In order to visit certain European countries, you may be required to apply for and obtain a Schengen visa.
This type of visa will grant citizens of certain countries access to countries within the European Schengen area.
Let’s dive deeper into what a Schengen visa is and how to apply for one.
What Is a Schengen Visa For?
Having a valid Schengen visa allows you to enter into the Schengen area for short stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes within a 180-day period.
The Schengen area is currently made up of 29 countries:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
There are three types of Schengen visas. These include:
- Single-entry visa, which allows you to enter the Schengen area once
- Multiple-entry visa, which allows several visits to the Schengen area while the visa is valid
- Airport transit visa, which allows you to connect through the international transit area of an airport within the Schengen area during a stopover or flight change.
Who Needs to Apply for a Visa?
Only citizens of certain countries require that you obtain a Schengen visa in order to visit the Schengen area in Europe.
U.S. citizens are not required to obtain a Schengen visa to visit a country within the Schengen area.
A list of countries in which citizens need to obtain a Schengen visa can be found here.
Steps to Get a Schengen Visa
In order to get a Schengen visa, you should take the following steps:
- First, determine the type of Schengen visa you need for your trip.
- Next, figure out where you need to apply for a Schengen visa. It can usually be done online through the official visa application website or through the consulate or embassy of your destination country.
- Fill out and complete your application form.
- Get Schengen visa travel insurance.
- Gather all your required documents and submit them with your application.
- Attend your visa interview (if required).
- Pay your visa fee.
- Wait for your visa to process.
Schengen Visa for Visiting Multiple Schengen Countries
If you are visiting more than one Schengen country during your trip, you should apply at the consulate of the country where you are spending the longest amount of time.
If you are staying in each country for the same amount of time, then you can apply at the consulate of your first destination country.
When to Apply for a Schengen Visa
The recommended time frame to apply for a Schengen visa is between 15 days and 3 months ahead of your trip.
This will give you ample time to apply and have your visa application approved (or denied) before your scheduled travels.
What Documents Are Needed for a Schengen Visa?
In order to apply for a Schengen visa, you will need to gather the following documents:
- A valid passport with an expiry date that is 3 months beyond the date of your departure from the Schengen area
- Your visa application form
- A photo that meets ICAO standards
- Medical insurance that covers hospitalization, emergency medical care, and repatriation of remains
- Supporting documents that show the purpose of your stay in the Schengen area, such as your accommodation bookings and your departing flight, and proof of financial means for your trip
What Medical Insurance Is Required for a Schengen Visa?
Having adequate medical insurance is required in order to obtain a Schengen visa and travel to the Schengen area.
For most individuals, their home country health insurance will not offer international coverage. In order to fulfill this Schengen visa requirement, travelers can purchase a Schengen visa travel medical insurance policy.
The Schengen visa travel insurance policy must meet the following requirements:
- Provide medical coverage for hospitalization, emergency medical care, and repatriation of remains
- Minimum medical coverage amount of EUR 30,000
- Be valid for the entire duration of your stay or transit within the Schengen area
- Be accepted in all Schengen countries
How Much Does a Schengen Visa Cost?
The Schengen visa application costs:
- €90 for adults (approx. $97)
- €45 for children aged 6-12 (approx. $48)
- €35 for applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Belarus
- €67,50 for applicants from Cabo Verde
There may also be some additional fees if you apply through a visa service center. The visa fee may also be waived for some specific categories of applicants.
How Long Does Schengen Visa Processing Take?
The standard processing time for a Schengen visa application is 15 days.
The processing time can take up to 45 days if your application needs a more detailed examination or if you are requested to provide additional documents.
What Happens If Your Schengen Visa Application Is Rejected?
If your Schengen visa application was denied, you will receive a rejection notification letting you know why your visa application was rejected and how to submit an appeal.
You may appeal if your Schengen visa application is denied. You can also reapply if your previous application was rejected. However, take note of why your initial application was rejected in the first place so you can fill out your new application accordingly.
Also, visa fees are not refunded if your visa is rejected. If you submit a new application, you’ll have to pay your visa application fee again.
Have Additional Questions?
For more information on the Schengen visa application process, it is best to contact the consulate of your destination country or go to their website online to find more details on the application requirments for the specific country you are visiting.
If you have any questions about Schengen visa insurance, contact our Customer Success Team for friendly assistance.
