​Getting travel health insurance for Europe from the US

NAME: Bogdan Kamuta
DATE: 26/11/2024

With over 700 million arrivals in 2023 alone, Europe consistently ranks as the world’s top tourist destination by far. So, it’s no wonder Europe’s popularity for U.S. travelers has surged in recent years too — with more and more Americans even choosing to call it home. However, unforeseen mishaps are never out of the question for any trip abroad. And the best way to ensure your upcoming European adventure is as worry-free as possible? Well, with some top-quality travel insurance coverage. So before you book that trip of a lifetime, check out AXA’s comprehensive guide on travel insurance for Europe from the US below!

• Is travel insurance for Europe from the US mandatory?
• I don’t need a Schengen visa — do I still need travel insurance?
• Why choose AXA for my European travel insurance?
• What travel insurance options does AXA offer?
• What should I do if I’m ill or injured while in Europe?
• What else should I know when prepping my trip to Europe?

Is travel insurance for Europe from the U.S. mandatory?

Short answer? No. However, it ultimately depends on a number of factors. So here’s a general breakdown.

Who doesn’t need travel insurance for Europe from the USA?

For U.S. citizens, travel insurance for most of Europe is not mandatory — provided your stay doesn’t exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. That’s because top tourist destinations like France, Portugal, Italy, and dozens more are members of both the Schengen Zone and the European Union.

As such, they all have visa-free agreements with the U.S. So while having the proper Schengen travel insurance is a mandatory Schengen visa requirement for most travelers, U.S. passport holders can visit both visa- and travel insurance-free.

Who might need travel insurance for Europe from the USA?

However, Europe is a big place. Comprising nearly 50 countries, it also includes places like Russia, Belarus, and Turkey. All three of these do indeed require U.S. citizens to have a visa — while Russia’s and Belarus’ visa requirements mandate having the proper travel insurance too.

PRO-TIP 1: The geography can get tricky, but AXA can gladly tell you all about the differences between Europe, the EU, the Schengen zone, and so on if you like!

Do non-US citizens coming from the USA need travel insurance for Europe?

As for those without a U.S. passport, requiring travel insurance depends on both your destination and citizenship.

For example, Indian Green Card holders in the U.S. do need a Schengen visa — and therefore the appropriate travel insurance — for most of Europe.

However, if your passport is from one (or more) of the countries that don’t need a Schengen visa — then you’re good to go too.

PRO-TIP 2: If you’re not visa-exempt, fear not. AXA can also help you apply for a Schengen visa from the US, tell you about the different Schengen visa types, and more. So click around!

What if I’m coming from the USA to Europe for more than 90 days?

If you’re planning on Europe long-term, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, between 2019 and 2022, Portugal alone saw a staggering 122% increase in U.S. residents. While Spain welcomed roughly 8,000 fresh U.S. expats just in 2022.

But whatever your destination, you'll likely need a long-stay (aka Type D) visa or residency permit to stay. And most Schengen countries require travel insurance as part of that visa/residency application process* too — be that from the USA or anywhere else.

*PRO-TIP 3; And even if travel insurance is not mandatory everywhere — it definitely makes navigating life in a new country less stressful.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Specific travel requirements vary from nation to nation So it’s always best to also check with the official government website of your specific destination country — as well as that of the European Commission — for all the latest info.

I don’t need a Schengen visa — do I still need travel insurance?

Even though travel insurance isn’t mandatory for U.S. citizens visiting Europe short-term, it’s still a smart move.

Because whether you’re skiing in the Alps or just lounging on the Spanish coast — some unexpected surprises are bound to happen. And medical emergencies, trip delays, lost luggage/documents, and the likes can disrupt even your best-laid plans.

Moreover, foreign healthcare systems, language barriers, bureaucracies — all this can make a bad situation even worse.

Meanwhile, a solid travel insurance plan ensures you and your family are not alone — from minor mishaps to major issues.

So while it may not be required, travel insurance is definitely a wise safety net — and one that can help keep your dream European adventure from becoming a real nightmare.

Why choose AXA for my European travel insurance?

And here are just a few reasons why AXA is the best way to stay safe in Europe. Our plans require:

• no medical exam;
• no age limit;
• and no deductibles.

Moreover, AXA offers:

• 24/7 assistance;
• Free Video and Phone Medical Consultations (in English and a number of other languages) with our unique “Doctor, please!” feature;
• Up to €100,000 coverage in medical expenses, including medical repatriation & transport;
• Up to 180 days of coverage in all Schengen and European Union countries (including — depending on the chosen plan — the U.K.).

The AXA application process,* meanwhile, is quick and straightforward.

*PRO-TIP 4: In fact, you can buy your Schengen travel insurance online in just a few clicks!

You’ll then receive our world-renowned travel insurance certificate via email — which is accepted by all Schengen embassies in the US (and worldwide).

And, finally, if your Schengen visa is denied, we offer a full refund (with the appropriate official documentation from the corresponding embassy, consulate, and/or visa application center, that is).

What travel insurance options does AXA offer?

To meet any Europe-bound US traveler’s needs, AXA offers the following three comprehensive plans:

• Our Low-Cost plan is ideal for budget travelers, it meets all Schengen visa requirements and covers medical expenses up to €30,000 — including hospitalization and/or repatriation. Geographically, “Low-Cost” applies to all Schengen countries and the European microstates of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.
   
• AXA’s Europe Travel is perfect for Americans traveling to multiple European countries. Along with all the benefits above, it covers medical expenses up to €100,000. In addition, it protects against issues like lost documents. And it covers you all Schengen countries, all EU nations, the microstates above, and the U.K.
   
• And our Multi-Trip option provides you with a full year’s coverage (while offering all the perks above too). It’s therefore ideal for families, more adventurous types, and those traveling from the USA on business. And it’s also your best bet if you’re applying for a multiple-entry visa, hoping for residency, and/or are planning to enter Europe regularly.

In short, with the right AXA plan, your upcoming European adventure — be it as a US tourist, expat, or immigrant — is sure to be seamless and worry-free.

So explore for yourself, compare AXA’s different warranties,and Get a free AXA Schengen Travel Insurance quote today!

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

And if something does go wrong in your European destination, remember — AXA is there for you from day one.

Simply contact our AXA Schengen call center.* We’re standing by to answer your questions, give medical advice and/or support, or help you find the nearest medical center.

*The number will also be provided with your travel insurance policy. So make sure to save it!

When calling, you’ll need:

• The number of your policy (beginning with “SCH”);
• The address and telephone number where you can be reached (as well as the contact details of anyone who can be reached locally on your behalf);
• Your dossier number (which will be communicated during the first call).

IMPORTANT: Make sure you always have the above numbers on hand too. And always save any medical bills, invoices, and receipts (and enclose them with your file as directed).

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

Europe is roughly as big as the U.S. — i.e., around 4 million square miles (or 10 million square kilometers, in European English). It’s also home to more than double the US’s population, nearly half a hundred unique nations, and over 200 spoken languages. Plus, 400+ UNESCO sites, 24,000+ beaches, and 100,000+ castles. Oh, and at least 10,000 distinct varieties of wine.

In other words, there’s a lot to see and do. But here are a few basic things to keep in mind as you prep:

• Europe is generally safe.* However, be cautious in crowded and/or touristy areas, and always stay vigilant.
• The phone number for emergency assistance across most EU countries is 112.
• The currency in most European nations is the Euro (€), which is usually slightly more than the US dollar (be sure to check the latest exchange rates). However, some countries still have their own currencies — so Google around too.
• Be prepared for varying weather conditions (i.e., freezing winters in the north, scorching summers in the south)
• Stores and restaurants in smaller towns may close early, and Sundays are often considered rest days.
• Tipping is not really a European thing (although it’s not unwelcome).

*FINAL PRO-TIP: To further ensure a smooth journey, we recommend you check out our guide on Safety Tips for Traveling to Europe too (along with an AXA plan above, of course). And have a very Bon Voyage!

RELATED ARTICLES:

• How to choose the best Schengen travel insurance
• How much does Schengen travel insurance cost?
• What is health insurance for a Schengen visa?

FAQ

Will my US health insurance cover me in Europe?

No, most US health insurance plans (such as Medicare) do not provide coverage abroad — especially for emergencies or routine care. So it’s best to check with your provider (or, better yet, opt for AXA!).

Can Americans get health insurance once they are in Europe?

Yes, Americans can get health insurance in Europe by either purchasing travel insurance or applying for local health insurance (if staying long-term or as a resident, for example).

Can I purchase an AXA Schengen travel insurance plan from the USA for someone else?

Yes, AXA allows you to take out a travel insurance policy for friends, guests, and/or loved ones — and that’s regardless of where you (or they) are. You’ll only be asked to provide their personal info (i.e., their name, DOB, address, passport number, and itinerary).