Practical Guide for Visitors, Visa Applicants, and Short-Term Stays
Travel insurance is a critical part of planning a trip to France. Whether you’re going for tourism, visiting family, or preparing to live there for a while, having the right insurance protects you from high medical costs, unexpected emergencies, and visa requirements.
This guide explains how to get insurance as a traveler in France, what kinds you need, and how to choose the right policy.
Tip: Travelers staying in France for more than a short visit, especially those renting or owning a second property, often combine travel medical coverage with holiday home insurance france to protect both their stay and their accommodation.
What Insurance Is Needed for Travel to France?
Mandatory vs Recommended Coverage
- Schengen Visa Travelers: If you require a Schengen visa to enter France, you must have travel medical insurance that meets specific criteria, usually covering at least €30,000 in medical and repatriation costs and valid throughout your stay. (TLScontact)
- Visa-Exempt Travelers (e.g., U.S., some EU nationals): Travel insurance is not legally mandatory but strongly recommended to avoid costly medical bills or trip disruptions. (SafeTrip)
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)/GHIC: If you’re from the EU or the UK, you may use an EHIC/GHIC for state medical care — but this isn’t a full travel insurance replacement. (GOV.UK)
Key Rule: Schengen visa insurance is compulsory for those who need a visa; others should still get coverage for peace of mind and cost protection. (Fab French Insurance)
Step-by-Step: How to Get Travel Insurance for France
1. Determine Your Entry Status
- Do you need a Schengen visa? If yes, choose a policy that meets visa insurance criteria (minimum €30,000 cover, repatriation, Schengen-wide) and includes a certificate. (TLScontact)
- No visa required? You can still buy travel insurance for medical, evacuation, and trip disruption coverage. (SafeTrip)
2. Choose the Right Type of Insurance
Travel insurance typically includes (but is not limited to):
- Medical and hospital coverage – Emergency care costs in France. (AVA Assurance Voyage Assistance)
- Repatriation/evacuation – Return to your home country if needed. (Ambrelia)
- Trip cancellation/interruption – Refunds if you must cancel or cut short your trip.
- Lost baggage/personal items – Compensation for theft or loss.
3. Decide on Coverage Levels
Consider your personal needs; common policy limits include:
| Coverage Type | Typical Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Medical coverage | At least €30,000 (Schengen visa min) |
| Evacuation & repatriation | €50,000–€100,000+ recommended |
| Baggage loss | Variable by insurer and items |
Note: Higher limits provide greater protection but cost more. (Squaremouth Travel Insurance)
4. Buy Insurance Online
You can purchase travel insurance online through international or local insurers. Many provide immediate certificates you can submit with visa applications or keep for travel. (VFS Global)
5. Check Policy Terms Carefully
Before buying, confirm that the policy:
- Is valid for the entire duration of your stay.
- Meets visa requirements (if needed). (TLScontact)
- Covers COVID-19 related issues if required or desired. (France Diplomacy)
Types of Travel Insurance Policies
Basic Options
- Single-trip insurance: Covers one specific journey.
- Multi-trip insurance: For frequent travelers within a year. (Accueil)
Specialized Policies
- Adventure/Activity coverage: For sports or outdoor trips.
- Senior traveler coverage: Tailored to older travelers’ needs.
- Family plans: One policy covers multiple people.
Common Considerations Before Buying
Using Credit Card Insurance
Some credit cards include travel insurance, but this may be limited in coverage and duration. Always review the fine print before relying on it. (Mademoiselle Voyage)
EHIC/GHIC Card
If you hold an EHIC/GHIC, you can access state care under the same conditions as French residents, but these cards do not replace travel insurance for emergency care or evacuation. (GOV.UK)
Checklist Before Your Trip
- Confirm whether your nationality requires a Schengen visa insurance certificate.
- Decide on minimum coverage amounts you need.
- Buy travel insurance online with certificate delivery.
- Save your insurance details and certificates in digital and printed form.
FAQs — Travel Insurance for France
Do I need travel insurance to visit France?
If you require a Schengen visa, yes — you must provide a valid travel medical insurance certificate. Other travelers aren’t required by law but are strongly encouraged to have insurance. (Fab French Insurance)
What should travel insurance cover for France?
At minimum, medical expenses and repatriation. Additional coverage can include trip cancellation, lost baggage, and personal liability. (Squaremouth Travel Insurance)
Can my regular health insurance cover me in France?
Many national health plans don’t provide coverage abroad. If you’re from the EU/EEA, an EHIC/GHIC helps but still doesn’t replace travel insurance. (GOV.UK)
Can I buy insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can usually purchase travel insurance any time before your trip, but doing it early ensures comprehensive coverage. (VFS Global)
Is travel insurance valid across all Schengen countries?
Yes, if it meets the Schengen requirements it typically covers all member states, including France. (TLScontact)
Conclusion
Getting the right travel insurance before a trip to France is a simple step with major benefits. It protects you from unexpected medical costs, meets visa requirements when necessary, and helps ensure peace of mind throughout your travels. Use this practical guide to choose and buy the right policy before departure so you can focus on enjoying your time in France.
Sources:
France-Visas official guidance on travel insurance requirements. (france-visas.gouv.fr)
Schengen visa insurance criteria. (TLScontact)
Health coverage recommendations and insurance basics. (SafeTrip)