Schengen Visa

The Schengen Short Stay Visa is a vital authorization for travelers intending to explore the Schengen Area. This guide provides essential information on what the Schengen visa entails, which countries issue it, the types of visas available, and other crucial details to ensure a smooth application process.

What is a Schengen Short Stay Visa?

A Schengen Short Stay Visa is an authorization issued by one of the Member States of the Schengen Area, allowing transit through or a stay within the territory for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This visa is governed by the VISA CODE Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 of the European Parliament and the Council, last amended by Regulation (EU) 2019/1155. This regulation ensures uniformity and clarity in the visa application process.

Which Countries Issue Schengen Visas?

The Schengen Area comprises 26 European countries, including 22 European Union Member States. These countries share a common legal framework, eliminating border checks between them. The countries issuing Schengen visas are:

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

For more detailed information on the Schengen Area, visit the European Commission’s website.

Types of Schengen Visas

Short Stay Visas

Uniform Visa

The holder of a uniform visa can travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. You can calculate your allowed stay using the short stay calculator.

Visa with Limited Territorial Validity

This visa allows travel only to the State(s) indicated on the visa sticker, not to other Schengen States.

Airport Transit Visa for Schengen Area

Holders of an Airport Transit Visa can transit through the international transit areas of the issuing State and, if specified, other States within the Schengen Area. This visa is required for nationals from specific countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and several others.

Countries Requiring Airport Transit Visa

Nationals from the following countries must obtain an Airport Transit Visa:

• Afghanistan
• Bangladesh
• Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire)
• Eritrea
• Ethiopia
• Ghana
• Iran
• Iraq
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Somalia
• Sri Lanka

Special Requirements for Indian Nationals

Some Schengen Member States may also require an Airport Transit Visa for Indian nationals. It is recommended to check the relevant list and specific requirements of the Member State you are transiting through.

By ensuring compliance with the Airport Transit Visa requirements, travelers can avoid potential delays and complications during their journey through the Schengen Area.

Long Stay Visas

Long stay visas are issued according to the national regulations of each Member State. Relevant information can be obtained from the diplomatic or consular missions of the Member States or via the EU Immigration Portal.

Validity of Passports

Applicants must present a valid passport that extends at least three months beyond the intended departure date from the Schengen Area. The passport should have been issued within the previous 10 years and contain at least two blank pages.

Multiple Entry Schengen Visas

The visa sticker will indicate the number of entries allowed: “1,” “2,” or “MULT” (multiple). A multiple entry visa allows unlimited entries within the validity of the visa, while adhering to the 90/180 rule.

Which Member State is Competent for Examining and Deciding on My Visa Application?

The competent Member State for examining and deciding on a uniform visa application is:

• The State whose territory is the sole destination of the visit(s).
• If multiple destinations, the State constitutes the main destination in terms of length or purpose of stay.
• If no main destination can be determined, the State whose external border the applicant crosses first to enter the Schengen Area.

For more information on the competent consulate of the Member State, visit the relevant consulate’s website.

What Happens If the Application Is Lodged with the Wrong Member State or Consulate?

If the application is lodged with the wrong Member State or consulate, the application form and documents will be returned, the visa fee reimbursed, and the applicant directed to the correct consulate.

Visa Fee

• Standard visa fee: EUR 80
• Children aged 6-12 years: EUR 40
• Nationals from countries with a visa facilitation agreement: EUR 35

Visa Fee Waivers

• Children under six years.
• School pupils, students, postgraduate students, and accompanying teachers for study or educational training.
• Researchers for scientific research or seminars.
• Representatives of non-profit organizations under 25 years attending events.

How Long Before the Intended Visit Should I Apply?

Applications should be lodged at least 15 calendar days before the intended visit and no more than six months in advance (nine months for seafarers). Multiple-entry visa holders may apply before the expiry of their current visa if valid for at least six months.

Do I Need an Appointment for Submitting My Application?

Appointments may be required. Check the Member State’s consulate website for details.

Supporting Documents

Each application must include a completed and signed form, a valid passport, and supporting documents. Additional documents or an interview may be requested.

Travel Medical Insurance

Applicants must have travel medical insurance covering at least EUR 30,000 for emergency medical, hospitalization, and repatriation. This insurance must be valid throughout the Schengen Area and for the entire duration of the stay.

Biometrics Collection for Schengen Visa Applicants

All Schengen visa applicants must provide biometric data, which includes fingerprints and a digital photograph. This requirement is universal and applies to applicants from all countries. The collected fingerprints remain valid for five years for subsequent visa applications, unless there are concerns about the applicant’s identity.

Who is Waived from Providing Fingerprints?

• Children under 12 years.
• Persons physically unable to provide fingerprints.
• Heads of State, government members, and accompanying spouses on official visits.

By understanding and fulfilling the biometric data requirement, applicants can ensure a smoother visa application process for entry into the Schengen Area.

Processing Time

Applications are typically decided within 15 calendar days, extendable up to 45 days in individual cases requiring further scrutiny.

Prior Consultation and Ex Post Information

Some Member States require prior consultation for visa applications from specific third countries or categories. This does not apply to airport transit visas.

What Can I Do If the Visa Is Refused?

Applicants will receive a refusal notification with reasons. They have the right to appeal according to the Member State’s national legislation.

Filing a Complaint

Complaints regarding consulate staff conduct or application processing should be directed to the respective Member State’s consulate.

Required Documents for Travel

Possessing a Schengen visa does not guarantee entry. At the external border, travelers may need to justify their purpose of stay and show they have sufficient means of subsistence.