Last Updated: 15 February 2026
A Schengen visa (Type C) allows travelers to visit multiple European countries within the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is commonly issued for tourism, family visits, business trips, or short-term studies.
With one valid Schengen visa, you can travel freely between all Schengen member states without additional border checks.
Visa Types for Schengen
Tourist Visa (Short-Stay – Type C)
- Business Visa
- Family Visit Visa
- Short-Term Study Visa
- Cultural / Conference Visa
The Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) allows travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, family visits, or short studies.
Schengen Countries
The Schengen Area currently includes the following countries:
Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Applications are usually submitted through the embassy or an authorized visa application center (such as VFS Global or TLScontact).
Required Documents (Basic Checklist)
- Completed Schengen visa application form
- Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and valid at least 3 months beyond departure)
- At least 2 blank passport pages
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Travel medical insurance (minimum coverage of €30,000 for the entire Schengen Area)
- Flight reservation or travel itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation)
- Proof of sufficient financial means (recent bank statements or sponsor letter)
- Cover letter explaining purpose of travel
- Supporting documents depending on visa type (employment letter, school letter, business invitation, etc.)
Processing Time
Standard Schengen visa processing time is typically 10 to 15 working days, but it may take longer during peak travel seasons or if additional documents are required.
However, processing may take up to 30–45 days in certain cases.
Delays may occur if:
- You apply during peak travel seasons
- Additional documents are requested
- Further background or security checks are required
- Your application is incomplete
Applicants are advised to apply at least 4–6 weeks before their planned travel date.
Visa Fees
Schengen visa fees are generally:
- €80 for adults
- €40 for children aged 6–12
- Free for children under 6
Additional service fees may apply if applying through VFS Global or TLScontact.
How to Apply
1 Determine your main destination country
2 Complete the Schengen visa application form
3 Gather all required supporting documents
4 Book an appointment at the embassy or authorized visa center
5 Attend biometric appointment and submit documents
6 Pay the visa fee
7 Wait for processing and collect your passport
Where to Apply
Your must apply at:
- The Embassy or Consulate of the country where you will spend the most time, OR
- The country of first entry, if visiting multiple Schengen states equally
Applicants are advised to apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before travel.
Official Application Process
Schengen visa applications must be submitted through the embassy or official visa center of the Schengen country you intend to visit first (or where you will spend the most time).
There is no single Schengen visa portal.
Applicants must apply through the official website of the country handling their visa.
Examples of official portals:https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/
Always verify on the official embassy website of the country where you will submit your application.
Common Reasons for Rejection
Schengen visa applications may be refused for reasons such as:
- Insufficient financial proof
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
- Weak travel history
- Suspicion of overstaying
- Unclear travel purpose
Ensuring complete and accurate documentation significantly improves approval chances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Schengen Visa
Important Notice
Schengen visa requirements, fees, and processing times may change at any time and may vary depending on the embassy handling your application. Applicants are strongly advised to confirm all details with the official embassy or consulate of their main destination country before submitting their application.
VisaCheckAfrica provides general guidance and is not affiliated with the European Commission, Schengen member states, or any embassy.