What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is required for certain non-Europeans to visit any of the 27 Schengen area countries. It allows travellers to move between member states without border identity checks. This permit lets non-EU nationals visit for up to 90 days within 180 days.

This visa is issued by one of the Schengen Member States. It grants the holder the ability to travel or stay in the Schengen area for short durations.

What is the Schengen Area?

The Schengen Area is a zone of 27 European countries that have eliminated border controls between them. This includes nations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Poland, and the Scandinavian countries. However, it does not cover the U.K. and Ireland.

While most EU countries are part of the Schengen Agreement. Some, like Bulgaria and Romania, are signatories but not yet fully active members. Additionally, non-EU countries such as Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway are also part of the Schengen Area.

What Countries are Schengen States?

Here is a list of Schengen Countries:

Point to Note

Separate visas may be required to travel to EU countries not part of the Schengen Area (Ireland and Cyprus).

Multi Entry Schengen Visa

Plan Schengen

Types of Schengen Visas

There are four types of Schengen visas:

Type A Schengen Visa - Airport Transit Visa:

The Type A visa is for non-Schengen nationals who need to transit through the international zone of an airport in a Schengen country. It's necessary for travellers who are passing from one non-Schengen country to another. Also, they have a layover in a Schengen airport. This visa does not allow entry into the Schengen country itself.

Type B Schengen Visa:

The Type B visa, previously used for short journeys of less than five days, has now been replaced by the Type C visa with a "transit" designation.

Type C Schengen Visa:

The Type C visa is the standard short-stay visa for the Schengen area. It permits the holder to stay or travel within the Schengen zone for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This visa is issued by the consulates, embassies, or designated agencies of Schengen countries. It can be granted for single, double, or multiple entries. This completely depends on the traveller's needs.

Type D Schengen Visa:

The Type D visa, or national long-stay visa, is intended for those planning to study, work, or reside in a Schengen country for more than 90 days, up to one year. This visa is essential for long-term stays.

Top 3 Schengen Travel Visas for Indians | Kansas Overseas

What are the Eligibility Requirements for a Schengen Visa?

Citizens from the mentioned countries can travel to Schengen countries. Also, they can stay in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

To qualify for this program, you must:

• Have a valid passport that remains valid for at least 3 months after applying for the visa.
• Hold a valid Schengen Visa.
• Maintain medical insurance meeting Schengen Visa requirements.
• Submit documents supporting your travel purpose.
• Confirm your return ticket or show sufficient funds to purchase one.
• Be a citizen of a non-European Union country.
• Justify the reason for your travel and its duration.
• Ensure your medical travel insurance covers at least €30,000 (INR 2,731,800).

Check Eligibility

What are the Documents Required for Schengen Visa?

Where to Apply?

To apply for a Schengen visa, submit your application at the consulate of the country you plan to visit. If you're visiting multiple countries with longer stays in one, apply at that country's consulate. If stays are equal, apply at the first country's consulate. Generally, apply at the consulate in your legal residence region.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa?

Follow these steps for a successful Schengen visa application:

How much does a Schengen visa cost?

Please note:

• Additional fees may apply if applying through visa service centres.
• Visa fees can be waived for specific categories of applicants.

Fast Track Application

What is the processing time for a Schengen visa application?

The application process usually takes 15 days from submission. However, it can extend to 45 days if more detailed examination or additional documents are needed by the consulate.

Certain family members of EU or EEA citizens under the Free Movement Directive qualify for a free and faster visa procedure. This aims to speed up processing for eligible applicants.

When Should I Apply for a Schengen Visa?

You need to submit your Schengen visa application at least 15 days before your planned travel date, but no earlier than 6 months before your trip.

Remember, you must schedule an appointment to submit your application. Depending on your location, you may need to book this appointment several weeks in advance. Planning ahead is crucial to ensure you meet all deadlines and requirements.

How Much Money Do I Need to Visit the Schengen Area?

The required amount of money varies by country. For example, if you are applying for a Schengen visa for France:

• Without pre-paid accommodation: You need to show you have €120 (₹10,920) per day.
• With pre-booked accommodation: This amount decreases to €65 (₹5,915) per day.
• For lower-cost accommodation: You need to show you have €32.25 (₹2,934.75) per day.

For a Schengen visa for Spain, you must have at least €100 (₹9,100) per person per day. Generally, having more than €3,000 (₹273,000) in savings is sufficient for most trips. You can also provide proof of sponsorship if someone else is funding your trip.

Visitor Visas: All You Need to Know

Top 10 Easiest Schengen Countries to Apply for Visa

Visit Schengen

Success Tips for Schengen Visa

• Visit the embassy's website for application requirements and procedures. Plan your visit to the consulate or visa center accordingly.
• Create and use a checklist to ensure all required documents are ready and in order throughout the application process.
• Apply well in advance within the three-month window before your trip to account for processing times and potential delays.
• Obtain travel and medical insurance meeting €30,000 coverage requirements early.
• Dress professionally for your appointment and organize your documents neatly to make a positive impression and facilitate a smooth application process.

How Can Kansas Help You?

Kansas Overseas Careers is the best visa consultant in India, serving over 20,000 customers and managing more than 3,000 active cases.

Our services:

• Profile Evaluation: We evaluate your unique profile history, match it with visa eligibility requirements, and advise you on which visas to apply for.
• Resume Writing: We guide you in creating a standout resume as required by the concerned immigration authority.
• Procuring Documents: We help you arrange the necessary documents before applying for a visa.
• Professional Guidance: We provide interview training, French/English courses, and working samples for resumes and cover letters. We assist with application forms, and obtaining medical or police clearance certificates.
• Dedicated Case Officer: We offer personal assistance and serve as a single point of contact between you and the company throughout the process.
• Post-Landing Services: We help you settle down in your new country after you receive your visa, with services customized to your requirements.

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