Travel Insurance: All About Schengen Visa for Bangladeshi Passport

Do Bangladeshi Passport Holders Need Travel Insurance?

While travel insurance is not mandatory for Bangladeshi passport holders traveling abroad, it is highly recommended to have adequate travel insurance coverage. Here are a few reasons why travel insurance is important for Bangladeshi passport holders:

Medical Emergencies: Travel insurance can cover medical expenses in case of illness or injury during your trip. This is particularly important when traveling to countries with high healthcare costs, as it can help you access quality medical care without incurring substantial financial burdens.

Trip Cancellation or Interruption: Travel insurance can provide reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if your trip needs to be canceled or cut short due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a personal emergency, natural disaster, or political unrest.

Lost or Delayed Baggage: Travel insurance can offer coverage for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage. This can help you recover the value of your belongings or provide funds for essential items until your baggage is located.

Travel Delays: If you experience significant travel delays, travel insurance can provide compensation for additional expenses incurred, such as accommodation, meals, or transportation.

Emergency Evacuation: In case of a medical emergency or other critical situations, travel insurance can cover the costs associated with emergency evacuation or repatriation to Bangladesh.

It's important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any travel insurance policy to ensure it provides sufficient coverage for your specific travel needs. Consider factors such as the destination, duration of travel, activities planned, and any pre-existing medical conditions when selecting a travel insurance plan.

Who Needs Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is recommended for a wide range of travelers to provide protection and peace of mind during their trips. While the specific needs may vary depending on factors such as destination, trip duration, and individual circumstances, here are the main categories of people who can benefit from travel insurance:

International Travelers: 

Travel insurance is particularly important for individuals traveling abroad. It can help cover medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or delayed baggage, and other unforeseen circumstances that may arise during international travel.

Vacationers and Tourists: 

Whether you are going on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, travel insurance can offer financial protection in case of unexpected events that could disrupt or cancel your trip. This may include illness or injury, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events that may cause trip delays or cancellations.

Business Travelers: 

Individuals traveling for business purposes can benefit from travel insurance as well. It can provide coverage for medical emergencies, travel delays, lost or stolen business equipment, and other unforeseen incidents that may occur during work-related trips.

Adventure Travelers: 

If you're planning activities like hiking, skiing, scuba diving, or other adventure sports, travel insurance becomes even more crucial. It can offer coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption due to injury, and other risks associated with adventure activities.

Senior Travelers: 

Older adults, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions, may find travel insurance essential. It can help cover medical expenses and provide emergency medical assistance if any health issues arise during the trip.

Students and Backpackers: 

Students studying abroad or backpackers embarking on extended trips can benefit from travel insurance tailored to their specific needs. It may include coverage for medical emergencies, trip interruption, personal liability, and other relevant aspects.

Cruise Ship Passengers: 

Travel insurance is highly recommended for cruise ship passengers due to the unique nature of cruising. It can provide coverage for trip cancellation or interruption, medical emergencies on board, missed port connections, and other cruise-related issues.

Ultimately, anyone traveling domestically or internationally can benefit from travel insurance. It provides financial protection and assistance in case of unforeseen events that may disrupt travel plans, cause medical emergencies, or result in financial losses. It is advisable to carefully review the coverage options and policy details to ensure that the insurance plan meets your specific needs and the requirements of your trip.

Difference Between Travel Insurance and Health Insurance 

Travel insurance and health insurance are two distinct types of insurance coverage that serve different purposes. Here are the main differences between travel insurance and health insurance:

Coverage Scope of Travel Insurance and Health Insurance:

Travel Insurance-1: 

Travel insurance provides coverage for various risks and incidents that may occur during a trip. It typically includes coverage for trip cancellation or interruption, lost or delayed baggage, emergency medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip delays, and personal liability.

Health Insurance-1: 

Health insurance, on the other hand, primarily focuses on providing coverage for medical expenses related to illness or injury. It includes coverage for doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medications, diagnostic tests, and other healthcare services.

Duration of Coverage:

Travel Insurance-2: 

Travel insurance coverage is typically purchased for a specific trip or a defined period of time, such as a week or a month. It starts at the beginning of the trip and ends upon the completion of the trip.

Health Insurance-2: 

Health insurance coverage is usually long-term and provides ongoing coverage for medical expenses throughout the policy period. It is not limited to a specific trip or travel period.

Geographic Coverage:

Travel Insurance-3: 

Travel insurance provides coverage for trips taken outside of your home country. It can provide coverage for medical emergencies and other travel-related incidents that occur abroad.

Health Insurance-3: 

Health insurance coverage is generally designed to provide coverage within a specific country or region. The coverage may be limited or excluded when traveling internationally, depending on the policy terms and conditions.

Premiums and Cost:

Travel Insurance-4: 

Travel insurance premiums are typically calculated based on the duration of the trip, the coverage limits selected, the traveler's age, and the destination. The cost of travel insurance can vary widely depending on these factors.

Health Insurance-4: 

Health insurance premiums are usually based on factors such as the insured person's age, medical history, coverage limits, and the specific plan chosen. The cost of health insurance is generally higher than travel insurance due to the broader coverage and long-term nature of the policy.

Coverage Limitations of Travel Insurance and Health Insurance:

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance may have certain exclusions and limitations, such as pre-existing medical conditions, high-risk activities, or certain countries with travel advisories. It is important to carefully review the policy terms and conditions to understand what is covered and what is not.

Health Insurance: Health insurance policies may have limitations on coverage for specific treatments, medications, or pre-existing conditions. These limitations may vary depending on the insurance provider and the policy.

It's important to note that the specific coverage and terms can vary between insurance providers and policies. It is always advisable to carefully read and understand the policy details and consult with the insurance provider to clarify any doubts or questions regarding coverage.

Authorized Travel Insurance Company in Bangladesh

There are several accredited travel agents in Bangladesh that you can consider for your travel needs. Here are a few well-known travel agencies in Bangladesh:

Discovery Tours and Logistics Ltd: This travel agency offers a wide range of travel services including ticketing, hotel reservations, visa assistance, and tour packages. Website: http://www.discoverybangladesh.com

Travel Booking Bangladesh: They provide various travel services such as flight ticketing, hotel bookings, visa assistance, and tour packages. Website: https://www.travelbooking.com.bd

Bengal Tours Ltd: Bengal Tours is a popular travel agency in Bangladesh offering both domestic and international travel services, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, and tour packages. Website: http://www.bengaltours.com.bd

A2Z Travel Ltd: This travel agency specializes in providing a range of travel services including air ticketing, hotel bookings, visa assistance, and customized tour packages. Website: http://www.a2ztravelbd.com

Travel Bangladesh Ltd: They offer various travel services such as flight reservations, hotel bookings, visa assistance, and holiday packages. Website: http://www.travelbd.com.bd

Researching and comparing different travel agencies is always a good idea to find the one that best meets your requirements and budget. Additionally, you may want to check if they are accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or other relevant travel associations.

The list of authorized Travel Insurance companies in Bangladesh for Schengen Visa for Bangladeshi Passport is as below:

1. Asia Pacific General Insurance Company Ltd.
2. Bangladesh General Insurance Company Ltd.
3. Bangladesh National Insurance Co. Ltd.
4. Central Insurance Company Ltd.
5. Delta Life Insurance Company Ltd.
6. Dhaka Insurance Limited
7. Eastern Insurance Company Ltd.
8. Eastland Insurance Company Ltd.
9. Green Delta Insurance
10. Jiban Bima Corporation
11. Mercentile Insurance Company Ltd.
12. Paramount Insurance Company Limited
13. Phoenix Insurance Company Ltd.
14. Pragati Insurance Limited
15. Prime Insurance Company Limited
16. Sadharan Bima Corporation
17. Sena Kalyan Insurance Company Ltd.
18. Sikder Insurance Company Limited
19. Sonar Bangla Insurance Limited
20. United Insurance Company Ltd

Schengen Visa for Bangladeshi Passport

Bangladeshi passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa to travel to the Schengen Area, including most European countries. Here is some general information about the Schengen visa application process for Bangladeshi passport holders:

Determine the Embassy/Consulate: Identify the Schengen country you plan to visit or spend the most time in. The Schengen visa application must be submitted at the embassy or consulate of that particular country.

Application Form: Obtain the Schengen visa application form from the embassy/consulate's website or their office. Complete the form accurately and ensure that all required fields are filled in.

Supporting Documents: Prepare the necessary supporting documents, which typically include:

• Valid passport with at least two blank pages and a validity of at least three months beyond the intended stay.

• Two recent passport-sized photographs.

• Travel itinerary, including flight reservations, hotel bookings, and a detailed travel plan.

• Proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host if staying with family or friends.

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during the trip (bank statements, sponsorship letter, etc.).

• Travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.

• Proof of employment, such as an employment letter, salary slips, and leave approval from your employer.

• Income tax returns or financial documents demonstrating your financial stability.

• A cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip, your travel itinerary, and other relevant details.

• Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the embassy/consulate for submitting your application and attending an interview if required.

• Visa Fee: Pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the country and type of visa. The fee is typically non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected.

• Biometrics: Provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) at the embassy/consulate's visa application center.

• Application Submission: Attend the appointment and submit your application along with the supporting documents. If required, attend an interview and answer any questions related to your trip.

• Visa Processing: The processing time for a Schengen visa can vary, but it usually takes around 10 to 15 working days. During this time, the embassy/consulate will review your application and make a decision.

• Passport Collection: Once a decision is made, you can collect your passport from the embassy/consulate or have it delivered to your address, depending on the procedure followed by the specific embassy/consulate.

Please note that the process and requirements may vary slightly depending on the country you are applying to. It is important to check the official website of the embassy/consulate or contact them directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the Schengen visa application process.

Different Types of Travel Insurance are discussed in another episode.