How to apply for Schengen visa and get it in the first attempt? What’s even more shocking, ICELAND has the highest visa success rate in 2024 with a visa success rate of 93.53%.
No need to overcomplicate planning your European adventure. Schengen visa – The right decision for very short stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. France in fact alone attracts almost 90million foreign tourists a year, while Spain is in a close second place.
Applicants applying from India will be happy to know that the rejection rate for most of Schengen Area’s countries doesn’t exceed 10%, whereas it is less than 6% for Switzerland. But around the world, about 14.8% are rejected, and 1.7 million applications were denied out of 11.7 million applications in 2024.
There is some good news, however — the normal time it takes to process a Schengen visa application is only two weeks, and if your application is for the standard fee is 90, if you are part of a specific category, you might also be exempt from a visa fee completely! By being prepared with the proper documents, you can greatly increase the odds of getting the “yes” you want.
This mega-guide will guide you through all the possible aspepects of securing your Schengen visa, starting from selecting the correct visa type to preparing an impeccable visa application package.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa – And Why It Matters
The Schengen zone is designed as a single travel zone across Europe where one visa is enough to enter a number of countries. You’ll need such a visa if you don’t have the right to travel to Europe visa free, and it’s important to understand who needs it and why as you think about a European trip.
Visa-free vs. visa-required countries
Whether or not you need a Schengen visa is largely determined by your nationality. The 26-country Schengen zone is made up of 25 EU member states and non-members Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Specifically as of 31 March 2024, Bulgaria and Romania also started receiving Schengen visas.
Visa-policy-free access to the Schengen area for short stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period applies to nationals of about 60 countries. These are Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, United Kingdom, the United States and numerous others.
On the other hand, citizens of close to 100 countries need to apply and obtain a Schengen visa in advance to be able to travel. This involves over half the countries of the world, being practically all of them in Africa, Asia, the Mideast, as well as the giants of China, India and Russia. Furthermore, some nationalities need an airport transit visa even when staying in the international zone of the airport of a Schengen country.
In case you have been wondering about edge cases: USA Green Card doesn’t automatically give you visa-free access to Europe, EU-citizen-marriage does not exempt you from visa if you are not a citizen of a visa-free country.
Schengen visa common reasons for application
The Schengen visa doesn’t tell the whole story besides travelling as tourists. With type C Schengen you can:
- Visit for tourism and leisure activities
- Attend business meetings and conferences
- Visit family and friends
- Receive medical treatment
- Participate in short-term studies (under 3 months)
- Engage in training placements or volunteer work
- Transit through Schengen countries
The visa allows for visits not exceeding 90 days within a 180-day window. For longer visits, more of 90 days, you’ll have to apply and be granted a national (Type D) visa, which operates under different rules in each member state.
Is it easy to get a Schengen visa?
The ease of obtaining a Schengen visa varies considerably depending on your nationality, application quality, and chosen destination country. In 2024, Schengen visa approval rates averaged 52.20% across all member states. Nevertheless, the picture appears brighter for specific applicant groups.
For Indian applicants, the rejection rates are less than 10% in most Schengen area countries, with Switzerland showing the spectacular low rejection rate of less than 6%. That suggests fairly favorable odds for well-prepared candidates.
Timeline speaking, regular processing is about 15 days, but it may move up to 30 days during peak travel periods. Complex cases or when application backlogs exist, processing may take up to 60 days. So you want to make sure you apply in time.
To maximize your chances of approval, you should:
- Apply at least 15 days before travel (recommended: 3 weeks minimum)
- Submit applications no earlier than 6 months before your trip
- Prepare comprehensive documentation, including proof of accommodation, travel insurance, financial means, and a detailed itinerary
- Choose the correct consulate based on your main destination or longest stay
The standard fee for a Schengen visa is €90 per adult and €45 for children aged 6-12, while children under 6 are exempt from paying. While getting Schengen Visa may require careful planning, correct documentation and appropriate reception of Schengen visa can simplify things.
Types of Schengen Visas and Choosing the Right One
Image Source: Travel Insurance | Insurte
Selecting the right Schengen visa type is crucial for your European journey’s success. The Schengen Area offers several visa categories based on your travel purpose, duration, and frequency of visits.
Tourist, business, student, and transit visas
Understanding the different visa categories helps you apply for the right one when planning how to get a Schengen visa:
Short-Stay Visa (Type C) serves multiple purposes including tourism, business activities, visiting family or friends, and short-term studies. This uniform visa allows stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen Area. Depending on your purpose, Type C visas fall into several subcategories:
- Tourist visa: For leisure travel, sightseeing, and recreational activities
- Business visa: For attending meetings, conferences, or establishing business contacts without actually working in the Schengen Area
- Visitor visa: For visiting family or friends residing in Schengen countries
- Student visa: For courses lasting less than 90 days
Airport Transit Visa (Type A) allows travelers to pass through the international zone of a Schengen airport without entering the Schengen territory. This visa is mandatory for nationals of specific countries including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo, and several others. The visa permits a maximum stay of 24 hours within the airport’s international zone.
Consequently, if your trip involves multiple purposes, you should apply based on your primary travel reason. Most visas are processed within 15 days, but applying at least three weeks before your trip is recommended.
Single-entry vs. multiple-entry visas
Your travel plans will determine which entry type to request when applying:
Single-Entry Visa allows you to enter the Schengen Area once. After leaving, you cannot re-enter even if your visa remains valid. On the visa sticker, this appears as “1” under “Number of Entries”. This option suits travelers planning a one-time visit.
Double-Entry Visa permits two entries into the Schengen Area. The total duration cannot exceed the days indicated on your visa under “Duration.” This is marked with a “2” under “Number of Entries”. It’s ideal if you plan to visit a neighboring non-Schengen country briefly.
Multiple-Entry Visa allows unlimited entries and exits during the visa’s validity period. The combined duration of stays cannot exceed 90 days within any 180-day period. It’s marked with “MULT” under “Number of Entries”. Furthermore, a multiple-entry visa can be valid for up to 5 years for frequent travelers with positive visa histories.
When to apply for a national visa (Type D)
A National Visa (Type D) is necessary when planning to stay in a Schengen country for more than 90 days. Unlike the short-stay Schengen visa, this is issued by individual member states for specific purposes:
- Long-term study programs exceeding three months
- Employment opportunities
- Family reunification
- Digital nomad arrangements
- Retirement in a Schengen country
- Setting up a business
Primarily, while issued by a single Schengen country, Type D visa holders can also travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This provides flexibility for longer-term residents.
The application process for National visas differs from standard Schengen visas, with each country setting its own requirements. Meanwhile, processing times may be longer than for short-stay visas, so apply well in advance of your planned departure date.
Documents Required for Schengen Visa Application
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Preparing the right documentation forms the foundation of a successful Schengen visa application. Consulates meticulously review each document to verify your travel intentions and ensure compliance with entry requirements.
Schengen visa checklist overview
here are a few key documents that make up a full Schengen visa application set. Most importantly, you need to provide a duly filled and signed Schengen application form, which you can complete online via the VIDEX website. You should also provide a signed statement of true and accurate information as well as a valid travel medical insurance policy.
Do not forget to submit copies of the bio metric in addition to the address page of your passport with a copy of previous Schengen Visas. Although the consulates may have specific need,s they are all very much the same and the aforesaid are generally what every schengen consulate will look for.
Passport and photo requirements
Schengen visa The passport requirements for a Schengen visa application are very strict. It must have been issued within the past 10 years and be valid beyond your planned return date by at least 3 months. And, make sure it has two blank pages for visas.
PHOTOS: Enclose two identical color photos that were taken within the past six months. It must have certain dimensions: 35mm (wide) x 45mm (high), the head covering 70-80% of the photo (32-36mm from the chin to the top of the head). Also, make sure there is a light (preferably light gray) background, a neutral facial expression with closed mouth, and that the photos are printed on quality paper at least 400 dpi.
Proof of accommodation and itinerary
You need to show where you will stay during your stay in the Schengen area. Hotel reservation bearing your Name, Address, Phone numbers of the hotel with your Check in and Check out date proof of lodging includes proof of hotel bookings in which your name appears, address and details of the hotel. If you are staying with friends or family, write an invitation letter that contains your host’s full name, a complete address, and home and office telephone numbers.
Travel:send a confirmed flight schedule showing your name, flight numbers and dates of travel plans. This proof should state clearly the days you entered and left the Schengen zone. Importantly, you are not required to buy the actual tickets prior to visa issuance, reservation confirmations will do.
Medical insurance for Schengen visa
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen visa applications. Your policy must provide minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical expenses, including emergency medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation (including in case of death). The insurance must be valid throughout all Schengen countries and cover your entire stay.
Present only the front page of your insurance certificate rather than the complete policy. Notably, German missions accept Indian travel medical insurances only from approved providers.
Financial proof and sponsorship letters
Financial documentation proves you can support yourself during your trip. Submit original, bank-stamped statements from the past three months. For employed applicants, include pay slips, employment contracts, and leave sanction letters. Self-employed individuals should provide business registration certificates and income tax returns.
If sponsored, submit a formal sponsorship letter along with the sponsor’s bank statements, passport copy, and proof of your relationship (like a marriage or birth certificate). When businesses sponsor you, include their ITR acknowledgments. Sponsorship letters must clearly state the sponsor’s commitment to cover specific expenses during your stay.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Schengen Visa
Image Source: BTW Visa Services
Now that you understand the requirements, let’s break down the Schengen visa application into manageable steps for a smooth process.
1. Choose your destination and consulate
First and foremost, identify the appropriate consulate for your application. If visiting only one Schengen country, apply at that country’s consulate. For multiple countries, apply at the consulate of your main destination (where you’ll spend the most time) or the first country you’ll enter if stays are equal. Applying at the wrong consulate will result in rejection, regardless of how complete your documentation is.
2. Fill out the application form
The Schengen visa application form is standardized across all member countries. You can complete it online through government portals, as a fillable PDF, or by hand using black or blue ink. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents exactly. Subsequently, print and sign the form—electronic signatures aren’t accepted. Double-check that you’ve answered all 32 questions, writing “N/A” for non-applicable fields.
3. Book your visa appointment
Schedule your appointment at least 2-3 months before your planned travel date. You can book through the consulate’s website, visa application centers like VFS Global, or by phone. Once confirmed, you’ll receive an appointment confirmation which you must bring to your appointment. Remember that missed appointments typically require completely new bookings.
4. Submit documents and attend interview
On appointment day, bring all required documents organized in a clear folder. The interview usually lasts 20-30 minutes. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip purpose, itinerary, finances, and ties to your home country. Indeed, consular officers are specifically looking to verify your genuine intentions and return plans.
5. Pay the visa fee and provide biometrics
The standard Schengen visa fee is €90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6-12, and free for children under 6. This fee is non-refundable even if your application is rejected. Prior to concluding your appointment, you’ll provide biometric data including fingerprints and a digital photograph. These remain valid for 59 months, meaning you may not need to provide them again for subsequent applications within this period.
After Submission: Processing Time, Tracking, and Results
After submitting your Schengen visa application, the waiting period begins. Understanding processing times, tracking options, and potential outcomes will help you prepare better for your European journey.
Schengen visa processing time explained
The standard processing time for a Schengen visa is 15 calendar days from submission. However, this timeline can extend to 30 days when applications require additional examination or verification. In complex cases or during high-volume periods, processing might take up to 60 days maximum.
Several factors influence processing duration:
- Your nationality (some require additional security checks)
- Application season (summer months typically see longer waits)
- Consulate workload and staffing levels
- Completeness of your documentation
For Indian applicants specifically, the typical wait time averages 35 to 40 days, hence applying well in advance is essential.
How to track your application
Tracking methods vary depending on where you submitted your application:
For applications through VFS Global, visit their website, select your country, and enter your reference number (usually starting with city code followed by “NL” and date) plus your last name.
If you applied through TLScontact, log into your account on their portal to check status updates.
For direct embassy or consulate applications, use the tracking number provided during submission. This number typically begins with three letters.
Some centers offer SMS alerts for status notifications when you apply.
What to do if your visa is delayed
Firstly, understand that processing times are estimates, not guarantees. If facing delays:
- Double-check your tracking information for errors
- Contact the visa application center directly
- Prepare alternative travel dates if possible
Unfortunately, if processing extends beyond your planned departure date, you cannot travel without an approved visa.
Handling rejections and appeals
If your application is denied, you’ll receive written notification explaining the rejection reasons. You then have two options:
Appeal the decision: Submit an appeal within the specified timeframe (typically 15-30 days, depending on the country). Your appeal must:
- Address specific reasons mentioned in the rejection
- Include additional supporting documents
- Be signed by you or your legal representative
Reapply: If the rejection stemmed from documentation errors or inaccuracies, submitting a new application might be faster than appealing. However, you’ll need to pay the application fee again.
Some countries charge an appeal fee (e.g., €80 for Czech Republic appeals), although this is typically waived for family members of EU citizens.
Conclusion
Conclusion: Your Schengen Visa Success Strategy
Obtaining a Schengen visa might seem daunting at first, but proper preparation significantly increases your approval chances. Throughout this guide, you’ve learned about visa types, documentation requirements, application processes, and post-submission procedures that form the foundation of a successful application.
Remember that choosing the right consulate based on your main destination or first entry point remains crucial for approval. Additionally, gathering comprehensive documentation—from your valid passport and correctly sized photos to proof of accommodation and sufficient financial means—demonstrates your credibility to visa officers.
Timing also plays a vital role in your application strategy. Apply at least three weeks before your planned travel date, though applying 2-3 months ahead offers greater peace of mind, especially during peak travel seasons when processing times often extend beyond the standard 15 days.
Should your application face rejection, don’t lose hope. Instead, carefully review the reasons provided, address those specific issues, and consider whether reapplying with improved documentation or filing an appeal would better serve your situation.
Most importantly, understanding that Schengen authorities primarily want to verify your genuine travel intentions and ensure you’ll return home afterward will help you approach the application process confidently. When your documents clearly tell this story, your chances of joining the 90% approval rate statistics increase dramatically.
Your European adventure awaits—prepare thoroughly, apply early, and soon you’ll be exploring the stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse experiences that make the Schengen Area one of the world’s most popular travel destinations.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key requirements for a successful Schengen visa application? A successful application requires a valid passport, completed application form, recent photos, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, travel insurance, and evidence of sufficient funds. Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date to increase your chances of approval.
Q2. How far in advance should I apply for a Schengen visa? It’s recommended to apply at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date. For popular destinations or during peak seasons (July-August), consider applying 2-3 months in advance to allow for potential processing delays.
Q3. Which Schengen country is known for having the highest visa approval rate? As of 2024, Iceland has the highest Schengen visa approval rate at 93.53%. However, approval rates can vary based on individual circumstances and the strength of your application.
Q4. What should I do if my Schengen visa application is rejected? If your application is rejected, carefully review the reasons provided. You can either appeal the decision within the specified timeframe (usually 15-30 days) or reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues mentioned in the rejection letter.
Q5. How can I demonstrate strong ties to my home country in my Schengen visa application? To show strong ties, include proof of employment (such as a job contract or leave approval), property ownership documents, evidence of family commitments, or enrollment in ongoing studies. This helps convince authorities of your intention to return after your trip.
