Applying for a Schengen Visa: The Step-by-Step Process
To get a Schengen visa, you must submit your application to the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time (or your first point of entry). You need to provide proof of travel, accommodation, financial stability, and travel insurance covering at least €30,000 for…
To get a Schengen visa, you must submit your application to the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time (or your first point of entry). You need to provide proof of travel, accommodation, financial stability, and travel insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies.
At a glance
- Budget
- $150-$200 total application costs
- Duration
- 15-30 days processing time
- Best Time
- Apply 3 months before your intended travel date
- Visa Required
- Yes, for citizens of non-visa-exempt countries.
Step by step
Determine your primary destination
If you are visiting multiple countries, apply through the embassy of the country where you will stay the longest. If you are staying for an equal amount of time in each, apply at the embassy of your first point of entry.
Book your appointment
Check the official consulate website or their designated visa service provider (like VFS Global or BLS). Schedule your appointment at least 3 months before your trip. Appointments fill up weeks in advance.
Prepare the document stack
Gather a valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, valid for 3 months beyond your departure), completed application form, two passport-sized photos, flight itinerary, proof of accommodation, and proof of income (last 3 months of bank statements).
Get travel medical insurance
Buy a policy that explicitly states it covers at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation across all Schengen states. Print the certificate as proof.
Attend the appointment
Bring your physical documents and your passport. You will submit your biometric data (fingerprints) and pay the visa fee (currently €90 for adults) in cash or by card, depending on the consulate.
Budget
| Visa Fee | €90 per adult |
| Insurance | €20-€60 depending on trip length |
| Service Fees | €30-€50 if using a third-party provider like VFS |
What to bring
- A physical folder to organize your document stack by category
- High-quality digital scans of all submitted documents
- The exact cash amount in local currency for fees if the consulate requires it
- Proof of your accommodation reservation printed in color
Visa & entry notes
Schengen visas are for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Always check the official website of the specific embassy you are applying to, as requirements can shift based on your nationality and residency. Missing a single document will result in your application being rejected immediately; ensure your bank statements are stamped by the bank and your hotel bookings are confirmed, not just 'pending'.
FAQ
Can I apply for a visa at any Schengen country's embassy?
No. You must apply through the country that is your main destination. If you apply elsewhere, you risk being denied entry at the border.
What if my visa is denied?
You will receive a letter stating the reason for refusal. You can choose to appeal the decision, though it is usually faster to fix the issue and reapply with a new application.
Do I need a return flight booked?
Yes. Most consulates require proof of a round-trip ticket or onward travel out of the Schengen zone before they will issue a visa.
With the appointment booked, two other pieces help. The guide to what travel insurance covers and what it never will shows where to find the medical limit and exclusions in a certificate, which is useful when the consulate asks for proof of cover, and how to plan a two-week trip from scratch covers the route and bookings your itinerary will need to show. If your dates can move, travelling in September rather than July is worth a look.
See also
- How to plan an efficient route through Europe
- How to book refundable accommodation for visa applications
- What happens when you arrive at Schengen border control
Once your travel is confirmed, check how to navigate local dining customs at HowTo Food.