Hi folks, I’m planning to apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa so I can travel back and forth to Europe a few times over the next year for work and some leisure trips. I know travel insurance is a must for the visa application, but I’m confused about which one to choose that specifically covers multiple entries. Does it need to be for the full validity period, or can I get shorter ones? Any recommendations on reliable providers that embassies accept, like AXA or something else? Budget-friendly options would be great too! 
Hey, @sara_lime20 good question - people really overthink the insurance part
First of all, there’s no guarantee you’ll get a multiple - entries Schengen visa - that’s always up to the embassy, based on your profile and travel history.
For insurance, the basic rule is:
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It must cover the trip you’re applying for now (first trip), with at least EUR 30,000 medical coverage, valid in all Schengen countries.
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It does not have to cover the full 1-year or 2-year validity you’re hoping for.
If later you do get a multiple-entry visa from any embassy and you plan to travel frequently, you can then buy a yearly multi-trip Schengen insurance that covers multiple entries in the Schengen area - that’s more convenient.
Embassies commonly accept big names like AXA Schengen, Allianz, Europe Assistance, or reputable local insurers, so you can just pick a budget-friendly plan that meets the EUR 30,000 Schengen requirement.
Hi there! I’m Meliza — Visa Expert from Outbound.
Good question — when it comes to multiple-entry Schengen visas, what matters most for travel insurance is that each trip you take under that visa is covered for the time you’re actually in the Schengen Area. Here’s what to know and a few recommendations based on what tends to work well:
What you need to know about insurance for multiple-entry Schengen visas
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The insurance doesn’t have to cover the full 1-year validity of the visa. What’s required is that every stay in Schengen is insured with valid coverage (minimum coverage amounts, per embassy requirements).
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You can buy short-term travel insurance for each trip — as long as it covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and accidents for the duration of that stay.
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If you travel several times a year, you can either:
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Buy insurance separately for each trip, or
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Purchase a “multi-trip / annual” policy that covers multiple journeys under one premium (if your budget allows).
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What I usually recommend for reliability & budget-friendliness
| Provider / Option | What’s Good | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AXA Schengen Travel Insurance | Widely accepted by embassies, good coverage including medical and repatriation | Premium depends on coverage and number of days |
| Local/regional travel-insurance providers in your country | Often cheaper, still accepted — good if you travel short & solo | Double-check coverage limits before buying |
| Annual/multi-trip plan (if available) | Covers many trips under one plan — convenient if you travel often | Upfront cost higher, but may save you in the long run |
| Short-term policy per trip | Flexible, pay-as-you-go, ideal for occasional travellers | Must ensure no gap between trips or visa could be jeopardized |
Since you plan to travel multiple times but maybe not continuously, the sweet spot is either:
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Buying a short-term insurance per trip (cheaper, flexible), or
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If you expect frequent travel (e.g. >2 trips/year), consider a multi-trip/annual policy for convenience.
Make sure whichever option you pick meets embassy/consulate requirements (medical cover, repatriation, etc.).