Health insurance for foreign tourists in Germany – this is required under Schengen law

Health insurance for foreign tourists in Germany – this is required under Schengen law

Anyone wishing to enter Germany as a tourist from a non-EU country generally requires a Schengen visa . A key requirement for this is suitable travel health insurance . But what does "suitable" mean – and what do travelers need to be aware of according to the EU Visa Code? Travel health insurance is not a formality, but a key security criterion for entering Germany. Without comprehensive and EU-compliant insurance coverage, your visa application may be rejected.

In this article, we explain the requirements Schengen states have regarding tourists' health insurance – and why inadequate insurance can lead to the rejection of a visa application.

What does the Schengen Visa Code stipulate?

The mandatory requirements are set out in Article 15 of Regulation (EC) No. 810/2009 , the so-called EU Visa Code. According to this, applicants for a Schengen visa must:

• provide evidence of adequate and valid travel health insurance,

• which covers the entire stay in the Schengen states,

• and offers a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros,

• including costs for emergency medical care, hospital treatment and repatriation in the event of illness or death

Important: The insurance must be valid for the entire territory of the Member States – or, in the case of regionally restricted visas, at least for all countries visited.

When must proof of insurance be provided?

Travel health insurance must be taken out when applying for a Schengen visa . Without valid proof, the consulate is obligated to reject the application as inadmissible. Those applying for a multiple-entry visa must provide proof of insurance coverage for at least the first planned stay and confirm in writing that they will also take out insurance for future stays.

Does every insurance apply?

No. Not every travel health insurance policy automatically meets the requirements of Schengen law. It is particularly important to note:

• Direct billing or reimbursement of medical costs in the Schengen area.

• An insurer from whom ‘claims against an insurance company in a Member State can be recovered’ (Article 15(5) of the Visa Code)

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Which insurance meets these conditions?

The most popular insurance policy among expats is Feather. Feather Insurance offers English-speaking customer service and a fully digital platform. Many of our clients use Feather insurance, and we've never had any issues with recognition by the authorities. By using our referral link to book Feather insurance, you're supporting our blog ( click here ).