If you’re a Pakistani student dreaming of studying in Germany, France, Italy, the UK, or any other European country that falls in the Schengen Zone, you’ve probably heard you must get Schengen travel insurance before applying for your visa. This requirement is part of Health Insurance for Student Visa Applicants, ensuring that students are protected against medical emergencies, hospital bills, and urgent healthcare needs while abroad.
But here’s the big question:
💡 Does Schengen travel insurance actually cover student medical emergencies?
The short answer: Yes — but it depends upon your plan. The right Schengen travel insurance will cover urgent medical treatment, hospitalization and sometimes even emergency evacuation. But there are fine-print details you must understand to avoid surprises.
In this guide, we’ll break it down step-by-step so you know exactly what’s covered, what’s not, and how to choose the best plan for your studies in Europe.
🎯 Why This Matters for Pakistani Students
- Visa requirement: Schengen visa rules require proof of medical insurance with at least €30,000 coverage while we provide coverage more than €40,000 minimum.
- Peace of mind: Medical costs in Europe are much higher than Pakistan. Without insurance, even a minor injury can cost thousands of euros.
- Student lifestyle risks: You might be away from family, trying new activities, or traveling between countries – increasing the chance of accidents or illness.
Key Terms Explained
Term | Meaning in Simple Words |
Schengen Zone | A group of 29 European countries with open borders for travel, including the UK. |
Schengen Travel Insurance | A policy that covers you during your trip in the Schengen Zone for medical emergencies, accidents, and sometimes travel issues like lost luggage & Passport. |
Medical Emergency | Any sudden illness or injury that needs immediate treatment. |
Repatriation | The process of sending you back to Pakistan due to serious illness or injuries. |
Pre-existing Condition | Health issues you had before buying the insurance. Many policies don’t cover this unless stated. |
✅ What Schengen Travel Insurance Usually Covers for Students
- Emergency medical treatment (doctor visits, surgery, hospitalization)
- Emergency dental treatment (for pain relief only)
- Prescription medicines for covered emergencies
- Ambulance services
- Repatriation to Pakistan
- Free of cost change of date before departure
❌ Common Exclusions You Should Know
- Routine check-ups and non-urgent treatment
- Pre-existing conditions (unless you buy a plan that covers them)
- Injuries from risky sports unless you add special coverage
- Pregnancy and childbirth (unless emergency and early stage)
- Mental health treatment (in most standard policies)
📊 Quick Comparison – Basic vs. Comprehensive Schengen Student Plans
Feature | Basic Plan | Comprehensive Plan |
Emergency Medical Coverage | ✅ | ✅ |
Dental Emergency | ✅ | ✅ |
Pre-existing Conditions | ❌ | ✅ (if declared) |
Sports Coverage | ❌ | ✅ |
Repatriation | ✅ | ✅ |
Lost Luggage / Trip Delay | ❌ | ✅ |
Cost | Lower | Higher |
🛠 How to Choose the Best Schengen Travel Insurance for Students from Pakistan
Step-by-Step Guide
- Check Your Visa Requirements
- Schengen visa needs at least €30,000 in medical coverage.
- Make sure your policy is valid for all Schengen countries.
- Decide Your Coverage Level
- Basic if you’re on a tight budget and staying short-term.
- Comprehensive if you’ll travel across Europe and stay longer.
- Look for Student-Friendly Features
- Multi-country coverage
- Emergency medical evacuation
- 24/7 support in English
- Declare Any Pre-Existing Conditions
- If you have asthma, diabetes, or other conditions, ask for coverage options.
- Compare Plans and Prices
- Use trusted providers like Asia Insurance Pakistan who offer Schengen-compliant policies.
- Buy Before You Apply for the Visa
- You’ll need the insurance certificate for your visa application.
⚖ Pros & Cons of Schengen Travel Insurance for Students
Pros | Cons |
Meets Schengen visa requirements | Can be costly for long stays |
Covers high medical costs abroad | Pre-existing conditions may be excluded |
Offers peace of mind for emergencies | Sports/activities may need extra cover |
Includes repatriation to Pakistan | Not all plans cover mental health |
📌 Real-Life Scenario
Scenario:
Sara, a Pakistani student in Italy, slipped while hiking and broke her ankle. Her hospital bill was €3,500. Her Schengen travel insurance covered the full amount, including ambulance and follow-up care. Without it, she would have struggled to pay.
🤔 FAQs – Schengen Travel Insurance & Student Medical Emergencies
Yes, it’s mandatory for your visa and protects you from high medical costs abroad.
Most modern policies now include COVID-19 coverage — check your policy wording.
No. You need to purchase it before applying for your visa.
You must declare it. Some insurers offer plans that cover such conditions.
Some plans do — confirm with your insurer before buying.
It should cover your entire stay, including travel days.
Yes, but you must request it before your current policy expires.
📢 Get Covered Before You Travel
Protect your health and your future. Asia Insurance Pakistan offers Schengen-compliant travel insurance tailored for students.
