Schengen insurance is required to obtain a visa!

Planning a trip to Europe? In this article you will find answers to all your questions about the Schengen area!

The Schengen area, or simply Schengen, refers to the territory of 29 European states where people can travel freely and cross the borders of member states at any point without having to go through border control.

• What is the Schengen area?
• Is Schengen the same as the European Union?
• Which countries issue Schengen visas?
• Where can I apply for a Schengen visa?
• How to apply for a Schengen visa?
• Documents for entry to the Schengen area
• What insurance is accepted for the visa?

What is the Schengen area?

The Schengen area is a unique free movement zone established in 1985. Its main pillar is the abolition of controls at internal borders of member states and the strengthening of external border protection.

In 2026, this area already includes 29 European countries. It is the largest area of free movement in the world, enabling efficient travel for millions of people without having to stop at border crossings between member states.

The zone includes most EU member states (except Ireland and Cyprus) and four non-EU EFTA states: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Bulgaria and Romania have been full members (including for land borders) since 2024.

Is Schengen the same as the European Union?

The Schengen area and the European Union are two distinct entities with different membership. This is why we see EU countries that have retained border controls, as well as non-EU states that have fully adopted Schengen rules.“

Which countries issue Schengen visas?

The visa application is submitted to the state that is the main destination of your trip. If you are visiting several countries and the destination cannot be determined, apply to the country of first entry.

Current list of Schengen area countries (2026):
Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Iceland, Italy, Lithuania, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Austria, Romania, Greece, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

Where can I apply for a Schengen visa?

Applications are submitted at consular offices or through authorised external providers (e.g. VFS Global or TLScontact). In 2026, partial digitalisation of the process is already available in many countries; however, a personal appointment for the collection of biometric data remains the standard.

How to apply for a Schengen visa?

1. Identification: Determine the correct type of visa according to the purpose and length of your trip.

2. Preparation: Complete the documentation according to the requirements of the specific consulate.

3. Insurance: Compare and take out mandatory travel health insurance that meets all visa requirements.

4. Submission: Book an appointment, submit your application in person and pay the visa fee.

Documents for entry to the Schengen area

For a successful application you will need: a valid travel document, a completed application form, photographs meeting ICAO standards, proof of the purpose of your trip (itinerary), proof of financial means and accommodation.

The most important document is the insurance certificate. It must mandatorily cover medical expenses and repatriation with a minimum limit of €30,000 and must be valid for the entire Schengen area. At Healtio.com we only compare insurance that meets these parameters, and you will receive the certificate for the authorities immediately after payment.