Schengen Visa travel Insurance: what Indian nationals need for Spain

NAME: Axel Strauss
DATE: 26/11/2024

If you're an Indian passport holder hoping to visit Spain, you’re not alone. With an average of 85 million visitors annually, España currently ranks as the second most visited country in the world (after France). However, in order to get there, you’ll likely need the proper travel insurance. That’s why AXA has compiled the comprehensive guide on travel insurance from India to Spain below.

• Do Indian nationals need travel insurance for Spain?
• What are the travel insurance requirements for a Visa for Spain?
• Why choose AXA Schengen travel insurance for Spain?
• What travel insurance options does AXA offer for Spain?
• What should I do if I’m ill or injured while I’m in Germany?
• What else should I know when prepping my trip to Spain?

Do Indian nationals need travel insurance for Spain?

If you hold Indian citizenship*, yes. Because Spain is a member of the Schengen Area. And that means that most visitors — including Indian passport holders — need to have a Schengen visa to visit Spain. One of the key requirements for a Schengen visa, meanwhile, is valid Schengen travel insurance.

*IMPORTANT NOTE: Having a Schengen visa for Spain (and corresponding travel insurance) is mandatory even if you live abroad. For example, if you're an Indian national residing in Canada, the U.K., the U.S. (and/or an Indian Green Card holder).

In other words, unless you have a passport from one (or more) of the countries that don’t need a Schengen visa, securing the right travel insurance for Spain is essential.

PRO-TIP 1: If you do require a Schengen visa for Spain, AXA got your back too.
Our comprehensive guides can help you apply for a tourist visa for Spain, a student visa for Spain, and even a Schengen visa for Spain from India specifically. So click around!

PRO-TIP 2: And that said, visa or no visa — opting for quality travel insurance is always a smart move. Because it’s best to be prepared rather than risk being unprotected while abroad (but more on that below!)

What are the travel insurance requirements for a Schengen Visa for Spain?

In order to be granted your Spanish visa from India, your travel insurance will need to meet certain requirements too. These stipulate that your plan:

-is purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries;

-covers you in all Schengen member countries (and not just Spain);

-has a minimum coverage of €30,000 in medical expenses (including hospitalization, emergency treatment, and repatriation —including in case of death);

-is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Spain (and/or the rest of the Schengen Area).

And guess what? AXA’s plans meet all requirements above! But here are just a few more reasons why AXA is your best bet.

Why choose AXA Schengen travel insurance for Spain?

Not only can AXA help you secure your Spanish visa, but there are plenty of other reasons to choose us.

For starters, AXA’s plans have no age limit, don’t require a medical exam, and have zero deductibles.

Moreover, with AXA, you get:

-Up to €100,000 coverage in medical expenses;

-Medical repatriation & transport;

-Up to 180 days of coverage;

-Coverage not just in Spain but in all Schengen and most European Union countries (including the U.K. — depending on the chosen plan);

-24/7 assistance;

-And free Video and Phone Medical Consultations (with our unique “Doctor, please!” feature) in English, French, and a number of other languages;

Getting an AXA plan, meanwhile, is quick, easy, and straightforward.

PRO-TIP: In fact, you can buy Schengen travel Insurance from India online in just a few clicks!

When you do, AXA will then email you our world-renowned AXA Schengen travel insurance certificate. And said certificate — accepted by all Spanish (and other Schengen) embassies, consulates, and visa application centers in India — can then be downloaded and/or printed instantly.

And, finally, in case your Spanish visa from India is denied — AXA plans are fully refundable in most cases. You’ll only need to provide an official explanation as to why your visa was refused (from the relevant embassy, consulate, or visa application center).

What travel insurance options does AXA offer for Spain?

The right travel insurance for your Spanish adventure from India will depend on a number of factors. That’s why AXA offers you the following three comprehensive plans to choose from:

Low-Cost.
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, this plan provides our most basic coverage while meeting all Schengen visa requirements. It covers up to €30,000 in medical expenses, along with hospitalization and repatriation. And you’ll be protected across all Schengen Zone countries — as well as the European microstates of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

Europe Travel:
This plan also meets all the requirements for your Spanish visa. Meanwhile, medical expenses are covered up to €100,000, and you get additional benefits like protection for lost documents and/or valuables.
Moreover, as its name suggests — ‘Europe Travel’ also extends coverage from all Schengen countries (and the European microstates above) to all EU member states, as well as the U.K. This makes it perfect for those who want to explore beyond Spain, more adventurous types, and/or those traveling with family.

Multi-Trip:
Perfect for frequent travelers, this option — while offering all the benefits mentioned above — covers you for an entire year. It’s therefore especially suited for those with applying for multiple-entry Schengen visa, business travelers, and/or anyone who plans to enter Spain (and the Schengen Area) multiple times throughout the year.

We’re certain that one of the plans above is sure to meet any Indian traveler’s needs. But don’t just take our word for it!

Compare the different plans AXA offers for yourself and get a free Schengen travel insurance quote today!
 

What should I do if I’m ill or injured while I’m in Spain?

Even in such a beautiful setting as Spain, unexpected health issues or accidents can arise.

So if you experience a medical emergency, the first step is to contact the AXA Schengen helpline. Our team of medical professionals is ready to offer advice, assist with locating nearby medical facilities, and help with any other medical needs you may have. And we’re available 24/7 (even during siesta!).

*IMPORTANT NOTE: The emergency contact number will also be provided with your policy details once you purchase your plan. Make sure you save it!

When you call, have the following information ready:

-Your policy number (starting with "SCH");

-Your contact details, including your location (and/or any local contacts you may have);

-Your dossier number (which will be provided during the initial call).

PRO-TIP: And remember to always keep receipts, medical invoices, and other documentation related to your treatment. This will be essential for any claims you need to file later.

What else should I know when prepping my trip to Spain?

From over 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to over 100,000 tapas bars, Spain is a treasure trove of sights and experiences for any type of traveler. And with the country’s perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty — your journey is sure to be the trip of a lifetime.

But here are just a few more helpful things to keep in mind as you plan your adventure from India to España.

Emergency Numbers in Spain

-General emergency: 112

-Police emergency: 091

-Medical emergency (ambulance): 061

Currency

Spain, like the rest of the Eurozone, uses the Euro (€). As of late 2024, 1 Euro equals approximately 90 INR (but be sure to check current exchange rates before you travel!)

PRO-TIP: While credit cards are widely accepted in Spain, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. Especially when visiting smaller towns, local markets, and so on.

Security

Spain is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's important to be mindful of pickpockets and petty theft.

PRO-TIP: Overtourirsm is an ongoing local issue in many major cities in recent years. So it’s also vital that you stay vigilant in crowded areas, tourist hotspots, markets, public transport hubs, and so on. And keep your phone both on hand and secure.

Getting Around

Spain has an extensive and efficient public transport system. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville are well connected by metro, buses, and trams. If you plan on driving, you’ll need a valid driver’s license (and the minimum driving age is 18).

PRO-TIP: Be aware, however, that parking in city centers can be challenging. And keep an eye out for those scooters, cyclists, segways, and so on.

Opening Hours

Most shops in Spain are open Monday to Saturday, from around 9 AM to 1:30 PM and 5 PM to 8 PM. On Sundays, many businesses are closed — except in larger cities and tourist areas. Restaurants typically open for lunch around 1:30 PM and for dinner from 8 PM onward.

Weather

Spain has a Mediterranean climate, and that Spanish sun is often no joke. Summers can obviously get quite hot — especially in inland cities like Madrid, where temperatures can exceed 40°C. Coastal areas, however, enjoy milder temperatures. Winters are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 5–15°C. And rain (and sometimes, unfortunately, flooding) can be quite unpredictable. So pack accordingly.

FINAL PRO-TIPS: And, of course, we recommend trying as many tapas as humanly possible (within reason, of course).
But for a more detailed idea of what to expect, we also suggest you check out AXA’s full guide on Safety and Travel Advice for Spain.
With it — and a solid AXA travel insurance policy — your Spanish adventure from India is guaranteed to be as enjoyable and stress-free as possible!

RELATED ARTICLES :

• What is health insurance for a Schengen visa?
• Schengen travel insurance prices
• Where to find the Schengen visa application form for India

FAQ

Can I take out Schengen travel health insurance from India for someone else?

Yes. With AXA, you can purchase a travel insurance plan for guests and/or loved ones. You’ll just need to provide their personal info — i.e., DOB, address, passport number, and itinerary.

How long does it take to process a Spanish Schengen visa from India?

In general, the wait time is around 15 days — and that’s universally. However, in some cases, embassies can take between a month or two to process a visa. It will depend on your particular situation.

Can I work or study in Spain with a tourist visa?

No. A tourist (aka “short-stay”, aka Type C) visa allows you to visit Spain for vacation, to see family, or for a short business trip. But it cannot be converted into a work or study permit once you’re there.