The Schengen visa is a very popular visa that is applied by most travelers. The Schengen Agreement came into effect in 1985 and covers 26 European nations, most of which are extremely popular travel destinations. Schengen is the largest free-travel area globally and is the most common visa for Europe. You can enter, travel freely and exit the Schengen zone without any hassle as there are no border controls. Whether it is Greece, France, Germany, Italy, Austria, or Spain, a valid Schengen visa is the key to visit these stunning countries and more. If you live in the UAE and want to apply for a Schengen visa, here is a guide that will help you apply for the same.
List of Schengen Countries
- Austria
- Hungary
- Norway
- Belgium
- Iceland
- Poland
- Czech Republic
- Italy
- Portugal
- Denmark
- Latvia
- Slovakia
- Estonia
- Liechtenstein
- Slovenia
- Finland
- Lithuania
- Spain
- France
- Luxembourg
- Sweden
- Germany
- Malta
- Switzerland
- Greece
- Netherlands
Types of Schengen visa
The following are the different types of Schengen visas.
- Tourist visa
- Business visa
- Visitor visa
- Transit visa
Note
- If you are planning to stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days, you must apply for a National visa and a residence permit (Long-stay visa), and not a Schengen visa.
- You need to apply for the visa at the Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting (In case you are visiting only one country). However, if you are planning to visit more than one country, you need to apply for the visa at the Consulate or Embassy of the country where you will be spending the most number of days.
- If you are under 18, your form should be signed by a parent or guardian. If you are under 18 and traveling alone, you need a consent form from a parent or guardian as border guards may sometimes check this form on your arrival.
- Kindly check with the embassy or consulate in advance about the mode of payment for your visa. In most cases, cash is the acceptable form of payment.
Documents required
You need the following documents to apply for a Schengen visa.
- Original passport with at least two blank pages for stamping and a minimum of six months validity
- UAE residence visa with at least 90 days validity
- Three recent passport size photos against a white background
- Original bank statement for last six months or online copies with bank stamp
- NOC letter addressed to the Schengen Embassy stating information such as designation, salary, joining date, the purpose of travel. A valid Trade License copy and covering letter mentioning monthly income, passport details for Owners, Investors, and Partners.
- In the case of the sponsor, an invitation letter from a friend or relative. An invitation letter is required in case of a Business visa.
- Travel insurance certificate covering medical illnesses as per norms.
- Hotel/accommodation reservations and round-trip flight tickets.
- A complete travel itinerary and the countries that you will visit.
- Any other essential documents as may be necessary.
Steps to apply for a Schengen Visa
The following are the steps to apply for the visa.
- Schedule an appointment at the Embassy or Consulate
- Download the application form and fill it with the correct details, print, and sign it.
- On the day of your interview, carry all the documents with you.
- Answer all the questions clearly and correctly.
- Once your documents are verified and accepted, you need to pay the visa fees. Please keep the receipt safely, as it will be required to retrieve your passport.
- Proceed to give your biometrics and finger scan.
- This completes your application process. Once your visa is ready, you can go and collect it from the center. Alternatively, you can opt for receiving it by mail or courier for an additional charge. (In case your visa is rejected, the fees is non-refundable).
Cost and duration
The cost for the Schengen visa is approximately AED 350. It takes about 10-15 working days to process your visa.
Conclusion
European countries are known for their breathtaking architecture, impressive museums, awe-inspiring castles, magnificent mountains, fine-dining restaurants, and rich culture and history. A visit to any of the countries or all of them will give you beautiful moments and memories for lifelong. So, what are you waiting for? Apply for your Schengen visa now!
