Schengen visa is a type of visa that allows you to travel to 26 countries in Europe without the need to obtain a separate visa for each country. This makes it easier for travelers to explore multiple countries without the hassle of applying for separate visas. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Schengen visa, including its requirements, application process, and more.
What is Schengen Visa?
Schengen visa is a uniform visa that allows travelers to enter, transit, or remain in any of the 26 Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. The Schengen Area is a zone comprising 26 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders.
Which Countries are Part of Schengen Area?
The following countries are part of the Schengen Area:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Do I Need a Schengen Visa?
If you are a citizen of a country that is not part of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you will need a Schengen visa to travel to any of the Schengen countries. However, there are some countries that have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area, meaning their citizens can travel to the Schengen countries without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. These countries include:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Brunei Darussalam
- Canada
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Dominica
- El Salvador
- Georgia
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Hong Kong
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Macau
- Macedonia
- Malaysia
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Micronesia
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Palau
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Samoa
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tuvalu
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United States of America
- Uruguay
- Vanuatu
- Vatican City
- Venezuela
What are the Requirements for Schengen Visa?
The requirements for Schengen visa may vary depending on the country you are applying from and the purpose of your visit. However, some of the common requirements include:
- A valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Completed Schengen visa application form
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of travel itinerary, including flight and hotel reservations
- Proof of travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000
- Proof of financial means, such as bank statements and employment letter
- Visa application fee
How to Apply for Schengen Visa?
The application process for Schengen visa may vary depending on the country you are applying from. However, in general, you need to follow these steps:
- Check if you need a visa
- Determine which Schengen country you will be visiting first
- Find the embassy or consulate of that country in your home country
- Make an appointment for visa application
- Fill out the application form and gather the required documents
- Attend the visa interview (if required)
- Pay the visa application fee
How Much Does Schengen Visa Cost?
The cost of Schengen visa may vary depending on the country you are applying from and the type of visa you are applying for. In general, the visa fee is €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6 to 12. Children under 6 years old are exempt from the fee.
How Long Does it Take to Get Schengen Visa?
The processing time for Schengen visa may vary depending on the country you are applying from and the embassy or consulate you are applying to. In general, the processing time is around 15 days, but it can take up to 30 days in some cases.
Conclusion
Getting a Schengen visa is essential for travelers who want to explore multiple European countries without the hassle of obtaining separate visas for each country. By following the requirements and application process outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of obtaining a Schengen visa and enjoying a seamless travel experience in Europe.
