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What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is required for certain non-Europeans to visit any of the 27 Schengen area countries. It allows travellers to move between member states without border identity checks. This permit lets non-EU nationals visit for up to 90 days within 180 days.

This visa is issued by one of the Schengen Member States. It grants the holder the ability to travel or stay in the Schengen area for short durations.

What is the Schengen Area?

The Schengen Area is a zone of 27 European countries that have eliminated border controls between them. This includes nations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Poland, and the Scandinavian countries. However, it does not cover the U.K. and Ireland.

While most EU countries are part of the Schengen Agreement. Some, like Bulgaria and Romania, are signatories but not yet fully active members. Additionally, non-EU countries such as Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway are also part of the Schengen Area.

What Countries are Schengen States?

Here is a list of Schengen Countries:

Country	Schengen Status	Additional Information
Austria	Schengen State	EU Member
Belgium	Schengen State	EU Member
Croatia	Schengen State	EU Member
Czech Republic	Schengen State	EU Member
Denmark	Schengen State	EU Member
Estonia	Schengen State	EU Member
Finland	Schengen State	EU Member
France	Schengen State	EU Member
Germany	Schengen State	EU Member
Greece	Schengen State	EU Member
Ireland	Non-Schengen State	EU Member
Cyprus	Non-Schengen State	EU Member

Types of Schengen Visas

There are four types of Schengen visas:

Type A Schengen Visa – Airport Transit Visa:

The Type A visa is for non-Schengen nationals who need to transit through the international zone of an airport in a Schengen country. It’s necessary for travellers who are passing from one non-Schengen country to another. Also, they have a layover in a Schengen airport. This visa does not allow entry into the Schengen country itself.

Type B Schengen Visa:

The Type B visa, previously used for short journeys of less than five days, has now been replaced by the Type C visa with a “transit” designation.

Type C Schengen Visa:

The Type C visa is the standard short-stay visa for the Schengen area. It permits the holder to stay or travel within the Schengen zone for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This visa is issued by the consulates, embassies, or designated agencies of Schengen countries. It can be granted for single, double, or multiple entries. This completely depends on the traveller’s needs.

Type D Schengen Visa:

The Type D visa, or national long-stay visa, is intended for those planning to study, work, or reside in a Schengen country for more than 90 days, up to one year. This visa is essential for long-term stays.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for a Schengen Visa?

Citizens from the mentioned countries can travel to Schengen countries. Also, they can stay in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

To qualify for this program, you must:

Have a valid passport that remains valid for at least 3 months after applying for the visa.
Hold a valid Schengen Visa.
Maintain medical insurance meeting Schengen Visa requirements.
Submit documents supporting your travel purpose.
Confirm your return ticket or show sufficient funds to purchase one.
Be a citizen of a non-European Union country.
Justify the reason for your travel and its duration.
Ensure your medical travel insurance covers at least €30,000

What are the Documents Required for Schengen Visa?

Document	Details
Valid Passport	Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond planned departure from the Schengen area. For multiple-entry visas, valid for at least 3 months after leaving the last Schengen country.
Visa Application Form	Completed and signed form.
Photograph	One photo that meets ICAO standards.
Medical Insurance	Coverage for emergency medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation, including in the event of death.
Supporting Documents	Proof of visit purpose, evidence of financial means, proof of accommodation, and intention to return to home country.
Biometric Data	Fingerprints are collected upon application submission (exemptions apply).
Additional Documents	Consulates may request further documentation.

Where to Apply?

To apply for a Schengen visa, submit your application at the consulate of the country you plan to visit. If you’re visiting multiple countries with longer stays in one, apply at that country’s consulate. If stays are equal, apply at the first country’s consulate. Generally, apply at the consulate in your legal residence region.

How much does a Schengen visa cost?

Applicant Category	Visa Fee (EUR)	Visa Fee (PKR) (approx.)
Adults	€90	₨25,020
Children aged 6-12	€45	₨12,510
Applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus	€35	₨9,735
Applicants from Cabo Verde	€67.50	₨18,802.50

What is the processing time for a Schengen visa application?

The application process usually takes 15 days from submission. However, it can extend to 45 days if more detailed examination or additional documents are needed by the consulate.

Certain family members of EU or EEA citizens under the Free Movement Directive qualify for a free and faster visa procedure. This aims to speed up processing for eligible applicants.

When Should I Apply for a Schengen Visa?

You need to submit your Schengen visa application at least 15 days before your planned travel date, but no earlier than 6 months before your trip.

Remember, you must schedule an appointment to submit your application. Depending on your location, you may need to book this appointment several weeks in advance. Planning ahead is crucial to ensure you meet all deadlines and requirements.

How Much Money Do I Need to Visit the Schengen Area?

The required amount of money varies by country. For example, if you are applying for a Schengen visa for France:

Without pre-paid accommodation: You need to show you have €120 per day.
With pre-booked accommodation: This amount decreases to €65 per day.
For lower-cost accommodation: You need to show you have €32.25 per day.

For a Schengen visa for Spain, you must have at least €100 per person per day. Generally, having more than €3,000 in savings is sufficient for most trips. You can also provide proof of sponsorship if someone else is funding your trip.

Top 10 Easiest Schengen Countries to Apply for Visa

Country	Visa Rejection Rate (2019)	Highlights
Switzerland	5.86%	Convenient access to France, Italy, and Germany.
Austria	6.03%	Stunning castles; Vienna, the ‘City of Music’.
Finland	6.05%	Known as the ‘Happiest Country in the World’.
Denmark	6.68%	Ideal for cycling enthusiasts and Danish pastries.
Sweden	Just below 7%	Unique stays like Sweden’s Ice Hotel.
Norway	7.47%	Breathtaking fjords and northern lights.
Luxembourg	7.48%	Small size; easy accessibility.
Spain	4.54% (Mumbai); 91.86% approval	Famous for La Tomatina festival; high approval rate.
Germany	8.78% (national average); 3.29% (Kolkata)	Kolkata applicants have lower rejection rates.
Belgium	8.99%	Moderate rejection rate; historical attractions.

Success Tips for Schengen Visa

Visit the embassy’s website for application requirements and procedures. Plan your visit to the consulate or visa center accordingly.
Create and use a checklist to ensure all required documents are ready and in order throughout the application process.
Apply well in advance within the three-month window before your trip to account for processing times and potential delays.
Obtain travel and medical insurance meeting €30,000 coverage requirements early.
Dress professionally for your appointment and organize your documents neatly to make a positive impression and facilitate a smooth application process.

Other FAQs

1. Will a Schengen visa allow me to travel to other European countries?

Yes, a Schengen visa allows you to travel to all countries within the Schengen Area. You can move freely between these countries without passport checks at internal borders.

2. How to visit or stay with your partner living in the Schengen Area?

You can apply for a Schengen visa based on visiting family or friends. Provide proof of your relationship and their invitation, along with other required documents.

3. Which specific Schengen countries or cities do you plan to visit during your stay?

Specify all the Schengen countries and cities you intend to visit in your itinerary. Ensure your visa application reflects accurate travel plans.

4. What are the easiest countries to apply for the Schengen visa?

The ease of obtaining a Schengen visa can vary. Generally, countries like Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and Poland have been noted for smoother visa processes.

5. Who is entitled to an accelerated Schengen visa procedure free of charge?

Family members of EU/EEA citizens under the Free Movement Directive are eligible for a free and accelerated visa procedure, subject to specific conditions.

6. What is the processing time for Schengen culture and sports visas?

Processing times typically range from 15 days up to 45 days if additional documentation is required.

7. How to choose the right Schengen travel insurance policy to avoid visa denial?

Select a policy that meets Schengen visa requirements, including coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. Ensure it is accepted by all Schengen consulates.

8. Which countries are easiest to obtain a Schengen visa from?

Countries like Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and Slovakia are often noted for their relatively straightforward Schengen visa application processes.

9. What are some common Schengen tourist visa interview questions?

Common questions may include details about your trip itinerary, purpose of visit, financial means to support yourself during the stay, ties to your home country, and previous travel history.