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Visa Traveler

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Schengen Visa for Tourists: Everything You Need to Know

Updated: October 19, 2023

The Schengen visa is a type of visa that allows you to travel freely within the Schengen area. As per the UN, the continent of Europe is comprised of 44 countries. Of these, 27 countries are part of the Schengen agreement. The Schengen agreement abolished internal borders between these 27 countries.

A Schengen visa is a unified visa for short stays (up to 90 days) for these 27 European countries. Therefore, a Schengen visa is the only visa you will need to travel to any of these 27 countries.

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SCHENGEN VISA POLICY

The Schengen visa policy was introduced in 1995 which abolished internal borders between the Schengen countries. 

Once you have obtained a Schengen visa, you can travel freely between the Schengen member countries without any border controls. For example, if you enter France and would like to go to Germany, you will not pass through passport controls at the France-Germany border. 

Keep in mind that the Schengen visa policy only applies to the Schengen area and not to the entire European Union.

Schengen visa countries

There are currently 27 countries in the Schengen area that you can visit with a single Schengen visa. Below is the list of countries.

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Apart from the above 27 Schengen member countries, you also travel to 50 non-Schengen countries visa-free using a Schengen visa .

SCHENGEN VISA TYPES

Those intending to visit the Schengen countries for tourism must either be visa-exempt or hold a valid Schengen visa from the embassy. 

• Visa EXEMPTION (ETIAS from 2024)
• Type-A (Airport Transit Visa)
• Single-entry
• Double-entry
• Multiple-entry
• Type-D (Long Stay Visa for stays more than 90 days)
• Limited Territorial Schengen Visa

For this guide, we will focus only on visas for tourism intent, that is Type-C Uniform Schengen visas. 

SCHENGEN VISA REQUIREMENTS

Minimum passport validity required to enter the Schengen area

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months from your planned departure from Schengen area.

Example: If your trip is from Mar 10 to Mar 20, your passport must be valid at least until Jun 20.

Visa EXEMPT nationalities

90-day entry.

• Antigua And Barbuda
• Bosnia And Herzegovina
• El Salvador
• Marshall Islands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• St Kitts And Nevis
• St Vincent and The Grenadines
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad And Tobago
• United Arab Emirates
• United States of America
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

• Afghanistan
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Congo, Rep. of
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Sao Tome And Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Turkmenistan

IMPORTANT Palestine and Kosovo are not recognized by at least one Schengen member state. If you are a Palestinian or Kosovo national, please inquire at your nearest Schengen consulate for visa requirements for your passport.

SCHENGEN VISA EXEMPTION (ETIAS FROM 2024)

Currently, 62 nationalities can enter the Schengen area without a visa. Though you do not require a visa, you must consider the total duration of your stay in the Schengen area and must carry the mandatory documents.

Duration of Stay in Schengen Area – the 90 days/180 days rule

Non-EU Passport holders who are visa EXEMPT are allowed to stay in the Schengen area countries for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. This “90 days in any 180 days” applies to all short-stay visitors to the Schengen area.

• Stays in EU countries that are NOT part of the Schengen area (Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus and Ireland) are not counted in calculating the period of stay.
• Stays in non-EU countries that are part of the Schengen area (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) are counted in calculating the period of stay compliance with the 90-day / 180-day rule.
• Both the day of entry and the day of exit are counted in the calculation.
• The 180-day period is referenced backward from the day of checking.
• A simple rule of thumb is, if you are out of the Schengen area for a continuous period of 90 days allows you a new stay of 90 days.

You can use the Schengen calculator to determine the number of days you are allowed to stay in the Schengen area. Here is the manual on how to use the Schengen calculator.

Documents to carry

Visa EXEMPT individuals must carry the following documents when entering the Schengen member states.

• Valid passport
• Proof of onward travel
• Proof of accommodation

SCHENGEN VISA FROM THE EMBASSY

Currently, 104 non-EU nationals require a visa to enter the Schengen area. These nationals must be in possession of a Schengen visa when entering the Schengen zone.

Validity of Schengen Visa

The Schengen visa validity depends on whether you are a first-time applicant or a subsequent applicant. 

First-time application: If you are applying for the first time, your visa will be valid for the exact number of days you have asked for. In some instances, you may get a few buffer days as additional. 

For example, if your itinerary is 12 days, your visa will be valid for exactly 12 days. 

As a first-time visa applicant, I suggest adding a few extra days to your itinerary so you will get a few extra days on your visa validity. That way, you can have some flexibility in your travel plans.

First-time Schengen visas are usually single-entry or double-entry. 

Subsequent applications: If you are applying for the second or third time, you may likely get a visa valid for 90 days. The visa may likely be multiple-entry. 

Rules for obtaining Schengen visa valid for 1, 2 or 5 years

• To obtain a 1-year Schengen visa, you must have obtained and used 3 Schengen visas within the last 2 years
• To obtain a 2-year Schengen visa, you must have obtained and used a 1-year Schengen visa within the last 2 years
• To obtain a 5-year Schengen visa, you must have obtained and used a 2-year Schengen visa within the last 3 years

Duration of Stay in Schengen area – the 90 days/180 days rule

Visa-required passport holders are allowed to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. This “90 days in any 180 days” applies to all short-stay visitors to the Schengen area.

• Stays in non-EU countries that are part of the Schengen area (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) are counted in calculating the period of stay compliance with the 90 days / 180-day rule.

Where to apply for Schengen visa

Most tourists plan to travel to more than one country during their Europe trip. The Schengen visa is valid for 27 countries, so you must first determine your Schengen country of application. This helps greatly in avoiding visa delays and refusals.

Follow the below guidelines to determine your country of application.

CASE 1: If you plan to visit only one Schengen country, you must apply for your visa at the consulate of that particular country.

Example: If you are traveling to Spain only, then you must apply for your visa at the Spain Embassy or Consulate.

CASE 2: If you plan to visit several Schengen countries, you must apply for your visa at the consulate of the country of your main destination (the country where you will be spending most days).

Example: If your itinerary is 10 days of which 4 days in Spain and 6 days in France, then you must apply for your visa at the French consulate since you will be spending more time in France.

CASE 3: If you intend to visit several Schengen countries but do not have a main destination (same amount of days in each country) then you should apply for your visa at the consulate of the country of your first point of entry.

Example: If your itinerary is 10 days of which you will be spending 5 days in the Netherlands first and 5 days in France after, then you must apply for a visa at the Netherlands Consulate since the Netherlands is your first port of entry.

When to apply for Schengen visa

You must apply for your Schengen visa no later than 15 days prior to your travel. Otherwise, your application will not be accepted.

You can apply for your visa up to 6 months in advance. So, apply as soon as you can to avoid delays, refusals and disappointments.

Schengen Visa Application Process

There is a plan to implement online systems of Schengen visas. But as of now, the visa can only be applied in person. Visa application is a 4 step process

• Fill out your Schengen visa application form 14076-02 (online or offline)
• Schedule an in-person Schengen visa appointment (at the consulate or visa agent such as VFS Global)
• Appear in person to submit your visa application, documents, biometrics and visa fee
• Pick up your original passport with the approved visa.

You can apply for a Schengen visa through a visa/travel agency in some countries. Travel agencies that offer vacation packages to Europe usually are allowed to apply for the visa on your behalf.

Documents required for Schengen visa

The following documents are required for your Schengen visa.

• Filled and signed visa application form (online or downloadable from the consulate page)
• Original passport
• Copy of the visa/residence permit if applying in a third country
• One recent passport-size photo
• Confirmed round-trip flight reservation
• Proof of health insurance
• 3-month bank statement
• 3-month salary slips
• Original signed employment letter
• Cover letter with a detailed itinerary

Application Form

Filling out the application form can be done online or offline depending on the Schengen country. For example, the application form for France is online whereas for Spain, it’s paper.

Photo Requirements

The photo must be 4.5cm x 3.5cm. That is, 4.5cm high and 3.5 cm wide. The face must be 3.2 to 3.6cm or 70-80% of the photo.

Proof of Health Insurance

It’s MANDATORY to submit travel medical insurance for Schengen visa . You must attach a certificate of travel health insurance in the Schengen area or worldwide with 100% coverage with no deductibles or co-pays.

It must have a minimum coverage of €30,000 EUR for medical, hospitalization, emergencies and repatriation services.

You can purchase Schengen travel insurance from any online provider. You can cancel and get a refund if your visa is denied. Once you purchase the travel insurance for your desired dates, you can download the visa letter that you can submit with your visa application.

Recommended Schengen visa insurance:

• VisitorsCoverage | Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements | Costs $1 a day

Schengen Visa Fee

The Schengen visa fee for an adult is approximately €80 EUR. For children between the ages of 6 and 12, it’s €40 EUR. Children under the age of 6 are exempt from paying the visa fee.

The fee must be paid in local currency, in the form of cash or bank money order. Most Schengen consulates have outsourced the visa process to VFS or BLS. Therefore, in addition to the visa fee, you may have to pay a fee for biometric collection and courier services.

Schengen Visa Processing Time

Schengen visa processing can take from 15 calendar days to 45 calendar days depending on the consulate, country or agent. Apply no later than 15 days prior to your travel. Otherwise, your application will not be accepted.

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE AIRPORT

Entering Schengen Zone by Air

You do not need to fill in any arrival/departure card on entering the Schengen area. Do not panic if your flight attendant did not give you an arrival/departure card on your flight.

At the immigration, you will generally be asked about your final destination, places you will be visiting and the number of days you are planning on staying. You might also be asked if it is your first time in Europe.

The immigration officer will stamp your passport upon arrival. The number of days you are allowed to stay will not be marked on your passport.

As always, carry a copy of your return ticket and hotel booking just in case. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, don’t forget to get proof of onward ticket .

Leaving Schengen Zone by Air

You must go through passport control on exiting the Schengen area. You will not be asked any questions unless you have overstayed your visa. Passport control is fairly quick, about 10-15 minutes depending on the airport.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

What is the minimum bank balance required for a Schengen visa?

The minimum bank balance required for a Schengen visa depends on the country you are applying from and the duration of your stay. As a general rule, you should have at least €60 per day for your stay in the Schengen area. This should cover your travel expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation.

Does Schengen visa cover Switzerland?

Yes, the Schengen visa covers Switzerland. Switzerland is a member of the Schengen Area. You can travel to Switzerland and other Schengen countries with a single visa.

Which Schengen visa is hardest?

There is no specific Schengen visa that is considered the hardest to obtain. But visa refusal statistics show that Norway, France and Belgium have the highest refusal rates.

Which country gives fastest Schengen visa?

The processing time for a Schengen visa may vary depending on the country you are applying from and the purpose of your visit. However, some countries may have faster processing times than others. For example, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are known to have relatively fast processing times.

Which country gives Schengen visa easiest?

There is no specific country that gives Schengen visa easiest. But visa refusal statistics show that Finland, Hungary, Estonia and Poland have the lowest refusal rates.

Do US citizens need a visa to enter the Schengen area?

No, US citizens do not need a visa to enter the Schengen area. US citizens can travel to the Schengen territory for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business purposes.

Europe is usually the first choice for most first-time international travelers. It’s a dream for most people to visit European countries at least once in their lifetime. Europe has such an impeccable beauty, history, art, and cuisine.

A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen area, comprised of 27 European countries. Non-EU nationals who are visa-exempt and visa-required are allowed to stay in the Schengen zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Schengen visas are single, double or multiple-entry visas. First-time Schengen visas are limited in validity, but subsequent visas are 90 days to 5 years of validity.

• European Comission, Migration and Home Affairs
• European Union Law (EUR-Lex), Visa Code

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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What are you looking for?

Business / tourism / visitor visa.

A Schengen visa is required if you intend to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for business, visitor or tourist purposes.

Visa needed?

Entry clearance requirements depend on the citizenship of the applicant.

We are pleased to confirm that persons holding a US passport do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States, provided that the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180 day period and provided that no economic activity is being pursued. If you are not a US passport holder, please check our country list to see if you need a visa: country list

Where and how to apply?

German consular services are available throughout the USA. Customers will need to schedule an appointment via the service provider BLS International (except Consulate General Atlanta).

If you live in the jurisdiction of the Consulate General in Atlanta, please make sure to schedule an appointment in order to apply for a Schengen visa directly at the consulate (not via BLS).

Click below to find out where to submit your application and to learn about any specific application procedures. Due to local particularities handling and processing may vary slightly among the German Missions involved: Consulate Finder

Please note processing time of minimum 2 weeks. In some cases processing time may take up to 4 weeks plus additional business days for mailing your documents. Therefore make sure to schedule an appointment as early as possible before your intended trip to Germany.

In order to apply for a visa, it is not necessary to use services of an agency or service provider for facilitation. Also, some of such agencies provide false claims and information regarding the visa process. The German Missions are only cooperating with BLS International in the US.

Please be aware that the submission of forged documents and/or itineraries can lead to the rejection of the visa application.

Under certain circumstances you can mail in your application to the service provider BLS International . If you live in the consular jurisdiction of the consulate in Atlanta, you might mail in your application there if you qualify .

What do I need to fill out and bring?

• Online Schengen Visa Application Form
• Declaration of Accurancy
• Visa Photo Examples
• Information on Data Protection

Which documents are required?

• Schengen Visa
• Schengen Visa ( EU /EEA spouse, parent or child)
• Schengen Visa (German spouse, parent or child)

Additional content

Medical Health Insurance

Information on Medical Health Insurance when applying for a visa.

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Consolato Generale d'Italia a Los Angeles

Sito ufficiale del Consolato Generale d'Italia a Los Angeles

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Schengen visa for tourism.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Visa Department Email  [email protected]

To make an appointment please register and book your appointment on our online portal  PRENOT@MI

Please note that applications can be submitted up to six months before the start of the planned trip and no later than 15 calendar days before the departure date.

IF YOUR DO NOT FIND AN APPOINTMENT, due to the high demand of requests, we suggest that you patiently CHECK DAILY our appointment system for cancellations. Appointments become available from 3:00 pm (local time)

You can apply for a Schengen visa for tourism at our Consulate General if:

a. Italy is your only Schengen Area destination,

b. you are visiting different countries in the Schengen Area, but Italy is the country in the Schengen Area where you will be spending most of the time (please count the exact number of days),

c. you are visiting different countries in the Schengen area, but you are spending an equal number of days in each country, and Italy is your first port of entry in the Schengen area.

 REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must submit the following documents (2 sets of documents: 1 original plus 1 copy) :

• Passport or travel document accepted by the Schengen countries valid for a period of 3 months beyond the applicant’s last day of stay abroad. The passport must not have been issued more than 10 (ten) years ago and must have at least two blank pages on which the visa can be affixed. In your passport, your complete birthdate must be mentioned: day, month and year.
• Valid Driver’s License or State ID issued by California, Arizona, Nevada or New Mexico (Driver’s License or State ID issued by other States are not accepted). If you moved and have not updated your Driver’s License or State ID from California, Arizona, Nevada or New Mexico, you must submit a current bill of water, gas or electricity . Other types of bill will not accepted.
• Proof of permanent residence in the United States : U.S. Alien Registration Card or valid long term U.S. visa (type A,E,F,G,H,I,J,L,O,R) with I-94 Form. The US Alien Registration Card or US visa should be valid at least three (3) months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen territory. U.S. visas B1/B2 (tourism/business) visas are not acceptable for this purpose.
• Recent passport-size photograph (35 mm x 45 mm), on white background, full face and front view, in color. Scanned or photocopied photos will not be accepted.
• Schengen Visa application form completely and clearly filled out, online and printed in HIGH RESOLUTION (a minimum print DPI of 300). The applicant must then sign the application in the presence of a Consular Officer. For those that are unable to fill in the online form due to technical difficulties, please contact  [email protected] .
• bank account statement(s) for the last three months showing name and address of owner (s) (Electronic printouts are accepted) AND
• proof of regular income, pay slips of the last three months. If retired, also a copy of pension certificate showing amount of pension.
• If you are employed : letter from employer, on letterhead, stating position, salary and that the vacation/leave has been approved. The letter must be signed with a WET signature and dated.
• If self-employed : valid business license, certificate of incorporation, and latest tax return concerning business.
• If you are a student : present a letter of full-time enrollment from the school, college or university. The letter must be signed with a WET signature. Students must also have a valid I-20 Form endorsed by the competent authority (re-entry/travel), and exchange visitors must have a valid IAP-66 Form.
• Round-trip flight reservation . If you visit more than one Schengen country, you must provide means of transportation between countries (flight reservations, car rental reservation, train ticket, etc.).
• Proof of lodging . For every night spent in the Schengen area, the applicant must provide proof of accommodation in the form of print-outs (no emails on the cell phone, no screen shots on the cell phone). If you have been invited to stay with an Italian citizen or a foreigner who resides in Italy (family or friends), you must have that person fill out the “ Declaration of private accommodation ”. A copy of that persons’ document of identity must accompany the invitation and, if the host is not an Italian citizen, a copy of valid Permesso di Soggiorno (Permit of stay for foreigners) must be submitted.
• Proof of purchase of Worldwide Travel Insurance . Please provide a letter or certificate from the insurance company showing coverage for  medical expenses, hospitalization costs and  repatriation for medical reasons, for the days you will be travelling in the Schengen area. Insurance coverage must not be less than  30,000 Euro .
• Payment: Money Order or Cashier’s Check (payable to the Consulate General of Italy – Los Angeles) for the exact required amount. Please refer to the Handling fees  for the exact amount .
• One self-addressed (from yourself–to yourself) pre-paid/stamped envelope (Express Mail, FedEx, USPS) to have your passport mailed back to you.  IF THE RETURN LABEL IS NOT COMPLETED PROPERLY (FOR EXAMPLE IF THE CONSULATE APPEARS AS THE SENDER) IT WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Please also fill out the  authorization form .

For  MINOR  applicants, one of the parents must submit the visa application on their behalf.

The following documentations is also required:

• Authorization to travel abroad signed by both parents. The signatures must be authenticated by a Notary Public if the parents are in the United States or by an Italian Embassy or Consulate if the parents reside abroad.
• Birth certificate translated in English and authenticated by the local Italian Embassy/Consulate of the country of birth.
• Declaration of financial responsibility for minor children signed (signatures must be authenticated by a Notary Public).
• Notarized copies of both parents’ picture I.D.s

The Consular office will evaluate the documents submitted and may request additional ones at its discretion. Furthermore, you should also be aware that submitting the required documentation  does not  automatically guarantee the issuance of a visa.

What are you looking for?

Submission of schengen visa application at a visa application centre.

File your Schengen visa application at your Visa Application Centre in three easy steps.

IMPORTANT: Duly completed application forms may be submitted six months prior to the intended travel date. As application numbers peak permanently, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply well in advance of their actual travel dates! This will help towards the smooth organization of your trip. Please note that it can take up to two weeks to process your Schengen visa, and even longer in individual cases. Please keep in mind that the processing time for Schengen visa starts only once the application reaches the Consulate. This might take up to SIX working days depending on the delivery conditions and public holidays. Therefore, please account for delays in the visa processing time during the holiday season.

File your Schengen visa application at your Visa Application Centre in three easy steps:

Step 1: Please prepare the necessary documentation for your visa application using the following checklists:

Airport Transit

Culture Sport Religious

Internship + Training

Visit Family & Friends

Unfortunately, we are currently unable to provide you with the checklists in a format, which is fully accessible for people with disabilities. We are working on a solution.

Kindly note that the photos should meet biometric photos requirements . These photos can be obtained, among others, at the Visa Application Centres.

Step 2: Please fill out the online application form print it out, sign it and submit it along with the other documents. All Schengen applicants are kindly requested to fill in the online application forms according to VIDEX format, which can be found above. Please ensure that a high quality printout of the barcode is submitted with the application. This will shorten the time you spend at the VFS visa application center considerably. In the unlikely case that you cannot fill out the online application form, you may print the application form and fill out the by hand. If your fingerprints were collected in the last 59 months for applying for a Schengen visa in India, you can authorize someone to submit your application. To do so, kindly fill out this authorization letter for the travel agent or the representative and attach a copy of the authorized person along with it! Letter of authorization for visa application submission

Note: please print out & sign the following declarations in order to complete your documentation: Declaration on true and complete information Declaration on health insurance (for multiple entry visas only) Additional contact and legal representation information

Step 3: Schedule an appointment for the submission of your visa application and submit it at the nearest Visa Application Centre. Kindly note that you have to pay the VFS Service charge already when booking the appointment. Applicants applying for a Schengen visa can submit their visa applications at any VFS centre across India as the application will be forwarded to the German Consulate General Mumbai for a decision. For further information, please visit the VFS Global Website

Visa Application Centres

List of Visa Application Centres across India.

Visa fees for Schengen Visa

Current visa fees for Schengen Visa is as follows:

How to schedule an appointment?

Find information on how to schedule appointments for Schengen Visa, German National Visa & for attestations.

Travel Medical Insurance

Please note: German Missions accept Indian Travel Medical Insurances only from approved Indian Travel Insurance companies.

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Visit Sweden up to 90 days during 180 days – apply for a visa

If you are a citizen in a country outside the EU and want to visit Sweden for a maximum of 90 days, you may need to apply for a visa. A visa is only valid for your stay in the Schengen countries for up to 90 days during a period of 180 days.

If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU and you want to visit Sweden (and the other Schengen countries), you may need to apply for a visa. A visa is a permit to enter a country and stay there up to 90 days.

Whether you need a visa depends on what country you are from or if you have a residence permit in another Schengen country or if you are permanently living in an EU country.

If you have a valid residence permit issued by another Schengen country, you do not need to apply for an entry visa to visit Sweden up to 90 days.

Read more about what applies if you are permanently living in another EU country

The visa is most often valid for entry into all Schengen countries. In exceptional cases the visa may only be valid for entering Sweden and/or some Schengen countries.

Read more about what applies if you do not need a visa to travel to Sweden

If you want to visit Sweden for more than 90 days you need to apply for a visitor’s residence permit.

Apply for a visitor’s residence permit

Before you apply for a visa

Requirements for receiving a visa to visit relatives and friends.

In order to be granted a visa to visit relatives and friends you must

• have a passport that is valid for at least three months after the visa has expired, was issued in the last ten years and has at least two empty pages
• be able to describe the purpose of your visit

• have an individual medical travel insurance that covers all costs that may arise in connection with emergency medical treatment, urgent medical care or transportation to your home country for medical reasons (the insurance must cover costs of at least 30,000 EUR and be valid for all Schengen countries)
• have money to support yourself and for the return trip home (Sweden also requires you to have 450 SEK for each day you stay in Sweden, which can also be paid for by the person who has invited you)
• show that you intend to leave Sweden and the Schengen area on the last day before the visa expires
• a photograph that is in passport format and taken with you facing the camera and which is not older than six months (only if you do not appear in person to apply for a visa)
• other documents that the embassy may require.

Remember that it is important that you verify what applies in your particular case. You can find more information on the embassy’s website.

If you are going to submit your application to another Schengen country's embassy or consulate-general, you should contact them in advance. It is that country’s embassy or consulate-general that assesses and makes a decision on your application.

Requi­re­ments for receiving a visa for busi­ness or a confe­rence

In order to be receive a visa for business or a conference you must

• have an invitation from the company or the person that is arranging the conference
• have money to support yourself and for the return trip home (Sweden also requires you to have 450 SEK for each day you stay in Sweden, which can also be paid for by the company that has invited you)
• a photograph that is in passport format and taken with you facing the camera and which is not older than six months

Requi­re­ments for receiving a tourist visa

In order to receive a tourist visa you must

Requi­re­ments for receiving a visa for medical treat­ment

In order to receive a visa for medical treatment you must

• be able to describe the purpose of your visit by showing a medical certificate from Sweden that shows when you will receive your treatment and what it entails
• show a medical certificate from the country you are living in that shows that you are not able to receive the treatment there
• show proof that you have deposited money in Sweden for the planned treatment and any medical care that might follow from it
• have money to support yourself and for the return trip home (Sweden also requires you to have 450 SEK for each day you stay in Sweden, if you are not hospitalised/living where you are receiving your treatment)
• other documents that the embassy may require

Requi­re­ments for receiving a visa for visi­ting Sweden for reli­gious purposes

In order to receive a visa for visiting Sweden for religious purposes you must

• have an invitation from a religious organisation/assembly

Requirements for receiving a visa for studies, research or as a doctoral exchange student

In order to receive a visa for studies, research or as a doctoral exchange student you must

• have an invitation or proof of acceptance from a university in Sweden
• have a certificate from your university abroad if you are already registered at a university
• have money to support yourself and for the return trip home (Sweden also requires you to have 450 SEK for each day you stay in Sweden)

Requirements for receiving a visa for volunteer work or an internship

In order to receive a visa for volunteer work or an intern ship you must

• have an invitation from the internship/volunteer organisation
• you must apply for a visa before you travel to the Schengen area
• that you must apply no earlier than six months before you travel
• submit your application early
• it is the final destination of your trip that determines at which Schengen embassy you should apply (if another Schengen country other than Sweden is your final destination you must apply for a visa at that country’s embassy)
• a visa is valid for a visit and it is only in exceptional cases that you can work while you have a visa ( Read more on the page Exceptions from the work permit requirement ).

In certain countries, another Schengen country might represent Sweden. There are countries where Sweden has no representation, in other words has no embassy or consulate-general and is not represented by another country. If that is the case, you must check what applies to your area when it comes to visa applications.

If you are submitting your application to another Schengen country authority abroad, you need to contact them in advance. The reason for that is because that country’s requirements for documents apply. The documents should also be translated into that country’s language.

This is how you apply for a visa

Most people who are applying for a visa need to do it through an external service provider. You can visit your embassy’s website to find out if your embassy has an agreement with an external service provider.

If your embassy does not have an agreement with an external service provider and you are applying for a visa through the Swedish embassy in Tehran (Iran) you can apply through our e-service.

If you are unable to apply through an external service provider or through our e-services, you can apply by handing in a form directly to your embassy.

Apply for a visa through an external service provider

Find out if you need to apply for a visa through an external service provider by visiting your embassy’s website. There you can find more information about to apply.

When you apply through an external service provider you will be asked to give your fingerprint and application at the same time

Apply for a visa through e-service – applies to three embas­sies

If you are applying at this embassy you can submit your application online:

You can attach appendices in the e-service. A complete application with attached appendices will make the processing of your application easier. Before you begin the e-service you should remember to prepare the appendices in digital format (scanned) so that you can attach them to your application.

Please notice that if you have not been active in your application (added or edited information) for 72 hours, your application will be removed. Every time you edit your application you start a new 72-hour span, but in total you can only save your application for 14 days. If you have not submitted your application within 14 days, it will be removed.

Apply for a visa through an embassy

If your embassy does not have an agreement with an external service provider or if it does not offer an e-service, you must apply directly at the embassy. Keep in mind that it is important that you check to make sure what applies in your case. You can find more information on the embassy’s website.

After you have submitted your application

Follow your visa case.

If you applied online, you can follow your case in My page. You can see if a decision has been made and in some cases also book or cancel an appointment for a visit to a Swedish embassy or consulate-general. You can also see the information and documents that you have enclosed in your application.

Log in to My page

Waiting time for the deci­sion

You will usually receive an answer within two weeks, however the processing times at the embassies or consulates-general vary.

After the deci­sion

The embassy or consulate-general will make the decision in your case and will notify you if you have been granted a visa or not. If you have submitted your application at the company that collects applications for the embassy or consulate-general you will receive a decision from that company.

If you are granted a visa, a permit sticker will be glued into your passport. The permit sticker says when and for how long the visa applies.

If you are not granted a visa, you can appeal the decision to the Migration Court. If the decision has been made by another member state that represents Sweden, the decision can be appealed to that member state’s authorities.

If you want to appeal

If your application has been rejected you can submit a written appeal no later than three weeks from the day when you received the decision. Instructions on how to submit the appeal can be found in the decision.

If the embassy or consu­late-general changes the deci­sion

The decision might be changed if new information is submitted. In that case, you will be notified and your visa is glued into your passport.

If the embassy or consu­late-general does not change the deci­sion it is forwarded

If the appeal was submitted on time, and the embassy or consu­late-general does not feel that there is any reason to change the decision, they will forward the case to a Migration Court in Sweden as soon as possible. The court will then make the decision.

Facts about visa

A visa is only valid for your stay in the Schengen countries for up to 90 days during a period of 180 days.

It says on the visa sticker that is glued into your passport how many days you may stay in the Schengen countries. The days can be used during the time period that is indicated on the sticker. The period is often 15 days longer than the number of days that you are allowed to stay in the Schengen countries. The reason for this is so that you will have a chance to change your travel date if something unforeseen happens.

The visa can be valid for multiple entries or exits

On the visa sticker it says how many times you are allowed to enter and exit the Schengen countries during the period of validity.

You may apply for a Schengen visa that is valid for multiple entries if you visit Sweden on a regular basis. A visa with multiple entries can be valid for stays of up to 90 days during a 180 day period for up to five years.

The visa may only apply to certain countries

If you receive a visa you can often visit the other Schengen countries as well.

Your visa may in certain cases only be valid for entry and stay in Sweden or in certain Schengen countries, for example if your passport is not accepted by all Schengen countries.

Calculate your visa time

With the help of EU’s visa calculator you can calculate when you can travel into the Schengen area again, and how many days you can stay.

Controls at the border

Your short-stay visa allows you to travel to Sweden and usually to other Schengen States. It does not automatically entitle you to enter the Schengen area therefore you may have to provide certain information at border or other controls. You may, for instance, have to provide information on your means of support, how long you intend to stay in Sweden and why you are visiting Sweden. In some cases, such checks may result in a refusal for the visa holder to enter Sweden or the Schengen area.

You should therefore carry with you copies of the documents which you presented when you applied for the visa (e.g. letters of invitation, travel confirmations, other documents stating the purpose of your stay).

Extend a visit

A visitor's visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days. If you have already stayed in a Schengen country for 90 days during the last 180-day period, you cannot extend your visa. Instead you can apply for a visitor’s residence permit.

Read more about a visitor's permit

Exten­ding a visa

You can apply for an extension to your visa if your combined period of stay in the Schengen countries will not exceed 90 days in a 180-day period.

This is possible in the following cases:

• force majeure – unforeseen events that prevent you from leaving Sweden or the Schengen countries, e.g. extreme weather
• humanitarian reasons – if you or a close relative who lives in Sweden has been taken seriously ill, for example.

You can be granted a visa extension

• if you have compelling personal reasons – this includes health care or a business trip.

The reason behind your need to extend the visa must have occurred after your entry into Sweden. You need to apply to extend your visa before it expires. Submit your application for an extension well in advance so that the Migration Agency has enough time to process your application before your current visa expires. 

When you submit an application to extend your visa, you do not need to pay any fee. However, if the Migration Agency estimates that the application is based on strong personal reasons, you must pay a fee of 30 euros when we make a decision on your application. You will receive information on how to pay the fee before we make a decision.

An application to extend a visa because of force majeure or humanitarian reasons is free of charge.

How to apply for a visa exten­sion

An application for a visa extension must be submitted before your visa expires. Leave your application at one of the Swedish Migration Agency’s Service Centres.

The Migration Agency's visiting addresses See also the instructions in the application forms for any additional documents that you may need to attach.

You should enclose

• the application form Application for Schengen Visa, form 118031. It is available at all Swedish Migration Agency’s permit units and here at our website
• copies of the pages in your passport that show personal data and all entry stamps. The passport must be valid for the time that your stay in Sweden is expected to last
• an explanation why you think you should be granted a visa extension
• documentation which shows the reason why you need to prolong your stay (including certificates from companies, doctor’s certificate or similar)
• individual medical travel insurance which covers the costs which could arise as a result of emergency medical assistance, emergency hospitalisation or medical repatriation. The insurance should cover costs of at least EUR 30,000 and be valid in all the Schengen countries.

Appli­ca­tions

Deci­sions regar­ding visas.

The Swedish Migration Agency will send you its decision regarding your visa application. If the Migration Agency has decided to grant you the right to an extended visa you will receive a permit sticker in your passport as proof of your extended visa. You or a representative (someone acting on your behalf) should go to the Swedish Migration Agency to have the sticker glued into your passport. Your representative needs to be authorised by you.

If the Swedish Migration Agency decides not to grant you an extended visa, your application will be rejected. A rejection of a matter which is reviewed according to the Visa Code cannot be appealed.

You have the right to stay in Sweden for as long as you have a valid visa. If your visa has expired you lose the right to stay in any of the Schengen countries. If you have applied to extend your stay after your visa has expired, you do not have the right to stay in Sweden and wait for the decision.

If you have applied for an extension to stay in Sweden for more than 90 days during the last 180-day period, other rules apply. Read more under the heading Visits lasting longer than 90 days.

User terms and conditions for a visa application

You are given the following text for information at this stage concerning the rights and obligations that apply in conjunction with a visa application. Then you have to accept the text in conjunction with your visa application.

The text set out below has been taken from the visa application form adopted by the European Commission.

Extract from the visa appli­ca­tion form adopted by the Euro­pean Commis­sion

I declare that the particulars given by me in this visa application are correct. Any false statements will lead to my application being rejected or to the annulment of a visa already granted. I am aware of and consent to the particulars and any photograph and, where applicable, fingerprints given by me in my visa application being supplied to the relevant authorities in member states for the purposes of a decision on my visa application.

Decisions about my application will be registered and stored in the Visa Information System (VIS). I have the right to be told what information is registered about me in VIS. To be told what information is registered about me in VIS, I contact [email protected] .

Legal basis

The Swedish Migration Agency processes personal data in accordance with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The Swedish Migration Agency also handles personal data pursuant to the Aliens Data Act (2016:27) and the Aliens Data Ordinance (2016:30). These register statutes also contain provisions stating that the data may be processed without the data subject giving their consent. The Swedish Migration Agency also processes certain personal data under provisions in the Data Protection Act (2018:218). The Swedish Migration Agency sometimes processes personal data pursuant to other EU regulations and directives.

I am aware of and consent to the following.

Compulsory collection of data

The collection of the data required according to the visa application form, photography and, where applicable, the taking of fingerprints are compulsory in the examination of a visa application. All personal data about me stated in the visa application form will, as will my fingerprints and photograph, be sent to the relevant authorities of member states. These authorities process them to enable a decision to be made on my visa application.

Storage of data

These data and data concerning the decision on my application or a decision to annul, revoke or extend a visa issued will be registered in the Visa Information System (VIS) and be stored there for a period of at most five years. During that period the data will be accessible by the visa authorities and the authorities that are competent to check visas at the external borders and in member states and also to the immigration and asylum authorities of member states. The data are accessible in order check that the conditions for legal entry to and stay and residence on the territory of the member states have been met; to identify persons who do not, or who no longer, meet these conditions; to examine an asylum application; and to determine who is responsible for such an examination. In certain circumstances the data will also be accessible to designated authorities of member states and to Europol to prevent, detect and investigate terrorist offences and other serious offences. The following authority in Sweden is responsible for processing the data: Swedish Migration Agency, SE-601 70 Norrköping, www.migrationsverket.se .

You can also contact the Swedish Migration Agency’s Data Protection Officer [email protected]

The right to check personal data

Declaration.

I declare that to the best of my knowledge all particulars supplied by me are correct and complete. I am aware that any false statements will lead to my application being rejected or to the annulment of a visa already granted and may also render me liable to prosecution under the law of the member state that deals with my application.

I undertake to leave the territory of the member states before the expiry of the visa, if granted. I have been informed that possession of a visa is only one of the prerequisites for entry into the European territory of the member states. The mere fact that a visa has been granted to me does not mean that I will be entitled to request compensation if I fail to comply with the relevant provisions of Article 6.1 of Regulation (EU) 2016/399 (the Schengen Borders Code) and am thus refused entry. The prerequisites for entry will be checked again on entry into the European territory of the member states.

Last updated: 2024-04-12

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Applying for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands in the United Kingdom

If you will be visiting the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days – for a holiday, to do business or to see family, for example – you can apply for a Schengen visa. Follow the steps below to apply in the United Kingdom.

Step 1: Check before applying

Before starting your application, check whether you need a visa for the Netherlands and, if so, where you can apply for it .

Do I need a visa?

If you are the holder of a British passport, you do not need a visa to visit the Netherlands.

If you have a different nationality and are unsure what the visa requirements are, check whether you need a visa to visit the Netherlands .

Don’t need a visa?

If you don’t need a visa for the Netherlands, see what documents you do need to travel to the Netherlands.

Check what you need to travel to the Netherlands

Where can I apply for a visa?

To apply for a Schengen visa in the United Kingdom go to the VFS Global application centre in Birmingham, Edinburgh, London or Manchester. You can only submit an application there if you live in the United Kingdom.

If you live somewhere else, go to the page Applying for a Schengen visa and select the country where you live to find out where to submit your application. If you still want to submit your application in the United Kingdom, first check if that’s possible.

Check whether you can apply for a visa outside your country of residence

Diplomatic or official passport?

If you have a diplomatic or official passport, you can submit an application for a Schengen visa at the Netherlands embassy in London.

I want to visit more than one Schengen country

If you want to visit another Schengen country besides the Netherlands, check whether you should apply for a visa for the Netherlands or the other country.

Find out which Schengen country you should apply for a visa for

Step 2: Gather the documents you need

You need several documents to apply for a Schengen visa. Which ones you need depends on your purpose of travel.

Which documents do I need?

On the VFS Global website you’ll find a checklist with the documents you need based on your purpose of travel.

Find out which documents you need

Family member of an EU/EEA national or Swiss national?

If you are travelling with a family member who is a national of an EU/EEA member state or Switzerland, or you’re travelling to visit that family member, you may be eligible for free Schengen visa facilitation.

Find out whether you are eligible for visa facilitation

Step 3: Make an appointment

Once you have all the documents you need for your Schengen visa application, you can make an appointment. You can apply for your visa up to 6 months ahead of your trip. Apply no later than 45 days before your trip.

How do I make an appointment?

Make an appointment online at VFS Global in the United Kingdom

• Making an appointment is free of charge. Do not make an appointment with an intermediary because they will charge you money.
• If you are applying for visas for multiple people, make a separate appointment for each person.

If you have a diplomatic or official passport, make an appointment at the Netherlands embassy in London by emailing: [email protected] .

Can someone else submit my application for me?

You must appear in person at your appointment to submit your application, even if you’re under 18.

You don’t need to appear in person to submit your application if:

• you have applied in person for a Schengen visa within the past 5 years (59 months), and:
• you submitted a photo with that application, and:
• your fingerprints were taken for that application (only applies if you are 12 or older).

If you meet all 3 conditions, you can have someone else submit your application for you. The appointment must be under the name of the person submitting your application.

If you are not certain whether VFS Global or the embassy has your fingerprints on record, you should submit your application in person. Neither VFS Global nor the embassy can check this for you.

How can I change or cancel my appointment?

To change or cancel your appointment, contact VFS Global in the United Kingdom .

If you have a diplomatic or official passport and made an appointment at the embassy, you will receive a confirmation by email. You can change or cancel your appointment by emailing: [email protected] .

Step 4: Go to your appointment

Go to your appointment, and bring all the documents on your checklist from step 2 with you, plus the checklist itself.

See the address of VFS Global in the United Kingdom

What happens at my appointment?

At your appointment you:

• submit the documents that are on your checklist, together with your passport
• provide your fingerprints (only if you are 12 or older)
• answer questions about your trip
• pay the visa fees
• indicate whether you want to collect your passport (with visa affixed) or have it sent to you
• receive a reference or tracking number to track the status of your application

How much does a visa cost?

See the overview of consular fees in the United Kingdom to find out how much a visa costs and what forms of payment are accepted. In some situations you are not required to pay.

Find out in which situations you do not need to pay the visa fee

You will always need to pay service costs to VFS Global.

How long will it take for my application to be processed?

You’ll usually find out within 15 calendar days whether your application was successful. Sometimes it can take longer and may take up to 45 calendar days.

Find out more about processing times for a visa application

How can I track the status of my application?

When you submit your application at VFS Global you’ll receive a reference number that you can use to track the status of your application online .

If you have a diplomatic or official passport and submitted your application at the embassy, you’ll receive a tracking number that you can use to track the status of your application online .

Step 5: Collect your passport or have it sent to you

You will receive an email once your application has been processed. The email won’t say whether your application was successful. You can collect your passport or have it sent to you. If your application was approved, the visa will be affixed to a page in your passport.

Having your passport sent to you

If you choose to have your passport sent to you, you’ll discuss at your appointment how to arrange this.

Collecting your passport

If you choose to collect your passport, you’ll discuss at your appointment when you can collect it. You can also have someone else collect your passport for you.

If you collect your passport yourself, bring the following with you:

• a valid form of ID
• the proof of payment provided by VFS Global

If someone else collects your passport for you, they must bring the following with them:

• a signed letter from you authorising them to collect your passport

If you have a diplomatic or official passport and submitted your application at the embassy, email [email protected] to make an appointment to collect your passport.

Take into account the embassy’s opening hours and closing days .

Check the information on your visa

Check whether the information on your visa is correct. Your name and the visa’s validity period, for example.

Find out more about the information on your visa

If any of the information is incorrect or you can’t use the visa, for example because the period of validity is later than the dates of the plane tickets in your application, contact the Netherlands embassy in London.

Email the Netherlands embassy

What if my application was refused?

If your application wasn’t approved, you’ll receive a letter stating why. If you disagree with this decision, you have several options.

Find out what you can do if your visa application was refused

Step 6: Prepare for your trip

With your Schengen visa you can travel to the Netherlands or another Schengen country. You must show the visa upon departure and arrival.

Border control may also ask you for other documents. Find out what other documents you need in the checklist for travelling to the Netherlands.

Check what you need for travel to the Netherlands

Do you have a question about applying at VFS Global?

Contact VFS Global in the United Kingdom

Do you have a question about applying at the embassy?

Contact the Netherlands embassy

What are you looking for?

Schengen visa.

The German Embassy processes visa applications for travellers with their main destination in Germany, Slovenia and Luxembourg.

Preparing your application

Getting an appointment, needed documents, submitting your application, what happens during processing, return of your passport, have a good trip information for visa holders, complaints about the schengen visa application process.

Schengen visas allow people to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days every six-month period. The current processing time for Schengen Visas is at least 5 business days.

Please prepare your application as follows:

• Please fill out the application form online in VIDEX   Form, print it, sign it and submit it along with the other documents or, if you are unable to complete your application with  VIDEX  , you may fill out the visa application form by hand (form can be found below as a download)
• Make sure that your photos are according to the required standards (explanation can be found below as a download)
• If you plan to apply for a multipe-entry Schengen Visa, please print out the Declaration on Health Insurance  (form can be found below as a download)

Please make an appointment to submit your application. You may submit your application three months before the start of your planned trip at the earliest.

Incomplete applications can not be admitted: the application will be returned without additional charges and a new appointment has to be arranged.

No multiple bookings are allowed! This means only one appointment per person and passport application. You will have to provide the number of your current passport during the booking process. Please understand that you will only be admitted into the Embassy's visa section if your passport number matches the information submitted in your reservation.

Please only book an appointment which you are actually able to keep . If you can not keep an appointment that has already been booked you are kindly asked to cancel it online. This will help us to reduce long terms of waiting and leaves a gap for emergencies and applications of high urgency (cases as such usually involve illness or death of a close person). If you do not show up for your appointment without previous cancelation, the system does not allow rebooking during the next weeks! Please note that the improper use of the booking system will lead to the cancellation of the appointment and to the blacklisting of your email address. We strongly recommend to personally book appointments without making use of an external service provider. The booking of an appointment is free of charge.

Please note that the appointments offered on this system are the earliest appointments possible.

Important information: Please do not send the Visa Section any documents unless requested to do so, particularly not before you have applied for a visa. We are not able to store such documents and will not know to which application they belong. Please always bring all the necessary documents with you to your appointment.

• Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and with at least 3 months validity after the scheduled return) with at least two empty pages
• Schengen Visa Application Form (all questions have to be answered) together with Declaration on True and Complete Information
• Citizenship Certificate, original and one copy
• 1 copy of your passport’s data page (A4 size copy)
• Travel health insurance, original and one copy (valid for all Schengen member States, covering a minimum of Euro 30.000,00)
• Flight reservation (rail tickets if applicable)
• Proof of accommodation for your entire stay in the Schengen area
• 1 copy of each previous Schengen-, UK- or USA-Visa (if travelled)
• For Minors: If travelling without the parent(s), consent letter and application form signed by both parents; copy of the parent(s) passports data page or Citizenship Cert. Parents must be present during the visa application.
• Invitation letter from Germany or country of your destination including travel itinerary.
• Certificate of leave letter from your company (if employed), No objection certificate from school or university (if student)
• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
• If sponsored a formal obligation letter (Verpflichtungserklärung according to §§ 66-68 AufenthG /German Residence Act) from your sponsor – original and copy
• If applicable: copy of the sponsor's German residence permit
• Proof of your financial status: if employed: letter from your employer (providing information regarding your annual/monthly income and duration of your employment with the company if self-employed: proof of company registration including PAN and proof of tax payment (original and one copy)
• personal bank statements of the last six months (only originals are accepted)
• Proof of civil status: Originals and copies of your Marriage Certificate and Birth Certificates of your children (alternatively: Certificate of Relationship)
• 1 recent biometrical passport photographs (not older than six months)

Additional requirements for applications for Business Visa

• Submission of a Formal Obligation Letter(original and 1 Xerox copy of the document) according to §§ 66-68 AufenthG /German Residence Act, signed by the inviting company at the competent Aliens Authority (“Ausländerbehörde”) in Germany or An informal letter of invitation, in which the sponsor guarantees to bear all costs according to §§ 66-68 AufenthG/ German Residence Act
• Company bank statements of the last six months
• Detailed schedule of your business meetings
• Exhibitor’s pass / visitor’s pass (in case applicant wants to go to a trade fair)

Please prepare one set of application with the above-mentioned documents and bring your original documents along.

All documents have to be presented in the given order in original, copies in Format: DIN A4. All documents in Nepali language have to be supported by an English or German translation. Only applications with complete documentation can be accepted.

Please note that the German Embassy reserves the right to ask for additional documents or an additional interview.

In order to submit your application, please attend your appointment at the Embassy in person. During this appointment, we kindly ask you to submit all of your application documents, pay the fee and answer questions about your planned trip. Your photograph and fingerprints will also be taken on this occasion.

The Embassy will review your application and make a decision on whether or not to grant you a visa. To this end, it will assess whether your application meets the legal requirements .   We hope you will understand that we are not able to answer any questions on the status of your application during this processing period. After that, enquiries can only be answered if they are made by the applicant, his/her legal representative or another person authorised in writing by the applicant.

After the Embassy decided on your application, your passport can be collected. After submitting your application, you will receive a receipt with your pick-up date. From this day your passport is usually ready for you to pick up, in exceptional cases processing may be delayed. You should collect your passport in person. If you are not able to collect it yourself, you can authorize another person to collect it for you. In order to do so, please issue an power of attorney to that particular person. The authorization for another person to collect the visa needs to be mentioned during the interview.

There are various reasons why your visa application may be rejected . The reasons will be stated in the letter notifying you that your application has been rejected. You are welcome to submit a new application at any time with complete, informative and verifiable documentation.

If all the information on your visa label is correct, you are free to travel. Please check the information on the label as soon as your passport is returned to you. You should let us know immediately if there are any mistakes so that we can issue you a new visa. Your visa will state your full name and passport number and include your photo. It will also state the period of validity. This is the time period in which you can travel. In addition, it will state the maximum number of days you can stay in the Schengen area during the period of validity of your visa. Our aim is to give you a certain amount of flexibility in planning your trip. In order to allow you to change your travel dates at short notice, visas are usually valid for 15 days longer than the maximum number of days you are allowed to stay in the Schengen area. Please note that being granted a Schengen visa does not guarantee that you will be allowed to enter the Schengen area. The final decision on whether or not you will be allowed to enter the Schengen area will be made by the border police on your arrival. When you arrive, the border police may ask you to present additional documentation alongside your passport and valid visa with information on your financial means, the length and purpose of your stay, and your health insurance cover. You should therefore take a copy of your visa documents (including an invitation from Germany, hotel reservation and travel health insurance) with you on your trip.

Schengen visa applicants may submit complaints about the conduct of the consulate staff or the visa application process via the

. In the contact form, please select the option “Beschwerde zum Schengen-Visum-Verfahren”. Please note that complaints may only be submitted in German or English. We are unable to follow up on complaints in languages other than German or English. Please enter one of the following two options in the “Subject” field of the contact form:

• Complaint about the conduct of consulate staff
• Complaint about the visa application process

We will follow up on your complaint once it has been received.

Important information: No legal remedies against decisions to refuse, annul or revoke a visa – in particular no remonstrations – may be submitted via the complaints contact form.

Schengen Application Form

• Schengen Application Form PDF / 277 KB / File does not meet accessibility standards

Health Insurance Declaration

• Health Insurance Declaration PDF / 74 KB / Accessible / 19.03.2018

Photo requirements

• Photo requirements PDF / 2 MB / File does not meet accessibility standards / 19.03.2018
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What are you looking for?

Application schengen visa.

A Schengen Visa has to be applied for if you intend to travel to Germany as a visitor, for business or tourism purposes for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. You also have to apply for a Schengen visa in case you need to obtain an Airport Transit Visa.

Important information:

• The German Embassy in Wellington is responsible for processing your application if Germany is your main destination .
• A confirmed return ticket must be presented for the Schengen Visa application
• Please make sure that your travel insurance covers you for Covid-19 and that your insurance covers all Schengen states

The Schengen visa allows you to stay in the following countries for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

The following countries are not part of the Schengen area:

Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania and the United Kingdom.

Schengen Visa needed?

An overview of visa requirements/exemptions for entry into the Federal Republic of Germany can be found here

As of now, the German Embassy will also process Schengen visa applications for Austria again.

Where to apply?

You always have to apply for a Schengen Visa at the embassy of the member state that is your main destination in terms of length or purpose of stay. If no main destination can be determined, the visa has to be applied for at the embassy of the member state whose external border the applicant crosses first.

The German Embassy in Wellington is responsible for processing your application if Germany is your main destination . All applications for short-term visas (Schengen Visas) can only be lodged with the German Embassy in Wellington. Honorary Consuls do not handle any visa applications.

In order to apply for a visa

• Your passport must have at least two empty opposite pages .
• Your passport must have been issued within the last ten years and its validity must exceed the duration of stay in Germany by at least three months
• Furthermore, you must hold a valid visa for New Zealand. Its validity must exceed the duration of stay in Germany by at least three months . Holders of visitor visas must apply for their Schengen Visa in their home country.
• Visa applicants must have their fingerprints taken. Children unter the age of 12 are exempt from the requirement to give fingerprints. Fingerprint scans stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) can be reused for future visa applications within the following five years.

According to the Schengen regulations, you may apply up to 6 months before entry into Germany for your visa. However, due to generally short waiting times for an appointment as well as processing time of up to 15 days for complete applications, we recommend you apply within 3 months of intended travel to Germany.

Postal applications

Postal applications are only for applicants who have already had a Schengen Visa within the last 5 years, for which fingerprints were successfully taken. Please do not include any fees with your application.

Once your application is complete, you will be contacted by the Embassy via E-Mail with the current visa fee and our bank details for immediate bank transfer.

Schengen Tourist Visa

If you are planning a trip to Germany as a tourist and you have to apply for a Schengen Visa, detailed information on the documents you have to submit with your visa application can be found here.

Schengen Visitor Visa

If you are planning a trip to Germany as a visitor and you have to apply for a Schengen Visa, detailed information on the documents you have to submit with your visa application can be found here.

Schengen Business Visa

If you are planning a business trip to Germany and you have to apply for a Schengen Visa, detailed information on the documents you have to submit with your visa application can be found here.

Airport Transit Visa

Citizens of some nationalities require an airport transit visa for the Schengen area. This visa allows a short stop-over at an international airport only.

Your appointment at the Embassy in Wellington

You will need an appointment to apply for a visa. You need to book an appointment for every applicant. Appointments have to be booked online To protect your privacy please note we cannot grant…

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INFORMATION FOR THE APPLICANT ON TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE VISA PROCESS

• The German Embassy might ask for additional documents and/ or call the applicant for an interview.

Documents, forms and declarations which are in Bahasa-Indonesia have to be submitted with a German translation. Only official translations are accepted . You can find a list of recognized translators in Indonesia on our website . The translation can be carried out by a recognized translator in Germany as well. English translations are only accepted along with proof of the translator being officially recognized as an English translator in Indonesia or Germany. Failing to provide proper translation will result in the document, form or declaration considered “missing”.

• Only complete applications can be accepted. Submission of incomplete documentation will result in the application’s refusal.
• Processing time at the German Embassy is 15 days for applications submitted in Jakarta and 21 days for applications submitted in Bali and Surabaya, in general. In individual cases, it might take up to 45 days. Applicants are requested to apply well in advance, but not more than 180 days prior to the intended date of journey. Status updates are available on the VFS Global website. The German Embassy does not entertain status queries.
• During the application, the passport remains at the German Embassy. Requesting a passport return during the processing will require a cancellation/ withdrawal of the application.

REMARKS to be filled in by VFS staff (please tick what is relevant):

Applicant has □ NO Schengen Visa □ Previous Schengen & National Visa (please attach copies)

Applicant travels

□ with family member/s

□ with a group as ……………….....….. (please specify e.g. colleague, friends,...)

Applicant’s documents are □ complete □ NOT complete

Due to incomplete documents, □ Applicant has been informed of option to withdraw application as to avoid refusal. □ Applicant wishes to submit application.

Other remarks:

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

SIGNATURES and AGREEMENT

a) For Visa Applicant: I HAVE READ AND AGREED TO THE ABOVE FOR THE VISA APPLICATION.

b) For VFS Staff: APPLICANT HAS BEEN INFORMED OF THE ABOVE. THE REMARKS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED TOGETHER WITH APPLICANT.

…………………………………………… …………………………………………… City and Date (Signature of Applicant)

…………………………………………… …………………………………………… City and Date (Signature VFS Staff)

Optional: Download PDF

Schengen-visa - visitor.

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Application for Schengen visa and procedure

Switzerland and the United Kingdom

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• Visa & entry to Switzerland
• Visa – Entry to and residence in Switzerland
• Schengen visa for a stay of up to 90 days

English – German Other languages: SEM – Visa Application Form

Business visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 223.4 kB, English)

Spouse or dependant visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 248.0 kB, English)

Tourist visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 196.7 kB, English)

Visit visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 179.4 kB, English)

SEM – Number 8 (For hosts in Switzerland) of FAQ – Frequently asked questions

SEM – Factsheet on letter of invitation

SEM – Information on Declaration of Sponsorship

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) – MRTD Photo Guidelines

As a general rule, a decision is taken by the Consulate within 15 days. This period may, in individual cases, be extended.

Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to seven calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

List of countries

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before the planned journey.  

The reasons for refusal are notified to the applicant using a standard form.

You have the right to appeal within 30 days of receipt of the refusal. For information on appeal procedures, please refer to the webpage of the State Secretariat for Migration.

Biometric data (fingerprints) are generally collected every 59 months from the age of 12 years from the first recording.  

If you are a family member of a Swiss citizen you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy or Consulate of Switzerland.

An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

If you wish to complain about the behavior of the consular staff and, if applicable, about the external service provider or about the process, please contact the competent representation in writing.

Starting from 20.11.2015 all diplomatic representations of the Schengen member states in the United Kingdom have to capture the biometric data (finger scans and facial image) of persons applying for a Schengen visa. The data will be kept in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 5 years.

If your finger scans have not been collected yet, personal appearances when applying for a Schengen visa is mandatory.

If your finger scans were collected within the last 59 months, then you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application(s) and personal appearance is not necessary. However, you have to provide a copy of your visa sticker issued after 20.11.2015. If you are not sure or do not remember whether your fingerprints have been captured for a Schengen visa within the last 59 months, you have to appear in person.

You will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints in case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality.

Personal appearances and fingerprint scan is not necessary for children under the age of 12.

The Swiss representation still reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking his application.

Start of page Last update 26.03.2024

New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

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How to get a multi-year Schengen visa on your Indian passport

There's good news for indian passport holders who are planning to visit europe this summer. the eu is easing the schengen visa process for frequent travellers..

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• Visiting Europe is getting easier for Indian passport holders
• A new 'cascade' visa scheme will allow frequent travellers to get a multi-year multiple-entry Schengen visa
• However, you need to meet certain criteria to be able to apply for this 'cascade' visa

There's good news for Indian passport holders who want to visit Europe this year on. The European Union is looking to ease Schengen visa processes for Indian tourists.

What Is Schengen Travel Insurance?

Quick answer.

S chengen travel insurance is a specific type of travel insurance policy tailored to meet the travel medical coverage requirements set by the 27 (soon to be 29) European destinations within the Schengen Area. Travelers must present proof of sufficient coverage as part of the Schengen visa application process.

Schengen member countries have abolished their internal borders, allowing more accessible travel within the area. While this is incredibly convenient, some travelers may need a visa to visit Schengen countries. And one of the requirements to obtain that visa is to purchase sufficient travel medical insurance coverage.

Read on to learn more about Schengen visa travel insurance requirements and find the best travel insurance policy for your upcoming trip.

Table of contents

What is schengen travel insurance, schengen countries, visa and travel insurance requirements for the schengen area, key coverages in schengen travel insurance, how to get schengen travel insurance, schengen travel insurance faqs, summary of money’s guide to schengen travel insurance.

Schengen travel insurance is designed for travelers entering the Schengen zone, which comprises 27 (soon to be 29) European nations that have abolished internal borders.

Many visitors, including citizens from non-EU countries like India and China, must obtain a travel visa to enter the Schengen Area. And a requirement for a Schengen Visa is to have insurance covering at least €30,000 (around $32,720) in medical costs.

However, there are exemptions. For example, U.S. citizens and residents of countries such as Canada, Brazil and Mexico don’t need a Schengen visa or travel insurance for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

The Schengen Area consists of a diverse tapestry of countries. Among the member nations are some of the best places to visit in Europe , including France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Greece and the Netherlands.

Here’s the complete list:

Ireland and Cyprus are the only E.U. member states not currently part of the Schengen Agreement.

Having a valid U.S. passport allows you to spend up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area, whether for tourism or business purposes.

Once officially admitted, you can travel freely within the member countries without passing through customs each time. Stays under 90 days don’t require a visa for U.S. nationals, but your passport should be valid for at least six months past your travel dates.

Short stays don’t require travel medical insurance either, though travel insurance may still be worth it . That could be especially true if you plan to participate in adventure sports or other high-risk activities.

Travel insurance generally also covers cancellations and delays. Purchasing a policy could pay off if you’ve booked expensive, non-refundable flights or accommodations and didn’t purchase them with one of the best travel credit cards that offer insurance.

European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

Travel requirements for European Union countries are projected to change by mid-2025. Visa-exempt travelers to all 27 (soon to be 29) Schengen countries and Cyprus will need an ETIAS authorization.

Here’s what you need to know:

• You must complete an online application and pay a small fee for an ETIAS authorization.
• The authorization is tied to your passport and is valid for three years or until your passport expires.
• With a valid travel authorization, you can enter 30 European countries for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
• ETIAS authorization does not guarantee entry into any of these countries. You still have to present your passport and documents at the border.
• The above applies to people from the U.S., Canada and dozens of other countries, so check the E.U.’s official travel website or your country’s embassy for more information. An ETIAS is not a visa and doesn’t mandate travel medical insurance.

Schengen visa requirements

You’ll need a visa if you’re from a visa-exempt country, like the U.S., and planning to stay in the Schengen Area beyond the 90-day threshold. Regardless of the length of the stay, nationals traveling from certain countries always require a visa.

Determine which Schengen country you’ll spend most of your time in and check with their official tourism or embassy website for instructions on applying for a visa. The embassy will inform you about the required documentation and instructions to meet their regulations.

Schengen visa processing time can vary depending on your country of origin and your destination country, so be sure to start the process as early as possible.

Besides the application form, the following are required to obtain a Schengen visa:

• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after departure.
• Passport photo: You must submit a picture of yourself that complies with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.
• Travel medical insurance: You must carry at least €30,000 (approximately $32,720) in coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization and repatriation that’s valid in the entire Schengen Area for the duration of your stay.
• Documentation: You must provide evidence of the purpose of your visit through supporting documentation, demonstrate you have the financial means to cover expenses and accommodations and show intent to return to your home country after the stay.
• Fingerprints: Most, but not all, applicants will be required to submit their fingerprints along with their application.

Consulates of particular countries may require additional documentation.

Understanding what travel insurance covers can help you plan a worry-free journey. While plans and coverage options vary by company, here’s a breakdown of what Schengen travel insurance generally covers.

• Medical expenses: Travel medical insurance covers the cost of treating unexpected illnesses or injuries you suffer during your trip, up to your policy limits. These include the cost of medications, hospitalization and other essential medical treatments.
• Medical repatriation: Some travel medical policies also include emergency medical evacuation or repatriation, which covers some of the costs of transporting you back home or to a different medical facility to receive necessary medical treatment.
• Repatriation of remains: As the name suggests, this coverage will pay (up to your policy limits) for expenses related to transporting your body or cremated remains to your home country or point of origin.
• 24/7 Travel Assistance: Travel insurance companies generally offer round-the-clock assistance services, including language support, help recovering lost passports or prescriptions and even booking accommodations and medical transportation.

Note that some companies may require you to meet a deductible for the travel medical plan to start paying out.

Other travel-related coverage options

Most travel insurers sell policies covering medical emergencies and travel-related inconveniences such as delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. While you don’t need these coverage options to obtain a Schengen visa, you may still find them worthwhile.

• Trip cancellation and trip interruption: Covers non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to unforeseen events like illness or accidents.
• Baggage loss or delay: Helps cover the cost of replacing essential items if your baggage is lost or delayed by a specified number of hours.
• Delayed flights and missed connections: Provides compensation for additional expenses caused by inconveniences such as delays or missed connections.

It’s easy to buy travel insurance for your Schengen Area trip. Many providers offer policies that fulfill the visa requirement and include additional coverage that can be tailored to your needs.

Here are some steps to help you get the right coverage.

1. Research reputable travel insurance providers

Most travel insurers bundle travel medical insurance coverage with trip cancellation, interruption, and other coverage options. If you only want to satisfy Schengen visa requirements, look for a provider that explicitly markets Schengen travel insurance or offers stand-alone travel medical coverage.

2. Select a plan that meets your needs and get a quote

Remember that you may not need trip insurance beyond the €30,000 in travel medical coverage required for a Schengen visa, so read plan details carefully to avoid buying unnecessary coverage.

It also pays to shop around and get quotes from several insurers, as travel insurance costs between 3% and 14% of the total cost of your trip, depending on the company and policy you choose.

3. Read your policy details

When shopping for travel insurance online, you’ll typically find that most companies include a policy summary or schedule. This document outlines critical details such as the policy’s coverage limits and exclusions. Carefully reading it can help you avoid surprises and frustration if you ever need to file a claim.

If you still have questions after reading the policy summary, contact the insurer before finalizing your purchase.

4. Get to know the claims process

Similarly, reading about your insurance provider’s claims process can save you time and energy in an emergency. Your policy summary should include a list of documents you’ll be required to provide as part of the claims process, which may include receipts and medical bills.

After a covered incident, contact your insurer through the company’s website or mobile app as soon as possible. Most insurers also offer travel assistance services around the clock.

5. Purchase and safeguard your policy

You will need proof of your travel medical insurance plan to apply for a Schengen visa. Keep your insurance certificate in a secure yet accessible location, whether a digital version on your smartphone or a physical printout in your travel folder.

It may also be a good idea to share a copy of your policy with a trusted friend or family member back home so they can contact your insurance provider if you cannot request medical assistance due to an emergency.

Should I get travel insurance for Europe?

Travel insurance, especially within the Schengen Area, is not just recommended but often mandatory. To obtain a visa to visit the Schengen zone, you must show proof of having sufficient travel medical insurance.

How much travel insurance do I need for Europe?

What countries does europe travel insurance cover.

• The first step before you travel to any Schengen country is to determine whether you need a visa and, therefore, mandatory travel medical insurance for a Schengen visa.
• Check with your country’s embassy, Department of Foreign Affairs or the tourism website of the country you plan to visit for specifics about medical travel insurance for Schengen visa requirements.
• You don’t need a visa or international travel insurance if you have a valid U.S. passport and are visiting the Schengen zone for less than 90 days in a 180-day period.
• If you’re a U.S. national planning to visit the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, you must apply for a visa and secure adequate travel health insurance (at least €30,000 in travel medical and repatriation coverage).

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