Last checked: October 2026. Insurance requirements can change, and each consulate may have its own rules. Always check the official checklist for your visa before you buy a policy.
Travel insurance is one of the most misunderstood documents in visa applications. For some countries it is mandatory and the visa will be refused without it. For others it is optional but strongly recommended. Buying the wrong policy, or one that does not cover your full trip, is a common reason for delays and refusals. This guide explains which visas need insurance, what your policy must include, and the mistakes to avoid.
Which Visas Require Travel Insurance?
| Destination | Is insurance required? | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen countries | Yes, mandatory | Minimum €30,000 medical cover, valid in all Schengen countries for your whole stay |
| Türkiye | Yes | Health insurance covering your full stay |
| Saudi Arabia | Yes | Mandatory insurance is usually included in the visa or Umrah package |
| UAE 5-year tourist visa | Yes | UAE-valid health insurance |
| Australia (Student visa) | Yes, mandatory | Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your whole visa |
| Australia (Visitor visa) | Strongly recommended | The officer may ask for it, and visitors are not covered by public healthcare |
| Canada (Visitor visa) | Recommended | Not usually mandatory, but medical costs in Canada are very high |
| Canada (Super Visa for parents) | Yes, mandatory | Specific minimum medical cover, so check IRCC’s current rules |
| UK (Visitor visa) | Recommended | Not required for the visa, but visitors may be charged for NHS treatment |
| UK (Student visa) | Not needed | You pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) instead |
| USA (Visitor visa) | Recommended | Not required for the visa, but US medical costs are among the highest in the world |
Even when insurance is not mandatory, including a policy can strengthen your application by showing careful planning.
What a Good Visa Insurance Policy Must Include
- Medical expenses: emergency treatment and hospital stays
- Medical evacuation and repatriation: transport back to Pakistan for medical reasons, and repatriation of remains
- The right destination: for Schengen, the policy must cover all Schengen countries, not just one
- The full travel period: from the day you arrive until the day you leave, with no gaps
- Enough coverage: at least the minimum the country requires
- No high deductible: some consulates reject policies where you must pay a large amount yourself first
Step-by-Step: Buying Insurance for Your Visa
- Check the official requirement for your destination and visa type.
- Fix your travel dates first. The insurance dates must match your flight reservation and itinerary.
- Buy from a recognised insurer. Many Pakistani insurance companies offer travel policies designed for visa applications. Check that the consulate accepts the company.
- Read the policy certificate. Confirm your name (exactly as in your passport), dates, destination and coverage amount.
- Print the certificate and add it to your visa file.
Common Mistakes
- Dates that do not match: insurance that starts after your arrival or ends before your departure
- Wrong destination: a policy for one country when your trip covers several
- Coverage too low: for example, less than €30,000 for a Schengen visa
- Name spelling errors: a different spelling from your passport
- Buying too early with non-refundable terms: some insurers allow cancellation or refund if your visa is refused, so check before buying
- Fake or unverified policies: consulates can verify policies, and fake documents can lead to a ban
Does Insurance Have to Be Refundable?
Many Pakistani insurers offer a refund, minus a small charge, if your visa is refused and you provide the refusal letter. This is a useful feature, especially for Schengen visas. Ask about the refund policy before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does travel insurance cost for a Schengen visa?
The price depends on your age, trip length and the insurer. Short trips for younger travellers are usually inexpensive, while longer trips and older travellers cost more. Compare a few recognised insurers before buying.
Do I need travel insurance for a UK visit visa?
It is not required for the visa, but it is strongly recommended because visitors may be charged for medical treatment in the UK.
Is OSHC the same as travel insurance?
No. OSHC is a specific health insurance for international students in Australia, and it is mandatory for the Student visa. Travel insurance is for short trips.
Can I buy insurance after getting my visa?
For visas where insurance is mandatory, such as Schengen, you must include the policy with your application. For other visas, you can buy it before you travel.
Related Guides
- Schengen Visa Guide for Pakistanis
- Turkey Tourist Visa Documents Checklist
- UAE 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa
Have a Question?
This guide is for general information only. Always follow the insurance requirements listed by the embassy or consulate you are applying to. If you notice any outdated information, please let us know.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and is not financial or legal advice. Dream Visa Guide is not affiliated with any insurance company, embassy or government.
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