Situations

Short exchanges in Europe: Schengen insurance rules

Not every period abroad is a full degree. Summer schools, short exchanges and research visits have their own insurance rules.

Short-stay Schengen visas

Students who need a short-stay Schengen visa must show travel medical insurance with cover of at least 30,000 euros, valid in all Schengen countries for the whole stay. It must include emergency treatment and repatriation for medical reasons.

Semester exchanges

For a semester or a year, most students need a national long-stay visa or residence permit, and the rules of the host country apply. In Germany, for example, statutory insurance may apply. In France and Spain, check the host university's guidance and the consulate's list of documents.

EU students

Students from the EU can usually use a European Health Insurance Card for necessary treatment during a temporary stay in another EU country. It is not a replacement for travel insurance, and it does not cover repatriation.

Home university schemes

Some home universities insure their own students on exchange. Ask before you buy a separate policy.

This page is general information, last reviewed in October 2026. It is not advice, and rules change. Check the official source for your visa and your university's own guidance before you buy anything.