How to choose the best Schengen visa travel insurance for Finland

NAME: Axel Strauss
DATE: 01/12/25

The cool Nordic European gem of Finland has plenty to offer its millions of annual international visitors. There’s, of course, Helsinki’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. But there are also UNESCO sites like Old Rauma, Suomenlinna, and the Kvarken Archipelago. The magical wilderness of Lapland — home to both Europe’s only indigenous people (i.e., the Sami) and Santa Claus!

Skiing, hiking, swimming (oh yeah), and world-class wining, dining, and shopping. Over 40 national parks, the world’s cleanest air, best Northern Lights viewing spots, and happiest people. Oh, and more saunas than cars.

In short, if you’re going to Finland, chances are you won’t be disappointed. However, some world-class travel insurance for your trip is always a good call too. Especially if you need a Finnish Schengen visa, seeing as travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for one. And Schengen travel insurance pros AXA have all you need to guarantee your Finnish adventure leaves you and yours as happy as can be!

• Is travel insurance mandatory for Finland?
• What are the travel insurance requirements to be granted a Schengen visa for Finland?
• I don’t need a Schengen Visa. Do I still need travel insurance for Finland?
• Why choose AXA Schengen travel insurance for Finland?
• What travel insurance options does AXA offer for Finland?
• What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Finland?
• What else should I know when prepping for my trip to Finland?

Is travel insurance mandatory for Finland?

Whether travel insurance is mandatory for your Finnish “coolcation” will depend on whether or not you need a Schengen visa to get there. Because, along with being the happiest country in the world, Finland is also one of the dozens of countries currently in the Schengen Zone.

This means that most international visitors to Finland need a Schengen visa to enter (for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period). And one of the primary and mandatory requirements for being granted a Schengen visa is having the appropriate Schengen travel insurance (don’t worry - more on what “appropriate” means below).

Now, whether or not you need a Schengen visa will mostly be determined by where exactly you’re coming from. Or, more specifically, what passport and/or other ID you already hold. So let’s break it down:

Who doesn’t need a Schengen visa to come to Finland (for stays of less than 90 days)?

You don’t need to apply for a Schengen visa to Finland if you are:

• A citizen of one (or more) of the Schengen countries


• A citizen of one (or more) of the non-Schengen European Union member countries


• A holder of a valid residence permit issued by a Schengen Area/EU member country


• A citizen of one (or more) of the non-EU countries and territories that have signed visa exemption agreements with the EU.

There are over 60 of these, the most famous among them being Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, the U.K., and the U.S.

Who is required to apply for a Schengen visa for Finland (for stays of less than 90 days)?

However, you will need a Schengen visa for Finland if you’re traveling on a passport from China, India, Russia, any African Nation, and most Middle Eastern ones. In short - if your home country has not signed a visa waiver agreement with the EU, you’ll need a visa. And there are nearly a hundred of these around the world.

The European Commission graciously provides full lists of countries that are exempt and not exempt from the Schengen visa (and a bunch of other helpful visa-requirement info).

PRO-TIP: Meanwhile, AXA can help you quickly answer one of the most common European travel questions, too, namely:

How do I apply for a visa for Finland?

If you do indeed need that Finnish visa, don’t worry. Because you’re actually already halfway there too! AXA not only has a comprehensive guide on: How to get a Schengen visa for Finland

But we can also gladly help you learn:

So click around. Because if you’ve got Schengen questions — chances are AXA has already happily answered most of them!

IMPORTANT: Oh, and keep in mind that whether you need a Finnish visa or not, you can only stay in the Schengen/EU for up to three months in any 180-day period. To stay longer than three months, you will need more proper documentation (for example, a Long-Stay (aka Type D or “national”) visa).

PRO-TIP: But AXA can help you wrap your head around the (often confusing) Schengen visa 90/180-day rule too!

What are the travel insurance requirements to be granted a Schengen visa for Finland?

Now, to be granted your Schengen visa for Finland (and/or any of its Schengen neighbors), you must first have a travel insurance plan in place. And not just any plan either, according to the European Commission. They stipulate that for your visa to be granted, all Schengen visa travel insurance must adhere to the following criteria:

• be purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries (not just Finland)


• have a minimum coverage of €30,000 in medical expenses (such as hospitalization, emergency treatment, and repatriation – including in case of death)


• cover you in all the Schengen member countries (again, not just Finland)


• be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Finland (and/or the rest of the Schengen Area).

PRO-TIP: AXA’s plans no doubt meet all the EU criteria above! But we can further explain all the intricacies of travel insurance requirements for a Schengen visa too, if you like.

I don’t need a Schengen Visa. Do I still need travel insurance for Finland?

Legally speaking, no. If you don’t need a Schengen visa, travel insurance isn’t mandatory for Finland. However, a wise traveler knows that being properly insured always makes one both safer and happier when abroad. And that’s even when it’s to a country as safe and happy as Finland.

Firstly, because traveling anywhere in Europe always comes with a few surprises. And if those surprises happen to be of the medical variety, then your dream European vacation can, unfortunately, quickly turn into a Finnish bureaucratic (and other) nightmare.

Secondly, medical costs abroad can be surprisingly high. And that’s especially true if you are pregnant, have a preexisting condition, and/or need prescription drugs.

Moreover, navigating a foreign healthcare system (and all its red tape) can put a huge strain on your time, wallet, and nerves. Not to mention repatriation costs if you need to cut your coolcation short (as these can sometimes go up to the hundreds of thousands!).

Skiing in Lapland? Exploring one of Finland’s 41 national parks, 6,000 islands, or 187,888 lakes? Spending a magical night in the Snow Castle in Kemi? Munching on some Karelian pies while sipping a shot of salmiakki (i.e., salty licorice liqueur) with Santa and/or the Sami? Or simply winding down in one of the country’s 3.3 million saunas (that’s nearly one for every resident, by the way)..? Great! You’re bound to have one hell of a good Finnish time.

But no matter the adventure or downtime, accidents do happen. Be they in the big northern metropolises, the endless raw nature, or the beautiful Finnish towns and villages in between. And the best way to be prepared and well taken care of if they do? Well, to make sure you and your loved ones are properly insured.

In short, whether it’s chasing the Northern Lights, enjoying a world-class sauna, or anything in between, having coverage means security and peace of mind wherever you are in Finland.

Why choose AXA Schengen for my travel insurance for Finland?

And AXA is definitely the way to go to guarantee your Finnish (and other Schengen) travels are legal, safe, and as smooth as can be. And here’s a few reasons why. Our plans:

• Meet all the criteria required by the EU for being granted a Schengen visa


• Are accepted by all Schengen embassies, consulates, and visa application centers worldwide (including the Finnish ones)


• Offer quick and easy online subscription within minutes


• Provide a world-recognized (and world-renowned) travel insurance certificate instantly, via email


• Offer a full refund in case your Schengen visa application for Finland is denied


• Have zero deductibles, no age limit, and require no medical exams


• Offer coverage of medical and repatriation costs of up to €2 Million


• Include civil liability insurance


• Include death and disability insurance


• Offer baggage insurance (either included or optional - depending on the plan)


• Are customizable, offering multiple upgrade options


• Offer duration flexibility, with coverage available for one day, up to six months, or as one annual subscription


• Are valid for the Schengen area + the European Union + the United Kingdom (see plan options below)


• Provide 24/7 emergency assistance


• Offer free remote medical consultation with our unique Doctor, Please! feature (in English and a number of other languages)


• Can be purchased on behalf of someone else

To sum up: with AXA, you and your family are guaranteed to be in good hands no matter where you are in Finland and beyond. And that’s from filling out your Finnish Schengen visa application form all the way to your flight home!

But on top of secure, worry-free, 24/7 coverage, you also have the invaluable peace of mind and comfort of knowing that you’re backed by a world-class, world-recognized, decades-trusted expert Schengen travel insurance brand.

What travel insurance options for Finland does AXA offer?

So be it for a Finnish visa or Finland itself, here’s a quick overview of the travel insurance plans AXA has for you.

PRO-TIP: But be sure to click around and learn more about each one!

• AXA SCHENGEN BASIC : our most standard coverage meets all the requirements for your Schengen visa while covering you in all Schengen countries + 4 European microstates (i.e., San Marino, Andorra, Monaco, and Vatican City).


• AXA SCHENGEN ESSENTIAL: reliable, affordable, more in-depth European coverage, ESSENTIAL also meets all Schengen visa requirements but covers you in all Schengen countries, all EU countries, the European microstates above, plus the UK!


• AXA SCHENGEN PREMIUM: complete, worry-free, all-inclusive coverage, PREMIUM also meets all necessary Schengen visa requirements, and also covers you in all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates + the UK.


• AXA SCHENGEN ANNUAL: and if you have (or are applying for) a multiple-entry visa, or if you travel to Europe often, ANNUAL’s got your name on it. It also meets all EU Schengen visa requirements, has loads of benefits, and covers you across all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates + the UK. But all this while offering a unique, single contract for a full year!

Still not sure which AXA option will make your Finnish travels top-notch? No worries! Because you can also, in a matter of minutes,

What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Finland?

Whether chilling with Santa or, um, not necessarily chilling in a sauna, accidents happen. And in case of a medical mishap, remember to stay calm, and know that AXA got your back! Just contact the AXA 24/7 call center (the number will also be provided with your insurance policy).

Our medical assistance professionals are standing by to hear you out, answer your questions, and advise you on how to proceed - day and night, 24/7, wherever in Finland you may be. And if needed, they’ll also direct you to a medical center closest to you and/or best suited for your particular needs.

What to provide when contacting AXA's call center

When contacting our call center, you’ll be need to provide:

• The number of your policy (which begins with “SCH”);


• The address and/or telephone number where you can be reached (as well as the details of any people that can be contacted locally);


• Your dossier number (communicated at the time of the first call).

PRO-TIP: Remember to keep all bills and invoices related to medical costs (and enclose them with your file). And your phone charged, of course.

List of Emergency Numbers in Finland

And on top of the AXA number, the number for all general emergencies in Finland (like the rest of Europe) is:

• 112

This is what you call for Finnish police, ambulance, fire, and other urgent assistance. But here are a few other important Finnish numbers to save:

• Medical Helpline (urgent medical advice, 24/7): 116 117


• Police Customer Service (non-urgent police matters): 0295 419 800 (weekdays 8:00 - 16:15)


• Maritime Search and Rescue (24/7): 0294 1000


• Crisis Helpline (confidential support): 09 2525 0113


• Domestic Violence Helpline (free, 24/7): 0800 05 005

And the country code for Finland, just in case, is +358.

What else should I know when preparing my trip to Finland?

So now that you’re ready to see what makes the Finns so happy, here are a few practical tips to know in the Land of a Thousand Lakes that is Suomi (aka Finland):

Security in Finland

Finland is considered one of the safest countries in the world due to its very low crime rates. Still, petty theft can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded city centers like Helsinki. Violent crime is very rare, but it can happen in more remote regions. So common sense and self-awareness, like anywhere else, should not be overlooked. And while Finland is not necessarily known for heavy party resorts, some northern tourist spots like Levi and Ruka do attract young travelers who may engage in occasional excessive drinking and/or rowdy behavior.

So stay alert, avoid risky situations, and contact the police if you encounter any issues. And if partying yourself - be careful on those slopes and roads!

Currency in Finland

The official Finnish currency is the euro (€). Some tourist spots and resorts might accept the occasional dollar, but euros are the standard.

Card payments and mobile transactions are commonplace (and often more convenient). Still, it’s advisable to carry some cash for remote areas or smaller shops/vendors. And, again, preferably euros.

Public transport in Finland

Finnish cities are well-connected by clean and efficient public transport. The Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (HSL) manages a reliable network of buses, trams, metro, and commuter trains within the Helsinki metropolitan area.

Long-distance (i.e., intercity) travel is served by VR, Finland’s national railway company. Their extensive network connects major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, and Oulu with fast, comfortable train services. And for islands and coastal areas, ferries operate regularly, especially in the Finnish Archipelago Sea (connecting locations such as Turku and the Åland Islands).

Oh, and modern metropolis transportation amenities like e-bikes, e-scooters, Bolts, Ubers, and so on are also readily available - just mind the ice and snow!

Driving in Finland

Most foreign driver’s licenses* are valid in Finland for short stays. If your license is not in Latin script or is issued outside the EU/EEA, however, carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your national license is advisable. Driving is on the right, and Finnish roads are well-maintained.

PRO-TIPS: However, keep in mind that in winter, road conditions can be challenging - and winter tires are therefore often mandatory from December to February (and recommended otherwise).

*Meanwhile, AXA can also tell you more about which driving licenses are accepted in Europe.

Weather in Finland

Finland’s climate varies widely between regions and seasons. Winters (November to March), however, bring cold temperatures across the board, often dropping below –20°C in places like Lapland. And plenty of snow, ice, and clean, crisp air. Perfect for both skiing and Santa - but definitely pack heavy if you’re not used to it.

Summers, meanwhile, are generally mild - with long daylight hours and temperatures ranging from 15 to 22°C in Helsinki.

Always check the local forecast, as rain (and snow) can occur year-round.

PRO-TIP: For official weather updates (including for hiking, skiing, and so on), check out the Finnish Meteorological Institute.

Opening hours in Finland

Stores generally open between 9 am and 10 am, and most close by 6 pm on weekdays and earlier on weekends (often 3 pm and/or closed on Sundays). Supermarkets, malls, tourist shops and convenience stores, however, often have longer opening hours.

Like anywhere where there are tourists, the closer to the epicenter you are, the more options you have. And that includes opening hours (the epicenter here being mostly downtown Helsinki).

Restaurants in Finland

Restaurants tend to open from around noon and stay open until 10 or 11 pm. Dinner is usually served around 6-8 pm.

And, again, in Helsinki and other larger cities, you’ll find more late-night options. Reservations are recommended for the center, and

TIPPING PRO-TIP: Tipping in Finland is generally uncommon and not expected (service charges are usually included in restaurant bills). If you do choose to tip - small, symbolic amounts are appreciated. But rounding up the bill and/or leaving a few coins on the bar/table is still more typical than a fixed percentage.

PRO-FOOD TIPS

And, finally, here are three Finnish menu items we recommend you don’t skip (but don’t tell Santa about the last one!):

• Finnish rye bread (Ruisleipä)
• Karelian pie (Karjalanpiirakka)
• Sautéed reindeer (Poronkäristys)