Meta Description: Applying for a Schengen visa in Germany? Here’s a guide to the best travel insurance companies, affordable policies for students, and how to compare quotes in 2025.
Why You Can’t Skip Travel Insurance
If you’re applying for a Schengen visa to visit Germany, travel insurance isn’t optional—it’s required. Every embassy will ask for proof of a policy that covers at least €30,000 in medical expenses, including emergency evacuation.
When I went through this process the first time, I thought, “just grab the cheapest option.” Big mistake. The embassy doesn’t care if you saved €5, they care that your certificate is legit and meets the rules. That’s why picking one of the best travel insurance companies for Schengen visa applicants makes your life easier.
The Providers Everyone Talks About
Sit in a waiting room outside the German embassy in London or Delhi, and you’ll hear the same names come up again and again:
- AXA Schengen – Famous because they literally market themselves as visa insurance specialists. Certificates are embassy-friendly, fast to download.
- Allianz Travel – Reliable global brand, slightly pricier but strong claims support. Families often choose this.
- HanseMerkur – Local German provider. Very affordable and widely accepted for short stays.
- Europ Assistance – Great for 24/7 emergency help, solid reputation across Europe.
- ERV (Europäische Reiseversicherung) – One of Germany’s own travel insurers, often trusted by consulates.
👉 Many newcomers search for cheap Schengen visa travel insurance Germany, but the smart move is comparing what’s actually included—things like hospital stay limits, evacuation, and repatriation.
What You Should Double-Check Before Buying
Don’t just click “buy now.” Embassies are picky. Make sure your insurance:
- Covers €30,000 minimum medical costs
- Includes repatriation to your home country
- Works across all Schengen countries, not just Germany
- Matches the length of your visa (dates are crucial!)
A lot of first-time applicants ignore the small print. That’s why people who rush into the cheapest option sometimes get a shock when their visa gets delayed.
Students & Budget Travelers
Students ask me all the time: “Do we really need full coverage? I’m only staying a few weeks.”
Here’s the truth: embassies don’t care if you’re a student, you still need to tick the boxes. The good part is there are affordable Schengen travel insurance for students that cost less than €1.50 a day. HanseMerkur and AXA usually have student-friendly pricing.
I remember a classmate from India who applied for a student Schengen visa. His entire 15-day trip to Germany was covered for €32 with AXA. He got his visa approved on the first try.
Why Price Isn’t Everything
You’ll find sites advertising travel insurance for €0.90/day. Sounds great, right? Until you see the fine print: high deductibles, no baggage cover, or no 24/7 hotline.
That’s why smart applicants always compare Schengen visa insurance quotes before buying. Sometimes paying €5 more saves you a huge headache if things go wrong abroad.
Quick Real Stories
- A Brazilian family I met in Frankfurt picked Allianz. Expensive? A bit. But when their luggage went missing on arrival, Allianz sorted the claim smoothly.
- Another student friend used HanseMerkur. Cheap, yes, but more importantly, the embassy officer smiled when she saw the certificate—they know the name, it builds trust.
👉 And that’s why choosing from the top Schengen visa insurance providers Germany makes the process smoother.
FAQs About Schengen Visa Travel Insurance
Q1: Which travel insurance is best for Schengen visa in Germany?
AXA Schengen, Allianz Travel, HanseMerkur, ERV, and Europ Assistance are widely trusted.
Q2: How much does it cost?
Short stays (7–15 days) usually cost €30–€70. Students often pay on the lower end.
Q3: Can I buy online?
Yes—almost all providers email you a certificate instantly. Perfect for attaching to your visa file.
Q4: Do students get cheaper rates?
Yes. Plans like HanseMerkur are known for affordable Schengen travel insurance for students.
Q5: What if my travel dates change?
Most companies allow you to shift dates for a small fee. Just contact customer service early.
Final Thoughts
If you’re heading to Germany on a Schengen visa in 2025, don’t gamble with travel insurance. It’s not just a legal requirement—it’s peace of mind.
- Pick AXA Schengen if you want embassy-trusted, straightforward cover.
- Choose Allianz for strong global backup.
- Try HanseMerkur for budget-friendly student plans.
- Consider Europ Assistance or ERV if you want local German reliability.
👉 Bottom line: Don’t overthink the cheapest. Compare benefits, get your certificate ready, and walk into your visa appointment stress-free.