Visiting Germany? Here's what you need to know about travel insurance

Travel health insurance is a key requirement for most visitors heading to Germany and other Schengen countries. Whether you are travelling for tourism, family visits or short-term business purposes, having the right insurance coverage can be essential not only for visa approval but also for entry into the country.

Germany requires visitors applying for a Schengen visa to submit proof of travel health insurance that meets specific conditions. Even travellers who can enter Germany without a visa are advised to carry insurance, as border officials may ask for proof of coverage upon arrival.

Is travel insurance mandatory for Germany?

For travellers who need a visa, travel health insurance is a compulsory part of the Schengen visa application process. Without valid insurance, a visa application cannot be approved.


For visa-exempt travellers, insurance is not always checked. However, German authorities list adequate medical insurance among the conditions for entry, meaning travellers may be asked to present proof of coverage at the border.

What type of insurance is required?

Visitors travelling to Germany on a Schengen visa must obtain Schengen travel insurance.

The policy must meet three main requirements:

• Minimum medical coverage of €30,000.
• Validity across all Schengen countries.
• Coverage for the entire duration of the trip.

Since Germany is part of the Schengen Area, the same insurance requirements apply across all member states participating in the border-free travel zone.

What does the insurance cover?

Schengen travel insurance is designed to protect visitors against unexpected medical expenses during their stay.

Coverage typically includes:

• Emergency medical treatment.
• Doctor consultations and hospitalisation.
• Prescription medicines.
• Ambulance services.
• Medical evacuation to the traveller's home country.
• Repatriation in the event of death.

However, routine health check-ups, planned medical treatments and most non-emergency procedures are generally not covered under standard travel insurance policies.

How much does it cost?

Travel insurance for Germany is usually one of the least expensive parts of a trip.

According to the information provided, a basic policy for a one-week visit may cost as little as €18, with many plans falling within the €20-€30 range.

The final premium depends on several factors, including:

• The traveller's age.
• Length of stay.
• Coverage amount selected.
• Additional benefits included in the policy.

For older travellers, insurance costs can be significantly higher than for younger applicants.

Where can travellers buy insurance?

Most applicants purchase Schengen travel insurance online and receive an insurance certificate immediately after purchase. The certificate can then be submitted with a visa application.

Travel insurance can also be purchased through local insurance providers, depending on the applicant's country of residence.

Why should travellers arrange insurance early?

Travel experts recommend purchasing insurance well before submitting a visa application. Since proof of insurance is required for most Schengen visa applications, obtaining coverage early can help avoid delays during the application process.

In addition to meeting visa requirements, insurance can protect travellers from potentially high medical costs if they face an accident or sudden illness while visiting Germany.

For anyone planning a short trip to Germany, Schengen travel insurance is more than just a visa formality. It serves as financial protection against unexpected medical expenses and is a mandatory requirement for most visa applicants. Before travelling, visitors should ensure that their policy meets Germany's minimum coverage requirements and remains valid throughout their stay.