Travel insurance is **mandatory** for Schengen visa applications. You must have a policy with minimum EUR 30,000 (approximately ₹27 lakhs) medical coverage valid for all 27 Schengen countries. Your visa will be rejected without proper insurance. Here are the best options for Indian travelers.
Why You Need Travel Insurance
Mandatory Requirement
You cannot get a Schengen visa without travel insurance - it's a strict requirement.
EUR 30,000 Minimum
Coverage must be at least EUR 30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
All 27 Countries
Policy must be valid for all Schengen member states, not just your destination.
Medical Repatriation
Must cover emergency medical repatriation to India.
Top 7 Travel Insurance Compared
ICICI Lombard Schengen
Pros
- ✓ Embassy approved
- ✓ Higher coverage
- ✓ Fast certificate
- ✓ Good claim process
Cons
- ✗ Slightly higher than basic
- ✗ Limited add-ons
Bajaj Allianz Schengen
Pros
- ✓ Most affordable
- ✓ Embassy accepted
- ✓ Quick issuance
- ✓ Simple process
Cons
- ✗ Basic coverage
- ✗ Fewer add-ons
HDFC ERGO Schengen Travel
Pros
- ✓ Comprehensive
- ✓ Pre-existing option
- ✓ Trip delay cover
- ✓ Good network
Cons
- ✗ Higher premium
- ✗ Complex options
Tata AIG Schengen
Pros
- ✓ Lowest price
- ✓ Meets requirement
- ✓ Fast approval
- ✓ Trusted brand
Cons
- ✗ Minimum coverage only
- ✗ Basic benefits
Reliance Schengen Travel
Pros
- ✓ Good value
- ✓ Adventure sports
- ✓ Flexible plans
- ✓ Good support
Cons
- ✗ Slower claims
- ✗ Less popular
Care Health Schengen
Pros
- ✓ Very affordable
- ✓ Quick issuance
- ✓ Simple plans
Cons
- ✗ Basic coverage
- ✗ Fewer hospitals
Digit Schengen Insurance
Pros
- ✓ Digital-first
- ✓ Easy claims
- ✓ Good app
- ✓ Transparent pricing
Cons
- ✗ New player
- ✗ Limited offline support
How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel insurance mandatory for Schengen visa?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. Your Schengen visa application will be rejected without valid travel insurance certificate showing minimum EUR 30,000 coverage for all Schengen countries.
What coverage amount is required?
Minimum EUR 30,000 (approximately ₹27 lakhs) is required. This must cover medical emergencies and repatriation. We recommend EUR 50,000 for better protection.
Should coverage be for specific country or all Schengen?
Coverage must be valid for ALL 27 Schengen member states, regardless of which country you're visiting. A Schengen visa allows travel to any member country.
Can I buy insurance after visa approval?
No, you must have travel insurance before applying. The insurance certificate is a required document for your visa application.
What if my visa is rejected - do I get refund?
Most insurers offer full refund if visa is rejected. Keep the visa rejection letter as proof. Some policies charge a small processing fee.
Disclosure: Prices and coverage details are indicative and may change. Please verify with the insurer before purchasing. Times of Visa may earn a commission from purchases made through affiliate links, at no extra cost to you.