Have you ever dreamed of exploring Europe and all its fantastic attractions? The Schengen Visa is your gateway to making that dream a reality! The Schengen Visa allows you to travel freely throughout the 27 countries in the Schengen Area. However, the visa application process can be overwhelming, with numerous requirements and time-consuming paperwork.
That's why we offer the Schengen Guided Visa, giving you expert assistance for a smooth application process. This article will provide the ultimate Schengen Visa application checklist and all the information you need about our concierge service. Let us help you get a visa to visit historic and beautiful European landmarks!
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What is a Schengen Visa?
The Schengen Visa is a short-term stay visa required for countries not under the Schengen visa-free program. With this visa, eligible travelers can enter the 27 Schengen states safely. To get this visa, you must meet the visa requirements, complete a Schengen visa application, and attend a visa appointment.
Does it look like a lot of work? You can count on our concierge service to make it simple. By applying with us, you'll have an exclusive iVisa expert to guide you through the application process and help you with any questions. Additionally, you'll have access to a simplified form and a step-by-step manual guide. In short, everything you need for a hassle-free visa application.
Who can apply for a Schengen Visa?
Every citizen that isn't from a visa-exempt country. For example, citizens of India are eligible for the Schengen Visa. Use the Visa Checker Tool if you're unsure what documents you need to visit Europe.
Can I apply for a Schengen Visa if I am traveling to multiple countries in the Schengen area?
Yes! That's the best part of the Schengen Visa. With a single document, you can visit the following 27 Schengen countries: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, 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.
This visa makes it easy to take the dream Eurotrip off the paper!
Where do I need to apply for a Schengen Visa?
You can visit 27 countries with the Schengen Visa, but which one should you apply for a visa for? There are a few aspects to consider:
If you'll visit only one country, you must apply to this specific country's embassy. For example, if you're planning a two-weeks vacation exploring only Italy, you must apply for an Italy Schengen Visa.
If you're going to visit several Schengen members but will spend more days in one of them, apply for this country where you'll be staying longer. For example, if you plan to travel to Europe, spending 5 days in Italy, 5 days in the Netherlands, 5 days in Greece, and 10 days in Spain, you must apply for a Spain Schengen Visa.
If you're visiting many Schengen countries and will be spending an equal amount of days in each country, you must apply for the country you'll enter the Schengen Zone. For example, if you plan a trip where you'll stay 5 days in France, 5 Days in Germany, 5 days in the Czech Republic, and 5 days in Spain, and the first country you'll visit in Europe is Austria, you must get an Austria Schengen Visa.
Here are the Schengen Visas we'll help you to get hassle-free:
Czech Republic Schengen Visa
France Schengen Visa
Germany Schengen Visa
Greece Schengen Visa
Italy Schengen Visa
Netherlands Schengen Visa
Spain Schengen Visa
Once you know which country you'll apply for a Schengen visa, you must find the nearest embassy, consulate, or visa application center of the country where you intend to get a visa.
Benefits of getting your Schengen Visa with iVisa
100% government-compliant: Our team of iVisa Experts will review your information and ensure you submit an application 100% compliant with government requirements.
Unlimited access to your iVisa Expert: We assign you an exclusive iVisa Expert to guide you through the application process from start to finish.
Simplified application form: Save time with our clear and concise application form with 50% fewer questions than the government one.
Fill it out at your own pace: Complete the form at your own pace, make changes anytime, and save your progress.
Step-by-step PDF guide: Receive a PDF guide with all the tips to answer complex questions, a document checklist, and guidance to prepare for your visa appointment.
What is the maximum duration of stay in the Schengen area with a short-stay visa?
The Schengen Visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days Per Entry in the Schengen zone. And the best part is that you can travel between Schengen countries as much as you want during that time, as long as you stay within the 90-day limit.
One thing to keep in mind is that while we offer the option to apply for a Multiple Entry visa, the local authorities have the final say on whether you receive a single, double, or multiple-entry visa. A visa with multiple entries could be valid from 180 days to five years.
What documents are required for a Schengen Visa application?
When applying for the Schengen Visa with us, you must submit a list of documents as part of your application. Here are some of the most common required documents:
Visa application form: We'll provide a shorter and simpler version to fill out. Once you're done, sign it and bring it to your visa appointment.
Two photographs: These should have been taken within the last three months. Don't worry if you don't have any - you can use our digital passport photo service to get government-compliant photos.
Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for at least three months after the arrival date. It should also have at least two blank pages and have been issued within the last ten years.
Fingerprints (only if you are older than 12): You must provide fingerprints during your visa appointment unless you've been granted a biometric Schengen visa within the last 59 months.
Travel itinerary: You can include details like your return flight, hotel accommodations, or tour schedules in this document.
Financial statements: You must present bank statements, employment contracts, or salary slips demonstrating sufficient financial means to pay for your trip.
Travel insurance: You'll need a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for emergency medical treatment and repatriation in case of an emergency.
Invitation letter (if applicable)
You shouldn't have any problem getting your Schengen Visa application approved if you meet these basic requirements.
Traveling to a Schengen country with children
A family trip to Europe is a great way to create remarkable memories with your children. Remember, children must apply for a Schengen Visa too. If the minor is under 6 years old, the good news is that the visa is free of charge. For minors between 6 and 12 years of age, the government fee is €40 (US$42.43).
In addition, there are specific Schengen visa requirements for children:
A completed visa application form, signed by both parents or legal guardians
Their birth certificate
If they're traveling alone, they'll need a notarized parental authorization signed by both parents or legal guardians.
If they're traveling with only one parent, they'll have to bring a notarized authorization letter signed by the other parent.
A family court order might be required if only one parent has full custody of the minors.
Copies of both parents' IDs or passports.
If they're students, they must have a school certificate of enrollment/attendance/absence.
Visiting friends and family members
If you're planning on visiting your loved ones in the Schengen area, there's one more thing you'll need to add to your document list. It's called an invitation letter, and it's pretty easy to obtain.
Your invitation letter should include the following:
Your relative's or friend's details, such as their name and phone number.
Their physical address, where you'll be staying.
The dates you plan on arriving and leaving.
If they support you financially, they should attach relevant documents to prove they can cover your expenses.
A copy of their ID or passport.
If your friend or relative isn't a Schengen country citizen, they can include their residency permit.
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Accelerated visa process for family members of EU citizens
If you have family members who are citizens of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you may qualify for a fast-track visa process that is free of charge. To be eligible for this process, you must meet the following requirements:
You are a family member of an EU/EEA citizen.
The EU/EEA citizen is either traveling to or residing in a different member state from their own.
You are either accompanying the EU/EEA citizen or planning to join them in the Schengen State of destination.
Do you meet these criteria? Then, you can apply for the accelerated visa process.
Schengen Visa applications: Step by step
Applying for a Schengen Visa with us is straightforward! Just follow these three simple steps:
Step 1: Complete the simplified visa application form with personal and travel information. We'll send you a PDF guide to help you through the process. And if you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your iVisa Expert.
Step 2: Double-check your information and pay our service fee using your debit, credit card, or PayPal. Remember, the government visa fee must be paid separately at the embassy, consulate, or Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Step 3: Attend a visa interview appointment with all the required documents. Don't worry - we'll send you a document checklist and step-by-step instructions beforehand to ensure you're fully prepared.
And that's it! Once you've completed these three steps, you'll be ready to travel.
Visa application form: Tips to fill out an error-free Schengen Visa Application
Filling out a Schengen Visa application can be overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with the requirements and procedures. To ensure that your application is error-free, here are some tips to follow:
Read the instructions carefully: Read the instructions on the application form and the manual guide we'll send you. Ensure you understand the requirements, including the documents that must be submitted.
Provide accurate and complete information: Provide accurate and complete information. Double-check your answers to make sure they have all the necessary information.
Be consistent: The information you provide on the application must be consistent with the information on your supporting documents. For example, your name should be spelled the same way on your passport, application, and other documents.
Submit all required documents: Check the list of required documents that we'll send to you and ensure you have all of them at your visa appointment.
Submit your application promptly: Submit your application well before your intended travel date. This will give you ample time to correct errors or provide additional information.
Schengen Visa Appointment Process
Once you complete the form, the next step in your Schengen Visa application process is to book an appointment at one of the visa application centers. Of course, your iVisa expert will help you with this and give you all the instructions.
However, keep this in mind:
Before the visa appointment
Gather all the documents showing your eligibility, including those on the list we email you.
Don't forget to print and sign your visa application before you go.
Remember that the Visa Application Center must keep your passport and documents while they process your application.
Be prepared to travel to your nearest Visa Application Center, which may be located in another country.At the visa appointment
The government will verify your application and enter your information into their online system. This usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes.
If you're applying for a minor (under 18), ensure both parents have signed the necessary forms.
Remember, you'll need to pay the visa fee in cash on the day of your interview.
How to prepare for a Schengen Visa interview
You'll submit your documents, and an immigration officer will interview you. Our manual guide provides you with detailed instructions to prepare for your interview. However, read below for some helpful tips:
Anticipate questions: Try to anticipate the types of questions you may be asked during the interview. These may include questions about your travel plans, the purpose of your trip, your financial situation, and your ties to your home country.
Practice with a friend or family member: This will help you feel more comfortable and confident during the interview.
Dress appropriately: Dress professionally and conservatively for the interview. This will show that you're taking the process seriously and are prepared.
Be honest and confident: Answer the questions truthfully and confidently during the interview. Speak clearly and directly to the interviewer, and ensure you understand their questions.
How much does the Schengen Visa cost?
By applying for the Schengen Visa with us, you're charged an iVisa application fee and a government Schengen Visa fee.
The first one is the fee to access our concierge service benefits:
- Standard service fee: USD $149.99, excluding government fees.
The second one is the government fee that must be paid in cash at the VAC or consulate (half-price for minors between the ages of 6 and 12 and free for minors under 6).
- Schengen visa fee: €80 (US$84)
How long does it take to process a Schengen Visa application?
There are also two processing times. The first one, it's our visa processing time to get your application ready and flawless, including the documents review and booking your visa appointment.
- iVisa processing time: 30 days
Then, you have the timeframe for the government to process your Schengen Visa application.
- Schengen Visa processing time: 15 days
Schengen Visa application status: Track your Schengen Visa application
Sometimes, you can track your Schengen Visa status with the Reference Number on the invoice issued by the Schengen Visa Application Centre. However, this may vary depending on where you're applying. The best thing to do is check whether this service is available at the Schengen Visa Application Centre. By applying with us, our iVisa expert will help you with that.
Do I need a Schengen Visa if I'm transiting through the area?
Yes. Travelers who only intend to change transportation means within the Schengen area also need a Schengen Visa.
There are two transit visa categories:
Airport Transit Schengen Visa.
Transit Schengen Visa for Seafarers.
The Schengen Visa application checklist
In short, here is the final Schengen Visa application checklist with everything you need to get your visa for Europe:
Valid passport with at least two blank pages, issued within the last 10 years, and valid for at least three months from arrival.
Completed and signed visa application form.
Gather all the documents, including the specific requirements for children
Attend the visa interview with all required documents and the document checklist provided by iVisa.
Pay the iVisa service fee with a debit, credit card, or PayPal, and pay the government visa fee separately at the embassy, consulate, or Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Track your Schengen visa application
Get your visa and enjoy your trip to Europe!
Sample of a Schengen Visa Application Form
I still have questions. Who can I contact?
We're here to help! Our customer service team is always available via online chat to assist with any questions that may arise during the application process or email them at [emailprotected].