Travel health insurance
Travel health insurance is mandatory for a Schengen visa application, and with a child it is essential anyway. Here is a plain-language summary of what to look for when choosing a policy. For the exact requirements, check the current list of the consulate you apply to.
Basic Schengen requirements
- Cover: At least €30,000 for emergency medical treatment and repatriation.
- Area: Valid in all Schengen countries.
- Duration: Covers every day of the trip, from the first to the last.
- People: Every member of the family, children included, is on the policy.
What we look at as a family
| Topic | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Family policy | One policy for the whole family is practical and often cheaper |
| Outpatient care | Children most often need short doctor visits for fever or earache |
| Excess (deductible) | With no excess you don’t pay small bills out of pocket |
| 24/7 assistance line | A line that tells you which hospital to go to at midnight is invaluable |
| Baggage and delay | Not required, but extra peace of mind for the stroller and suitcases |
Frequently asked questions
Is the insurance that comes with my credit card enough? Some credit cards include travel insurance, but the amount of cover, the people covered and whether consulates accept it all vary. Check the policy document before you apply.
When should I buy insurance? Before the visa application, because the policy is part of it. If your travel dates change, the policy dates need updating too.
What should I do if I need a hospital in Europe? Call your insurer’s assistance line first; they will direct you to a partner facility. Keep all invoices and reports.
Where to buy a policy? You can buy Schengen-compliant travel health insurance online from sites such as EKTA and download the policy right away. Check the cover amount and dates before you apply.
For the application steps, see our Schengen visa with children guide.