Travel Insurance for Europe: Why Indians Need It

When planning a Europe trip, many Indian travellers treat travel insurance as an optional add-on. In reality,
travel insurance for Europe is not optional at all —it’s both a visa requirement and a critical safety net.

This guide explains why Indians need travel insurance for Europe, what it covers, and how choosing the right policy can protect your trip from unexpected disruptions.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Europe?

Yes.
For Indian passport holders, travel insurance is mandatory when applying for a Schengen visa.

Without valid travel insurance:

• Your visa application can be rejected

• You may face issues at immigration

• Medical expenses abroad can become extremely costly

This is why every traveller booking Europe tour packages from India must arrange compliant travel insurance before applying for a visa.

Why Travel Insurance Is Important Beyond Visa Approval

While insurance is required for visa purposes, its real value lies in financial and medical protection during your trip.

Europe has excellent healthcare systems—but medical treatment is expensive for tourists without insurance.

What Does Travel Insurance for Europe Cover?

Medical Emergencies

Covers:

• Hospitalisation

• Doctor consultations

• Emergency treatment

This is the most important coverage, especially for first-time international travellers.

Emergency Evacuation

In case of serious illness or accidents, insurance covers:

• Emergency evacuation

• Medical repatriation if required

These costs can otherwise run into lakhs.

Trip Delays & Cancellations

Insurance may cover:

• Flight delays

• Missed connections

• Trip cancellations due to unforeseen reasons

This is especially helpful during peak travel seasons.

Baggage Loss or Delay

Covers:

• Lost baggage

• Delayed baggage expenses

• Theft of personal belongings

A common concern when travelling across multiple destinations.

Passport Loss Assistance

Insurance provides:

• Emergency assistance

• Guidance for document replacement

This can be a lifesaver in an unfamiliar country.

What Is the Minimum Insurance Requirement for a Schengen Visa?

Your travel insurance must:

• Be valid for the entire travel duration

• Cover medical expenses and emergencies

• Meet minimum coverage requirements specified by Schengen authorities

Incorrect or insufficient insurance is a common reason for visa rejection.

Common Mistakes Indians Make with Travel Insurance

Avoid these errors:

• Buying insurance only for visa approval

• Choosing policies with low coverage

• Incorrect travel dates on the policy

• Assuming credit card insurance is sufficient

Travel insurance should match your actual travel needs, not just paperwork requirements.

Does a Group Tour Include Travel Insurance?

Some group tours include insurance, while others require travellers to arrange it separately.

If you’re booking Europe group tours, always confirm:

• Whether insurance is included

• What coverage limits apply

• Whether it meets Schengen requirements

Clarity upfront avoids last-minute stress.

How Much Does Travel Insurance for Europe Cost?

Compared to overall trip costs:

• Travel insurance is relatively affordable

• Costs depend on duration, age, and coverage

• The protection offered far outweighs the cost

It’s one of the smartest and safest investments for international travel.

Who Should Be Extra Careful About Insurance?

Travel insurance is especially important for:

• Senior citizens

• Families with children

• Travellers with medical conditions

• First-time international travellers

In these cases, choosing the right coverage matters even more.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Treat Insurance as a Formality

Travel insurance is not just a visa document—it’s your safety net in a foreign country .

With proper insurance:

• You travel with peace of mind

• Medical emergencies are manageable

• Unexpected disruptions don’t ruin your trip

If you’re planning a Europe holiday and want clarity on visa requirements, insurance, and itinerary planning, getting the basics right makes all the difference.

Get Detailed Itinerary & Travel Guidance
(Includes visa and insurance guidance aligned with your trip.)