Schengen Visa Types, Requirements, and Application
Do you want to apply for a Schengen visa? About visa requirements? This article is right for you! We will provide the ultimate guides for registration, fees, and processing time as well as some useful tips for a smooth process. Let’s get started!
What is a Schengen visa?
Schengen visa is a short-term stay visa in Europe that allows its holder to travel throughout the Schengen Area. This visa is issued by one of the Schengen Countries and allows you to visit any Schengen country for a total period of up to 90 days within 180 days.
There are 27 countries in the Schengen Area. These countries have agreed to remove all internal borders and have a common visa policy, although there may be some minor differences in procedures and required documents. Every national of every country that is not part of the Schengen Area and which does not have a Visa Facilitation Agreement with the EU requires a Schengen visa to enter any member state.
What countries can I visit with a Schengen visa?
With a Schengen visa, you can visit all Schengen member countries:
In addition, there are many countries that are exempt from Schengen visa for tourism purposes, you can travel throughout Europe for up to 90 days, these countries include:
Schengen visa types
Uniform Schengen visa (USV)
- Single-entry visa: You can enter a Schengen country only once and stay until the visa expires. If you leave before the expiration, you cannot re-enter.
- Double-entry visa: You can enter a Schengen country twice within the visa validity period. If you leave after the second entry before the expiration, you cannot re-enter.
- Multiple-entry visa: You can enter and leave the Schengen Zone as many times as you want as long as your visa is valid.
Limited territorial validity visa (LTV)
The Limited territorial validity (LTV) visa permits you to travel inside the Schengen member nation that granted it. For example, if your visa was obtained in France, you are only allowed to stay there.
An LTV visa does not allow you to transit via other Schengen nations. This visa is an exemption to the Uniform Visa and is typically granted for international commitments or humanitarian purposes.
Schengen visa requirements
The following list of documents is required for any Schengen visa application:
- Visa application form: Completed and fully signed.
- Photo: Must attach two recently taken photos, both photos must be taken within the last three months.
- Valid passport: No more than 10 years and must be valid for at least another three months from the date you intend to leave the Schengen area.
- Round-trip tickets or cruise tickets: It must include the date and flight number specifying entry and exit from the Schengen area.
- Travel insurance policy: Document proving you have travel medical insurance throughout the entire Schengen territory, with a minimum cover of 30,000 euros in case of medical emergencies such as illness, accident and even repatriation in case of dead. You can easily buy an Insurance policy online from Europ Assistance.
- Proof of accommodation: A document showing where you will stay during your stay in Schengen. Includes: hotel/dormitory reservation, rental contract, invitation letter from the landlord where you will stay.
- Proof of financial means: Proof that you have enough money to financially support yourself during your stay in Schengen. Can be one of the following: bank statement, sponsorship letter, combination of bank statement and sponsorship letter.
How to apply for Schengen visa?
Here is the step-by-step guide for Schengen visa application:
Step #1: Fill out the form
Complete the application form online. Make sure you answer all questions correctly. Print it twice and sign it at the end. The form asks for basic details like your name, date of birth, country of birth, passport number, and nationality. It also asks about your trip, like how long you plan to stay and where you’ll stay.
Step #2: Make an appointment
Schedule an interview through the website of the consulate or embassy of the Schengen country you plan to visit, in your country of residence.
Step #3: Gather documents
Collect all the necessary documents for a Schengen visa, as required, in duplicate. Organize them neatly, so you have everything ready for your appointment. You must leave your passport at the consulate or embassy during the application process. If you take back your passport while your application is being processed, they will cancel your Schengen visa application.
Step #4: Attend the appointment
Arrive at the appointment center on time. They may cancel your appointment if you are late, even by a few minutes. It takes around 10 minutes to complete.
Step #5: Give biometrics
If you have not previously filed for a Schengen visa, you must have your fingerprints scanned at the consulate’s office. If you have, they should be able to look up your existing biometrics.
Step #6: Verify details
After they check your application, they will enter your information into the online system, and you will get a printed copy of your application. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After getting the printed form, make sure to check that all the details are correct and sign the form.
Underage applicants must be accompanied by their mother, father, or legal guardian.
Schengen visa fees
The cost of a Schengen visa application for adults is €80. For children aged 6 to 12 years, the visa fee is €45.
After paying the fees, you will get a receipt, which you must keep to collect your processed application. If they reject your visa application, the fee will not be returned. If you apply again for a visa, you will have to pay the fees again.
Processing time for Schengen visa
The processing time for a Schengen visa can depend on some factors:
- The country you apply from
- The time of year
- The number of applications
- How complete your application is
- Your situation
Usually, the processing time is:
- 15 calendar days for most cases
- 30 calendar days for exceptional cases
- 60 calendar days for certain nationalities
But it’s important to know that during peak travel seasons or when there are many applications, the processing time may be longer. It’s best to apply well ahead of time to make sure there is enough time for the visa to be processed.
Tips when applying for Schengen visa
To apply for Schengen visa, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines carefully and prepare a complete application to increase your chances of success:
- Start early: Begin the visa application process at least 15 days before your intended travel date and no more than 6 months in advance.
- Gather documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and financial means, as required.
- Fill out forms correctly: Complete the visa application form accurately and clearly, ensuring all information matches your supporting documents.
- Schedule an appointment: Make an appointment with the appropriate consulate or embassy well in advance, as availability may be limited.
- Arrive on time: Be punctual for your appointment, as delinquency may lead to cancellation.
- Provide biometrics: Be ready to provide biometric data (fingerprints) if it’s your first time applying.
- Verify details: Carefully review the printed form for accuracy and sign before submitting it.
- Pay fees: Pay the visa fees promptly and keep the receipt, as needed.
- Provide more info: Respond quickly if the consulate requests more information or documents.
- Be patient: Remain patient as processing times vary, especially during peak seasons.