Planning travel across Europe? Medical certificates are increasingly required for various travel purposes: Schengen visa applications, travel insurance, airline fitness-to-fly, and health documentation. This comprehensive 2026 guide explains when you need medical certificates for European travel, specific country requirements, and how to obtain certification quickly.
When Do You Need a Medical Certificate for European Travel?
Schengen Visa Applications
Medical certificates may be required for:
- Long-stay visas (>90 days): Most Schengen countries require health certificates
- Specific demographics: Applicants over 60 years old
- Pre-existing conditions: Chronic illnesses disclosed in application
- Study visas: Student residence permits
- Work permits: Employment-based residence
Travel Medical Certificate Online – €34.99
Certified doctors • Delivered in 2 hours • Accepted across Europe
Country-Specific Requirements
Schengen Countries Medical Certificate Requirements
| Country | Requirement | Specific Notes |
|---|---|---|
| France | Long-stay visas | OFII medical examination required |
| Germany | Work/study permits | TB screening for certain countries |
| Spain | Residence permits | Certificate within 3 months of application |
| Italy | Long-stay visas | Translation to Italian required |
| Portugal | D7/Golden Visa | TB test for high-risk countries |
What Medical Certificate Must Include
- Doctor’s details: Name, license number, practice address
- Patient information: Full name, date of birth, passport number
- Health declaration: No communicable diseases
- Fitness statement: Fit to travel/reside
- Validity: Typically 3-6 months from issue
- Signature: Doctor’s hand signature or verified digital
- Translation: In destination country language or English
Travel Insurance Medical Requirements
Pre-Existing Condition Disclosure
European travel insurance often requires medical certification for:
- Chronic conditions (diabetes, heart disease, asthma)
- Recent surgeries or hospitalizations
- Pregnancy beyond 28 weeks
- Cancer within past 5 years
- Mental health conditions
Fitness-to-Fly Certificates
Airlines may require medical clearance for:
- Pregnancy: Beyond 28-36 weeks depending on airline
- Recent surgery: Within 10-14 days of major procedures
- Cardiovascular events: Heart attack, stroke within 6 weeks
- Respiratory conditions: Severe COPD, recent pneumothorax
- Infectious diseases: Contagious illnesses
- Oxygen requirement: Medical oxygen during flight
COVID-19 and Post-Pandemic Requirements 2026
Current Status
As of 2026, most European countries have removed COVID-specific entry requirements, however:
- Some countries maintain testing for symptomatic travelers
- Health declaration forms may still be required
- Certain facilities (hospitals, care homes) require recent negative tests
- Travel insurance may cover COVID-related medical expenses
How to Obtain Travel Medical Certificate
| Method | Cost | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| GP in Home Country | £40-80 / €50-100 | 1-2 weeks |
| Travel Clinic | £60-120 / €70-140 | Few days-1 week |
| Online Certificate | €34.99 | 2 hours |
Travel Plans Next Week?
Traditional GP: 1-2 weeks wait + appointments
Online medical certificate: 2 hours delivery
Don’t risk travel delays – get certified today
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need medical certificate for short tourist trips?
Generally no for stays under 90 days. However, travel insurance may require disclosure of pre-existing conditions.
How long is travel medical certificate valid?
Typically 3-6 months. Check specific country embassy requirements.
Can online certificate be used for Schengen visa?
Yes, if meets all requirements and from licensed medical professional. May need translation.
What if I have chronic condition?
Declare honestly. Most conditions don’t prevent travel/visa approval if well-managed and insured.
Travel Europe with Confidence
Get compliant medical certification for your European journey
- ✓ Meets Schengen visa requirements
- ✓ Accepted for travel insurance
- ✓ Fitness-to-fly certification
- ✓ Certificate in 2 hours
- ✓ Only €34.99
- ✓ Available in multiple languages
Key Takeaways
- Medical certificates often required for long-stay Schengen visas
- Each European country has specific health certification requirements
- Travel insurance may require pre-existing condition medical documentation
- Airlines require fitness-to-fly certificates for certain medical conditions
- Certificates valid 3-6 months typically
- Online certificates accepted if from licensed professionals
- Translation may be required for non-English documents
- €34.99 online vs €70-140 traditional clinics
- 2-hour delivery online vs 1-2 week traditional waits
- Plan ahead – get certificate 1-2 months before travel
Last updated: February 2026. European travel requirements subject to change – always verify current requirements with relevant embassy/consulate.