The Best Schengen Travel Insurance Plans in 2025
- 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 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 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 exactly is Schengen travel insurance?
- The price of Schengen travel insurance
- What Schengen travel insurance covers
- The conditions of Schengen travel insurance
- Why take out Schengen travel insurance?
- How to Choose the Right Schengen Travel Insurance
- Do my current insurance policies cover Schengen travel insurance?
- FAQ
Schengen travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Schengen travel insurance is mandatory medical cover required for South Africans to get a visa for Europe's Schengen Area.
2. Price: A one-week policy for Europe typically costs between R450 and R750, depending on the provider and your age.
3. Coverage: It covers emergency medical costs and repatriation but usually excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk sports without extra cover.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards and medical aids like Discovery or Momentum offer insufficient cover for Schengen visa requirements.
5. Tips: Verify your policy meets the minimum €30,000 coverage and is accepted by the specific embassy you are applying to.
6. Other useful info: You must have valid insurance before submitting your visa application, as it is a mandatory supporting document.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 42 travel insurance policies available in South Africa, our experts share 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 South African residents in 2025. These policies stand out for their high medical reimbursement limits, low deductibles and flexible eligibility requirements, providing optimal protection for any trip to the Schengen Area.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | R1,900,000 | R0 | • High reimbursement suitable for all Schengen embassies. • Covers pre-existing conditions. • Visa certificate instantly issued. • Includes trip interruption support. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | R1,900,000 | R0 | • 24/7 medical helpline support. • Covers travel delays. • Fast digital insurance certificate. • No age-based premium increase. |
| Tourist Card | R950,000 | R950 | • Simple claims process. • Formal visa letter always issued. • Option for cancellation coverage. • Recognised by all EU Schengen consulates. |
| World Travel | R1,140,000 | R1,425 | • Upfront guarantee for hospital admission. • Includes dental emergencies. • Sports coverage possible. • Useful for extended Schengen trips. |
| Globe Partner | R570,000 | R0 | • Ideal for young travellers. • Full digital sign-up. • Clear pre-trip health information. • Policy sent immediately online. |
| Globe Traveller | R950,000 | R0 | • Long-policy duration up to one year. • Covers medical repatriation. • Multilingual assistance line. • Easy to extend remotely. |
• Covers pre-existing conditions.
• Visa certificate instantly issued.
• Includes trip interruption support.
• Covers travel delays.
• Fast digital insurance certificate.
• No age-based premium increase.
• Formal visa letter always issued.
• Option for cancellation coverage.
• Recognised by all EU Schengen consulates.
• Includes dental emergencies.
• Sports coverage possible.
• Useful for extended Schengen trips.
• Full digital sign-up.
• Clear pre-trip health information.
• Policy sent immediately online.
• Covers medical repatriation.
• Multilingual assistance line.
• Easy to extend remotely.
The best Schengen travel insurance offer depends on your individual needs. We invite you to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find the plan that suits you best and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat exactly is Schengen travel insurance?
Schengen travel insurance is a compulsory insurance policy for South Africans applying for a Schengen visa, providing medical and repatriation cover across all Schengen countries.
It must include at least €30,000 (around R570,000) of emergency medical and repatriation coverage, valid for the entire trip and territory.
This insurance specifically covers medical treatment, hospitalisation, and return to South Africa in case of emergency during your European visit.
Schengen travel insurance is sometimes called Europe travel insurance, but only Schengen-compliant policies meet the visa requirements.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out Schengen travel insurance is especially important if you are from South Africa:
- It is mandatory for your Schengen visa application from South Africa.
- To cover high European medical costs not covered by local medical aid.
- For expensive medical repatriation back to South Africa in an emergency.
- When travelling with any pre-existing health conditions, even if stable.
- If visiting multiple countries or for an extended period of time.
- When planning adventure sports or activities like skiing or mountain hiking.
- For 24/7 emergency assistance when facing language or system barriers.
The price of Schengen travel insurance
On average, Schengen travel insurance costs between 3% and 7% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost (ZAR) | Indicative price per person (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 days in France | 18,000 | 450 to 750 |
| 3 weeks in Italy and Spain | 40,000 | 850 to 1,200 |
| 1 month multi-country Schengen tour | 55,000 | 1,100 to 1,600 |
| 2 months extended Europe trip (55+ age group) | 90,000 | 2,200 to 3,500 |
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 premium since more days require insurance cover.
- traveller’s age: insurance for travellers over 65 is notably more expensive.
- level of coverage: the legal minimum is required for visas, but extras like baggage or trip cancellation raise the cost.
- pre-existing medical conditions: cover for chronic or pre-existing illnesses leads to higher premiums.
- insurance options and deductible: adding adventure sports or lowering the deductible amount both increase the price.
What Schengen travel insurance covers
Schengen travel insurance is a special policy required for all South Africans applying for a visa to visit countries in the Schengen Area.
It must meet strict criteria for medical expense cover and be valid throughout your entire trip.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical care and hospitalisation in Schengen countries. | 🔴 Required for Schengen visa Choose a minimum of R570,000 cover, with no deductible. Routine treatment, care for pre-existing conditions, and long-stay therapies are excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Covers cost to evacuate you to South Africa if needed for medical reasons. | 🔴 Required for Schengen visa Minimum recommended R950,000 or unlimited, with no deductible. Repatriation for non-medical, voluntary, or minor reasons is not covered. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental treatment | Urgent dental care for pain relief while travelling. | At least R9,500 cover, deductible below R200. Routine or cosmetic dental care and orthodontics are excluded. |
| 🛡️ Personal liability | Pays if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property in Schengen countries. | Minimum R190,000 cover, deductible under R1,000. Deliberate acts, professional activities, and damage to family members are excluded. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or delay | Compensation for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage on your trip. | Aim for at least R9,500 cover, deductible under R500. Valuables outside policy limits, unattended bags, and gradual loss are excluded. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund of non-refundable costs if your trip is cancelled for specific reasons. | At least R19,000 cover, deductible less than R500. Change of mind, visa refusal, and pre-existing issues are excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refunds unused trip costs if you must cut your journey short for emergencies. | Cover should be no less than R19,000, deductible below R500. Voluntary returns, mild illnesses, and minor delays are not included. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Covers legal fees or bail if you face formal issues in Schengen countries. | A minimum of R28,500 is recommended, deductible under R500. Criminal acts, alcohol or drug involvement, and work disputes are excluded. |
| 🌍 24/7 emergency assistance | Multilingual support hotline for urgent advice and coordination abroad. | 🔴 Required for Schengen visa Should be available at all times, with no extra cost. Non-urgent calls and simple information requests are not included. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal accident | Compensation in case of death or permanent disability during your Schengen trip. | At least R28,500 cover, deductible below R200. Injuries from dangerous sports, intoxication, or mental health events are excluded. |
Choose a minimum of R570,000 cover, with no deductible.
Routine treatment, care for pre-existing conditions, and long-stay therapies are excluded.
Minimum recommended R950,000 or unlimited, with no deductible.
Repatriation for non-medical, voluntary, or minor reasons is not covered.
Routine or cosmetic dental care and orthodontics are excluded.
Deliberate acts, professional activities, and damage to family members are excluded.
Valuables outside policy limits, unattended bags, and gradual loss are excluded.
Change of mind, visa refusal, and pre-existing issues are excluded.
Voluntary returns, mild illnesses, and minor delays are not included.
Criminal acts, alcohol or drug involvement, and work disputes are excluded.
Should be available at all times, with no extra cost.
Non-urgent calls and simple information requests are not included.
Injuries from dangerous sports, intoxication, or mental health events 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.
To find the Schengen travel insurance plan that matches your requirements and delivers proper visa support, always compare carefully on HelloSafe.
The conditions of Schengen travel insurance
Schengen travel insurance is subject to strict requirements established by European regulations. The following are the main conditions for the policy to be valid for South African travellers.
- Visa compliance: the policy must meet the minimum requirements for a Schengen visa as set out by European law.
- Mandatory coverage limit: the cover must be at least R570,000 for emergency medical expenses and repatriation.
- Territorial validity: coverage must be valid for all Schengen states and for the total duration of your trip.
- Pre-travel purchase: you must take out the insurance before your departure from South Africa.
- Policy start and end dates: insurance must begin the day you enter and end the day you exit the Schengen area.
- No ongoing travel: you must not already be within the Schengen area when purchasing the policy.
- Documentation required: you must provide a certificate of insurance for your visa application, in the format required by the embassy or consulate.
- Claim notification process: any claim must be reported to the insurer immediately or as soon as possible after an incident occurs.
Watch out!
A frequent mistake is buying Schengen insurance before your flight dates are final. Policies are often non-refundable and difficult to amend once issued. This can cause visa application issues or force you to buy a new policy. Always confirm your travel dates first to ensure your cover is valid.
Why take out Schengen travel insurance?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for anyone applying for a Schengen visa from South Africa.
Unexpected health problems can occur abroad, and in the Schengen Area, these can quickly become significant financial burdens due to high medical costs.
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) | R3,800 | Up to R1,900,000 |
| Medical repatriation | R285,000 | Up to R2,850,000 |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalisation | R190,000 | Up to R1,900,000 |
| Stitches after a fall | R2,850 | Up to R1,900,000 |
| Emergency tooth extraction | R5,700 | Up to R28,500 |
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.
In addition to medical expenses, Schengen travel insurance can include other valuable guarantees: trip cancellation, loss or theft of baggage, personal liability, repatriation assistance, and round-the-clock assistance services.
Good to know
It's mandatory for your Schengen visa and protects you from huge costs—an accident could cost over R190,000! A policy from an insurer like Chapka ensures you meet the €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation, which your local medical aid likely won't cover.
How to Choose the Right Schengen Travel Insurance
Not all Schengen travel insurance offers the same protection: reimbursement limits, required documents and covered services can differ. Knowing which criteria to compare is essential to meet visa requirements and avoid unnecessary costs for South African travellers.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | The Schengen visa requires at least R570,000 for medical expenses and repatriation | Only consider policies meeting or exceeding the legal Schengen coverage threshold |
| 📉 Deductible | You pay this amount for each claim before reimbursement starts | A low or zero deductible keeps out-of-pocket costs minimum if you need emergency care |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Strict rules govern coverage and admissibility for visa applications | Review all conditions, especially cancellation procedures and required documentation |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Higher age may mean higher premiums or restricted cover | If aged 65 or above, confirm that the policy has no major age exclusions or surcharges |
| 📆 Trip duration | The policy must cover the entire stay, including visa extension periods | Always cover your full planned stay and extra days for unexpected visa processing delays |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Only policies valid in the entire Schengen area are accepted | Check that your certificate states coverage for all 27 Schengen countries |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Bank card or medical aid cover is usually insufficient for Schengen requirements | Supplement existing benefits with a stand-alone Schengen policy to avoid visa rejection |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Standard policies may exclude risks from sports or adventure activities | Declare all planned activities like skiing or hiking for valid medical and liability cover |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Quick online processes are vital for visa application and travel preparations | Choose insurers offering instant e-certificates acceptable at Schengen consulates |
Do my current insurance policies cover Schengen travel insurance?
It is understandable to wonder if your existing insurances, such as credit card coverage or your South African health plan, can serve as Schengen travel insurance. Unfortunately, these are often insufficient for Schengen visa requirements.
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 (Discovery Health) | Never | Emergency medical stabilization abroad, up to R57,000. No repatriation, no trip cancellation, no coverage above the minimum, no assistance. | Travel insurance offers up to R1,900,000 medical cover, repatriation, baggage, cancellation and 24/7 assistance. |
| Private health insurance (Momentum Health, Medscheme) | Never | Emergency medical abroad, up to R47,500. No ongoing treatment, no repatriation, no liability, no travel-specific guarantees. | Travel insurance pays as much as R1,900,000, including full medical, liability and travel delay cover. |
| Classic credit card (FNB Classic, ABSA Gold) | Almost Never | Basic emergency medical only, up to R190,000. No repatriation, insufficient for Schengen, no trip interruption, no baggage, minimal trip delay cover. | Travel insurance includes medical up to R1,900,000, trip cancellation, personal liability, and full repatriation. |
| Premium credit card (FNB Private Clients, Standard Bank Platinum) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical, partial repatriation, limited baggage, up to R380,000. No trip cancellation, often no dental, insufficient for the Schengen minimum, few guarantees if stay exceeds 30 days. | Travel insurance reaches R1,900,000 limits, covers cancellation, full repatriation, liability, and family members. |
No repatriation, no trip cancellation, no coverage above the minimum, no assistance.
No ongoing treatment, no repatriation, no liability, no travel-specific guarantees.
No repatriation, insufficient for Schengen, no trip interruption, no baggage, minimal trip delay cover.
No trip cancellation, often no dental, insufficient for the Schengen minimum, few guarantees if stay exceeds 30 days.
Expert advice
Bank cards and health insurance often exclude trip interruption due to a relative’s illness. Read conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.
FAQ
Is Schengen travel insurance mandatory?
Yes, Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for all South Africans applying for a short-stay Schengen visa. If you hold a residence permit for a Schengen country or are from a visa-exempt country visiting for tourism, insurance is not legally required, but is still highly recommended. For example, a South African on holiday in Germany without insurance would have to pay thousands of rand for emergency care.
When is it recommended to purchase Schengen travel insurance?
The best time to purchase Schengen travel insurance is right after booking your flights and before submitting your visa application. This ensures your coverage period exactly matches your travel dates and visa requirements, and provides financial protection in case your trip is cancelled or delayed.
How do I purchase Schengen travel insurance?
First, compare offers using HelloSafe’s travel insurance platform to find the right price and coverage. Next, check all policy guarantees and exclusions, including Schengen-specific requirements. Then, purchase your insurance online. Finally, you will receive the policy certificate needed for your visa application, usually instantly by email.
Can I purchase Schengen travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can buy Schengen travel insurance after booking your flights and accommodation. It is actually advised to wait until you have confirmed your travel dates. However, make sure to buy and submit the certificate before attending your visa appointment or leaving South Africa.
How do I make a claim if something happens during my trip?
If you need to make a claim, contact your insurer’s helpline for assistance right away. You will need to provide your policy details, travel documents, and any relevant medical or police reports. Most providers allow you to submit claims online or via email, and will guide you through the claims steps and documentation needed.
Does Schengen travel insurance cover COVID-19 related issues?
Most Schengen insurance policies now include cover for COVID-19 medical expenses, hospitalisation, and emergency repatriation. Some also cover trip cancellation or quarantine due to a positive test. Always check policy details, as individual insurers’ COVID-19 coverage and exclusions may differ.
Can I get a refund if my Schengen visa is refused?
Many Schengen travel insurance providers offer a refund if your visa is formally denied. You usually need to provide the rejection letter and proof you never travelled. Check the policy’s cancellation and refund terms before you buy, as non-refundable plans do exist.
Is Schengen travel insurance mandatory?
Yes, Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for all South Africans applying for a short-stay Schengen visa. If you hold a residence permit for a Schengen country or are from a visa-exempt country visiting for tourism, insurance is not legally required, but is still highly recommended. For example, a South African on holiday in Germany without insurance would have to pay thousands of rand for emergency care.
When is it recommended to purchase Schengen travel insurance?
The best time to purchase Schengen travel insurance is right after booking your flights and before submitting your visa application. This ensures your coverage period exactly matches your travel dates and visa requirements, and provides financial protection in case your trip is cancelled or delayed.
How do I purchase Schengen travel insurance?
First, compare offers using HelloSafe’s travel insurance platform to find the right price and coverage. Next, check all policy guarantees and exclusions, including Schengen-specific requirements. Then, purchase your insurance online. Finally, you will receive the policy certificate needed for your visa application, usually instantly by email.
Can I purchase Schengen travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can buy Schengen travel insurance after booking your flights and accommodation. It is actually advised to wait until you have confirmed your travel dates. However, make sure to buy and submit the certificate before attending your visa appointment or leaving South Africa.
How do I make a claim if something happens during my trip?
If you need to make a claim, contact your insurer’s helpline for assistance right away. You will need to provide your policy details, travel documents, and any relevant medical or police reports. Most providers allow you to submit claims online or via email, and will guide you through the claims steps and documentation needed.
Does Schengen travel insurance cover COVID-19 related issues?
Most Schengen insurance policies now include cover for COVID-19 medical expenses, hospitalisation, and emergency repatriation. Some also cover trip cancellation or quarantine due to a positive test. Always check policy details, as individual insurers’ COVID-19 coverage and exclusions may differ.
Can I get a refund if my Schengen visa is refused?
Many Schengen travel insurance providers offer a refund if your visa is formally denied. You usually need to provide the rejection letter and proof you never travelled. Check the policy’s cancellation and refund terms before you buy, as non-refundable plans do exist.
