Best medical insurance for travel to Europe from USA
Can Americans get travel insurance for Europe from USA?
Europe is well known for some of its world-famous tourist destinations. Traveling to Europe is exciting but can be a costly affair without pre planning for unforeseen situations. These could be related to medical expenses in case of any emergency or need of medical help. Travel Insurance for Europe from the USA for US citizens traveling outside their home country can be a great life saver during such situations.
Travel Insurance provides protection for unexpected sickness and injury, emergency evacuation, repatriation, and other medical
For the trip cancellation benefit, the covered reasons include:
- Death of an immediate family member
- Serious injury or illness to you, close relative or travel companion
- Sudden family emergency
- Loss of job
There are "Cancel for any reason" plans available with partial reimbursement for flights and hotel booking in case of delay in the flight. Lodging and other prepaid non refundable expenses can be claimed in such cases..
For stays longer than 90 days, US citizens will need to apply for a visa and will need proof of travel health insurance for Europe from the USA that meets requirements. Other nationalities need international insurance coverage even if they intend to stay fewer days.
The requirements for the visa while not particularly strict (we have many international policies which can meet and/or exceed their requirements) can be cumbersome to find.The requirements by European Schengen country state consulates that can be difficult to meet are the following:
- Insurance company must have an office in the EU
- You need coverage for repatriation (return of mortal remains)
- Coverage for emergency medical evacuation, and finally
- You need a letter from your insurance company spelling out your coverage. (The requirement for maximum (€30,000) is generally not a problem with US policies).
Most often, US insurance companies refuse to provide the letter needed (#4) even though they may actually meet other requirements. Many policies, however, do NOT cover for repatriation and emergency medical evacuation nor have a foreign office in Europe. Also, our US customers may be surprised to find out that Medicare will not pay for services rendered outside the US (except under extremely limited circumstances).
The requirements of US citizens for the long term European visa are exactly like those for the Schengen visa for non-US citizens, so any plans we sell for a Schengen visa will work for you. Furthermore, they are very economically priced and are guaranteed (no medical tests or questions). Best medical insurance while traveling in Europe can be purchased with a credit card and you will immediately (or within the hour) have access to the required Schengen visa letter (unless you are purchasing from the lovely state of Maryland, in which case we will need at least 2 business days to get your letter).
After purchasing the insurance, make sure you have access to the receipt and the soft copy of the insurance along with the ID Card which will be very useful while filing a claim. Traveling to Europe has never been easier and more exciting! Enjoy the Europe trip with sufficient coverage from the travel insurance for Europe from the US.
Do US citizens need travel insurance for Europe?
Travel insurance from USA to Europe is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Travel health insurance to Europe from USA provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events, ensuring peace of mind during your trip.
What does travel insurance for US citizens traveling to Europe cover?
If you are a US citizen planning to visit Europe, it is essential to consider buying the best travel insurance for Europe. While it is not a legal requirement to have travel insurance for Europe visa purposes, it is still strongly recommended. When looking for the best travel insurance for Europe, there are several factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you find the right coverage:
- Medical Coverage: Make sure the policy provides adequate medical coverage, including emergency medical treatment and emergency medical evacuation, as healthcare costs can be high in Europe.
- Pre-existing Conditions: If you have a pre-existing medical condition, make sure the policy covers it, as many policies exclude pre-existing conditions.
- Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Look for policies that provide coverage for trip cancellation and interruption due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or death in the family.
- Baggage and Personal Effects: Make sure the policy covers lost or stolen baggage and personal effects, as well as any costs associated with delays in baggage delivery.
- Activities and Sports Coverage: If you plan to participate in any sports or activities, such as skiing or snowboarding, make sure the policy covers them.
How much does the best travel insurance cost in 2025?
The American travel insurance cost per month can vary depending on several factors like the age, trip duration, the coverage maximum, and any additional add-ons or options you select. On average, travel insurance costs for a US citizens can range from $50 to $200 for a week-long trip, which is between 5% to 8% of the trip cost. It is recommended to compare US citizens travel insurance quotes from different insurance providers on American Visitor Insurance.
Trip cancellation insurance
The travel insurance cost is based on the age, trip length and the trip cost. There are cheap trip insurance plans starting at $24 for a 15 day trip with a $1,000 trip cost. This table gives the average trip cancellation insurance cost for different ages. Approximate cost of Trip insurance plans is for a 40-year-old traveler, 15 days trip length and $1,000 trip cost.
| Plan Name | Trip cancellation | Age 20 | Age 40 | Age 60 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Travels Protect | 100% of Trip Cost (Up to a Max. of $14,000) | $24 | $32 | $39 |
| Safe Travels Explorer | 100% of Trip Cost (Up to a Max. of $30,000) | $28 | $37 | $52 |
| iTravelInsured Travel Lite | 100% of Trip Cost | $33 | $43 | $62 |
| Trip Protection Basic | 100% of your nonrefundable Trip Cost up to $30,000 | $34 | $47 | $70 |
| Itravelinsured Choice | 100% of Trip Cost | $39 | $50 | $73 |
| Travel Insurance Select Basic | 100% of Trip Cost | $42 | $42 | $87 |
| Safe Travels Armor | 100% of Trip Cost (Up to a Max. of $100,000) | $43 | $55 | $67 |
| Trip Protector Economy | 100% of Trip Cost(Up to a Max. of $5,000) | $47 | $55 | $71 |
| Safe Travels Voyager | 100% of Trip Cost (Up to a Max. of $100,000) | $62 | $76 | $102 |
| Trip Protection Choice | 100% of your nonrefundable Trip Cost up to $100,000 | $65 | $87 | $118 |
| Itravelinsured LX | 100% of Trip Cost | $102 | $114 | $138 |
Best Trip Cancellation Insurance
Review trip cancellation coverage benefits
Travel Medical Insurance
Travel insurance for travel outside the US starts as low as $20 for a month. Travel insurance provides coverage for doctor visits and emergency hospital stays while ensuring access to necessary care and financial protection against high medical costs abroad. This table gives the average travel health insurance cost for different ages.
The average cost based on the quotes for one month| Plan Name | Maximum Coverage | Deductible | Age 20 | Age 40 | Age 60 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlas Essential International Insurance | $50,000 | $250 | $20 | $40 | $86 |
| Safe Travels Outbound Insurance | $50,000 | $250 | $26 | $77 | $168 |
| Atlas International Insurance | $50,000 | $250 | $27 | $54 | $117 |
| VisitorSecure Insurance | $50,000 | $100 | $29 | $34 | $55 |
| Travel Medical Outbound USA Basic | $50,000 | $0 | $29 | $55 | $121 |
| Patriot International Lite Insurance | $50,000 | $250 | $29 | $55 | $121 |
| Voyager Essential Insurance | $50,000 | $250 | $32 | $58 | $116 |
| Diplomat International Insurance | $50,000 | $250 | $32 | $86 | $181 |
| Intermedical Insurance | $50,000 | $250 | $48 | $73 | $121 |
Source: American Visitor Insurance®
Travel medical insurance for US citizens traveling abroad
Review travel medical insurance coverage benefits
How to reduce the trip cancellation insurance cost?
Trip cancellation insurance is expensive as it covers high-value, unpredictable risks that can result in large financial losses for vacationers. Trip cancellation insurance covers flights, hotels, cruises, and tours bookings and reservations, which can be thousands of dollars. It covers a wide range of cancellation reasons like Illness, death in the family, natural disasters, and job loss. Some Cancel for Any Reason - CFAR travel insurance allow cancellation for any reason, often reimbursing 50-75% of trip costs. The more expensive your trip, the higher the insurance cost. Older travelers pay more because they have a higher chance of medical emergencies leading to trip cancellations.
However you can lower the cost of travel insurance without compromising essential coverage by choosing only medical coverage by entering the trip cost as $0 if you don’t need trip cancellation coverage. A travel medical plan is cheaper than comprehensive coverage and most of them offer coverage for emergency medical evacuation. You can also select lower coverage limits usually within $50,000 medical coverage which is often enough for most trips.
How much does travel insurance cost for a week? How much does travel insurance cost for 2 weeks?
Travel insurance costs typically ranges between $5 to $40 for a week and $9 to $80 for two weeks. You can compare quotes using American Visitor Insurance trip insurance cost calculator. The price depends on factors such as coverage type, trip destination, and total trip cost. Basic plans are more affordable, while comprehensive options, including trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and baggage protection, tend to cost more.
How much does travel insurance cost for 6 months?
For a 40-year-old traveler, the cost of travel insurance for a 6 month trip typically ranges around $122 to $1,050, based different coverage options on American Visitor Insurance. The price depends on factors such as coverage levels, the destination, and the type of policy selected.
What are the popular tourist destinations in Europe?
Venice
Venice may conjure up images of romantic gondola rides down the Grand Canal, but this European city isn't only for swooning lovebirds.
Paris
Paris, France's capital, is a major European city and a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture.
Amsterdam
There's more to Amsterdam than its notorious coffee shop culture and Red Light District. Spend the day biking along the city's canals and stylish streets.
Athens
Athens was made for history buffs and architecture aficionados, but it also serves as a great European getaway for the everyday travel.
Europe Travel Insurance Reviews
"I had a no-problem trip but Seven corners was easy to deal with in the securing of the travel insurance and dealing with a few issues prior to departure."
Karen
"I have always gotten a quick response with a live person. I placed a claim, we will see it their payment to me is as good as their customer service is."
Margaret
"Good policy options and pricing. Like to purchase high coverage for medical without covering full cost of trips - like the options Seven Corners provides."
Connie
European health insurance for US citizens - FAQ's
1. Do US citizens need travel insurance for Europe from USA?
If you are a US citizen or have the nationality which does not need the Schengen visa, then travel insurance to Europe is not mandatory. However travel insurance for Europe from USA is mandatory if you need a Schengen visa or if you want to stay over 90 days in Europe.
US health insurance including Medicare provide little to no health insurance coverage outside US borders. International travel insurance provides health coverage and financial protection in case of unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost baggage, or travel delays typically. Given that travel insurance usually costs only around 5% of the total trip cost, it is very logical for US citizens traveling overseas to buy the best travel insurance for Europe. Healthcare costs can be high in Europe, and travel insurance ensures that you have medical evacuation if needed and access to good medical assistance and treatment.
2. What does international travel insurance for Europe typically cover?
The coverage provided by travel insurance can vary depending on the policy and insurance provider, but it typically includes:
- Medical expenses: Coverage for emergency medical and dental treatment, hospital stays, and medical evacuation.
- Trip cancellation or interruption: Reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if the trip is cancelled or cut short due to covered reasons, such as illness, injury, or unforeseen circumstances.
- Baggage loss or delay: Compensation for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage, as well as reimbursement for essential items if your baggage is delayed.
- Travel delays: Reimbursement for additional expenses incurred due to delayed flights or other travel disruptions.
- Emergency assistance: 24/7 travel assistance services, including access to a helpline for emergencies, coordination of medical services, and help with lost documents.
3. Which is the best European health insurance card for US citizens?
We have different well known travel insurance for US citizens traveling to Europe that we recommend, specifically if you need a letter in order to get your Schengen tourist visa for Europe. The cheapest plan will depend on the age(s) of the traveler. We have designed our website to help customers choose the exact plan that is most economical and appropriate for them. You can compare Europe travel insurance quotes by filling the travel dates and travelers ages in the quote form on our website.
4. Does US insurance work in Europe? Does American health insurance work in Europe?
Unfortunately, the domestic US insurance plans have very little coverage outside US national borders and you must be aware of this. You may want to check with the current US domestic insurer for more details.
5. What kind of insurance do I need to travel to Europe?
US citizens can either buy travel medical insurance for europe from USA which focuses on insuring the health of the traveler or Trip Cancellation travel insurance, which insures the cost of the trip along with providing health insurance coverage while outside the United States.
6. Can US Citizens get free healthcare in Europe?
In general, US citizens cannot get free healthcare in Europe, unless they have dual citizenship, or reside in a specific European country. Different European countries have different healthcare systems, some of which provide free or low-cost healthcare to their citizens and legal residents, but generally do not offer this to international tourists.
In this context, it is important for US citizens traveling to Europe to buy the best US travel medical insurance to cover any potential healthcare costs while outside the USA.
7. What are the best medical insurance Plans for US citizens traveling Europe?
Here are some of the best travel insurance plans for US citizens traveling to Europe:
These plans offer comprehensive international travel medical coverage.
8. Do US citizens need visa for travel to Europe?
As of now, US citizens do not need an EU visa for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in most EU countries. This includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. However, as an US citizen, if you plan to stay in Europe for longer than 90 days or for other purposes such as work or study, you may need to obtain a visa. It is always important to check the latest entry requirements for the specific country you plan to visit before you travel.
9. What does international travel insurance to Europe from USA cover?
The travel insurance coverage will vary depending on the policy and insurance provider, but it typically includes
- Medical expenses: Coverage for emergency medical and dental treatment, hospital stays, and medical evacuation.
- Trip cancellation or interruption: Reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if the trip is cancelled or cut short due to covered reasons, such as illness, injury, or unforeseen circumstances.
- Baggage loss or delay: Compensation for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage, as well as reimbursement for essential items if your baggage is delayed.
- Travel delays: Reimbursement for additional expenses incurred due to delayed flights or other travel disruptions.
- Emergency assistance: 24/7 travel assistance services, including access to a helpline for emergencies, coordination of medical services, and help with lost documents.
10. How much does travel insurance to Europe from USA cost? How much does travel insurance Europe cost?
The cost of travel medical insurance for Europe from USA can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of your trip, your age, the level of coverage you choose, and any additional add-ons or options you select. On average, travel insurance for a US citizen visiting Europe can range from $50 to $200 for a week-long trip, which is between 5% to 8% of the trip cost. It is recommended to obtain quotes from different insurance providers on American Visitor Insurance to compare prices and coverage options.
11. Are pre-existing medical conditions covered by travel insurance to Europe from USA?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions can vary depending on the insurance policy. Some travel insurance plans offer coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing conditions, while others may exclude them. It is important to carefully review the policy details and any exclusions or limitations related to pre-existing conditions using the comparison facility available on American Visitor Insurance.
12. How do I choose the right travel insurance for my trip to Europe?
When choosing travel insurance for your trip to Europe, consider the following factors:
- Coverage: Look for a policy that provides comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and travel delays.
- Policy limits: Ensure that the policy limits are sufficient to cover potential expenses, such as medical treatment or emergency evacuation.
- Exclusions: Carefully review the policy's exclusions and limitations, particularly regarding pre-existing conditions and high-risk activities.
- Cost: Compare the prices of different insurance providers while considering the coverage and benefits they offer.
- Customer reviews and reputation: Research the insurance provider's reputation, customer reviews, and claim handling process to ensure reliability and customer satisfaction.
When buying travel health insurance for Europe, it is important to compare US travel insurance from multiple providers to find the best coverage at the best price. This is achieved with ease at American Visitor Insurance, where prices and benefits of the different plans are displayed in an user friendly comparison tool. As a traveler, you should also carefully review the policy's brochure and understand the exclusions that are not covered.
How do I get the right insurance required while applying for the Schengen visa?
At American Visitor Insurance, it’s easy to get the best deal for insurance to meet Schengen visa requirements. Simply use our compare engine to review travel policies and prices. All the plans listed will give you access to a “visa letter” which you can print out minutes after your purchase which shows you have the insurance that is required for your visa. Change in plans? Not sure when your will be traveling? No problem! All plans are very flexible and can either be pushed back, moved forward, or cancelled for a full refund (before they start)! If two people are over 70 years old, you can be quoted together on American Visitor Insurance, but some companies require you to fill out separate applications for each person (but the total cost will NOT change). Note that for travelers over 80, it can be cheaper to get a trip cancellation plan like one offered by IMG and they also provide a visa letter for you! Please call us at 877-340-7910 if you have any questions or concerns!
Popular cities in Europe among US citizens
Schengen visa information
Which travel insurance is best for US seniors with Medicare?
US senior citizens with Medicare need international travel insurance as Medicare offers limited or no coverage outside USA. Traveling overseas involves risks especially for older travelers and costs of medical evacuation and health care outside the United States is expensive. Buying Medicare Supplemental international Travel insurance coverage for older US travelers is strongly recommended.
Indianapolis based International Medical Group (IMG) offers GlobeHopper Senior travel health insurance as affordable overseas travel medical insurance for US senior citizens and US permanent residents 65 years and older.
The GlobeHopper Senior plan is available either as the GlobeHopper Single-Trip plan for coverage from 5 days to 365 days, or as a GlobeHopper Multi-trip plan which covers 12 months with a maximum of 30 days per each overseas trip. The GlobeHopper Senior plan is very popular since it provides coverage of $1 million up to the age of 79 years and $100,000 for travelers more than 80 years old. The plan includes $2,500 cover for sudden unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition and $25,000 for emergency medical evacuation.
Know More »Do Green Card holders need travel insurance for Europe?
If you are a non-U.S. citizen or a U.S. Green card holder traveling to Europe, you may need an Europe visa that satisfies Europe travel insurance requirements which are the Schengen visa requirements, depending on your nationality. Do check the specific requirements based on your citizenship. Travelers from the USA visiting Europe will in any event need to apply for a Schengen visa if their visit is for tourism, business, or family reasons and they plan to stay for up to 90 days. When applying for a visa to Europe (or any other Schengen Area country), travel insurance is a mandatory requirement. The purpose of this travel insurance for the Europe visa is to cover unexpected expenses related to medical emergencies, accidents, or trip disruptions during your time in Europe.
The policy must cover emergency medical expenses of at least €30,000 (around US $ 50,000). It must include coverage for emergency medical evacuation which is transporting you to the nearest hospital or even back to your home country if needed. The insurance must cover the entire period of your stay in the Schengen Zone, from the date you enter Europe until you leave. American Visitor Insurance offers international travel insurance that meets the Europe travel insurance requirements, providing the necessary proof of travel health insurance required when applying for an Europe visa. You can call us at (877)-340-7910 if you need any help to buy travel insurance for Europe which satisfies visa requirements.
What is the new travel authorization ETIAS requirement for US citizens travelling to Europe?
Starting in 2025, US travelers to Europe should apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System). ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization system similar to the US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). However, ETIAS is not a visa, but a pre-travel clearance for short stays up to 90 days in Europe. Along with ETIAS it is important for travelers from USA to buy travel insurance for Europe, since Medicare and most US health insurance plans do not provide coverage in Europe.
Is a Schengen visa needed for US Green Card holders?
US Green Card holders will need an Europe visa to travel there if the country of their passport requires a visa for travel to the Schengen countries. Travel insurance for Europe visa for Green Card Holders is required while applying for an Europe visa. Green card holders travel insurance requirements for Europe include medical expenses of at least €30,000. On American Visitor Insurance, US Green Card Holders can buy international health insurance Europe to satisfy Schengen visa requirements for their visa application.
Overseas travel insurance for US residents
How do I buy the best travel insurance for Cruises?
Going on a cruise vacation is truly exciting, however one must take suitable action to ensure that the cruise vacation is not a disappointment. Vacationers are likely to book for the cruise well in advance of the actual travel dates, and it is possible that one is not able to make the cruise as planned.
Best Cruise trip insurance ensures that vacationers can vacation investment should there be a disruption and one cannot make the cruise. Most Cruises offers Cruise protection, but that is not the same as trip insurance for Cruises.
A cruise protection usually gives vouchers for the traveler if they miss the cruise, but getting money back is not the norm, which is what trip insurance for Cruises offer. Vacationers can shield themselves best by purchasing the Cancel for any reason insurance benefit. This gives the flexibility of cancellation the cruise vacation for any reason, and the traveler can get reimbursed up to 75% of the non-refundable trip expenses. The cruise insurance protection offered by cruise lines provides very little benefits given their cost, this is particularly important for Seniors cruise vacationers who are most vulnerable and likely to need the benefits offered by the best cruise travel insurance plans.
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What are the best insurance plans for cruise travelers?
Seven Corners Cruise Insurance
- Cheapest cruise insurance for US residents taking domestic or international trips.
- Trip Inconvenience (Cruise Diversion & Disablement) covers $250 per event, up to $500.
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation is covered for $500,000
- Emergency accident and sickness medical expense is covered for $250,000.
- description
Trip Cost
Up to $30,000 per person - luggage
Trip Length
Up to 30 days - medical_services
Missed Connection
$250 per day up to $1,500 - shopping_cartBuy Now
ITravelinsured Travel Choice
- Ideal for those looking for a cheap and budget-friendly cruise insurance.
- Missing the boat is covered up to $500 per person.
- Accident and Sickness medical expense covered up to $100,000, with the option to enhance coverage up to $250,000
- Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains are covered up to $500,000, with the option to enhance coverage up to $1,000,000.
- description
Trip Cost
Up to $10,000 per person - luggage
Trip Length
Up to 180 days - medical_services
Missed Connection
Up to $500 per person - shopping_cartBuy Now
Safe Travels Voyager
- Ideal for first class travellers taking expensive vacations.
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation is covered for $10,00,000
- Emergency accident and sickness medical expense is covered for $250,000.
- Rental car damage and theft coverage up to $35,000.
- Optional cancel for any reason benefit covered up to $75% of non-refundable trip cost.
- description
Trip Cost
Up to $100,000 per person - luggage
Trip Length
Up to 180 days - medical_services
Missed Connection
Up to $1,000 per person - shopping_cartBuy Now
ITravelinsured LX
- For elite luxury travelers taking expensive vacations and adventure trips to exotic locations worldwide.
- Medical evacuation and Repatriation of Remains covered up to $1,000,000.
- Accident and Sickness medical expense covered up to $500,000.
- Rental car damage and theft coverage up to $40,000.
- Optional cancel for any reason benefit covered up to $75% of non-refundable trip cost.
- description
Trip Cost
Up to $150,000 per persom - luggage
Trip Length
Up to 180 days - medical_services
Missed Connection
Up to $500 per person - shopping_cartBuy Now
Do I need medical insurance to travel to European cruises?
European river cruise insurance
Click here to read more »Mediterranean cruise insurance
Click here to read more »Scandinavian cruise insurance
Click here to read more »Baltic cruise insurance
Click here to read more »Popular World Cruises
Click here to read more »What are the popular River Cruises in Europe?
Europe travel insurance for US citizens
Annual travel insurance for US citizens
Travel insurance for multiple trips within a year.
Click here to read more »Important factors for Schengen visa Insurance
Factors to consider for Europe travel insurance
Click here to read more »Travel insurance options for travelers with pre-existing ailments
Travel insurance for travelers with pre-existing ailments.
Click here to read more »Europe travel insurance for Seniors
Schengen visa insurance for older travelers
Click here to read more »US senior citizen travel insurance
Travel insurance for US senior citizens.
Click here to read more »Europe Schengen travel insurance - related links
Resourceful Schengen visa travel health insurance information
Cheap Schengen health insurance FAQs
Cheap travel medical insurance for Schengen Visa FAQs.
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Insurance blogs for best travel insurance for Schengen visa.
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Travel insurance for Schengen visa, Schengen insurance forum.
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