Applying for a Schengen visa from India requires meticulous preparation, and one crucial element is securing the right travel insurance. For Indian travelers planning a trip to Schengen countries, understanding the specific requirements for travel medical insurance is paramount. This guide outlines the approved list of Indian travel insurance companies recognized by Schengen consulates, ensuring your visa application process is smooth and compliant.
Why is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Your Schengen Visa?
Schengen visa regulations mandate that all applicants possess adequate travel medical insurance. This insurance serves as a financial safety net, covering potential medical expenses, emergency hospital treatments, and even repatriation for medical reasons or in case of death during your stay within the Schengen area. The policy must be valid across all Schengen states and throughout your intended period of stay or transit. A minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 is stipulated to ensure sufficient financial protection for unforeseen medical situations. This requirement is in place to safeguard both travelers and the Schengen countries’ healthcare systems.
List of Approved Indian Travel Insurance Companies for Schengen Visa
For Indian citizens applying for a Schengen visa, particularly through German Missions which have specific guidelines, it’s vital to choose a travel medical insurance provider from the approved list. As of July 2022, the consular posts of Schengen states have officially recognized the following Indian travel insurance companies and their policies as meeting the necessary criteria for Schengen visa applications:
| Insurance Company | Age Limit for Coverage |
|---|---|
| Acko General Insurance Ltd. | 91 days to no limit |
| Aditya Birla Health Insurance Co. | No age limit |
| Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Co. | 6 months – 70 years (Travel Prime Super Age Policy: No limit) |
| Care Health Insurance Limited | All Plans without age limit |
| Bharti AXA General Insurance Co. | 3 months – 85 years |
| Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Co. | 0 month – 70 years |
| CoCo by Navi General Insurance Co. Ltd | 91 days to 85 years |
| GO Digit General Insurance Ltd. | 0 month – 99 years |
| HDFC ERGO General Insurance Co. Ltd. | 3 months – 70 years |
| ICICI Lombard General Insurance Co. | 3 months – 50 years (Policies for Schengen: 51-85 years) |
| IFFCO – Tokio General Insurance Co. | 3 months – 70 years |
| Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Co. Ltd | 0 month – 95 years |
| Niva Bupa Health Insurance Co. Ltd. | Max entry age 65 years (lifelong renewability) |
| National Insurance Co. Ltd. | 6 months – 60 years (Schengen Plan: 61- 80 years) |
| The New India Assurance Co. Ltd. | 6 months – 70 years |
| The Oriental Insurance Co. Ltd. | 6 months – 60 years |
| Reliance General Insurance Co. Ltd. | 3 months – 70 years (Travel Care-Schengen: 71-80 years) |
| Royal Sundaram General Insurance Co. Ltd | 3 months – 100 years |
| SBI General Insurance Co. Ltd. | 6 months – 70 years |
| Star Health & Allied Insurance Co. Ltd | 6 months – 70 years |
| Tata-AIG General Insurance Co. Ltd. | 6 months – 55 years (Travel Guard: 56-70 years, Senior: 71+) |
| United India Insurance Co. Ltd. | Without age limit |
| Universal Sompo General Insurance Co. Ltd | 0 month – 70 years |
| Future Generali India Insurance Co. Ltd | 6 months – 70 years |
| Edelweiss General Insurance Company Ltd | 5 years – 45 years |
Note: Always verify the latest list with the specific Schengen country’s consulate or embassy as guidelines can be updated.
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Travel Insurance
While any insurance provider from the approved list is acceptable, consider these points when selecting your policy:
- Age Limits: Note the age restrictions for standard policies. Some companies offer specific plans for senior citizens with extended age coverage, like Bajaj Allianz’s Travel Prime Super Age Policy or Tata-AIG’s Travel Guard Senior.
- Policy Coverage: Ensure the policy explicitly states it is valid for Schengen visas and meets the EUR 30,000 minimum coverage for medical expenses, repatriation, and emergency treatment.
- Duration of Stay: Choose a policy that covers the entire duration of your intended stay in the Schengen area, including any transit days.
- Specific Needs: If you have pre-existing medical conditions, discuss with the insurance provider to ensure these are adequately covered or if you need a specialized policy.
Important Points for Schengen Visa Applicants Regarding Travel Insurance
- Exclusivity of the List: Insurances from companies not on this approved list may not be accepted for your Schengen visa application, potentially leading to rejection.
- Corporate and Group Travel: For corporate or group travel, insurance policies with a maximum age limit of 70 years for full coverage are generally accepted. However, verification of individual coverage for group policies might be required by consulates.
- Alternative Insurance Options: While it’s recommended to obtain insurance from Indian companies on the approved list, you may also consider insurance from companies based in other countries, provided that claims against them are recoverable within a Schengen State.
- Multi-Entry Visas: For multiple-entry Schengen visas, ensure your insurance covers at least the period of your first intended visit. You will also need to declare your awareness of the necessity to have travel insurance for subsequent trips.
Conclusion: Secure Your Schengen Visa with the Right Travel Insurance
Choosing the correct travel insurance is a non-negotiable step in your Schengen visa application process. By selecting a provider from the officially approved list of Indian travel insurance companies, you ensure compliance with visa requirements and gain peace of mind knowing you are protected against unforeseen medical emergencies during your European journey. Always double-check the latest guidelines from the specific Schengen country’s consulate and choose a policy that best suits your travel needs and health profile.
