Schengen Visa
What Is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa that allows its holder to travel freely within the 27 countries of the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
It is typically issued for tourism, business, family visits, or transit purposes.
Who Can Apply for a Schengen Visa?
You may apply if:
- You are a national of a country that requires a visa to enter the Schengen Area
- You intend to stay for 90 days or less in a 180-day window
- You have a clear purpose of travel (e.g. tourism, conference, medical, family visit)
- You can demonstrate sufficient financial means and intent to return
- You apply through the correct consulate or visa application centre
Types of Schengen Visas
- Type C – Short-Stay Visa (most common)
- Type A – Airport Transit Visa
- Type D – National Visa (for long stays)
- Multiple-Entry Visa (MEV): Grants repeated entries during its validity
Schengen Countries
- EU Members: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden.
- Non-EU Schengen Members: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland.
Required Documents
Essential documentation for your Schengen visa application includes:
- Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
- Valid passport (issued within last 10 years, valid for 3 months after return)
- Passport-size photo (as per ICAO standards)
- Proof of travel itinerary (flight reservations)
- Hotel bookings or accommodation evidence
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, sponsorship letter, etc.)
- Travel insurance (minimum coverage of EUR 30,000)
- Employment or student letter, if applicable
- Visa fee payment receipt
Financial Requirements
Financial documentation must demonstrate your ability to support yourself during your stay:
- Minimum daily amount depends on the destination country (e.g. ~EUR 45–70/day in most cases)
- Applicants must prove they can cover all expenses during their stay
- Bank statements for the last 3–6 months are typically required
Schengen Visa Fees
| Applicant Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Adults (12+) | €80 |
| Children (6–11 years) | €40 |
| Children (under 6) | Free |
| Spouses/family of EU nationals | Free (with evidence) |
Application Process
- The application process follows these steps:
- Identify your main destination country (or first port of entry)
- Book an appointment with the relevant consulate or visa centre (e.g. VFS Global)
- Submit documents and biometric data in person
- Wait for processing and receive your visa decision
- Collect your passport or request delivery
Processing Time
Standard processing times are:
- Standard: 15 calendar days from the date of appointment
- Extended: Up to 45 days during peak seasons or additional verification
- Apply at least 15 days and not earlier than 6 months before intended travel
Validity and Stay Rules
Understanding the rules governing your stay:
- Maximum stay: 90 days within any 180-day period
- Multiple-entry visas may be valid from 6 months to 5 years
- The “90/180 rule” applies regardless of visa validity
How Much Does the Scale-up Worker Visa Cost?
- Application fee: £880
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
- The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) provides access to the UK healthcare system and is payable upfront for the entire visa duration.
Additional dependants require separate fees.
Reasons for Refusal
Common reasons for visa refusal include:
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation
- Insufficient financial means
- Unclear travel purpose
- Overstaying in past Schengen visits
- Lack of strong ties to home country
What to Do If Refused
If your application is refused, you have several options:
- Review the refusal letter carefully
- You may file an appeal (within the deadline stated, often 15–30 days)
- Correct deficiencies and reapply if necessary
- Legal representation is advisable for appeals
Can You Work with a Schengen Visa?
No, a Schengen Visa does not allow you to work or earn income within the Schengen Area. It is strictly for tourism, business visits, family visits, or conferences.
Tips for a Successful Application
To maximise your chances of approval:
- Apply early and be well-prepared
- Tailor documents to the declared travel purpose
- Ensure financial evidence is consistent and verifiable
- Provide a cover letter explaining the trip clearly
- Maintain a strong record of compliance if reapplying
Latest Schengen Visa News
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