What is a Schengen Visit Visa?
A Schengen visit visa is intended for travellers who want to visit the Schengen countries and stay for a short period. This visa allows individuals to stay in the Schengen areas of 29 European countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day time frame. The Schengen visit visa is perfect for business travellers and individuals wanting to visit friends and family. When this visa is granted it allows the visa holder to move freely between Schengen areas which decreases the need for multiple visas to travel across the European countries.
Schengen Area: Countries Covered by the Schengen Visa
The Schengen areas have eliminated border controls between the 29 European countries. Netherlands, France, Italy, Germany and Spain are the most popular travel destinations in the Schengen area. With a Schengen visit visa you can visit travel to the below listed countries.
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
As a Schengen visa allows travellers to visit all these countries it is more beneficial for business travellers and also those wanting to visit friends and family across Europe.
Who Needs a Schengen Visit Visa?
The Schengen visit visa is not required for everyone travelling to European countries. Citizens of certain countries are allowed to travel to the Schengen areas without the need for a Schengen visit visa. This is granted for a short stay of about 90 days. For individuals travelling from a country that requires a Schengen visa, they have to make the application before travelling.
Types of Schengen Visit Visas
It is important to figure out the type of visa required when applying for a Schengen visa. The most common way to know the type of visa will be the purpose of the visit. The most common types of Schengen visas are listed below:
- Schengen Tourist visa intended for leisure travelling and sightseeing purposes
- Business visa to attend business events, meetings or conferences
- A family or Friends visit visa is for those visiting friends and relatives living in the Schengen area.
- A cultural or Sporting Event visa is for individuals attending sports events or any cultural performances.
The applicant should select the correct type of visa while applying as this will make sure you meet the specific requirements for travel.
Schengen Visit Visa Eligibility Criteria
The applicant has to meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for a Schengen visa. Below listed are the basic requirements to qualify for this visa
- A Valid passport with a validity of at least three months after the intended departure date from the Schengen area.
- A proper travel itinerary should be provided which includes hotel bookings, travel plans and flight tickets.
- The applicant must prove their financial stability by providing documents stating the funds that will support their stay in the Schengen areas. These documents can be bank statements, payslips, sponsor letters or any other financial documents.
- The applicant has to clearly explain the purpose of the visit be it the trip is for tourism, business purpose or just visiting friends and family.
- The applicant should have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses that occur during their stay in Schengen areas. The travel insurance should have a minimum coverage of €30,000.
Schengen Visit Visa Application Process
Applying for a Schengen visit visa will be a quick and easy process if prepared well. To make the process of your application seamless make sure you follow the below steps:
Determine the Visa Type
The first step of the visa application process will be determining the visa type. The applicant has to select the visa category that matches their purpose of visit. This can be business, tourism or visiting family and friends.
Complete the Visa Application Form
Once selecting the visa type the applicant has to fill out the form completely with every information with accuracy.
Gather all the Supporting Documents
Then the applicant has to gather all the required documents to support the application. This includes passport, travel documents, proof of funds, travel insurance and many other documents supporting the application.
Schedule an Appointment
An appointment must be scheduled with the embassy or consulate to submit the filled application form. The application form can also be submitted at visa application centers of the country you are applying for.
Attend the Visa Interview
Once the interview is scheduled the applicant has to attend the interview. Here they may be questioned about the purpose of the trip, their financial situation and the travel plans in the Schengen areas.
Submit Biometrics
There might be a need to provide biometric information such as fingerprints and photos. This is also part of the application process.
Wait for Processing
The application will be processed once it is submitted. The applicant has to wait until the visa is approved. The processing time varies depending on the time of the application and also the workload of the embassy or consulate.
Schengen Visit Visa Processing Time
The processing time for the Schengen visit visa usually takes 15 calendar days from the date of the visa interview. It is advisable to apply 3 to 4 weeks before the intended travel date to avoid any delays. If applying during peak travel time or during the summer the application must be made very well in advance to make sure the processing time is smooth and timely.
Why Choose Croyez Immigration for Your Schengen Visit Visa?
Getting through the visa application process of the Schengen visit visa can be a complex one. But with Croyez Immigration you can have guidance at each step of the process as we have reliable and experienced consultants. Below are few reasons on why you should choose us:
Expert Guidance
Immigration consultants at Croyez are highly experienced in handling Schengen visa applications. We provide advice based on your specific travel plans. With our expert guidance, your application process will be made easier.
Document Preparation
We assist in preparing all the documents required for your visa application. We also help you gather other supporting documents to ensure all the requirements are met and the application is complete.
Streamlined Process
At Croyez the visa application is made simple which saves time and reduces the chances of denials or rejections.
Timely Update
Throughout the application process our consultants keep you up-to-date with all the information that is required. They keep you informed at all stages starting from the initial consultation to the visa approval.
Customized Solutions
We provide customized advice and solutions for each of your travel plans be it you are travelling for business, tourism or to visit family. Our services are customized to meet all of your specific travel requirements.