Country - Europe
Schengen Visa: Your Gateway to Europe
A Schengen visa allows non-European Union (EU) nationals to travel freely within the 27 Schengen member countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is ideal for tourism, business trips, family visits, and short-term studies.
Schengen Visa Types
- Tourist Visa – For sightseeing and vacations.
- Business Visa – For attending meetings, conferences, or trade fairs.
- Visitor Visa – For visiting family and friends residing in a Schengen country.
- Student Visa – For short-term courses and training programs.
- Medical Visa – For receiving medical treatment in Schengen countries.
- Transit Visa – For travelers passing through Schengen airports en route to another destination.
Schengen Visa Requirements
To apply for a Schengen visa, you need to submit the following documents:
- A completed Schengen visa application form.
- Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond the intended stay).
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Travel itinerary, including flight and hotel bookings.
- Travel insurance covering at least €30,000.
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, salary slips, sponsorship letters).
- Employment or business documents (work contract, company registration, or employment letter).
- Invitation letter (if applicable, for business or family visits).
Schengen Visa Application Process
- Determine the Right Visa Type – Choose the appropriate visa category based on your travel purpose.
- Book an Appointment – Schedule an appointment at the embassy/consulate of the main Schengen country you will visit.
- Prepare Documents – Gather all required documents and ensure accuracy.
- Attend the Visa Interview – Submit your application and answer questions about your trip.
- Pay the Visa Fee – Fees vary by country and visa type.
- Wait for Processing – Processing time is typically 15-45 days.
- Receive Your Visa – If approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.
Schengen Visa Processing Time
- Standard processing time: 15-30 days.
- Complex cases may take up to 45 days.
- Some embassies offer express processing for urgent cases.
Schengen Visa Fees
- Adults: €80
- Children (6-12 years): €40
- Children under 6: Free
- Certain categories (students, researchers, diplomatic passport holders) may have reduced or waived fees.
Schengen Visa Validity & Stay Duration
- A short-stay Schengen visa is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Multiple-entry visas allow multiple visits within the validity period.
- Long-term Schengen visas may be available for frequent travelers.
Schengen Visa Extension
- Extensions are rarely granted and only in exceptional cases (medical emergencies, force majeure, or humanitarian reasons).
- Apply at the immigration office of the Schengen country you are in.