Migrating to Europe: What Insurance You Must Have Before Departure

Migrating to Europe requires careful planning, and one of the most important steps is securing the right insurance coverage before you leave your home country. Most European countries require proof of health or travel insurance for visa approval and initial residency, making it essential for migrants to understand their options.

This guide explains what types of insurance you must have, costs, and key coverage considerations when migrating to Europe.

Before migrating to Europe, you must have valid travel or health insurance that meets visa requirements. Costs typically range from $50 to $300 per month, depending on country, duration, age, and coverage. Insurance must cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and sometimes repatriation.

Why Insurance Is Mandatory for Migrants

European countries often require insurance for:

• Schengen visas (short-term stays)

• Long-term work or study visas

• Residence permits

Insurance ensures migrants can cover:

• Emergency medical treatment

• Hospitalization costs

• Accidents or injuries

• Medical evacuation or repatriation

Without insurance, visas may be denied or entry restricted.

Types of Insurance Required Before Migrating

1. Travel Health Insurance

• Covers short-term medical emergencies

• Required for Schengen visas (usually €30,000 minimum coverage)

• Typically purchased for the duration of the visa

2. Private Health Insurance

• Covers longer-term stays before local healthcare eligibility

• Mandatory in countries like Germany, France, Netherlands, and Belgium

• Often required for work or student visas

3. Repatriation / Evacuation Insurance

• Covers emergency medical evacuation to your home country

• Usually included in comprehensive travel health insurance

Insurance Requirements by Popular European Destinations

Costs vary by age, coverage, duration, and insurer.

What Coverage Should You Look For

When choosing insurance before migrating to Europe, ensure it covers:

• Emergency medical treatment

• Hospitalization and surgery

• Ambulance services

• Repatriation in case of severe illness

• Accidental injuries

Optional coverage may include:

• Dental emergencies

• Chronic condition management

• Travel delays or lost luggage

How to Buy Insurance Before Departure

1. Check your visa requirements – Each country has specific minimum coverage rules.

2. Compare insurance providers – Look for international or European insurers.

3. Review policy limits and exclusions – Ensure emergency care, evacuation, and hospitalization are covered.

4. Purchase before departure – Proof is often required at visa application or border control.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying tourist-only insurance for long-term stays

• Ignoring minimum coverage limits required for visas

• Assuming local healthcare will cover you immediately

• Choosing the cheapest plan without checking exclusions

FAQs

Is insurance mandatory for all European countries?

Yes, most require proof of travel or health insurance for visa issuance or initial residency.

How much does insurance for migrating to Europe cost?

Typically €50–€300 per month, depending on age, duration, and coverage.

Can I rely on employer or school insurance?

Sometimes, but most countries require proof of coverage before arrival.

Does travel insurance cover chronic conditions?

Only if specifically included in the policy; standard travel insurance usually excludes chronic conditions.

Final Thoughts

Securing the right insurance before migrating to Europe is critical for legal compliance and financial protection. By understanding country-specific requirements, coverage options, and costs, migrants can ensure a smooth transition and avoid visa delays or unexpected medical expenses.