you have a UK passport, you usually don't need a visa for short visits to countries in the Schengen Area. You can travel visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for:

• holidays or short breaks
• visiting friends or family
• short study courses
• business trips for a UK employer

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, or for work or study, you'll need to apply for a Schengen visa. Your application must include travel insurance that meets Schengen visa requirements.

Non-UK nationals living in the UK

If you live in the UK but hold a non-UK passport, you may need a Schengen visa even for short trips. You can check whether you need a visa on the GOV.UK foreign travel advice website.

Schengen travel insurance requirements

To meet Schengen visa rules, your travel insurance must:

• include at least €30,000 of medical cover
• cover repatriation – the cost of returning you home for medical treatment or after death
• be valid in all Schengen countries
• cover the entire length of your trip

If your policy does not meet these standards, your visa application could be refused. Even if you do not need a visa, it’s still worth having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and other unexpected costs.

Before you travel

Before your trip to the Schengen area, it is important to make the necessary preparations.

• Check if you need a Schengen visa for your trip.
• Buy travel insurance before you apply for your visa or book your trip.
• Make sure the policy covers all your destinations and dates.
• Keep printed and digital copies of your policy.

Our travel insurance cover

Our Annual European Travel Insurance meets the medical and repatriation cover required for a Schengen visa. You’ll get unlimited medical expenses as standard. Find out more about Co-op Annual Travel Insurance.