Going abroad: how does temporary insurance work in Europe?
Temporary insurance Europe covers your vehicle's liability for 1 to 90 days, includes a multilingual green card, and adapts to your intra-EU travel, with no annual commitment.
Are you planning a trip to Europe with a personal or rental vehicle? Whether it's a road trip of a few days or a business trip of several weeks, you have a legal obligation to be covered for civil liability throughout Europe. Temporary car insurance , valid from 1 to 90 days , is the ideal solution to meet this need without committing to an annual contract. In this guide, KT Tempo explains the terms , the scope of the coverage , and the ** steps** to follow to drive with complete peace of mind in Europe.
1. Legal framework for temporary insurance in Europe
The obligation of civil liability
According to the Geneva Convention of 1949 and the EC Directive , all vehicles driving in Europe must be covered by at least civil liability insurance . Temporary insurance meets this requirement for short-term stays.
The green card: your insurance passport
The Green Card is the multilingual certificate of your liability coverage. It details the countries covered (all EEA states and certain partner countries) and must be presented in the event of an inspection.
2. Duration and scope of coverage
Duration from 1 to 90 days
- Minimum : 1 day for a one-off trip (purchase, test, repatriation)
- Maximum : 90 consecutive days without automatic renewal
Countries included
- All EU Member States
- EEA countries (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein)
- Certain annexed countries (Switzerland, Serbia, etc.) depending on the insurer
3. Subscription terms
100% online and immediate
- Enter your information (vehicle, driver, duration)
- Choose the formula (RC only or assistance/icebreaker options)
- Pay online
- Receive your certificate and green card by email
Necessary documents
- Registration certificate (provisional or definitive)
- Valid driver's license
- Proof of address or residence depending on the country of departure
4. Key guarantees and options
Compulsory civil liability
Covers material and bodily damage caused to a third party.
Repatriation assistance
Towing support , repatriation of the vehicle and passengers in the event of a breakdown or accident.
Glass breakage and theft
Options to cover windshield replacement , side glass or theft of personal belongings on board.
5. Practical tips for driving with peace of mind
Check the validity of the green card
Before departure, make sure that the document covers all the countries planned on your itinerary.
Respect local rules
- Motorway sticker or ecotax in Switzerland, Austria, etc.
- Mandatory equipment (yellow vest, triangle, helmet)
- Specific speed limits
Keep your supporting documents
Keep a paper copy and a digital version of your certificate and green card.
Conclusion
Temporary insurance in Europe is the most flexible solution to cover your trips from 1 to 90 days without committing to an annual contract. With KT Tempo , signing up takes just a few minutes, and you benefit from a multilingual green card , compliant civil liability , and assistance options for peace of mind.
👉 Ready to go?
Subscribe to your temporary European insurance now at kttempo.com and receive your certificate instantly.