Schengen insurance is required to obtain a visa!

Planning a trip to Europe? Here you will find answers to all your questions about Schengen visas!

One of the most common questions when planning a trip abroad – whether for holiday, work, study or a fresh start – is whether you will need a visa. If you are heading to Europe, it will most likely be a Schengen visa. For hundreds of millions of travellers worldwide, this visa is the key that opens the door to most European countries.

At Healtio.com we have prepared an overview of everything you need to know about visas (and everything related). Our article will not only help you obtain this „key“, but also ensure your journey through European countries goes smoothly thanks to the right insurance.

• What is a Schengen visa (and what does it entitle to)?
• What is the difference between a standard and a Schengen visa?
• What can and cannot you do with the visa?
• What are the types of Schengen visas?
• Which countries issue Schengen visas?
• How to apply for a visa?
• Required documents
• What insurance is accepted for the visa?

What is a Schengen visa (and what does it entitle to)?

Citizens of the Schengen area and the EU can travel within this area without a visa. For citizens of most „third countries“ (outside the EU), however, a Schengen visa is a mandatory travel document.

It is a uniform visa whose criteria are unified across all Schengen states, so application requirements are identical for travellers across the entire area.

What is the difference between a standard and a Schengen visa?

A standard visa usually only applies to entry into one specific country. By contrast, a Schengen visa allows you to travel within all member countries. With a single permit you can freely move between European states.

What can and cannot you do with the visa?

• The visa allows you to stay and travel throughout the Schengen area.
• It allows a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Reasons for issuance include tourism, business trips, visits or internships.

What are the types of Schengen visas?

• Short-stay visa (type C): the most common type for tourists for up to 90 days.
• Multiple-entry visa: for those who travel to Europe frequently.
• Airport transit visa (type A): for transit in the international area of the airport.
• National visa (type D): for stays longer than three months (governed by the laws of the specific country).

Which countries issue Schengen visas?

Any member state of the Schengen area can issue a visa. Once issued by one of the European states, it is valid for the entire zone.

List of countries (valid for 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, Switzerland.

How to apply for a visa?

1. Choose the correct type of visa.

2. Gather the required documents.

3. Compare and take out mandatory insurance.

4. Book an appointment at the embassy or centre.

Required documents

You will usually need a form, a valid passport, photographs and above all an insurance certificate that meets the coverage limits (min. €30,000). At Healtio.com you will find insurance from trusted partners that meet these requirements exactly and you will receive the certificate immediately after payment.