If you are planning a trip to the Schengen area from Kenya, one critical requirement to meet is medical travel insurance. Schengen countries enforce strict visa policies, including mandatory insurance coverage, which ensures that travelers are protected in case of medical emergencies during their visit. Here is what you need to know about Schengen travel insurance and a list of the approved Kenyan insurers.
What is Schengen Travel Insurance?
The Schengen area comprises 27 European countries that have abolished internal borders, allowing for unrestricted movement between member states. Kenyan travelers applying for a Schengen visa must provide proof of insurance that meets specific requirements before their visa can be approved.
Schengen travel insurance must provide a minimum coverage of €30,000 (about KES 4.7 million) for medical emergencies, hospitalization, or medical repatriation during the stay. The policy must also cover an additional 15 days after the expiration of your visa to account for any unforeseen delays.
Why is Travel Insurance Mandatory?
The Schengen zone is designed to make travel between its member states seamless, but healthcare systems in these countries are often expensive for non-residents. Medical emergencies, accidents, or hospitalization can leave travelers with high out-of-pocket expenses. Having valid medical travel insurance guarantees that, in the event of an emergency, you are covered.
The Schengen visa insurance requirement protects both travelers and the healthcare systems of member countries, ensuring that visitors do not become a financial burden in the event of illness or injury.
What Should Schengen Travel Insurance Cover?
For Kenyan travelers, the travel insurance must:
- Provide at least €30,000 in coverage.
- Cover all Schengen countries.
- Include emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Be valid for the duration of the trip, plus an additional 15 days beyond the travel dates.
- Have zero deductibles (meaning the policyholder doesn’t need to pay anything out-of-pocket before the insurance kicks in).
List of Schengen-Approved Medical Travel Insurance Companies (2023)
To simplify the process for Kenyan travelers, here’s a list of insurance companies that are Schengen-approved for medical travel insurance:
- Africa Merchant Assurance Company Ltd (AMACO)
- Fidelity Shield Insurance Company Limited
- Heritage Insurance Company Ltd
- Kenindia Assurance Company Ltd
- Occidental Insurance Company Ltd
- Pacis Insurance Company Ltd
- Sanlam General Assurance Ltd
- ICEA LION General Insurance Co. Ltd
- Mondassur (Gold Back-up Policy only)
- Geminia Insurance Company Ltd
- Jubilee Allianz General Insurance (K) Ltd
- GA Insurance Ltd
- CIC General Insurance Ltd
- AIG Kenya Insurance Company Ltd
- Pioneer General Insurance Ltd
- Tausi Assurance Company Ltd
- Corporate Insurance Company Ltd
- Old Mutual General Insurance Ltd
- First Assurance Company Ltd
- APA Insurance Ltd
Tips for Choosing the Right Travel Insurance
Before purchasing travel insurance, ensure that the policy is Schengen-compliant and that the provider is recognized by the embassy or consulate of the country you’re applying to. Additionally:
- Compare different policies: Most Kenyan insurance companies offer online quotes, allowing you to choose a plan that fits your budget and travel needs.
- Check the policy coverage: Ensure that the policy covers not only medical emergencies but also trip cancellations, lost baggage, or travel delays.
- Review customer service: Opt for an insurer with 24/7 customer support, especially if they have a global network to assist you when abroad.
Whether you are traveling for business, tourism, or medical reasons, securing the right travel insurance is a critical part of your Schengen visa application. The approved list of insurance companies ensures that Kenyan travelers are protected during their time in Europe, and it provides peace of mind that unexpected medical costs won’t derail their trip. Ensure you review the policies from these providers and pick one that meets your specific travel needs.
By complying with the insurance requirements, you’re taking the first step toward a smooth and secure journey to the Schengen zone.
