The European Commission has released a comprehensive guide spelling out the rules, timelines and documentation requirements for non-EU nationals seeking a Schengen visa to travel across Europe.
Under the guidance published by the Commission’s Migration and Home Affairs department, a Schengen visa allows citizens from outside the EU to spend up to 90 days within any 180 days across the Schengen area.
Three visa types are available: single-entry, multiple-entry, and an airport transit visa for travellers passing through Schengen airports without formally entering the territory.
When and Where to Submit Your Application
The Commission is clear on timing: applications must be filed no fewer than 15 days before the intended travel date and no more than 6 months ahead of the trip.
Travellers must apply at the consulate of the country they plan to visit. Those covering several Schengen countries should approach the consulate of the country where they will spend the longest time.
Where the time is split equally between destinations, the consulate of the first country on the itinerary takes responsibility for processing the application.
A valid passport is mandatory, with an expiry date extending at least three months beyond the planned departure from the Schengen area.
Alongside the completed application form and a passport photograph conforming to ICAO standards, travellers must submit medical travel insurance covering emergency care, hospitalisation and repatriation, as well as proof of accommodation, financial means and intention to return home.
The standard fee is €90 for adults and €45 for children aged between 6 and 12. Reduced rates apply in specific cases: citizens of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus are charged €35, while applicants from Cabo Verde pay €67.50. Using a visa service centre may attract additional charges on top of these figures.
Processing ordinarily takes 15 days from submission, though a consulate may extend this period to up to 45 days if the case warrants closer examination or if further documents are needed.
Family members of EU or EEA citizens who qualify under the Free Movement Directive may be entitled to a free application and a faster turnaround.
Where an application is turned down, the applicant receives a written notice explaining the grounds for refusal and outlining the steps available to lodge a formal appeal.
