Schengen Visa – Meanings (What is?), Eligibility – List of Countries & Member Countries, Types & Categories – Validity, Duration of Stay, Extension of Stay, Requirements – Documents & Photo, Application – How to Apply, Online & Form, Fees & Costs – Payment, Travel Insurance – Policy & Payment, Processing Time, Status – Check, Appointment, Interview; Video and Images/Photos

Schengen Visa Images/Photos: 6. Image credit: Schengen Visa Info.

Schengen Visa Eligibility, Requirements and Application | Schengen Visa, Immigration and Travel

Schengen Visa – Types & Validity, Requirements, Application – How to Apply, Processing Time, Status – Check, Videos/Images/Photos.

Schengen, Schengen Area, and Schengen Visa Definitions and Meanings

Schengen Definition – What is Schengen?

Schengen Area – The World’s Largest Visa Free Zone

Schengen Visa Meaning – What is a Schengen Visa?

Schengen Visa Eligibility Criteria

Which Countries are Eligible for Schengen Visa?

Eligibility: List of Countries for Schengen Visa Countries

Schengen Visa Area Countries List – List of Countries in Schengen Visa –

What are the Members in the Schengen Visa Countries List?

List of Schengen Visa Area Countries

Schengen Visa Types and Categories

Uniform Schengen Visa (USV)

Type A Schengen Visa

Type C Schengen Visa

Single-entry Visa

Double-entry Visa

Multiple-entry Visa

What is Multiple-entry Visa?

Multiple-entry Visa Categories

1-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa

3-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa

5-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa

Limited Territorial Validity Visa (LTV)

National (Type D) Visas

Schengen Visa Types Validity

Uniform Schengen Visas (USV) Validity

Type A Schengen Visa Validity

Type C Schengen Visa Validity:

Single-entry Schengen Visa Validity: Not fixed

Double-entry Schengen Visa Validity: Not fixed

Multiple-entry Schengen Visa Validity

1-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa Validity

3-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa Validity

5-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa Validity

Schengen Limited Territorial Visa Validity

Schengen National Visas (Type D Schengen Visa) Validity

Schengen Visa Types and Categories Duration of Stay

Schengen Visa Types and Categories Extension of Stay

Short-term Schengen Visa Types – Travel Purpose

Short Term Schengen Visa Types Travel Purpose Validity

Short-term Travel Purpose Schengen Visa Types Duration of Stay

Schengen Visa Requirements

General Schengen Visa Requirements

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements According to Applicant’s Employment Status

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements for a Minor

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements According to Schengen Visa Type

Schengen Visa Documents

Schengen Visa-standard Documents

Schengen Visa-specific Documents

Schengen Visa Application – How to Apply for Schengen Visa

Schengen Visa Application Online – How to Download Schengen Visa Application Form Online

Schengen Visa Application Time – When Should I Apply for Schengen Visa?

Schengen Visa Fees – How Much Does a Schengen Visa Cost?

Schengen Visa Costs – What is the Schengen Visa Cost?

Schengen Visa Fee Payment – How to Pay the Schengen Visa Fee?

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance

Schengen Visa Processing Time

Schengen Visa Status

Schengen Visa Status Check

Schengen Visa Appointment

Schengen Visa Interview

Schengen Visa Types – Categories, Validity, Duration & Extension of Stay, and Requirements

11 Schengen Visa Types for Short-term Travel Purpose

8 Easy Requirements for Schengen Visa Application

How to Apply for Schengen Visa and Get it

Schengen Visa – Types & Validity, Requirements, Application – How to Apply, Processing Time, Status – Check, Videos/Images/Photos.

Schengen, Schengen Area, and Schengen Visa Definitions and Meanings

Schengen Definition – What is Schengen?

Schengen refers to the EU passport-free zone that covers most European countries. It’s the largest free travel area in the world.

Schengen Area – The World’s Largest Visa Free Zone

Schengen Area signifies a zone where 27 European countries abolished their internal borders, for the free and unrestricted movement of people, in harmony with common rules for controlling external borders and fighting criminality by strengthening the common judicial system and police cooperation.

Schengen Visa Meaning – What is a Schengen Visa?

You have, peradventure, travelled to many popular countries across the world and have come across UK, US, Australia, Canada, India, Germany, China Visas, but do not know what Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa means a short-stay visa that allows a person to travel to any member of the Schengen Area, per stay up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.

The Schengen visa is the most common visa for Europe. It enables its holder to enter, freely travel within, and leave the Schengen zone from any of the Schengen member countries. There are no border controls within the Schengen Zone.

However, if you are planning to study, work, or live in one of the Schengen countries for more than 90 days, then you must check how to apply for a Schengen Visa – National of that European country and not a Schengen Visa.

Schengen Visa Eligibility Criteria

27 Schengen Visa Member Countries List in Europe in a Map. Schengen Visa Images/Photos: 1. Image credit: Schengen Visa. https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/schengen-visa-countries-list/

Which Countries are Eligible for Schengen Visa?

All nationals of third countries make up the list of countries for Schengen Visa countries, which have not yet reached a visa-liberalization agreement with the Schengen member states, must obtain a visa before arriving in Europe.

To check whether you need a Schengen Visa to travel to one of the Schengen member countries, here is the list of countries, citizens of which must check how to apply for a Schengen Visa prior to their travel to the EU.

List of Countries for Schengen Visa Countries

There are up to 60 countries in the list of countries for Schengen Visa Countries whose citizen can check out how to apply for the Schengen Visa and apply. Here is a list of countries for Schengen Visa Countries as part of the requirements:

Afghanistan
Algeria
Angola
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Belarus
Belize
Benin
Bhutan
Bolivia
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cabo Verde
Cambodia
Cameroon
Central African Republic
Chad
China
Comoros
Cote D’ivoire
Cuba
Dem. Rep. Of Congo
Djibouti
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Egypt
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Fiji
Gabon
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana
Haiti
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Jamaica
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kosovo
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Madagascar
Malawi
Maldives
Mali
Mauritania
Mongolia
Morocco
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Nepal
Niger
Nigeria
North Korea
Northern Mariana Islands
Oman
Pakistan
Palestine
Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Qatar
Republic of the Congo
Russia
Rwanda
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Somalia
South Africa
South Sudan
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Suriname
Syria
São Tomé and Príncipe
Tajikistan
Tanzania
Thailand
Togo
Tonga
Tunisia
Turkmenistan
Türkiye
Uganda
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Vietnam
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe

Schengen Area Countries List – List of Countries in Schengen Visa –

What are the Members in the Schengen Visa Countries List?

The members in the Schenegen visa countries list are countries in the Schengen Area in Europe which award Schengen visa. They are 27 in number but recently joined by two other European countries – Bulgaria and Romania.

List of Schengen Visa Area Countries

The Schengen Visa countries list is given below:

Austria

Belgium

Czech Republic

Croatia

Denmark

Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Hungary

Iceland

Italy

Latvia

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Malta

Netherlands

Norway

Poland

Portugal

Slovakia

Slovenia

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Liechtenstein

Each of the Schengen Visa countries in the list can issue Schengen visas

The 27 Schengen countries are Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Schengen Visa Types and Categories

Schengen Visa Types and Categories – Validity, Duration of Stay and Extension of Stay. Schengen Visa Images/Photos: 2. Image Credit: Visa Reservation.

Uniform Schengen Visa (USV)

Type A

Type C – Single-entry, Double-entry and Multiple-entry Visas

Limited Territorial Validity Visa (LTV)

National Visa (Type D)

Uniform Schengen Visa (USV)

What is Uniform Schengen Visa (USV)?

The Uniform Schengen Visa stands for a permit of one of the Schengen area member countries to transit or reside in the desired territory for a certain period of time up to the maximum of 90 days every six-month period starting from the date of entry.

What are the Uniform Schengen Visas (USV) Countries?

Holders of a Uniform Schengen Visa (USV) – a Schengen transit visa permit or residence permit or visa for Schengen area member countries can travel to any of the 27 Schengen: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

What are Uniform Schengen Visa (USV) Categories?

There are two categories of Uniform Schengen Visas (USV) Type – Type A & Type C Schengen Visas.

According to the purpose of travelling the Uniform Schengen Visa applies to all of the two categories, Types “A” and “C”.

Type A Schengen Visa

What is Type A Schengen Visa?

Type “A” category stands for the Airport Transit Visa which allows its holder to travel through the international zone of the Schengen country Airport without entering the Schengen Area. An airport transit visa is mandatory for citizens travelling from one non-Schengen state to another non-Schengen state through a change of flights in a Schengen country airport.

Type C Schengen Visa

What is Type C Schengen Visa?

Type “C” category stands for a Short-term visa which allows its holder to reside in a Schengen Area for a certain period of time depending on the visa validity.

What are the Type C Schengen Visa Categories?

This particular category, according to the holder’s purpose of the travel can be obtained in a form of:

Single-entry visa,

Double-entry visa and

Multiple-entry visa.

Single-entry Visa

A single-entry visa allows its holder to enter the Schengen area only once, within the given period of time, as mentioned in the visa sticker affixed to their passport. Once the visa holder exits the Schengen territory, he or she can no longer go back, even if they have not spent there the number of days as permitted by the embassy that issued them the visa.

The territory you are permitted to visit is given close to the “Valid for” tag on your visa sticker, whereas the time you are permitted to stay is given close to the “Number of entries” tag.

Double-entry Visa

A double-entry visa applies the same way as the single-entry visa explained above. The sole difference between a single-entry and a double-entry visa is that the second gives you the chance to go once more back to the Schengen territory once you have left it.

When you leave the Schengen Area for the second time, you no longer have the right to go back, even if you have not spent all of the days you were permitted to remain there except if you obtained the double-entry visa more than once and then you become a frequent traveller to the Schengen zone, you are more likely to be granted a multiple-entry visa, as explained below.

Multiple-entry Visa

What is Multiple-entry Visa?

A multiple-entry visa allows its holder to go in and out of the Schengen Area as many times as he or she wants, as soon as they do not violate the 90/180 rule.

Multiple-entry Visa Categories

Based on how frequently you travel to the Schengen zone, you may apply and obtain one of the following multiple-entry visa types:

1-year Multiple-entry Visa

3-year Multiple-entry Visa

5-year Multiple-entry Visa

1-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa

The 1-year MEV visa gives you the right to enter the Schengen Zone as many times as you want, as long as you do not remain more than 90 days within this period. You can obtain this visa provided that you have obtained and lawfully used three visas within the previous two years.

3-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa

The 3-year multiple-entry Schengen visa is granted to applicants who have obtained and lawfully used a previous multiple-entry visa valid for one year within the previous two years.

This visa gives the right to its holder to enter the Schengen Area as many times as they wish within a period of three years provided you remain in the EU for no longer than 90 days within a 180-day period.

5-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa

5-year multiple entry Schengen visa is granted to people that have obtained and lawfully used a previous multiple-entry visa valid for at least two years within the previous three years.

This visa permits you to enter 27 countries in Europe as many times as you wish, within five years, as soon as you do not violate the 90/180 days rule.

1-year, 3-year and 5-year Multiple-entry visas are the categories of Multiple-entry Visa, sub-categories of Type C Visa and sub-sub-categories of Uniform Schengen Visa Type. Single-entry, Double-entry and Multiple-entry Visas are the categories of Type C Visa and sub-categories of Uniform Schengen Visa (USV) Type. Types A and C are the categories of the Uniform Schengen Visa Type.

Limited Territorial Validity Visa (LTV)

This type of visa obtained allows you to travel only in the Schengen State that has issued the visa or in some other cases, in the certain Schengen States specifically mentioned when applying for the visa. This type of visa is issued in very peculiar cases such as a humanitarian reasons or under international obligation as an exception to the common USV system.

National (Type D) Visas

The national visa of the Type “D” category is granted to certain individuals who are to be studying, working or permanently residing in one of the Schengen countries. The national visa can be of a single entry – granted to people who are in need of residing in the Schengen country for a certain period of time and for a sole purpose after which they shall return to their country or a multi-entry national visa – granted for certain individuals, allowing their holder to travel in and out of this Schengen country as he/she pleases and also travels throughout the whole Schengen area without additional visa requirements.

Schengen Visa Types Validity/Schengen Visa Validity

What is Schengen Visa Validity?

Schengen Visa Validity is the period of time from which to which you can use your visa to enter and stay in the Schengen area/zone.

Uniform Schengen Visas (USV) Validity

The Uniform Schengen Visas validity is a maximum 90 days validity every six-month period (180 day) starting from the date of entry (90/180 Rule)

Type A Schengen Visa Validity

Type A Schengen visa validity is a period of three months within 180 days (that is, 90 days limit per each 180-day period)

Type C Schengen Visa Validity

Type C Schengen visa validity is a period of three months within 180 days or (that is, 90 days limit per each 180-day period)

Single-entry Schengen Visa Validity: Not fixed

The validity of your single-entry visa is not fixed but depends on the number of days you stated you are going to be in the Schengen zone on your Schengen visa application form and the actual decision of the consulate that issues you the Schengen visa.

Double-entry Schengen Visa Validity: Not fixed

The validity of your double-entry visa is not fixed but depends on the embassy. The embassy appoints the number of days you are permitted to stay in any of the Schengen countries, as well as the first date you are permitted to enter Schengen and the last day that you are permitted to remain.

Multiple-entry Schengen Visa Validity

Multiple-entry Schengen Visa validity is a maximum of 90 days in every six-month period starting from the date of entry

1-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa Validity

The 1-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa validity is a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period of time valid for 1 year.

3-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa Validity

The 3-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa validity is a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period of time valid for3 years.

5-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa Validity

The 5-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa validity is a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period of time valid for a maximum of 5 years.

Schengen Limited Territorial Visa Validity

The validity of Schengen Limited Territorial Validity (LTV) visas is determined based on the specific circumstances and purpose of travel.

Schengen National Visas (Type D Schengen Visa) Validity

The validity of Schengen National Visas or Type D Schengen Visa varies depending on the individual’s circumstances and the regulations of the issuing country.

Schengen Visa Types and Categories Duration of Stay

What is Schengen Visa Duration of Stay?

Schengen Visa Duration of Stay is the maximum of days you are permitted to remain in the Schengen. The first day you enter Schengen is counted as “Day 1 whereas, the “Last Day” is counted as the day you leave Schengen.

Schengen Visa Types and Categories Duration of Stay

The duration of stay of the following Schengen visas and categories – Uniform Schengen Visas (USV), Type A Schengen, Type C Schengen Visa, Single-entry Schengen Visa, Double-entry Schengen Visa, Multiple-entry Visa, 1-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa, 3-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa and 5-year Multiple-entry Schengen Visa, Schengen Limited Territorial Validity Visa, Schengen National Visas (Type D) Schengen Visa, are all tied to their validities.

Schengen Visa Types and Categories Extension of Stay

What is Schengen Visa Extension of Stay?

Schengen visa extension of stay is the extension of the number of days for Schengen short-stay visa for the applicant to stay longer than earlier approved.

According to the Schengen visa policy, acceptable reasons to extend a Schengen short-stay visa are only late entry, humanitarian reasons, force majeure or important personal reasons. Click here to find out How to Extend a Schengen Visa?

Short-term Schengen Visa Types – Transit, Airport Transit, Tourism, Visiting Family or Friends, Business, Journalists & Reporters, Official Visit, Study, Training, Cultural, Sports and Film Crews Visa, Religious Visit/Religious Purposes, Medical – Travel Purpose, Requirements, Validity, Validity Extension, Duration of Stay

Short-term Schengen Visa Types – Travel Purpose

What is the Purpose of Travel for Short-term Schengen Visa Types?

Short-term Schengen visa types – travel purpose refers to Schengen short stay visa to Europe based on the purpose of travel.

Short-term Schengen Visa Types According to Travel Purpose

Schengen Transit Visa

Schengen Transit Visa is another Schengen Visa application form for an EU country travel, but in this case, is mostly for foreign seafarers, who only need to stop for very short periods by the seaport of one of the member states

Schengen Airport Transit Visa

Schengen Airport Transit Visa is travel through the international zone of a Schengen Country Airport without entering the Schengen Country.

Schengen Tourism Visa

Schengen Tourism Visa is for sightseeing and Schengen Visa application form for tourism makes sense to individuals who wants to experience and appreciate cultural heritage, architecture, foods and others in the countries.

Schengen Visiting Family or Friends Visa

Schengen Visiting Family or Friends Visa is for people who have family members or friends legally residing in the Schengen area and they can check how to apply for Schengen Visa for Visiting Family or Friends and apply.

Schengen Business Visa

Schengen Visa application form is available Schengen Business Visa for business people to find out how to apply for Schengen Visa – Business. Schengen Business Visa is for travel to the Schengen countries for business purposes.

Schengen Journalists & Reporters Visa

Schengen Journalists & Reporters Visa is a type of Schengen Business Visa or Work Visa issued for journalistic purposes. Journalists who obtain Schengen Journalists & Reporters Visa can work in Schengen counties.

Schengen Official Visit Visa

Schengen Official Visit Visa is for the purpose of travelling with a delegate on official visit to the Schengen countries

Schengen Study Purposes Visa – Short-term

Schengen Study Purposes Visa is for students seeking to study in any Schengen countries. A student having a Schengen Study Purposes Visa could attend any type of educational institutions, as university courses, language courses and other, for a period shorter than three months, can apply for a Schengen study visa.

Schengen Training Visa

Schengen Training Visa refers to a visa for the purpose of attending training or educational programs in the Schengen Area, it typically falls under the Schengen Short Stay Visa category, specifically for either study or official visit travel purposes.

Schengen Cultural, Sports and Film Crews Visa

Schengen Cultural, Sports and Film Crews Visa is for people living outside of the Schengen area, wishing to travel to Europe for the purpose of attending a Cultural / Sports / Religious Event and Film Crews. Applicants for Schengen Cultural, Sports and Film Crews Visa should be part of the event.

Schengen Religious Visit/Religious Purposes Visa

Schengen Religious Visit/Religious Purposes Visa is the Schengen visa issued for religious purposes visit.

If your purpose of entry to the Schengen Area does not match any of the purposes given above, you will have to tick the “Other” option in the application form.

Schengen Medical Visa

A Schengen visa for medical reasons allows individuals to travel to the Schengen Area for medical treatment or consultation. The validity will be determined based on the duration of the treatment or consultation required.

Short Term Schengen Visa Types Travel Purpose Validity

Schengen Transit Visa Validity

The validity of the Schengen Transit Visa is usually limited to the duration of the transit.

Schengen Airport Transit Visa Validity

The validity of Schengen Airport Transit Visa is usually limited to a short period, typically for a few days.

Schengen Tourism Visa Validity

The validity of Schengen Tourism Visa is the validity of a tourism visa, also known as a Schengen Visitor Visa or a Short-term Visa, can vary. Typically, it allows for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The specific duration will be indicated on the visa sticker.

Schengen Visiting Family or Friends Visa Validity

Similar to the Schengen Visiting Family or Friends Visa, the validity of a visiting family or friends visa allows for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Schengen Business Visa Validity

The validity of Schengen Business Visa can vary but is typically aligned with the specific business activities and the duration required.

Schengen Journalists & Reporters Visa Validity

The validity of Schengen Journalists & Reporters Visa will be determined based on the assignment or event they are covering.

Schengen Official Visit Visa Validity

The validity of Schengen Official Visit Visa will be determined based on the purpose and duration of the visit.

Schengen Medical reasons Visa Validity

The validity of the Schengen Medical reasons Visa will be determined based on the duration of the treatment or consultation required.

Schengen Study Purposes Visa Validity

The validity of Schengen Study Purposes Visa depends on the duration of the study program

Schengen Training Visa Validity

The validity of Schengen Study Purposes Visa depends on the duration of the training program.

Schengen Cultural, Sports and Film Crews Visa Validity

The validity of the Schengen Cultural, Sports and Film Crews Visa will be determined based on the duration of the event or production.

Schengen Religious Visit/Religious Purposes Visa

The validity of the Schengen Religious Visit/Religious Purposes Visa will be determined based on the specific religious event or purpose of the visit.

In general, the validity of Schengen Tourism Visa and Schengen Visiting Family or Friends Visa is a maximum period of 90 days (three months) within 180 days (six months), but the validity of Schengen Airport Transit Visa, Schengen Transit Visa, Schengen Business Visa, Schengen Journalists & Reporters Visa, Schengen Official Visit Visa, Schengen Medical reasons Visa, Schengen Training Visa, Schengen Student/Study Purposes Visa, Schengen Cultural, Sports and Film Crews Visa and Schengen Religious Visit/Religious Purposes Visa are all not fixed and depend on the duration and purpose of travel and visit.

Short-term Travel Purpose Schengen Visa Types Duration of Stay

What is Short-term Travel Purpose Schengen Visa Types Duration of Stay?

Short-term Travel Purpose Schengen Visa Types Duration of Stay is the maximum of days you are permitted to remain in the Schengen for a short term travel. The first day you enter Schengen is counted as “Day 1 whereas, the “Last Day” is counted as the day you leave Schengen.

Short-term Travel Purpose Schengen Visa Types Duration of Stay

The duration of stay of the following Schengen Visas: Schengen Airport Transit Visa, Schengen Transit Visa, Schengen Tourism Visa, Schengen Visiting Family or Friends Visa Schengen Business Visa, Schengen Journalists & Reporters Visa, Schengen Official Visit Visa, Schengen Medical reasons Visa, Schengen Training Visa, Schengen Study Purposes Visa, Schengen Cultural, Sports and Film Crews Visa and Schengen Religious Visit/Religious Purposes Visa are applicable to their validities.

Schengen Visa Requirements

Schengen Visa Images/Photos: 3. General Schengen Visa Requirements including documents and photos for Norway – a Schengen member country. Photo credit: YUMPU.

What is Schengen Visa Requirements?

Schengen visa requirements are documents and other demands expected to be met when applying for Schengen visa

Schengen Visa Requirements Types

Schengen Visa Requirements can be classified into 2 types. They are:

General Schengen Visa Requirements and

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements

General Schengen Visa Requirements

What are General Schengen Visa Requirements?

General Schengen visa requirements are basic Schengen visa requirements for any category of Schengen visitor travelling to the area irrespective employment status, stage in Life and the type of Schengen visa applied for.

8 General Schengen Visa Requirements

Here are 8 General Schengen visa documents:

Visa application form: Visa application form must be fully completed and signed.
Passport Photos: Two recently taken photos must be attached to the Schengen visa application form.
Valid passport: A valid passportnot older than 10 years, and it should be valid for at least three more months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen country. Older passports with visas on them (if you have any) are also valid.
Round trip reservation or itinerary: You are expected to have a round trip reservation or itinerary that must include dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the Schengen country. You can click here use the visa consultation services, such as flight itineraries and hotel reservation, for your Schengen visa requirements.
Travel insurance policyrequirement document: A travel insurance policy requirement document proves you have travel health insurance for the whole Schengen territory, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros in case of any medical emergency such as illnesses, accidents and even repatriation in case of death. The Insurance policy can easily be purchased online from Europ Assistance.
Proof of accommodation: A Proof of accommodation requirement document shows where you will be accommodated throughout your stay in Schengen area. This can be one of the following: A hotel/hostel booking, a rental agreement or a letter of invitation from a host at whose house you will be staying.
Proof of financial means: Proof of financial means requirement document provides an evidence that you have enough money to support yourself financially throughout your stay in the Schengen. This can be one of the following:

- Bank account statement – that shows you have enough money in your account for the trip. The statement shall be no older than 3 months.
- Sponsorship Letter – by another person that confirms they will be financially supporting your trip to the Schengen. In order for this letter to be valid, it must be accompanied by a bank statement of the sponsor, no older than three months.
- A combination of your bank account statement and a letter of sponsorship.

Proof of paid visa fee: The proof of paid visa fee of €80 for adults and €45 for children from 6 to 12 years old must be provided as one of the general visa requirements.

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements for Different Visa Types

What is Specific Schengen Visa Requirements?

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements for Different Visa Types are travel documents provided in addition to general Schengen visa requirements to travel to the zone.

Along with the aforementioned general Schengen visa documents, Schengen embassies around the world require some specific documents from the visa candidates depends on employment status, stage in life and the type of Schengen visa applied for.

3 Types of Specific Schengen Visa Requirements for Different Visa Types and Categories

The 3 types of specific Schengen visa types and categories and their requirements

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements According to Applicant’s Employment Status
Specific Schengen Visa Requirements for a Minor
Specific Schengen Visa Requirements According to Schengen Visa Type

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements According to Applicant’s Employment Status

Schengen Visa Requirements for Employment Status: Specific Schengen visa documents according to applicant’s employment status are:

Employment contract and current bank statement of the latest 6 months, leave permission from the employer and Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary (for employees).
A copy of your business license, company bank statement of the latest 6 months and Income Tax Return (ITR) (for the self-employed)
Proof of enrollment and ‘No objection letter from the School or University’ (for students)
Pension statement of the latest 6 months (for retirees)
Confirmation of Employment letter, no older than three months, from their spouse’s employer, stating the position held within the company as well as the starting date, spouse’s valid passport and an official marriage certificate (unemployed married to an EU citizen).

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements for a Minor

Schengen visa documents for a minor are:

The minor’s birth certificate.
Application form signed by both parents.
Family court order – in cases where only one parent has full custody of the child.
Certified copies of ID/passport of both parents.
A notarized parental authorization signed by both parents/guardians if the minor will be travelling alone.

Specific Schengen Visa Requirements According to Schengen Visa Type

Schengen Airport Transit Visa Requirements

A valid visa document (if needed) for the final country one is travelling to and the flight ticket for the final country you are travelling to (for an Airport Transit Visa).

Schengen Visiting Visa Requirements

Schengen Visiting Visa Requirements: Required Schengen visa documents when applying for a visit to a relative or a friend are:

The additional required documents to obtain a Schengen visa to visit relatives/friends are:

Affidavit of Support. “Official affidavit of support” is a document signed by the visiting friends or relatives at the corresponding office in his/her place of residence in the absence of the applicant’s bank account or lack of funds for care expenses during the stay in the Schengen country.
Travel Itinerary. The applicant’s description of their trip, the purpose of travelling, the time frame and all the personal date written down in a letter.
Means of Subsistence. Means of subsistence is a formal document staying the covering of all the travel expenses if the relative/friend is to cover the applicant’s expenses evidenced as a proof of financial status
Letter of Invitation: Letter of invitation is a visa application document obtained by a relative/friend residing in a Schengen country if the applicant will be covering the expenses on his/her own.

Schengen Tourist Visa Requirements

Schengen Tourist Visa Requirements: The required Schengen visa documents when applying for tourism (a tourist visa) are:

The additional required documents to obtain a Schengen visa for tourism purposes are:

Bank statement. Preferably for the last 6 months.
Affidavit of Support (as described above)
Travel Itinerary. The applicant’s description of his trip, the purpose of travelling, the time frame and all the personal date written down in a letter, as well as hotel reservations or a formal invitation letter from a resident of a Schengen country.

Schengen Business Visa Requirements

Schengen Visa Requirements for a business visa – You can find the list of required documents to obtain a Business Schengen visa

Schengen Training Visa Requirements

The additional required Schengen training visa documents to obtain a Schengen Training visa are:

Enrollment certificate. At an eligible institution for the courses, one will be attending in the Schengen country.
No objection letter. NOC from the educational institution where the visa applicant is currently enrolled (if applicable).

Schengen Medical Visa Requirements

The additional required Schengen visa documents to obtain a Schengen Medical visa are:

A letter from a doctor/clinic/hospital in the home country of the visa candidate, that he or she needs medical treatment.
Official confirmation of the treatment/appointment by the receiving medical institution (hospital/clinic) in the EU.
Proof of financial means. Proof that the applicant has sufficient financial means to pay the medical expenses and other related expenses throughout their treatment. This can be one of the following:
- Bank statements.
- Letter of sponsorship form the sponsor including the bank statements
- Proof of advance payments of the treatment to the medical institution and bank statement showing he or she can take care of other related expenses.
- Verbal note from the Ministry of Health of applicant’s home country – which must declare the preparedness of the relevant government of the applicant’s home country to cover his medical treatment costs if the medical treatment is to be covered by the Government of the home country of the applicant).

Schengen Student Visa Requirements

The additional required visa documents to obtain a Schengen Student visa are:

Two application forms instead of one.
Letter of acceptance at an EU University/College/School.
Proof of financial means. Documents that show one is able to reside and financially maintain him/herself during their stay in the Schengen area.

Schengen Working Visa Requirements

The additional required documents to obtain a Schengen Working visa are:

Two visa application forms
Employment contract. A contract between the applicant and the future employer residing in the Schengen territory.

Schengen Join-spouse Visa Requirements

The additional required Schengen visa documents to obtain a Schengen visa to join a Spouse residing in the EU are two application forms, the original certified copy of the marital certificate, and a copy of the spouse’s passport, if he/she is an EU citizen or a copy of the residency permit will be required if the spouse is not an EU citizen, but only lives in a Schengen country.

Schengen Cultural, Sports or Religious Events in Europe Visa Requirements

The additional required visa documents to obtain a Schengen visa for Cultural, Sports or Religious events are:

Event Information. I.e. invitation letters, entry tickets, enrollment conditions, detailed programme and other documents that present relevant information about the event.
Proof of previous performances. Participation in previous festivals and ceremonies (cultural, religious), sports competitions, winners’ certificates, proof of world/international ranking (sports).

Schengen Visa Documents

What is Schengen Visa Documents?

Schengen Visa Documents refer to the specific paperwork and requirements, including a valid passport, visa application form, proof of travel insurance, financial documents, and an invitation letter (if applicable), needed for individuals to obtain a Schengen visa, allowing them to travel within the Schengen Area in Europe.

You will have to present the following Schengen Visa documents at the Schengen port of entry in order to be permitted to enter if you are a non-EU/Schengen country national, regardless if you are a visa-exempt or not.

Schengen visa documents are issued on eligibility to a citizen of one on the list of countries for Schengen visa countries needing a visa.

Types of Schengen Visa Documents

There are two types of Schengen visa application documents. They are:

Schengen Visa Standard Documents
Schengen Visa-specific Documents

Schengen Visa-standard Documents

Schengen visa standard documents are the compulsory documents required by a traveler to Schengen countries irrespective of the visa type. The standard required documents for Schengen visa include:

The visa application form.
Valid passport.
Two identical photos.
Travel insurance policy.
Round trip reservation or flight itinerary with dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the Schengen area. A flight itinerary is a confirmed document which can be verified online about the schedule of a given flight.
Proof of accommodation.
Proof of financial means, etc.
Valid Passport: Schengen visa passport validity must not be later than 10 years and at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the Schengen countries validity.

Schengen Visa-specific Documents

The other group is the visa-specific requirements. Schengen visa-specific documents and their specifications differ from one visa type to the other. In addition, some of the Schengen member states have their own extra requirements for visa applicants.

Other Schengen visa documents: Other Schengen visa travel documents such as sufficient funds, proof of accommodation, validity, how long you intend to stay, round-trip airline ticket, the purpose of your entry, Schengen visa travel insurance, invitation letter documents, among others.

Check the list of documents required for the Schengen visa application, which includes the standard requirements, as well as the visa-specific requirements for each visa type.

The residence permit is a document that allows you to travel freely throughout the whole Schengen Area without any additional documents needed.

Schengen Visa Photo & Biometric Photo Requirements and Specifications

What is the Schengen Visa Photo Requirements?

Schengen countries have gone a step further and specified in detail all of the visa photograph requirements for a Europe travel.

Here are all of the Schengen visa photograph requirements and specifications elaborated in a clear and comprehensible way.

10 Schengen Visa Photo Specifications

The 10 Schengen visa photograph specifications for any short-term Schengen visa application are:

Two identical photos. Not older than six months.
Photo size: 35x45mm
No black and white in colour
70-80% of the photo for the head
Light-coloured background, light grey colour and no patterns
Straight look at the camera
Neutral facial expression, no smile and closed mouth
No hat, headwear or face cover
Avoid uniforms or colours matching the background
Printing resolution

What is Schengen Biometric Photo?

A Schengen biometric photo is a standardized passport-sized photograph meeting specific requirements, such as size, background color, and facial expression, necessary for visa and residency applications within the Schengen Area, enabling efficient border control and security measures.

Schengen Biometric Photo Requirements

To prepare for a Schengen biometric photo, find a professional photography studio or use a high-resolution digital camera with good lighting. Ensure that your photo adheres to the Schengen requirements, including a white background, neutral facial expression, and specific size dimensions (usually 35mm x 45mm), and avoid wearing glasses or head coverings that obscure your facial features, ensuring your face is visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head.

Prepare your Schengen visa application biometric photo online in real time an even your passport. Click here to prepare.

Schengen Visa Application

Schengen Visa Application Form & How to Apply. Schengen Visa Images/Photos: 4. Image credit: Schengen Fight Reservation Visa.

What is Schengen Visa Application?

A Schengen Visa Application is a request made by a traveler to obtain a visa that allows them to enter and travel within the Schengen Area, a group of European countries that have abolished internal border controls for passport-free travel.

How to Apply for Schengen Visa – How Do I Apply for Schengen Visa to Schengen Countries?

8 Easy Steps on How to Apply for Schengen Visa

Figure Out Which Schengen Visa Type You Need

Find out which Schengen Visa you need before you lodge the application for Schengen visa. The Schengen Visa Types are all discussed in details in eligibility, categories, validity and duration of stay.

2. Find Out Where You Need to Apply

You will have to file your Schengen visa application at one of the following: their embassy, one of their consulates, a visa centre to which the embassy of your destination country has outsourced visa submission or the embassy/consulate of another Schengen state to which the embassy of your destination country has outsourced visa submission.

Submission of Schengen Visa Application form is considered the way to lodge application for Schengen visa

3. Book an Appointment

Book a Schengen visa appointment in order to proceed with your application. Most countries give you a chance to book an appointment online. On the other hand, in others, you will need to book the appointment in person at the embassy or consulate of your destination country.

4. Fill Out the Schengen Visa Application Form

Download the Schengen visa application form and fill it out correctly and honestly. Make sure you fill out every required gap. Here you can find some clear instructions on how to fill in the Schengen visa application form. Schengen Visa Application Form can be downloaded, printed and completed, meeting with the requirements and providing the documents required for visa approval.

You will have to give the following information while completing on your Schengen visa application form:

Personal information,
Background information
Purpose of travel to Schengen Area,
Other detailed information regarding your travel

After downloading and filling out the Schengen visa application form, you will need to print the application form twice and sign both copies at the end of the completion.

The Schengen visa application form has the same format, no matter which country’s visa it is that the applicant is applying for.

5. Gather Schengen Visa Requirements

Gather the Required Schengen Visa Documents and Meet the Photo Requirements

The required documents are a crucial part of your visa application, including the Schengen visa photo requirement. Usually, these documents are categorized into two groups – Standard Schengen visa requirements and Schengen visa-specific requirements.

Standard Schengen visa requirements

The visa application form.
Valid passport. A valid passport not older than 10 years, is one of the Schengen visa application requirement documents, and it should be valid for at least three more months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen country. Older passports with visas on them (if you have any) are also valid.
Two identical photos. Two recently taken photos must be attached to the Schengen visa application form.
Travel insurance policy. Schengen Visa Travel Insurance policy can be purchased either online or conventionally from Europ Assistance or MondialCare. Payment of Schengen Visa Travel Insurance policy depends on the chosen company. You can easily purchase it online from Europ Assistance.
Round trip reservation or flight itinerary with dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the Schengen country. You can click here use the visa consultation services, such as flight itineraries and hotel reservation, for your Schengen visa requirements that can like this one.
Proof of accommodation. A Proof of accommodation is a requirement document shows where you will be accommodated throughout your stay in Schengen area. This can be one of the following: A hotel/hostel booking, a rental agreement or a letter of invitation from a host at whose house you will be staying.
Proof of financial means. Proof of financial means requirement document provides an evidence that you have enough money to support yourself financially throughout your stay in the Schengen EU zone. This can be one of the following: Bank account statement – that shows you have enough money in your account for the trip. The statement shall be no older than 3 months; Sponsorship Letter – by another person that confirms they will be financially supporting your trip to the Schengen. In order for this letter to be valid, it must be accompanied by a bank statement of the sponsor, no older than three months. and A combination of your bank account statement and a letter of sponsorship.

Schengen visa-specific requirements.

The other group is the visa-specific requirements. These Schengen Visa documents and their specifications differ from one visa type to the other. In addition, some of the Schengen member states have their own extra requirements for visa applicants. Check our list of documents required for the Schengen visa application, which includes the standard requirements, as well as the visa-specific requirements for each visa type.

6. Attend the Schengen Visa Interview

On the day of your Schengen Visa appointment, show up on time at the facility where you will be interviewed. There you will meet a visa consular to whom you need to hand the collected Schengen Visa documents, as required. You can find out some of the interview questions you can be asked ….

7. Pay the Schengen Visa Fee

You will need to pay a non-refundable administration Schengen Visa fee when applying for a Schengen visa, in order for your visa application to be processed.

The member countries have synchronized the Schengen Visa fees; therefore, they are static and unchangeable until decided otherwise by the Schengen states.

Currently, a Schengen visa fee is €80 per person. Children and some other specific categories will have to pay either reduced fees or no fees at all, depending on their situation. Check the list of Schengen visa fees, their reductions and exemptions to see if you belong to any of those categories!

8. Carry out Schengen Visa Application Status Check

The last easy step on how to apply for Schengen visa in ton carry out Schengen visa application status check. Schengen Visa processing time is between 15 up to 45 days. You may need to wait for up to 45

Wait until you get a response on your Schengen Visa application. Although in most cases it takes no more than 15 days for processing a visa, there are times when this process takes quite much longer. That period can be extended from 15 up to 45 days in some countries concerning some citizens.

Schengen Visa Application Online

Schengen Visa Application Online is currently unavailable at the time of writing of this blog.

You must lodge the application for Schengen visa at the Consulate of the country that you intend to visit, or – if you intend to visit more than one Schengen State, the Consulate of the country where you will spend the longest period.

So, there is no provision for Schengen Visa application online. You will need to download the Schengen Visa application form online, print and fill it out correctly and lodge the application for Schengen visa at the appropriate visa centre.

How to Download Schengen Visa Application Form Online

You can click on this link to download the Schengen Visa application form online for printing and completion.

Schengen Visa Application Time – When Should I Apply for Schengen Visa?

The earliest time for the lodging in the application for Schengen Visa should be six months before you start your planned trip and the latest you can file a visa application is at most 15 working days before you intend to travel. Since the Schengen Visa processing time 15 days, the recommended ample time to file a visa application should be at least three weeks before your trip.

Schengen Visa Fees

What is Schengen Visa Fees?

How Much Does a Schengen Visa Cost?

The standard Schengen visa fee for an adult costs €80. Children between the ages of six and twelve pay a reduced fee of €40, whereas children under the age of six are entirely exempt from payment as they are on free visa fee.

Nationals from Armenia, Azerbaijan and Kosovo pay a Schengen visa fee of €35 and Nationals from the Gambia (as of December 8, 2022) pay a visa fee €120.

Schengen Visa Costs

Schengen Visa Costs – What is the Schengen Visa Cost?

The Schengen Visa Cost is the sum of the visa fee paid and any other cost incurred during the visa application process including transportation costs and other miscellaneous expenses. So Schengen Visa Costs are as follows: €80 for an adult plus other expenses incurred. Schengen visa cost for children between the ages of six and twelve is a reduced fee of €40 plus other expenses. For children under the age of six who are entirely exempted from payment as they are on free visa fee, the visa cost will be other expenses incurred in procuring the visa.

Schengen Visa Costs for nationals from Armenia, Azerbaijan and Kosovo are €35 and €120 for nationals from the Gambia (as of December 8, 2022)

Schengen Visa Fee Payment – How to Pay the Schengen Visa Fee?

Acceptable payment methods for the Schengen visa fee include cash, debit or credit card, check, or bank order. Usually, you pay the Schengen visa fee before or right as you are handing in the application and then attach the receipt to the rest of the required documents.

The exact payment method will depend on the embassy or consulate processing your application. When you schedule your appointment, you will be notified of the required payment method.

You pay the fee when submitting the Schengen visa application at the embassy/consulate or a visa application centre. Your application will be rejected if you do not pay the visa fee.

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance

What is Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance is a travel visa insurance policy for a traveler visiting Schengen countries. Schengen Visa

What is Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Policy?

Travel insurance policy is a document that proves you have travel health insurance for the whole Schengen territory, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros in case of any medical emergency such as illnesses, accidents and even repatriation in case of death.

Anyone travelling temporarily to a Schengen area from a country that is subject to visa requirements, be it an individual visitor or group visitors, tourists, or business travellers has to be insured for the time being in the Schengen area. Travellers purchase an individual travel visa insurance policy for the days planned to spend in a Schengen territory at the rightful insurance/travel agency.

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Policy Purchase – How to Purchase Schengen Visa Travel Insurance Policy

Schengen Visa Travel Insurance policy can be purchased either online or conventionally from Europ Assistance or MondialCare. Payment of Schengen Visa Travel Insurance policy depends on the chosen company. You can easily purchase it online from Europ Assistance

You can obtain additional information about travel insurance or precisely Schengen Visa Travel Insurance policy from any of the following agencies: France Travel Insurance Guide, Spain Travel Insurance Guide, Germany Travel Insurance Guide, Italy Travel Insurance Guide, Switzerland Travel Insurance Guide.

Please, note that without a valid Schengen visa travel insurance policy, your visa application will get rejected automatically!
Schengen visa travel insurance policies from Europ Assistance are accepted by European authorities worldwide. You can also cancel it free of charge if you prove that your Schengen visa has been denied.

Schengen Visa Processing Time

What is Schengen Visa Processing Time?

The Schengen Visa processing time 15 days. There are times when the Schengen Visa processing time period can be extended from 15 up to 45 days in some Schengen countries concerning some citizens of the listed countries.

Due to the likely extended Schengen Visa processing time that the embassies/consulates worldwide need to process a Schengen Visa, the earliest time for the lodging in the application for Schengen Visa should be six months before you start your planned trip and the latest you can file a visa application is at most 15 working days before you intend to travel.

Since the Schengen Visa processing time 15 days, the recommended ample time to file a visa application should be at least three weeks before your trip.

Schengen Visa Status

What is Schengen Visa Status?

Schengen visa status is the response on one’s Schengen visa application. Schengen visa status can be in ‘approved’ status or ‘rejected’ status. Approved Schengen visa status means the visa application is accepted and you can go ahead with your travel plans to Schengen countries. Rejected Schengen visa status means you visa application is rejected and you cannot proceed with the travel plans.

Schengen Visa Status Check

What is Schengen Visa Status Check?

Schengen visa status check is occasional examination of the visa status to determine what is response would be – whether approved or rejected status. You are expected to begin your Schengen visa status check after 15 days of sending or completing your visa application. You should be able to get a response on your Schengen visa status check on or before 45 days after applying.

Schengen Visa Appointment

Schengen Visa Appointment and Interview. Schengen Visa Images/Photos: 5. A photo of a visa travel agent with a prospective visa applicant depicting visa appointment and interview. Photo credit: Freepik.

What is Schengen Visa Appointment?

You can start the process of setting up a visa appointment at one of the Schengen consulates in your country by booking an Appointment

Book a Schengen visa appointment in order to proceed with your application. Most countries give you a chance to book an appointment online. On the other hand, in others, you will need to book the appointment in person at the embassy or consulate of your destination country.

On the day of your appointment, show up on time at the facility where you will be interviewed. There you will meet a visa consular to whom you need to hand the collected documents, as required

If you fail to attend the embassy/consulate appointment without prior notice of 48 hours the request will be cancelled and you will have to undergo the procedure once again.

When applying for the visa you should bear in mind that you have to personally hand in the required documents once you’ve made an appointment at the embassy/consulate.

Schengen Visa Interview

During the Schengen visa interview, you will be asked personal questions about your whereabouts, the intended trip and other travel details. Make sure your answers are firm and correct, and that they comply with the information in the application form and the other documents. The interview may last around 10-15 minutes.

Schengen Visa Videos/Images/Photos 1, 2 and 3

This blog content on ‘Schengen Visa – Meanings (What is?), Eligibility – List of Countries & Member Countries, Types & Categories – Validity, Duration of Stay, Extension of Stay, Requirements – Documents & Photo, Application – How to Apply, Online & Form, Fees & Costs – Payment, Travel Insurance – Policy & Payment, Processing Time, Status – Check, Appointment, Interview; Video and Images/Photos’ is categorized under Schengen Visa Eligibility, Requirements and Application of Schengen Visa, Immigration and Travel to EU

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