Are you one of those who want to experience the beauty of Schengen country? But what is the best way to get a visa instantly? Before moving forward, it’s crucial to take a quick glimpse about the Schengen visa and why embassies use it.
What is a Schengen Visa?
The Schengen visa allows you to visit all the states of Schengen and it’s 26 countries of the world. You could stay for a maximum of 90 days. Furthermore, it opens the door to transit for the international Schengen states. The following names of these 26 countries are:
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Austria
- Belgium
- The Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Hungary
- IcelandItaly
- LatviaL
- iechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Maita
- The Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
When and Where to Apply?
Rules and Regulations are the only roadblocks that bring restrictions in your journey. Above all, it’s important to all ears about the terms and way of traveling in every region of Schengen country.
The process is way simple – go to that particular visa center of the country where you are planning to move. In the same way, if you wish to visit more than one Schengen country then visit the visa center where you have been for so long.
Now the question arises – when can you apply?
So the answer is – You can apply one year before traveling, but the recommended time is one month prior to travel.
Step by step process to apply for Schengen visa
Time needed: 8 minutes.
Here is a step-by-step process through which you can understand what you need to do before applying for a Schengen visa.
- Appointment
If you want a Schengen visa then it’s essential to book an appointment first. Applicants can book online or in few places you may need to book an appointment by visiting the visa centers.
- Visa Application Form
For a Schengen visa, the application form would be the same, no matter which Schengen country you are applying for. Basic details you need to fill in the form and these are –
• Personal Information
• The intention of the journey
• Other details about the journey - Documentation
This is the most important step that will decide whether you are going to get your Schengen visa or not. So take care of the following documents if you are going to apply for a Schengen visa.
• Visa application form
• Passport
• Two identical photos
• Travel insurance
• Dummy Air Ticket (Flight reservation)
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of financial means - Visa Application
The interview is another crucial step and you need to reach the visa center at least 15 minutes before the interview. Hand over all the necessary documents which are required for the process. General questions which might be asked by the visa consular are –
• What is the purpose of the trip?
• Are there friends or relatives living there?
• Who is sponsoring your trip?
• Where will you be staying?
• What is your educational qualification? - Fee
The visa fee for the applicants are – EUR 80 for adults, EUR 40 for 6 to 12 years of children, and it’s free for toddlers. One thing is that – this visa fee is non-refundable.
- Result
The procedure completion takes time and you need to wait for at least 15 days after applying for it. In some cases, you may need to wait for a little longer too.
So if you are going to apply for a Schengen visa then this information would work best. Make sure all your documents should be verified and updated with the current date.
Muhammad Suhail Saifi
Travel Agent cum Digital Marketer