Planning a trip to Europe? If you’re looking to explore multiple countries without the hassle of applying for separate visas, the Schengen visa is your key to seamless travel across European nations. In this Global Law guide, we’ll cover everything from visa types and application steps to fees, requirements, and processing times. Plus, with new travel rules coming in 2025.

What is a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows travelers to visit and move freely within 27 European countries that are part of the Schengen Area. It permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for purposes like tourism, business, or visiting family.

With a Schengen visa, you can enter multiple countries in the Schengen Zone without needing separate visas for each one.

Schengen visa types: Which one do you need?

The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows travelers to visit 27 European countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. There are different Schengen visa types depending on your purpose of travel:

• Tourist visa: For leisure travel, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.

• Business visa: If you’re attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities.

• Student visa: For short-term courses or training programs.

• Medical visa: For medical treatments in Schengen countries.

• Cultural/Sports visa: If you’re attending cultural events, concerts, or sports competitions.

• Transit visa: For travelers passing through Schengen countries en route to another destination.

If you need a long-term visa (more than 90 days), you should apply for a national visa from the specific country you plan to stay in.

How to apply for a Schengen Visa

To apply for a Schengen visa, you must first determine where to submit your application, which is usually at the embassy, consulate, or visa consultant of the country where you will stay the longest or enter first.

Next, schedule an appointment online and complete the official Schengen visa application form with accurate information. Gather all required documents, including your passport, photos, proof of finances, and travel details, before attending your visa appointment, where you will submit your documents, provide fingerprints, and answer any questions. You must also pay the required visa fee, which varies based on age and visa type. After submitting everything, processing typically takes 15 days, but it may take longer in some cases.

Schengen visa fees

The Schengen visa fee depends on your age and nationality. Here are the current Schengen visa fees:

Schengen visa requirements you need to know

To get your Schengen visa, you must submit several documents:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months after your trip and have at least 2 blank pages.

• Visa application form: The form must be fully completed and signed.

• Passport photos: Two recent photos that meet Schengen visa size and quality requirements.

• Travel itinerary: Proof of your travel plans, such as round-trip flight bookings and hotel reservations.

• Proof of financial means: Bank statements, salary slips, or sponsorship letters proving you can cover your expenses.

• Travel insurance: Must cover at least €30,000 in medical costs and be valid in all Schengen countries.

• Proof of employment or study: A letter from your employer or school.

• Purpose of visit: A letter explaining why you are visiting.

Depending on the visa type, you may need additional Schengen visa requirements, such as an invitation letter for family visits or conference registration for business trips.

The new travel authorization for 2025

Starting in mid-2025, travelers from visa-free countries (such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia) must apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering the Schengen Area.

Schengen visa processing time

The standard processing time for a Schengen visa is 15 days, but it can take up to 45 days if additional checks are required.

To speed up the Schengen visa processing time, apply at least 4-6 weeks before your trip, ensure all documents are complete and accurate, and opt for express processing if available. Booking an early appointment can also help you avoid delays, especially during peak travel seasons.

How to book a Schengen visa appointment

Most embassies require you to book an appointment online through their official website or third-party visa centers.

Some Schengen countries have higher visa approval rates and faster processing times. Explore easy Schengen visa countries with the lowest rejection rates for 2025 applications.

Can you extend a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa extension is only granted in exceptional cases where unforeseen and serious reasons prevent you from leaving before your visa expires. You must not have exceeded 90 days in a 180-day period, and your request must be submitted before your visa expires. Valid reasons for an extension include force majeure (such as natural disasters, political unrest, or severe weather preventing travel), humanitarian reasons (serious illness or death of a close family member), or professional reasons (business obligations that could not be completed on time).

Final tips for a smooth Schengen visa process

• Apply early: At least 4-6 weeks before your trip.

• Check the embassy’s website: Requirements may differ by country.

• Prepare your documents carefully: Incomplete applications cause delays.

• Follow the correct process: Choose the right country to apply to.

• Contact Global Law: If you need expert legal assistance with your Schengen visa application, consider reaching out to Global Law for professional guidance and support.

With proper preparation, you can get your Schengen visa without issues and enjoy a hassle-free trip to Europe.