Swisscare International Student Insurance

What is Swisscare?

Swisscare is an online insurance provider founded in Switzerland in 2005. Initially focused on digital health insurance solutions for students in Switzerland, the company has expanded to serve a global audience. For those coming to the Netherlands or other EU/EEA countries, Swisscare offers specialized international student insurance and travel medical plans designed to meet visa requirements and cover unexpected medical emergencies.

Who is Swisscare For?

Swisscare’s products are aimed at individuals temporarily staying outside their home country who are not eligible for or required to take out national public health insurance. This typically includes international students studying abroad, academics, au pairs, researchers, and young professionals undertaking an internship. It is also suitable for non-EU residents who require proof of medical coverage to secure a Schengen visa.

Coverage Options

Swisscare divides its offerings into specific plans based on the purpose and duration of your stay. Coverage is subject to the exact terms and limits chosen during the application process.

International Student Health Insurance

This plan aims to cover medical emergencies during your studies abroad. It generally includes 24/7 medical assistance, search and rescue, repatriation, and access to emergency medical care. The plan also typically provides third-party liability coverage, which protects you financially if you accidentally cause injury to someone or damage their property.

• Available to holders of a student visa.
• Choice between three medical coverage limits: €50,000, €150,000, or €500,000.
• Generally features no deductible for medical costs.
• Coverage ranges from 1 to 365 days.

Swisscare apply form for students

International Schengen Visa Insurance

Travelers from outside the EU/EEA often require a Schengen visa. To obtain this visa, you must show proof of adequate medical insurance. Swisscare’s Schengen Visa Insurance is designed to meet these exact embassy and consulate requirements.

• Valid for up to 182 days.
• Includes emergency medical care, repatriation, and 24/7 assistance.
• Available for travelers aged 70 years or younger.

Swisscare apply form for Schengen visa

International Essential Medical Insurance

This plan is tailored for individuals staying abroad for an extended period who need broader medical protection. It includes hospital admission for both inpatient and outpatient care, emergency services, and repatriation.

• Available for durations of 6, 12, or 18 months.
• For individuals between 18 and 49 years old.
• Suitable for foreign residents living in the EU/EEA or EU/EEA residents staying abroad (excluding the U.S. and Canada).

Swisscare apply form for Essential Medical

General Exclusions

As with most international travel and student insurances, Swisscare policies contain specific exclusions. Depending on the plan, you may not be covered for:

• Pre-existing conditions: Medical issues that existed prior to the start date of the policy are usually excluded.
• Routine check-ups: Standard dental care, routine physicals, and preventative medicine are generally not covered.
• Extreme sports: Injuries sustained during high-risk activities or professional sports may require specialized coverage.

Always review the final policy document to understand the exact exclusions applicable to your chosen plan.

Cost Factors

The premium for a Swisscare policy is dynamic and depends on several individual factors:

• Duration of stay: Longer policies cost more overall but may have a lower daily rate.
• Coverage limit: Opting for a €500,000 maximum payout will result in a higher premium than the €50,000 tier.
• Age: Premiums often increase for older applicants, particularly for the Essential Medical and Schengen plans.
• Destination: Geographic coverage zones (e.g., Worldwide vs. Europe-only) influence the price.

Example Scenarios

To understand how Swisscare functions in practice, consider these conditional examples:

• Example 1: An international student from India arrives in the Netherlands for a one-year Master’s program. Since they do not have a paid job, they are not allowed to take out Dutch public insurance. They purchase the Swisscare International Student Health Insurance to ensure emergency medical costs and liability are covered.
• Example 2: A tourist from South Africa plans a 3-month trip across Europe. They purchase the International Schengen Visa Insurance to submit with their visa application, ensuring they meet the legal minimum medical coverage requirements for entry.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When purchasing international private insurance, students should avoid these common errors:

• Ignoring Dutch employment rules: If you start a part-time job in the Netherlands, standard Dutch public health insurance (Zvw) is usually required. Paid internships need a separate SVB/Wlz check because payment, country group and employee-insurance status can change your obligation. Swisscare does not replace Dutch basic insurance when Dutch basic insurance is legally required.
• Underestimating coverage limits: Choosing the lowest coverage tier (€50,000) might save money initially, but could leave you underinsured in the event of a severe medical emergency.
• Applying too late: Visa applications require proof of insurance. Waiting until the last minute to purchase a policy can delay your visa approval.

How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Plan

Applying for Swisscare is a straightforward, online process.

1. Determine your needs: Identify whether you need coverage for a study period, a Schengen visa, or an extended stay.
2. Select your coverage level: Choose the maximum medical reimbursement limit (e.g., €50,000 to €500,000) that fits your risk tolerance and budget.
3. Fill out the application: Provide your personal details, home country, destination, and the exact start and end dates of your trip via the Swisscare online portal.
4. Pay the premium: Complete the payment online via credit card or other accepted digital payment methods.
5. Download your documents: Upon approval, immediately download your insurance certificate, which you can use for your visa application or university registration.

Contact Details