Travel Insurance For Austria: What You Need To Know

Austria is a popular travel destination, attracting around 46 million visitors in 2019. Whether you're planning to ski in the Austrian Alps, visit Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg, or explore the museums and palaces of Vienna, it's important to consider whether you need travel insurance for your trip. While travel insurance is not mandatory for all visitors to Austria, it is strongly recommended, especially to cover any unexpected medical expenses or emergencies that may arise during your stay.

Travel insurance for medical emergencies

Austria is a popular travel destination, attracting around 46 million visitors in 2019. Whether you're planning to ski in the Austrian Alps, hike the magnificent trails of the Zillertal Alps, or explore the cities, it's important to consider the potential need for travel insurance for medical emergencies. While travel insurance is not mandatory for all visitors to Austria, it is strongly recommended. Here are some key considerations regarding travel insurance for medical emergencies when planning a trip to Austria:

Mandatory Requirements

Travel insurance is mandatory for visitors to Austria who need a Schengen visa. If you are required to obtain a Schengen visa, your insurance must meet the following criteria:

• Minimum coverage of at least €30,000 in medical expenses.
• Coverage for all member states of the Schengen Area.
• Coverage for any expenses arising from medical repatriation.

Medical Emergencies

Medical emergencies can happen at any time, and the cost of medical treatment in Austria can be high for foreigners. Travel insurance can provide valuable protection in the event of unexpected illnesses or injuries during your trip. Most domestic health insurance companies from other countries may not cover treatment abroad, so a travel medical plan can help bridge this gap. Travel insurance for medical emergencies in Austria typically covers:

• Emergency medical and dental treatment.
• Hospital fees.
• Medical evacuation and repatriation.
• Additional benefits depending on the plan chosen.

Activities and Adventure Sports

If you plan to participate in adventure sports or activities such as alpine skiing, snowboarding, or hiking in Austria, it is important to ensure that your travel insurance covers these activities. Some basic travel insurance policies may exclude or have limited coverage for such activities, so it is essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of your policy. You may need to include a hazardous sports rider in your travel insurance plan for adequate coverage.

COVID-19 Coverage

It is important to note that COVID-19 is considered a named event, and some travel insurance providers may not cover expenses related to COVID-19 treatment in Austria. However, other providers have extended their medical coverage to include COVID-19-related expenses. Be sure to carefully review the terms of your travel insurance policy regarding COVID-19 coverage before purchasing.

Recommendations

When planning a trip to Austria, it is highly recommended to consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical emergencies. This will provide financial protection and peace of mind in the event of unexpected illnesses, injuries, or medical emergencies during your trip. Compare different insurance providers and plans to find one that best suits your specific needs and itinerary.

Schengen visa requirements

A Schengen visa is an entry permit for non-EU citizens to visit a country in the Schengen area for a short, temporary period of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. There are three types of Schengen visas: single-entry, multiple-entry, and airport transit visas. The type of visa required depends on the purpose and duration of the visit.

To apply for a Schengen visa, you must submit the following documents to the consulate of the country you intend to visit:

• A valid passport with an expiry date at least 3 months after the date of your departure from the Schengen area.
• A visa application form.
• A photo that complies with ICAO standards.
• Medical insurance covering emergency medical care, hospitalisation, and repatriation (including in the event of death) with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
• Supporting documents relating to the purpose of your stay, evidence of financial means, accommodation during your stay, and proof of your intention to return to your home country.

Your fingerprints will be collected when you submit your application. The normal processing time for a visa application is 15 days, but this may be extended to up to 45 days if additional documents or a more detailed examination are required. The visa fee varies depending on the applicant's country and age, ranging from €35 to €67.50.

It is important to note that travel insurance is mandatory if you need a Schengen visa for Austria. Even if you don't need a visa, travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover potential medical costs.

Sports and adventure activities

Austria is a haven for sports and adventure enthusiasts, with activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and water sports. If you're planning a trip to Austria to engage in any of these activities, it's crucial to consider the following when it comes to travel insurance:

Winter Sports and Adventure Activities

Austria is renowned for its winter sports offerings, with the Austrian Alps providing a perfect setting for skiing, snowboarding, and climbing. When participating in these activities, it's important to ensure that your travel insurance covers you in case of any accidents or injuries. Standard travel insurance policies may not include coverage for high-risk activities, so consider purchasing additional adventure or winter sports cover. This will protect you in the event of injuries from skiing, snowboarding, or other adventurous pursuits.

Some insurance providers offer specialised winter sports insurance, which can cover ski-specific risks such as piste and avalanche closure, as well as equipment loss or damage. These policies are tailored to skiers and snowboarders, providing peace of mind during your trip.

Hiking and Walking

Austria's stunning landscapes and mountain ranges make it an ideal destination for hiking and walking. However, it's important to have adequate travel insurance in case of any mishaps during your outdoor adventures. Make sure your policy includes coverage for emergency medical treatment and repatriation, as medical costs for foreigners in Austria can be high.

Water Sports

Austria's lakes provide an excellent opportunity for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you're into swimming, kayaking, or windsurfing, ensure that your travel insurance covers water-related activities. This will protect you in case of any accidents or injuries while enjoying these activities.

Other Considerations

When choosing travel insurance for sports and adventure activities in Austria, consider the following:

• Coverage Limits: Ensure that your policy provides sufficient coverage for medical expenses, emergency assistance, and repatriation.
• Activity-Specific Coverage: Check if your policy covers the specific activities you plan to engage in. Some policies may exclude certain activities or have different coverage levels for different sports.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, disclose them to your insurance provider. You may need to purchase additional coverage or a specialised policy to ensure you're protected during your trip.
• Equipment Coverage: If you're bringing your own sports equipment, ensure that your policy covers loss, damage, or theft of your gear.
• Cancellation and Curtailment: Opt for a policy that covers cancellation or curtailment of your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, including medical emergencies.
• Personal Liability: Consider a policy that includes personal liability coverage in case you accidentally cause injury to someone else or damage their property during your sports or adventure activities.

Travel insurance for Austrians

If you are an Austrian citizen, it is important to have reliable travel insurance when travelling abroad, as it can provide essential financial protection in case of unexpected events or emergencies. Here are some key considerations and recommendations for travel insurance for Austrians:

Understanding the Importance of Travel Insurance:

• Medical Emergencies: Travel insurance typically covers medical expenses incurred during your trip, which can be crucial as healthcare costs can be high in foreign countries. This includes emergency treatment, hospitalisation, and medical evacuation if needed.
• Trip Cancellations: Travel insurance can provide reimbursement for non-refundable trip costs if you need to cancel or interrupt your journey due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or natural disasters.
• Lost or Delayed Luggage: Insurance can offer compensation for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage, helping you replace essential items or purchase necessities until your luggage is recovered.
• Personal Liability: Travel insurance may also cover legal expenses and compensation claims if you accidentally cause injury or damage to someone else's property while travelling.

Recommended Travel Insurance Options for Austrians:

• Globelink International: Globelink offers travel insurance for Austrian residents travelling to European countries or exotic locations in the East. Their plans include coverage for medical repatriation, delayed flights, lost personal belongings, and personal accidents. They have a 24-hour response network and a dedicated Emergency Assistance Service hotline.
• AXA Schengen Travel Insurance: AXA provides extensive protection for travellers to Austria and other Schengen Area countries. Their insurance covers medical expenses up to €100,000, medical repatriation, 24/7 medical assistance, and up to 180 days of coverage. AXA's insurance certificate is also recognised for visa applications.
• Country-Specific Insurance: When travelling to a particular country, consider purchasing travel insurance that meets the specific requirements of that destination. For example, if you're visiting Austria and need a Schengen visa, ensure your insurance complies with the minimum coverage requirements for medical expenses, repatriation, and coverage area.
• Annual Multi-Trip Insurance: If you travel frequently throughout the year, consider annual multi-trip travel insurance. This type of policy covers multiple trips within a 12-month period, saving you the hassle of purchasing insurance for each individual journey.

Remember to carefully review the terms and conditions of your chosen travel insurance policy to understand the coverage limits, exclusions, and any applicable restrictions. It is also essential to follow local laws and regulations when travelling to avoid fines and stay safe.

Travel insurance for non-emergencies

Travel insurance is not mandatory when visiting Austria, but it is strongly recommended. Even if you have health insurance, travel insurance is beneficial because regular health insurance may have restrictions for international medical expenses.

When considering travel insurance for non-emergencies, it is important to note that travel insurance typically covers emergency medical expenses such as hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription medications, and emergency medical evacuations due to unforeseen illness or accidental injury. However, there are some aspects of non-emergency care that travel insurance can assist with.

Firstly, travel insurance can provide coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. Many comprehensive travel insurance plans offer this coverage at no additional charge if you obtain a pre-existing medical conditions waiver. This ensures that your recent medical history is not considered when evaluating a claim. It is important to inquire about this waiver before purchasing travel insurance if you have concerns about pre-existing conditions.

Secondly, travel insurance can assist with medical expenses that may not be covered by your regular health insurance when travelling internationally. These expenses could include doctor visits, prescription medications, and medical evacuations to a different medical facility or your home country. These costs can be high, especially if you require specialised care or extended treatment.

Additionally, travel insurance can provide 24/7 emergency assistance services, such as language interpretation and arranging medical appointments. This can be invaluable if you are in a foreign country and need help navigating the local healthcare system.

When choosing a travel insurance plan, it is important to carefully read the policy documentation or consult with the insurance provider to understand the exact coverage details. The extent of coverage can vary depending on the provider and the plan you select, so it is essential to select a plan that meets your specific needs and fits within your budget.

Frequently asked questions