How to get the right Schengen visa travel insurance for Spain?

Who needs travel insurance to visit Spain?

To make a long story short: everyone. But whether travel insurance is compulsory to enter Spain, or simply the wisest choice to keep yourself and your loved ones safe, is another matter – one we’re going to look into more thoroughly. So exciting!

When is travel insurance mandatory to visit Spain?

Being protected by travel insurance is compulsory to obtain a Schengen visa for Spain. Let’s see what it means and what it implies.

Spain is part of the Schengen area. As such, it applies the same rules as the other member States when it comes to allowing or refusing entry to certain travellers. These common rules are defined by the European Union Visa Code which determines Schengen visa requirements.

Citizens of over a hundred countries (including several countries from the Maghreb, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Russia, India, and others) need to apply and obtain a Schengen visa to enter the Schengen area and thus be allowed on Spanish territory.

To get the precious Schengen sticker on their passport, these aspiring travellers to Spain will submit a visa application file which must contain certain compulsory supporting documents including a travel insurance certificate.

This document proves that they are covered by travel insurance which complies with the EU requirements. Without valid travel insurance, their visa application will be denied.

→ Travel insurance is thus mandatory to obtain a Schengen visa.

PRO TIPS:

• To find out if you need a visa to visit Spain, check the list of nationalities that require a Schengen visa.
• You can also visit Spain’s official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and the official website(s) of your home country for more information.

How to apply for a Schengen visa for Spain?

And if you do need a visa to get to Spain, click around — because we can also tell you which type of Schengen visa best suits your Spanish travel needs. AXA Schengen not only provides proper travel insurance for Schengen visas, but also guides you step by step through the different application processes:

• How to get a Schengen visa for Spain, in general,
• How to get a Tourist visa for Spain 
• How to get a student visa Spain
• How to get a visa for Spain from Algeria?
• How to get a visa for Spain from Argentina?
• How to get a visa for Spain from Bolivia?
• How to get a visa for Spain from Chile?
• How to get a visa for Spain from Colombia?
• How to get a visa for Spain from Cuba?
• How to get a visa for Spain from Ecuador?
• How to get a visa for Spain from India?
• How to get a visa for Spain from Morocco?
• How to get a visa for Spain from Tunisia?

PRO TIP: Once you’ve applied, AXA will also tell you all about online Schengen visa tracking, your Schengen visa validity, and your options for Schengen visa extension.

You’re welcome! Or rather, de nada!

What are the Schengen travel insurance requirements to obtain a visa for Spain?

Important! Article 15 of the European Union Visa Code, determines the requirements for travel insurance to be considered as valid and thus accepted with a Schengen visa application for Spain. If they are not met, the visa application is systematically denied.

Your Schengen travel insurance for Spain must:

• Guarantee a €30,000 minimum coverage for medical expenses
• Cover emergency hospitalisation and medical care due to health issues occurring during your stay.
• Bear the costs of repatriation to your home country in case of serious health issues or even death.
• Be certified by all the countries of the Schengen area (not only Spain)
• Be valid in all Schengen countries (not only Spain)
• Remain valid during the entire duration of your stay.
• Be purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries

Good news! AXA Schengen travel insurance meets all these criteria and much more!

Is travel insurance mandatory if you don’t need a Schengen visa for Spain?

First off, a little reminder of who doesn’t need a Schengen visa to visit Spain (for stays shorter than 90 days):

Who doesn’t need a Schengen visa to visit Spain?

• - Nationals of the Schengen area or the EU;
• - Holders of a valid residence permit issued by another Schengen State;
• - Nationals of a non-Schengen European Union member country (like Cyprus or Ireland)
• - Nationals of a non-EU country (and/or territory) that has signed a visa exemption agreement with the EU. Of these there are roughly 60 - with Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, the U.K., and the U.S. being among the most popular.

PRO-TIP: AXA can also help you understand the Schengen visa 90/180-day rule in no time too!

Why is travel insurance the smartest choice when travelling to Spain (or elsewhere)?

While getting travel insurance is not mandatory to visit Spain if you don’t need a Schengen visa, common sense should tell you that it is nonetheless the best choice to enjoy a carefree trip.

Still doubtful? All right, you asked for it:

Traveling abroad always comes with a few surprises -good and bad- and, therefore, a certain level of risk. Your health and safety — as well as those of your loved ones — should always be a top priority no matter where in the world you plan on going.

Medical costs abroad can be surprisingly high (especially when it comes to things like prescription drugs). If you are pregnant and/or have a preexisting medical condition, your general risk factors are that much higher too.

Moreover, no matter the medical need — navigating the Spanish healthcare system can be grueling, time-consuming, and sometimes downright exhausting. Especially considering that — as opposed to most of their European neighbors — the Spaniards are not necessarily fluent English speakers. And even if you have made the polite effort of learning to hablar español —be it un poco or mucho — getting the assistance you need is never guaranteed.

So whether you are scaling the Pyrenees, exploring the windmills and landscapes of Don Quixote’s La Mancha, taking in Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, sampling some Sangria along Costa del Sol, or anything in between — you want to be sure that you’re fully prepared in case something does go wrong. And the best way to prioritize your health and safety is by being properly insured.

Comprehensive travel insurance for Spain will save you mucho unneeded worry, as well as time and money. But, most importantly — it will offer you peace of mind, security, and ongoing support, ensuring that you and your family are well taken care of 24/7, throughout your entire Spanish adventure, wherever you may be and whatever the holiday activities you undertake.

Why choose AXA Schengen Travel Insurance for your trip to Spain?

With 65 years (and counting) of experience and expertise, AXA has established a longstanding international reputation, providing affordable, comprehensive and reliable travel insurance coverage to travellers worldwide.

Its knowledge and understanding of local cultures allow fast and efficient assistance when the insured requires it the most.

If you need more convincing, here are a few more reasons why AXA’s got your back:

• AXA Schengen visa insurance complies with all E.U requirements in terms of visa obligations.
• It is certified and accepted by the consulates and embassies of all the countries part of the Schengen area.
• It is thus automatically accepted with Schengen visa applications.
• It guarantees a coverage of minimum €30,000 and up to €2 million depending on the chosen plan.
• It covers medical expenses, hospitalisation, sanitary repatriation including in the event of death.
• It includes both civil liability and personal liability coverage.
• It includes death and disability insurance.
• Its coverage scope includes all the Schengen states, European microstates, other non-Schengen but EU countries as well as the United Kingdom (depending on the chosen option).
• It offers duration flexibility - from just one day, up to six months, or up to a full year.

Other advantages of choosing AXA travel insurance:

• AXA is internationally renowned for its expertise in Schengen travel insurance.
• It offers 24/7 assistance thanks to its devoted teams of experienced professionals.
• Online subscription is quick and easy.
• Your Schengen travel insurance certificate is available instantaneously. You can thus immediately print and enclose the certificate with your visa application file, saving you precious time.
• There is no age restriction.
• 0 deductible applies to medical expenses.
• No medical check-up is required.
• It is refundable if your visa application is denied.
• It offers many additional advantages: delivery of prescriptions, glasses and prosthesis, daily hospitalization allowance, search and rescue costs, coverage of the early repatriation of the injured’s travel companions and their luggage. This also applies to the policy holder if they must interrupt their stay due to an emergency (such as serious illness in the family, etc.)
• It includes baggage insurance depending on the chosen plan.
• Free remote medical consultations are available with our unique “Doctor, please!” feature in English, French, and several other languages.
• AXA offers tailor-made insurance with multiple upgrade options designed to satisfy all needs and budgets.

What is the best AXA travel insurance plan for you?

To make sure no one leaves uncovered, AXA offers different comprehensive plans. The one you choose will be determined by the nature of your trip as well as other determining aspects such as who you are travelling with, how often you intend on visiting the Schengen area or even how adventurous you are going to be during your trip to Spain.

Let’s find out which plan best suits your needs:

• AXA Schengen Basic offers standard and efficient coverage to obtain your Schengen visa. This travel insurance option meets all the mandatory requirements, covers you in all the countries of the Schengen Area as well as in the 4 European microstates (Andorra, Vatican City, Monaco and San Marino).
• AXA Schengen Essential provides complete and reliable coverage at an affordable price. Another perfect choice to obtain your Schengen visa. Not only does it meet all visa requirements and is valid in all the Schengen countries + the European microstates, but it also offers coverage in all the EU countries as well as the UK.
• AXA Schengen Premium is THE all-inclusive plan allowing you to obtain your Schengen visa and to travel stress-free all over Europe. Its coverage is valid in all Schengen countries + the EU countries + the 4 microstates + the UK.
• AXA Schengen Annual is the ideal yearly travel insurance plan for frequent travellers to Europe as well as multiple-entry Schengen visa holders. One contract for a full year of travel coverage across Europe! It is valid in all Schengen countries + the EU countries + the 4 microstates + the UK.

To make the perfect choice depending on your travel needs, compare our different coverage and benefits!

Get your free online quote now and start packing!

What should you do in case of illness or injury during your trip to Spain?

While we only wish you the best during your trip to Spain, trouble can sometimes ruin what should be a wonderful moment. If that is the case, stay calm and remember that you’ve made the right decision by choosing AXA as your travel insurance.

• In case of a medical emergency, contact your AXA call centre at the number featured on your insurance policy.
• During your first call, you will be given a reference file number. Keep it handy as you will have to provide it each time you are in contact with the assistance team.
• Once you reach the AXA Centre, you’ll be asked:
  • Your policy number (which begins with "SCH");
  • The address and telephone number at which you can be reached (as well as the details of any people that can be contacted locally);
  • Your reference file number (provided during your initial call).

Our medical professionals are standing by to answer your questions, provide guidance, and/or, if need be, help you find the nearest Spanish medical facility.

IMPORTANT: Remember to keep all bills/invoices and enclose them with your file if need be.

Bonus Info:

• The number for general emergency services in Spain — as well as the rest of Europe — is 112. You can call 112 from any telephone. The operator will then divert you to the relevant emergency service.
• These individual emergency services - the police (*policía*), the fire brigade (*bomberos*), the ambulance services (*ambulancía*) are also available at the following numbers:
  • Ambulance: 061
  • Fire brigade: 080
  • National police: 091
  • Local police: 092
• You can find more helpful info on the Spanish Government’s Official General Access Point website.

Useful information and safety tips for your trip to Spain.

And, finally, here are a few more general deets to help you prep for your upcoming Spanish getaway:

Safety in Spain

• Overall, Spain is a safe travel destination. Violent crime is rare. However, petty theft like pickpocketing and bag snatching can be a concern, as well Credit card and ATM fraud and cybercrime. This is especially true in popular tourist destinations like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Illegal taxis are also known to overcharge unsuspecting tourists.
• Food safety regulations in Spain are fairly strict, and both restaurant meals and supermarket groceries are generally safe for consumption. Tap water, meanwhile, is also considered generally safe to drink in most cities and towns.
• In short — use common sense, trust your instincts, have your phone charged, and be extra vigilant in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Public Transportation in Spain

• Spain’s public transportation is generally well-developed and includes an extensive network of buses, trains, and metro systems — especially in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Renfe — i.e., Spain's state-owned railway company — operates (mostly) high-speed trains connecting key cities.
• The country also boasts a wide range of urban transportation options — including buses and metro lines (such as the Madrid Metro and the Barcelona Metro). Taxis, Uber, Bolt, e-bikes, e-scooters, and the likes are all readily available throughout most of the regions too.

Driving in Spain

Spanish roads are generally well-maintained. However, driving defensively is important — especially if you're not accustomed to European driving styles. An international driving permit or a translation of your driver's license may be required in certain cases. More information can be obtained from Spanish embassies or consulates. Make sure to familiarize yourself with (and follow!) the local traffic regulations.

PRO TIPS:

• For more information, don’t forget to read our article on which driving licenses are accepted in Europe.
• Always keep in mind that tourist hotspots like Madrid and Barcelona get very crowded — making navigating them with e-scooters and bikes extra tricky. Accidents are not uncommon, so — regardless of your chosen mode of transportation — prioritize your safety.

Weather in Spain

Due to its varied geography, Spain experiences diverse weather patterns. The coastal regions, for example, enjoy a Mediterranean climate — i.e., hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The interior regions have a more continental climate — but also with hot summers and cold winters. Northern coastal areas like Galicia and the Basque Country receive more rainfall and have milder temperatures throughout the year.

The Canary Islands boast a subtropical climate — making them a notoriously popular destination for year-round tourism (including for Spaniards).

→ Pack light in summer, and layer up in winter. And, again, mind that Spanish sun. It’s no joke (especially in August).

Opening hours in Spain

• In Spain, opening hours for businesses can vary widely. It all depends on the type of establishment and the region. But, typically, shops open from 9 or 10 AM until 1 or 2 PM, then close for — you guessed it — a siesta, and then reopen again from 4 or 5 PM until 8 or 9 PM. Larger stores, tourist shops, and shopping centres often remain open throughout the day, however, often from 9 or 10 AM to 10 or 11 PM. The more touristy, the more hours, basically.
• Restaurants usually open for lunch from 1 to 4 PM and for dinner from 8 or 9 PM until midnight or later. On Sundays, many small shops and businesses may be closed, while larger stores and tourist areas might remain open.

Food and Restaurants in Spain

• Spanish restaurants offer a rich culinary experience — tapas (but, heads-up, they’re an unfortunately disappearing custom when it comes to being free), paella, gazpacho, empanadas, beer, wine, sangria, and Mediterranean and other goodies to sate any appetite!
• Dining hours can often be later than in some other countries — with lunch typically served from 1 to 4 PM and dinner from 8 or 9 PM until midnight or later. But, again, keep in mind the siesta (i.e., many restaurants close between lunch and dinner, especially in smaller towns).

PRO-TIPS: 

• Spain’s official tourism website can tell you more about what to do and see in Spain (and how).
• Meanwhile, AXA’s Going to Spain: travel and safety advice piece has a bunch more helpful info — and will hopefully help you make up your mind when it comes to choosing the best travel insurance — both for España and beyond. Either way — safe travels, buena suerte, and hasta la vista!

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• What are the most common scams in Europe for tourists?
• What are the most dangerous cities in Europe?
• How safe is it to travel to Europe?
• Understanding Europe from A to Z
• Europe, EU, Schengen zone, Euro Zone, EEA: what’s the difference?

FAQ

Is Spain part of the EU?

Yes, Spain is one of 27 members of the European Union. NOTE: It’s also a member of the Eurozone — and its currency is, therefore, the Euro.

Does a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) cover Spain?

Yes, EU, EEA, and Swiss residents can use their EHIC for medically necessary care during a stay in Spain. However, the card only applies to treatment within the public healthcare system – private care is not covered. It also does not protect you against other common travel risks, such as civil liability abroad, repatriation, or unforeseen expenses. For full peace of mind, additional travel insurance is strongly recommended.

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. However, it cannot be converted into a work or study permit once you’re there.

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