How to Apply for a Schengen Visa
Complete step-by-step guide to applying for a Schengen visa to visit 27 European countries.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Determine Your Main Destination
Apply to the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time, or enter first if spending equal time.
Book an Appointment
Schedule a visa appointment at the embassy/consulate or VFS/TLS center. Book well in advance, especially during peak travel season.
Complete the Application Form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form accurately. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all required documents including passport photos, travel insurance, flight reservations, hotel bookings, and bank statements.
Attend Your Appointment
Bring all documents, submit biometrics (fingerprints), and pay the visa fee. Dress appropriately and arrive early.
Wait for Processing
Processing typically takes 15 days but can take up to 45 days during peak periods. Track your application online if available.
Collect Your Passport
Pick up your passport from the application center or have it delivered. Check the visa sticker for accuracy.
📋 Required Documents
Valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages)
Completed Schengen visa application form
2 recent passport-size photos (35mm x 45mm)
Travel medical insurance (€30,000 coverage)
Flight reservation (round trip)
Hotel bookings or accommodation proof
Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Employment letter or business registration
Cover letter explaining travel purpose(Optional)
Highly recommended
Previous Schengen visas (if any)(Optional)
If applicable
💡 Pro Tips
- •Apply at least 1 month before your travel date (max 6 months in advance)
- •Book refundable flights and hotels in case of visa rejection
- •Travel insurance must cover the entire Schengen Area, not just one country
- •Show strong ties to your home country to prove you will return
- •Provide a clear, logical travel itinerary
- •If self-employed, provide additional business documents
- •Keep all original documents and submit copies only when asked
Need Help With Your Application?
Get professional visa assistance from our trusted partner VisaHQ.
Loading visa application tool...
Professional visa assistance from our trusted partner
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Schengen visa processing take?▼
Standard processing is 15 calendar days, but it can extend to 45 days during peak season or if additional documents are needed.
Can I visit multiple Schengen countries with one visa?▼
Yes! A Schengen visa allows you to visit all 27 Schengen member states. Apply to the country where you will spend the most time.
What is the Schengen visa fee?▼
The standard fee is €90 for adults. Children aged 6-12 pay €45. Processing fees vary by application center.
Can my Schengen visa be rejected?▼
Yes, common rejection reasons include incomplete documents, insufficient funds, unclear travel purpose, or lack of ties to home country.
🛡️ Why Trust TravelDealForge?
Secure Booking
All bookings are processed through trusted, verified partner sites with secure payment processing.
Best Price Guarantee
We compare prices from hundreds of leading providers to ensure you always get the best deal available.
Trusted by Travellers
Thousands of travellers use TravelDealForge to find and compare the best travel deals worldwide.
Learn more about our editorial standards and how we make money.
💡 TravelDealForge may earn a commission when you book through our partner links. This does not affect the price you pay. Read our affiliate disclosure