Applying for a Schengen visa

What is a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is an entry permit for the Schengen area. It allows foreign nationals to stay in a Schengen area country for up to 90 days.

There are different types of Schengen visas:

• Transit visa Schengen (type A) allows access to the international transit zone of a Schengen area airport during a stopover.
• The Schengen single-entry visa (type C), which allows you to enter the Schengen area only once;
• The Schengen multiple-entry visa (type D), which allows several visits.

For short-term stays in Europe: It will soon no longer be necessary to obtain a Schengen visa. All you need to do is complete an ETIAS form online.

Who needs to apply for a Schengen visa?

The list of countries from which citizens must apply for a Schengen visa varies according to the type of Schengen visa. Here are the lists of countries according to the type of visa requested.

Which travellers require a Schengen transit visa (type A)?

Which travellers require a Schengen short-stay visa (type C)?

Which travellers require a Schengen long-stay visa (type D)?

How do I apply for a Schengen visa?

You must apply for a Schengen visa at the embassy of the country you are visiting in the Schengen area. If the trip includes several countries, the request must be made in the first country visited, or the one where the traveler will spend the most time.

When should I apply for a Schengen visa?

Applications can be made up to 6 months before departure.

What documents do I need to apply?

Here is the list of documents required to obtain a Schengen visa:

• A valid passport with an expiry date of at least 3 months;
• A completed visa application form ;
• A passport photo for the visa;
• Medical insurance covering emergency medical care, hospitalization and repatriation;
• Proof of financial means and accommodation during the stay and a return ticket;
• Fingerprints are collected when the application is submitted.

How much does a Schengen visa cost?

The price of a Schengen visa depends on the age of the applicant:

• 90 € for adults
• 45 € for children aged 6 to 12

Sometimes there are additional fees charged by visa service centers.

How long does it take to process a request?

The processing time for a Schengen visa application is 15 days. This period is extended up to 45 days for a detailed examination of the application.