About Schengen Visas – Everything You Need to Know

If you’re from a country requiring a visa for entry into any of the 26 Schengen area countries, you’ll need to apply for a visa through your local embassy or consulate. To kick-start your application, you’ll need to schedule a visa appointment, during which you’ll submit your application and supporting documents.

The Schengen area comprises 26 countries, including 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, and Switzerland.  These countries have eliminated internal borders, allowing for seamless travel within the area.

Out of these, four countries – Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway – are not part of the EU but are associated with Schengen activities. This means they follow Schengen regulations. Additionally, the Schengen area includes Caribbean islands belonging to France, and the micro-states of Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City, which maintain open borders.

Types of Schengen Visas

Airport and Transit Visa

This visa allows passage through the international zone of a Schengen country’s airport without entering the country. It’s ideal for foreign seafarers with brief layovers at a member state’s seaport. Applicants must specify this travel purpose in their application form.

Tourism, Medical Treatment Visa

Individuals with family or friends legally residing in the Schengen area can apply for this visa to visit them. Moreover, those travelling for medical treatment within the Schengen territory can also avail themselves of this visa category.

Business, Journalist, and Reporters Visa

Designed for various business purposes, this visa type allows individuals to travel to Schengen countries. It’s also suitable for journalists visiting the Schengen Area for work-related assignments, including reporting.

Students, Cultural, Sports, and Film Crews Visa

For study purposes, cultural activities, sports engagements, or working as film crews, specific visa options are available. Students attending educational institutions for less than three months can apply for a Schengen study visa. Additionally, individuals outside the Schengen area participating in cultural, sports, or religious events, or working as film crew members, can apply under this visa category.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to enter a Schengen state?

Generally, British and European passport holders do not require a visa. However, citizens of countries like India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Philippines, Nigeria and Nepal usually need a visa.  If you require assistance with visa appointments, we’re here to help.

Are the standard requirements applicable to family members of EU citizens?

Yes, family members of EU citizens usually require a visa and must meet standard visa requirements. If you need support with urgent visa appointment bookings, we offer assistance tailored to your needs.

How is the embassy decided for Schengen visa submission?

The embassy is determined based on the country where you plan to spend the majority of your stay. For instance, if you’ll spend more days in France than in the Netherlands, you would apply at the French Embassy.

How long is a Schengen visa valid?

The validity of a Schengen visa varies and is decided by the consulate processing the application. Typically, visas are issued for the duration of the intended stay.

How long before my trip should I apply for a visa?

It’s advisable to apply for a visa as early as possible, preferably several weeks before your planned trip. However, if you’re facing time constraints, we can assist you with visa appointment bookings to accommodate your schedule.

Can I apply for a visa if my passport expires soon?

No, passports must have sufficient validity beyond the intended stay. If your passport is nearing expiration and you require immediate visa assistance, we can help with appointment bookings to address your urgent needs.

Can I leave and re-enter the Schengen area with a Schengen visa?

Yes, a Schengen visa typically allows multiple entries within its validity period. This means you can leave and re-enter the Schengen area as long as your visa remains valid. If you require assistance with visa appointments, we’re here to support you.

Do I need another visa if I already have a long-stay visa/residence permit in a Schengen state?

No, additional visas are usually not required for travel within the Schengen area if you already hold a long-stay visa or residence permit. If you need assistance with visa appointment bookings, we’re here to assist you.

Will the visa fee be refunded if my Schengen visa is refused?

No, visa fees are generally non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the visa application. If you require assistance with visa appointments, we’re here to support you through the process.

Which documents can be emailed and which must be posted/couriered?

Documents like bank statements, payslips, and insurance can be emailed, while passports, photographs, and certificates must be sent via post or courier..

How long does it take to book an appointment date after receiving documents?

Usually, it takes 4-5 working days to schedule an appointment after receiving the documents.  If you require a swift appointment due to imminent travel plans, we offer expedited booking services for your convenience.

Can I submit all documents except reference and school/university letters first?

Yes, but the appointment will be confirmed only after receiving all required documents.

Do the XVISA team consult with applicants before confirming appointment dates?

Yes, applicants receive a call to confirm the suitability of the appointment date.

What is the usual processing time for France & Netherlands?

Processing times typically range from 15 to 20 working days.