Looking for a Schengen visa? With all the paperwork and trips to the embassy of your destination country, it's easy to get discouraged. The good news is that you'll soon be able to apply for a Schengen visa entirely online. Find all the information you need about applying for a Schengen visa here.
What is a Schengen visa?
The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows you to travel freely in 26 European countries. This provision is part of the Schengen agreement between certain European countries, designed to facilitate internal and external relations. These countries share a common space and a single border with the rest of the world. So, with this single visa, you have free access to all 26 countries without distinction. As for citizens who are members of the area, they don't need a visa to travel within it.
The procedure for applying for a Schengen visa is very strict, and until now has required physical presence at the embassy of the destination country. Soon, however, all administrative procedures can be carried out entirely online, regardless of the country of destination. In fact, the European Commission has set itself a deadline of 2026. to digitize the entire process, step by step.
What are the different categories of Schengen visa?
Depending on the purpose of the visit, different visa options are available to foreigners. These authorizations are generally classified as VSU (Schengen Uniform Visa). They are valid for 90 days, during which time holders can stay and move freely throughout the zone.
Type A visas
These are airport transit visas. The holder of this document has access restricted to the various airports in the Schengen zone. Regardless of the country issuing it, a type A visa has no validity in areas outside the airport.
Type C visas
Type C Schengen visas are "short-stay" visas. They are used for vacations, tourism, business, etc. Depending on the purpose of your visit, Type C visas can be issued in three different forms:
- The single-entry visa, which allows only one entry into a member country. It expires as soon as the holder leaves the territory.
- The double-entry visa, which allows two possible entries and exits between the country and the outside world.
- The multiple-entry visa, authorizing entry to and exit from the Schengen area during the period of validity.
Type D visas
These visas are intended for long-term visits. They are more like national visas. Category D visas are valid from 90 days to one year or more, depending on the reason for the request. The holder is free to travel and reside freely from one country to another. This category is only issued for the purpose of studying or working in one of the Schengen countries.
What documents do I need to apply for a Schengen visa?
Non-Europeans can apply for a Schengen Visa. The documents required for this application are :
- a visa application form to be completed and signed;
- a valid passport ;
- an explanation of why you are travelling to your chosen destination;
- a return ticket reservation certificate to prove that you have no intention of settling illegally;
- proof that you have reserved accommodation at your destination;
- documents proving that you have the financial capacity to take care of yourself during your stay;
- proof of travel insurance;
- two passport photos.
In addition, documents may vary depending on the reason for your trip and the type of visa you require.
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