Why everyone of course! or at least, all cautious travellers. However, whether it is optional, or mandatory is another story.

The Netherlands is part of the Schengen area. As such, it applies the same rules as the other member States when it comes to entry requirements, that is to say the obligation for some travellers to hold a Schengen visa to be allowed in this European zone.

To obtain the said visa, the wannabe visitors need to submit an application file with compulsory documentation, including a travel insurance certificate proving that the applicant will be protected by medical coverage during their stay.

Therefore, as you may have guessed, travel insurance is mandatory for travellers who need a Schengen visa to enter the Netherlands.

Who doesn’t need a Schengen visa for their Dutch visit?

You won’t need to apply for a Schengen visa if:

• You are a citizen of a Schengen State or a European Union country.


• You hold a valid residence permit issued by a Schengen or EU state.


• You are a national of one the sixty or so countries which have signed a visa-waiver agreement with the EU, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, the U.K., and the U.S

Caution! These travellers need nonetheless to comply with certain regulations:

• Carry valid ID documents


• Apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation


• Comply with the Schengen visa 90/180-day rule

Who needs a Schengen visa to enter the Netherlands?

If you don’t fall into one of the above categories, then you will need to obtain a visa to be allowed in the Schengen area and the Netherlands.

This concerns citizens of over a hundred countries including China, India, Russia, most of the Middle East, or any African nation.

To make sure this applies to your situation, check the list of nationalities which need a Schengen visa.

If you are travelling for the most common purposes (family, tourism, business), and your stay will not last more than 90 days over a 180-day period, you will need to apply for a short-stay, type C visa.

How to apply for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands

Don’t worry the AXA team is here to help you along the, sometimes tedious, visa process. We will explain everything you need to know on:

• How to get a Schengen visa for the Netherlands?


• What are the different types of visas for Europe?


• What documents are required with your Schengen visa application?


• How long does it take to obtain a Schengen visa for the Netherlands?

Pro-tip: Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll tell you more about:

• How to track your visa application online?


• How to extend the validity of your visa?

Important Reminder!

In order for your Schengen visa application to be accepted and even examined by the Dutch consular services, you will need to enclose a travel insurance certificate.

This travel insurance must comply with the EU requirements established by Article 15 of the European Union Visa Code.

Otherwise, your visa application will be denied.

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

Your Schengen travel insurance for the Netherlands 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 just the Netherlands).


• Be valid in all Schengen countries (not only the Netherlands).


• 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?

Technically no. But stop and ponder for a minute. Accidents do happen, even in the land of flower bulbs.

A bike fall with a fifty-fifty chance of ending up in an Amsterdam canal? The flying blade of a windmill? It could happen.

While the Netherlands provides high-quality healthcare, it is also very expensive – a point worth keeping in mind before setting off.

Travellers with an EHIC

Holders of the EHIC (the European Health Insurance Card) will have access to emergency medical care but they might be asked to pay upfront—either at reduced or full cost depending on the situation—and be reimbursed later. It’s also important to note that healthcare provided in private facilities and repatriation costs are not covered by the EHIC.

Travellers without an EHIC

For other travellers, the rules are even stricter: full payment will be required in all of these situations, with no guarantee of reimbursement once they return home.

And beyond medical issues, comprehensive insurance helps prevent annoying mishaps – such as broken glasses, lost luggage or credit card theft – from turning into trip-ruining nuisances.

In short, make the wise choice and opt for travel insurance that will provide proper assistance to you and your fellow companions, whether you need a Schengen visa or not.

Why choose AXA Schengen Travel Insurance for your Dutch trip?

1. The reliability of an insurance world leader

For over 65 years, AXA has provided reliable, comprehensive and affordable assistance to its protegés, establishing its longstanding reputation worldwide.
Its teams of experts, thanks to their thorough knowledge and understanding of local cultures, offer efficient support to distressed travellers.

2. Insurance which meets all Schengen visa requirements

• AXA Schengen visa insurance complies with 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.

3. Comprehensive and customisable coverage

Not only does it meet all EU requirements, AXA insurance also offers extensive protection:

• A coverage of minimum €30,000 and up to €2 million depending on the chosen plan.


• Emergency dental care.


• Sanitary repatriation including in the event of death.


• It covers medical expenses and hospitalisation.


• It includes:
  • both civil liability and personal liability coverage.
  • death and disability insurance.
  • Multilingual 24/7 assistance
  • Free remote medical consultations via our unique “Doctor, please!” app available in English and several other languages.
  
  
• It offers comprehensive baggage insurance (included or optional).


• Search and rescue costs (depending on the chosen option).


• Flexible coverage scope: all the Schengen states, European microstates, other non-Schengen but EU countries as well as the United Kingdom.


• Available with multiple upgrade options designed to satisfy all needs and budgets.

4. Efficient and cost-effective insurance

AXA simplifies your visa application process thanks to easily accessible services:

• Quick and secured 100% online subscription.


• Schengen travel insurance certificate automatically sent by email.


• No age restriction or medical exam required.


• 0 deductible: full refund of medical expenses paid.


• Individual or group offers (family, friends, colleagues).


• Customisable options: luggage insurance, higher medical coverage, etc.


• Duration flexibility - from just one day to six months, or up to a full year


• Decreasing rates depending on the duration of the stay, for the best value for money.

5. Comprehensive insurance for you and your loved ones

In case of trouble, AXA stands by you every step of the way:

• Repatriation of the other insured parties and provision for the care of minors.


• Visits of relatives in case of a solo traveller’s hospitalisation.


• Assistance in case of theft of ID documents.


• Delivery of essential medicine, glasses or prosthesis.

6. Refundable if the visa application is denied

If your Schengen visa application is refused, AXA’s travel insurance is refundable upon presentation of written proof of the denial. Simply submit the official rejection documents, and your policy payment will be returned in accordance with AXA’s terms.

All you have to do is choose the best AXA option for you!

What is the best AXA travel insurance plan for you?

Travelling solo or with a group? Off to experience as many adventures as possible or more in the mood for some culture and quiet time? Whatever your plans for your trip to the Netherlands, AXA has the comprehensive insurance plan to suit your travel 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.

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

• Contact our AXA call centre. The number is on your insurance policy.
  Our team of medical professionals are available 24/7. They will answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you find the nearest medical facility.


• Once you reach the AXA Centre, you’ll be asked to provide:
  • Your policy number (which begins with "SCH");
  • The address and telephone number where you can be reached as well as the details of any local contact;
  • You will be given a reference file number. Keep it handy as it will be asked each time you contact the platform.
  
  

PRO TIPS:

• 112 is the general European emergency phone number.


• Before you leave, save all your important phone numbers and information on your phone, download them on a cloud and write them down in a notepad to always have them at hand in case of emergency.


• Always keep all invoices related to medical expenses for your records.


• Stay calm — AXA is here to support you throughout your endeavour.

A few useful and fun facts about the Netherlands

• Capital: Amsterdam


• Currency: the euro (€)


• Don’t call the Netherlands “Holland”! North and South Holland are only 2 of the 13 provinces of the Netherlands.


• The country is home to more bikes than people! With 22.8 million bicycles for a population of 17 million. Not surprisingly, the Dutch population is considered as the most physically active in Europe as well as the healthiest in the world when it comes to diet.


• Highs and lows: the Netherlands has the highest population density in Europe as well as the tallest people. However, with a quarter of the land below sea level, it is also the lowest lying in Europe so don’t expect to go skiing!


• In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage.

Related Articles

You might find these articles interesting:

• What are the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Europe?
• Where is it the easiest to obtain a Schengen visa?
• 30 fun facts about the Schengen area
• How to travel safely in Europe?

FAQ

How much does travel insurance for the Netherlands cost?

The cost of travel insurance depends on the duration of your trip, the extent of your coverage, the additional options you will choose. AXA Schengen travel insurance offers many possibilities to make sure you can create the best tailor-made plan for your needs and budget.

Get a free online quote and check the price list of our different Schengen visa travel insurance plans.

Will my Schengen visa insurance subscription be refunded if my visa application is denied?

AXA Schengen guarantees the refund of travel insurance costs if your visa application is denied. You will nonetheless need to supply the written documents provided by consular authorities to prove the negative decision.

Can I purchase Schengen travel insurance for another person?

Yes. AXA allows you to purchase travel insurance for a relative or even a guest. All you need to do is provide their personal data such as their date of birth, their home address, their passport number and their travel dates.