Guide
The no-deductible rule for France and Italy visa insurance
By Covered Abroad Research Desk · Last verified July 2026
The rule in writing
“Consulates commonly refuse policies with a deductible (excess) on the core cover. Applicants report rejections over deductible clauses; the certificate should show cover without a disqualifying deductible.”
Official source: Consulate application guidance & documented applicant reports — Last verified:
The rule in writing
“For the first year, consulates commonly require zero deductible or co-pay, and cover of the whole Schengen area including repatriation of remains.”
Official source: Consulate application language & applicant reports (b2 forum pass) — Last verified:
What a deductible is, in plain terms
A deductible, sometimes called an excess or co-pay, is the slice of a claim you pay yourself before the insurer pays anything. It is normal in ordinary insurance, but on a visa certificate it is a red flag: it suggests the core medical cover is not unconditional, and that is exactly what a consulate is checking for.
France: no disqualifying deductible
French consulates commonly refuse policies that carry a deductible on the core cover, and applicants report rejections over excess clauses. The safe certificate shows medical and hospitalisation cover without a disqualifying deductible. See the cited rule below.
Italy: zero deductible in year one
For the elective residence visa, consulates commonly require zero deductible or co-pay on the core cover for the first year, alongside the €30,000 minimum and repatriation. A deductible clause buried in the certificate is a clean reason to refuse.
How to spot a deductible on the certificate
Read the certificate for the words deductible, excess, or co-pay against the medical or hospitalisation cover. If you see one, ask the insurer whether the certificate can show the core cover without it. Not sure? Run your details through our free policy checker.