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Applying for a Visa

Everything you need to know to successfully apply for a short-stay Schengen visa

The Application Process

A short-stay visa allows you to travel throughout the 29 Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Follow these essential steps to prepare and submit your application.

1

Where to Apply

You must lodge your application with the Consulate of the country that you intend to visit. If you intend to visit multiple Schengen countries, apply at the Consulate of the country where you will spend the most days (main destination).

Tip: If you are spending an equal amount of days in multiple countries, apply at the Consulate of the country whose external borders you will cross first.
2

When to Apply

You can submit your application up to 6 months before your planned trip (9 months for seafarers). It is highly recommended to apply no later than 15 calendar days before your departure date to allow sufficient time for processing.

3

The Visa Fee

The standard visa fee is €90 for adults and €45 for children aged 6 to 12. Children under 6 years of age are exempt from the visa fee.

  • Nationals of countries with visa facilitation agreements pay €35.
  • External service providers (e.g., VFS, TLS) may charge an additional service fee.
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Required Documents

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    Visa Application Form

    Fully completed and signed.

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    Valid Passport

    Issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure from the Schengen area, containing at least 2 blank pages.

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    Photograph

    A recent, passport-sized photograph meeting ICAO standards.

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    Travel Medical Insurance

    Covering emergency medical, hospitalization, and repatriation (minimum coverage of €30,000).

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    Itinerary & Accommodation

    Flight reservations, travel itinerary, and proof of where you will stay.

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    Proof of Financial Means

    Bank statements, payslips, or sponsorship letters demonstrating sufficient funds for the trip.

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