Detailed Information about Schengen Visa (EU Visa)
Eligibility for a Schengen Tourist Visa
To be eligible for a Schengen tourist visa, applicants must be citizens of non-EU countries who wish to visit one or more countries within the Schengen Area for tourism purposes. The Schengen Area comprises 27 European countries that have abolished passport and immigration controls at their mutual borders. To qualify for this visa, applicants must prove that they have a valid reason for travel, adequate financial resources to support themselves during their stay, and a confirmed travel itinerary. The visa is typically granted for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, allowing travelers to move freely within the member states.
Requirements for a Schengen Tourist Visa
When applying for a Schengen tourist visa, applicants need to provide several documents, including a completed visa application form, a valid passport (with at least three months of validity beyond the planned departure date), passport-sized photographs, and proof of travel insurance with coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies. Additional documents like flight bookings, accommodation reservations, and proof of financial means (such as bank statements or salary slips) are also required. If applicable, an invitation letter from a host in the Schengen country or a travel itinerary outlining the details of the stay must be submitted. The consulate may also request documents like proof of employment, educational enrollment, or family ties to ensure that the applicant will return to their home country after the visit.
Procedure for Filing the Schengen Tourist Visa
The process to apply for a Schengen tourist visa begins by selecting the main country of your visit and submitting an online visa application or making an appointment with the respective consulate or visa application center. Applicants must submit the required documents in person or through an authorized representative, and biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) will be collected. The visa fee must be paid at the time of submission, and processing typically takes about 15 calendar days, though it can vary based on the consulate and time of year. After submission, applicants will be notified once their visa has been processed, and they can either pick up their passport or have it returned by mail. If the visa is granted, the applicant can travel freely within the Schengen Area for the allowed duration.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee (Adult) | €80 | Standard fee for an adult applying for a short-stay visa. |
| Visa Fee (Child 6-12 years) | €40 | Discounted fee for children aged 6-12 years. |
| Visa Fee (Child under 6) | Free | No fee for children under 6 years old. |
| Visa Application Center Fee | €20–€30 | Additional fee if using a third-party visa application center (e.g., VFS Global). |
| Travel Insurance | €30–€50 | Insurance covering medical emergencies, repatriation, etc. |
| Round-trip Airfare | €500–€1000 | Cost varies depending on location and airline. |
| Accommodation (per night) | €30–€150 | Price range for mid-range hotels or Airbnbs. |
| Accommodation (10 nights) | €300–€1500 | Estimated total for 10 nights’ stay. |
| Transportation within Schengen | €50–€200 | Costs for internal travel (trains, buses, local flights). |
| Food and Miscellaneous | €10–€30 per day | Estimated daily expenses for meals and small items. |
| Total Estimated Cost | €1000 – €2850 | Total cost for a 10-day trip, depending on factors like flight, accommodation, and spending. |