How to Get a Schengen Visa: Full Step-by-Step Guide
Dream trip to Paris, Rome, Barcelona or a full Eurotour? The Schengen visa lets you visit 27 countries with one sticker (up to 90 days in 180). This guide shows you the exact steps, documents, fees, appointment, interview, and approval tips — for all nationalities.
Quick Answer: Choose main destination → fill the online application → pay €80 → book appointment → attend interview with documents → get your visa in 15–60 days.
Full Guide: Schengen Visa Application (Everyone)
This covers short-stay Type C (tourism/business/family), airport transit (A), and notes on long-stay (D).
1) Understand Schengen Area & Visa Types
| Type | Purpose | Max stay | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type C (Short-stay) | Tourism, business, visit, transit | 90 days in 180 | €80 adults / €40 kids 6–12 / free <6 |
| Type D (Long-stay) | Study, work, residence | > 90 days | Varies by country |
| Airport Transit (A) | Airside transit only | Hours | €80 |
2) Do You Need a Visa?
Check the official EU list here: EU — Who needs a visa.
3) Choose Your Main Destination (Golden Rule)
Apply at the country where you will spend most nights. If equal, at the one you’ll enter first.
4) Documents Checklist (Universal)
| Document | Details | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Valid 3+ months after exit, 2 blank pages | Renew early |
| Application form | Country portal (often VFS/embassy) | Print & sign |
| Photos | 3.5×4.5 cm, white background | Studio quality |
| Travel insurance | €30,000 medical coverage, all Schengen | Buy from AXA Schengen or Allianz Travel |
| Flight itinerary | Round-trip booking (no need to purchase) | Use DummyTicket if needed |
| Accommodation | Hotel bookings / invitation | Free-cancel options work |
| Financial proof | Bank statements (3 months), income, taxes | ~€50–70/day |
| Employment/Studies | Leave letter / enrollment / business proof | Show ties to home |
| Itinerary | Day-by-day plan | 1 page summary is enough |
5) Fill the Online Form
- Open your country’s official portal:
- VFS Global (landing) — many countries use VFS.
- France-Visas (official)
- BLS Spain (official partner)
- Germany Visa Portal
- Create an account and choose Schengen short-stay.
- Complete all sections, upload photo, and save the PDF/confirmation.
6) Pay the Fee
Standard fees: €80 adults, €40 children 6–12, free under 6. Payment method depends on the country/partner.
7) Book Appointment
Book a slot on the same portal. Peak seasons can take weeks; apply up to 6 months ahead (and at least 3 weeks before travel).
8) Interview Day
- Arrive 15 minutes early; security may hold electronics.
- Business-casual dress; bring all original documents plus copies.
- Typical questions: purpose, itinerary, funding, ties to home.
9) Track Your Application & Collect Passport
Use your portal’s tracking. Result usually within 15–30 days (up to 60 in peak periods).
10) After Approval
- Enter via your main destination when possible.
- Carry bookings and insurance for border checks.
- Mind the 90/180 rule — calculate here: Schengen stay calculator (EU).
Common Rejections & How to Fix
| Reason | Fix |
|---|---|
| Insufficient funds | Show higher balance and regular income |
| No travel history | Build with easy visas (e.g., Thailand/UAE) first |
| Weak home ties | Employment letter, family/property evidence |
| Inconsistent itinerary | Align bookings with your form |
Costs Snapshot
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | €80 |
| Insurance | €25–€40 |
| Photos | €10 |
| VFS/BLS service | €25–€40 |
| Travel to center | €20–€150 |
| Total | ~€200–€350 |
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Which Schengen country is easiest for visa?
Approval rates vary by year; Italy, Spain, Greece often see higher pass rates for well-prepared files.
How long can I stay?
Up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Use the EU stay calculator.
Can I apply from a country where I’m not a citizen?
Yes, if you are a legal resident there (bring your permit/proof).
Do I need to buy real flight tickets?
No. Many embassies accept reservations/itineraries (e.g., DummyTicket). Buy real tickets after approval.
Where do I book my appointment?
Usually via VFS Global or country portals: France-Visas, BLS Spain, Germany Visa.
