- The best Schengen travel insurance plans
- What exactly is Schengen travel insurance?
- The price of Schengen travel insurance
- What does Schengen travel insurance cover?
- 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 insurance is mandatory medical coverage for a visa, covering emergencies and repatriation in the Schengen Area.
2. Price: For a one-week trip from Canada, expect to pay between $30 and $60 CAD, depending on your coverage.
3. Coverage: It covers emergency medical care and repatriation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Provincial health plans (e.g., OHIP, MSP) and credit cards rarely meet Schengen visa insurance requirements.
5. Tips: Choose a policy that explicitly states it is “Schengen compliant” and covers the minimum €30,000.
6. Other useful info: Remember that the United Kingdom is not in the Schengen Area, so check your policy's geographic coverage.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here 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 Canadian travellers in 2025. These options are distinguished by their high coverage limits, low deductibles and flexible conditions, providing the reliable protection required for Schengen visa applications and travel in Europe.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $110,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Certificate available instantly. • Multilingual customer service. • Direct hospital payment. • Clear Schengen compliance for visa use. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $110,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Easily meets visa minimums. • No age-based rate increase. • All Schengen countries covered. • 24/7 medical assistance included. |
| Tourist Card | $66,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Fast claims processing. • Covers trip cancellation benefits. • Appropriate for every Schengen country. • Certificate in English and French. |
| World Travel | $110,000 CAD (worldwide), $44,000 CAD (Schengen only) | $0 CAD | • Broad sports and activities cover. • Customisable packages. • Same day digital policy. • Emergency repatriation included. |
| Globe Partner | $44,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Strong value for frequent travellers. • Simple online application. • Automated claim status updates. |
| Globe Traveller | $66,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Valid for stays up to several months. • Coverage for medical repatriation. • Stable premium for seniors. • Multiple destination coverage. |
• Multilingual customer service.
• Direct hospital payment.
• Clear Schengen compliance for visa use.
• No age-based rate increase.
• All Schengen countries covered.
• 24/7 medical assistance included.
• Covers trip cancellation benefits.
• Appropriate for every Schengen country.
• Certificate in English and French.
• Customisable packages.
• Same day digital policy.
• Emergency repatriation included.
• Simple online application.
• Automated claim status updates.
• Coverage for medical repatriation.
• Stable premium for seniors.
• Multiple destination coverage.
The best Schengen travel insurance plan depends on your specific needs. You are invited to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to select the plan that fits you best and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareWhat exactly is Schengen travel insurance?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory coverage required for anyone applying for a Schengen visa from Canada.
It must provide a minimum of €30,000, or about $44,000 CAD, for emergency medical expenses and repatriation. Coverage must be valid in all 27 Schengen countries and last the duration of your entire trip.
This insurance needs to include emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation to Canada.
It is also called “Europe travel insurance” or “Schengen visa insurance.”
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out Schengen travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in Canada:
- when applying for a long-stay Schengen visa from Canada
- as your provincial health plan offers very limited coverage abroad
- to cover high emergency medical and repatriation costs to Canada
- if you have any pre-existing medical conditions to declare
- when participating in activities like skiing, hiking, or water sports
- if your credit card insurance does not meet Schengen standards
- for access to 24/7 assistance and direct payment to hospitals
- to protect non-refundable trip costs like flights and hotels
The price of Schengen travel insurance
On average, Schengen travel insurance costs between 2% and 4% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 4 days in Paris | 1,200 CAD | 24 to 40 CAD |
| 10 days in Italy and Spain | 3,000 CAD | 60 to 110 CAD |
| 3 weeks visiting France and Germany | 6,500 CAD | 110 to 190 CAD |
| 30 days exploring the Schengen area | 8,000 CAD | 140 to 240 CAD |
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: the longer the stay, the higher the price.
- Traveller’s age: older travellers generally pay higher premiums.
- Coverage amount: a higher insured sum increases the cost.
- Level of benefits: plans with enhanced coverage, such as lower deductibles or higher limits, cost more.
- Selected options: adding coverage for sports, valuable items, or cancellation protection raises the price.
What does Schengen travel insurance cover?
Schengen travel insurance is a required policy for Canadians visiting the Schengen Area with a visa. It ensures you meet all visa requirements for medical and repatriation coverage during your stay.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical care if you get sick or injured during the trip. | 🔴 Required for Schengen visa. Choose at least CA$44,000. Accept no deductible over CA$50. Routine treatments, chronic diseases, and ongoing medication are excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Arranges and pays for return to Canada in case of medical emergency or death. | 🔴 Required for Schengen visa. Insist on unlimited coverage and insurer-arranged transport within 48h. Voluntary repatriation and refusal by the traveller are excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental work for accidental injuries or acute pain during your trip. | We recommend at least CA$500 and avoid deductibles above CA$30. Planned or cosmetic dental treatment and orthodontics are always excluded. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or theft | Compensates if your bags are lost, stolen, or damaged in transport. | Look for at least CA$1,000 with a deductible under CA$30. Unattended luggage and valuables over set limits are excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Offers a fixed sum if your flight or train is delayed more than a set time. | Aim for CA$100 after 4 hours, with no deductible. Delays under 4 hours or lack of proof are not covered. |
| ⚖️ Personal liability | Covers injury or damage you cause to others during your trip in the Schengen Area. | At least CA$300,000 cover and a deductible below CA$100. Family-related incidents and damages to rental items are excluded. |
| ✈️ Trip interruption | Refund for unused travel services if you must cut your trip short for a covered reason. | A minimum reimbursement of CA$1,000 is suggested. Avoid high deductibles. Voluntary returns and routine cancellations are typically excluded. |
| 💔 Accidental death | Pays a lump sum to beneficiaries if you die accidentally during your trip. | At least CA$20,000 coverage is reasonable and should have no deductible. Excluded if death is due to high-risk activities or suicide. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal accident | Compensation for permanent disability incurred during your stay. | Minimum recommended: CA$10,000, no deductible. Sports injuries and intoxication are not covered. |
| 🚨 Emergency evacuation | Transport to the nearest hospital if care is not available locally. | Pick at least CA$50,000 coverage, no deductible. Evacuations for comfort or non-medical reasons are excluded. |
Choose at least CA$44,000. Accept no deductible over CA$50.
Routine treatments, chronic diseases, and ongoing medication are excluded.
Insist on unlimited coverage and insurer-arranged transport within 48h.
Voluntary repatriation and refusal by the traveller are excluded.
Planned or cosmetic dental treatment and orthodontics are always excluded.
Unattended luggage and valuables over set limits are excluded.
Delays under 4 hours or lack of proof are not covered.
Family-related incidents and damages to rental items are excluded.
Voluntary returns and routine cancellations are typically excluded.
Excluded if death is due to high-risk activities or suicide.
Sports injuries and intoxication are not covered.
Evacuations for comfort or non-medical reasons 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 best suited to your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of Schengen travel insurance
To activate your Schengen travel insurance and make it valid for your visa and stay, several key conditions must be satisfied.
- Coverage minimum: your policy must insure at least CA$44,000 in emergency medical and repatriation costs across all Schengen countries.
- Duration of coverage: your plan must cover the entire length of your intended stay, including possible visa extensions.
- Geographic validity: insurance must be valid in every Schengen state you plan to visit and during transit if in Schengen.
- Purchase timing: you must buy the policy before leaving Canada, and the start date must match your entry in Europe.
- Pre-existing conditions: coverage for pre-existing illnesses is excluded unless specified in the contract and confirmed by the insurer.
- Deductible compliance: many embassies require a zero-deductible policy, so always verify limits before purchase.
- Document requirements: you must provide an insurance certificate meeting Schengen standards for your visa application.
- Direct payment or reimbursement: in most cases, the insurer will reimburse, not pay the provider directly, except in major emergencies.
Watch out!
A critical mistake for Canadians is assuming their credit card insurance is Schengen-compliant. These policies often lack the specific €30,000 medical and repatriation coverage required for the visa. This common oversight can lead to a rejected application, so always purchase a dedicated, compliant policy.
Why take out Schengen travel insurance?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for Canadian citizens applying for a Schengen visa and must meet strict minimum requirements for medical and repatriation coverage.
Travelling in the Schengen Area without insurance can expose you to unexpected medical costs that may quickly become very expensive.
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) | $350 CA | Up to 100%, usually up to $44,000 CA or more |
| Medical repatriation to Canada | $75,000 CA | Up to 100%, within policy maximum |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization | $8,000 CA | Typically covered up to plan limit |
| Stitches after a fall | $450 CA | Commonly covered up to 100% |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection | $280 CA | Frequently reimbursed in full |
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 also cover trip interruption, lost or delayed baggage, civil liability, emergency dental care, and personal accident benefits.
Good to know
Beyond being a mandatory visa requirement, this insurance protects you from staggering medical bills. Your provincial plan won’t cover a €75,000 repatriation flight. A simple policy, like a low-cost one from ACS, ensures your visa is approved and your European trip is financially secure.
How to choose the right Schengen travel insurance
Coverage and reimbursement limits in Schengen travel insurance plans can differ depending on the insurer and the policy. It is important to know which key criteria meet the legal requirements so you get both your visa and proper protection.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limit | A minimum of €30,000 (about $44,000 CAD) is required for Schengen visa. | Always choose a plan with at least $44,000 CAD for medical, ideally much higher for better protection. |
| 📉 Deductible | High deductibles mean higher out-of-pocket costs during claims. | Favour Schengen policies with no deductible as this is also often required by consulates for visa applications. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Benefits apply only if documentation and certificates are precise and valid. | Confirm the certificate uses your passport name and states Schengen visa compliance in English or French. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Age can restrict eligibility and raise cost, especially over 65. | Check for any age exclusions, and if premiums rise with age, compare offers for seniors before purchase. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Policies differ for families, couples or solo travellers. | Select a plan that states who is covered and includes each travel companion as named on the visa application. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Insurance must cover total Schengen stay and potential visa extension. | Choose a policy that covers extra days before and after your listed travel dates for flexibility if delayed. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Coverage must be valid for all 27 Schengen countries, not just one. | Ensure policy explicitly lists “Schengen area” coverage and includes transit countries in your itinerary. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Canadian credit card or home insurance rarely meets Schengen legal standards. | Do not rely on existing Canadian insurance; obtain a dedicated Schengen-compliant plan for visa approval. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Certificates must be issued quickly for visa submission. | Favour insurers offering instant online policy documents and digital visa certificates with official signatures. |
Do my current insurance policies cover Schengen travel insurance?
It is understandable to wonder if your current insurances, such as credit card insurances or your public health system, can be used as Schengen travel insurance, but unfortunately this is often not sufficient. 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 (OHIP, RAMQ, MSP, AHCIP) | Never | May reimburse part of emergency medical care abroad with strict daily ceilings (up to $400 - $1,000 per day) and usually no repatriation. Does not cover repatriation or meet Schengen minimums, nor trip interruption, baggage, or liability. | Travel insurance covers up to $2,000,000, including medical repatriation, baggage loss, civil liability, and delays. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Manulife) | Never | Some limited emergency medical or hospital costs (up to $100,000 - $5,000,000), some basic repatriation. Does not guarantee Schengen compliance, nor cover trip cancellation, legal assistance, or all types of baggage loss. | Travel insurance covers health, repatriation and up to $2,000,000, plus cancellation, baggage, accident, and liability. |
| Classic credit card (Scotiabank Value Visa, RBC Rewards Visa) | Never | Basic or limited emergency medical expenses (typically max $1,000,000), almost never repatriation, limited trip delay. Does not include Schengen visa certificate, nor cover all medical fees, nor trip cancellation or comprehensive liability. | Travel insurance covers Schengen certificate with up to $2,000,000, repatriation, cancellation, and personal liability. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, World Elite Mastercard) | Never | Higher medical expense ceiling (max $2,000,000), some trip interruption, basic repatriation, possibly baggage insurance. Does not guarantee Schengen visa compliance, exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and often lacks extended liability or cancellation. | Travel insurance guarantees Schengen visa acceptance, up to $2,000,000, legal support, pre-existing coverage, and more. |
Does not cover repatriation or meet Schengen minimums, nor trip interruption, baggage, or liability.
Does not guarantee Schengen compliance, nor cover trip cancellation, legal assistance, or all types of baggage loss.
Does not include Schengen visa certificate, nor cover all medical fees, nor trip cancellation or comprehensive liability.
Does not guarantee Schengen visa compliance, exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and often lacks extended liability or cancellation.
Expert advice
Many Canadian bank cards and provincial health plans exclude key situations like trip interruption due to a family member's illness. Read your policy's fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is Schengen travel insurance mandatory?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for Canadian citizens who need a Schengen visa to enter or transit through the 27 Schengen Area countries, such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Even for Canadian passport holders who do not need a visa, having insurance is strongly recommended. For example, emergency medical treatment in Europe can be costly, so insurance is crucial for all travelers.
When is it recommended to purchase Schengen travel insurance?
It is best to purchase Schengen travel insurance immediately after booking your trip and before applying for your visa, if required. Buying early ensures that coverage is active for both pre-departure cancellations and the entire duration of your stay, providing peace of mind and financial protection in advance.
How do I purchase Schengen travel insurance?
Start by comparing plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find suitable coverage. Next, check guarantees and exclusions to be certain that conditions meet Schengen visa requirements. Then, purchase your policy online from an approved insurer. Finally, receive your insurance certificate to submit with your visa application or carry while traveling.
Can I purchase Schengen travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase Schengen travel insurance after booking your trip, but it should be done before you travel or apply for your visa. Early purchase is recommended to guarantee you meet all visa requirements and receive full cancellation protection for unexpected changes before departure.
How do I make a claim with Schengen travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s claims department by phone, email, or through their digital platform as soon as possible. Provide required documents, such as your insurance certificate, medical reports, receipts, and proof of incident, to process your claim efficiently. Always retain copies of all paperwork and correspondence.
Does Schengen travel insurance cover multiple countries within Europe?
Yes, Schengen travel insurance covers all 27 countries in the Schengen Area, provided your policy specifies this geographic coverage. Some policies will also include brief trips to other nearby countries or transit stops, but always confirm with your insurer to avoid coverage gaps during multi-country visits.
Are pre-existing medical conditions covered by Schengen travel insurance?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions depends on the insurer and the specific plan you purchase. Some Schengen travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions, while others may offer coverage for stable conditions if declared. Always disclose your health status and review the policy details before buying.
Is Schengen travel insurance mandatory?
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory for Canadian citizens who need a Schengen visa to enter or transit through the 27 Schengen Area countries, such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Even for Canadian passport holders who do not need a visa, having insurance is strongly recommended. For example, emergency medical treatment in Europe can be costly, so insurance is crucial for all travelers.
When is it recommended to purchase Schengen travel insurance?
It is best to purchase Schengen travel insurance immediately after booking your trip and before applying for your visa, if required. Buying early ensures that coverage is active for both pre-departure cancellations and the entire duration of your stay, providing peace of mind and financial protection in advance.
How do I purchase Schengen travel insurance?
Start by comparing plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find suitable coverage. Next, check guarantees and exclusions to be certain that conditions meet Schengen visa requirements. Then, purchase your policy online from an approved insurer. Finally, receive your insurance certificate to submit with your visa application or carry while traveling.
Can I purchase Schengen travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase Schengen travel insurance after booking your trip, but it should be done before you travel or apply for your visa. Early purchase is recommended to guarantee you meet all visa requirements and receive full cancellation protection for unexpected changes before departure.
How do I make a claim with Schengen travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s claims department by phone, email, or through their digital platform as soon as possible. Provide required documents, such as your insurance certificate, medical reports, receipts, and proof of incident, to process your claim efficiently. Always retain copies of all paperwork and correspondence.
Does Schengen travel insurance cover multiple countries within Europe?
Yes, Schengen travel insurance covers all 27 countries in the Schengen Area, provided your policy specifies this geographic coverage. Some policies will also include brief trips to other nearby countries or transit stops, but always confirm with your insurer to avoid coverage gaps during multi-country visits.
Are pre-existing medical conditions covered by Schengen travel insurance?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions depends on the insurer and the specific plan you purchase. Some Schengen travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions, while others may offer coverage for stable conditions if declared. Always disclose your health status and review the policy details before buying.
