There are two ways to apply for a Schengen visa application. The first way is to submit your application for a Schengen visa at the consulate/embassy. While the second way is known to be the convenient way for applying for a visa online. Depending on the nationality of the applicant, he will have to submit several documents subject to a visa regime.
The application procedure for a Schengen visa requires you to be cautious when applying online with regard to submission of documents, uploading the documents, making flight reservation for Schengen visa, document size and format of submission.
If you need to apply for a visa, continue reading this article.
Definitive Guide About Schengen Visa Application
If the applicant is applying at the embassy it might be a tedious task. Also, the submission of several documents might make the application complicated or prolong the procedure. Whereas applying for the visa online reduces the hustle. We have shared a brief guide about both modes of applying for a visa.
Where And How To Apply For A Schengen Visa?
1. Figure Out For Which Schengen Visa You Will Apply
Depending on your purpose for entering and applying for the Schengen visa, you will have to register for the visa.
2. Decide Where You Want To Apply
Depending on how your destination country has regulated visa submission in your home country, you must submit your Schengen visa application. You can apply for the visa through:
- Embassy/Consulate
- Visa Consultant and
- By applying online through the embassy portal. It does not require you to travel anywhere for submitting a visa application.
3. Schedule An Appointment
Make an appointment with the embassy or visa consultant for your application. In other instances, you must schedule an appointment at the embassy.
Note: Visa applications without a legitimate Schengen travel insurance policy may face rejections or delays. Ensure that you submit travel insurance and a dummy ticket for Schengen visa along with the application.
4. Download The Visa Application Form Online
Download the application form and complete it accurately. The Schengen visa registration form has the same format regardless of which country visa the applicant applies for.
You must provide the following details on your visa application form:
- Your personal information
- Your background information and
- Your trip details.
To accurately complete and submit the form, follow these steps:
- Download the most recent application form from the portal which is the latest.
- Be sure to fill in every required field.
Detailed Instructions On How To Complete The Visa Application Form
You must not leave any columns empty. If you believe some columns do not apply to your situation, indicate “NA” in those cells. Remember to print the form and sign it.
5. Collect The Necessary Documents
The necessary documents are essential for your visa application. Ensure that you submit them carefully.
- The application form for a visa.
- Valid passport.
- Two identical photographs.
- Travel insurance coverage.
- Dummy ticket for Schengen visa with dates and flight numbers.
- Accommodation documentation.
- Evidence of financial resources.
- Cover Letter and
- NOC Letter.
The visa officer might ask for other visa-specific requirements. These documents and their requirements vary from visa type to visa type. However, if any document is demanded ensure that you submit it.
6. Participate In Visa Interview
Arrive on time at the facility where you will be interviewed on the scheduled date. You will encounter a visa consular to whom you must present the required documents.
During the Interview, you will be asked personal queries regarding your visa application, intended trip, and other travel-related information. Ensure that your responses are firm and accurate and correspond to the information.
These are a few questions you must prepare before the interview:
- Which Schengen member states do you intend to visit?
- Do you have any relatives or acquaintances who reside in Europe?
- What is your reason for visiting?
- Who will cover your expenses?
- How long will you remain in Europe?
- Where will you be staying?
- What are your educational credentials?
- What organisation do you work for?
7. Make Payment For The Visa Fee
When applying for a Schengen visa, you must pay a non-refundable administration charge for processing your application.
8. Attend A Response To Your Application
Wait until you get a response on your visa application. Visa processing typically takes up to 15 days, but there are instances in which it takes considerably longer.
When Your Schengen Visa Is Authorised:
If you obtain a visa, thoroughly read the labels on the visa document, including the time you are permitted to remain in Schengen areas.
Schengen Visa Gets Denied:
For example, if your visa application is denied, read the reason why and attempt to comply with it the next time you apply. Alternatively, if you believe your application was valid and the decision to deny it was made in error, you can always appeal the visa denial.
