Schengen Travel Information
Picture sipping coffee in Paris, wandering Amsterdam’s canals, or chasing the Northern Lights—all without border checks. That’s the Schengen Zone: 29 countries, one unforgettable journey. Where will you go first?”
Schengen Area Countries
The Schengen Area consists of 29 countries without internal border controls:
- 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, and Switzerland.
- These countries follow a common visa policy for short-stay visas.
Key Rules for Schengen Visas
- Validity Across Schengen Area:
- A Schengen visa issued by one country generally allows travel to all Schengen states.
- However, you must apply at the consulate of your primary destination (the country where you will spend the most time).
- Short-Stay Definition:
- A short stay is defined as 90 days within any 180-day period.
- The visa does not guarantee entry; border officials may request additional documentation (e.g., proof of sufficient funds, return tickets, or travel purpose).
- Application Timeline:
- Applications can be submitted no more than 3 months before the intended trip.
- Decisions are typically made within 15 calendar days.
- Passport Validity:
- Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your return date.
- Exceptions may apply in emergencies.
- Visa Fees:
- Children under 6: No fee.
- Children aged 6-12: Reduced fee of 40 EUR (half the adult fee).
Types of Visas
- Uniform Schengen Visa:
- Allows travel to all Schengen countries.
- Limited Territorial Visa (LTV):
- Restricts travel to specific Schengen countries mentioned on the visa.
- National Visa:
- Issued for long stays (over 90 days) in a single country.
- Does not allow travel to other Schengen states.
Visa Extensions
- Extensions are possible only under specific circumstances:
- Force majeure, humanitarian reasons, or serious personal reasons.
- You must not have exceeded 90 days within the last 180 days.
- Your current visa must not be expired.
Multiple-Entry Visas
- Holders of a multiple-entry visa (valid for at least 6 months) can apply for a new visa before the current one expires.
Family Members of EU Citizens
- Non-EU family members of EU citizens must apply for a Schengen visa.
- They may be exempt from Airport Transit Visas when transiting through a Schengen airport.
Overstaying Your Visa
Penalties for overstaying include:
- Monetary fines.
- Instant deportation.
- Multi-year bans from the Schengen area.
- Overstaying will negatively impact future visa applications, as all visa history is stored in the Schengen Information System (SIS).
Applying for a Schengen Visa
- Where to Apply:
- Apply at the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time.
- If time is equally divided, apply at the consulate of the first country you will visit.
- Required Documents:
- Carry copies of documents submitted during the application (e.g., invitation letters, travel confirmations, proof of funds).
Embassies vs. Consulates
- Embassies: Located in capital cities, they represent a country’s foreign interests and typically do not handle visa applications (though they may have consular sections).
- Consulates: Handle visa applications and are often located in major cities.
Important Reminders
- A Schengen visa does not guarantee entry; border officials may request additional documentation.
- Always respect the 90/180-day rule to avoid penalties.
- Overstaying your visa can lead to severe consequences, including bans and fines.
Conclusion:
While understanding Schengen visa rules may feel overwhelming at first, proper preparation can turn it into your ticket to an incredible European journey. Keep in mind that these FAQs offer general guidance and may not cover individual or unique situations. They are not a substitute for personal, professional, or legal advice. For tailored assistance, reach out to our visa experts—we’re here to help make your travel dreams a reality.
We are a Visa & Immigration Consulting Company offering visa assistance services at a standardized, non-refundable fee. Let us handle the complexities of your visa application so you can focus on your travel plans