Schengen Visas FAQs

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Schengen Visa Frequently Asked Questions

Getting a Schengen visa can be problematic with government rules and gatekeepers like immigration officers, visa application centres, getting appointments and the paperwork involved.

Some of the questions we generally get asked are the following. Others are usually related to Schengen visa applications related to and covered by our Schengen country specific pages. If they are not answered there or here, we please submit your questions below…

If you are planning to obtain a Schengen Visa for your journey, we advise that you apply for one at least 2 weeks prior to your journey. This is due to the fact that the Embassy Consulate takes 10 working days to process the documentation and the traveler's request. Please note that certain nationalities take 21 days to process.

UK is not part of the Schengen Agreement and therefore a Schengen Visa as such does not allow you to enter the UK.
If you are required to enter the UK, apply for a UK Visa with IaM.

A short stay Schengen visa allows the holder to visit the Schengen countries for multiple purposes which can include and are not limited to; tourism, business and visiting family/friends for up to 90 days within a 180-day period from the date of first entry. The stay may be either continuous or several visits depending upon whether the visa is single or multiple entry.
Check out more information on Schengen Visa types.

A multiple entry Schengen Visa allows the holder to stay in one or multiple countries under the Schengen Agreement. This only applies if the total length of the stay does not exceed 90 days in a given 180-day period from the first date of entry.
Check out more information on Schengen Visa types.

It is possible to apply for a multi-entry Schengen Visa. When going through the process of applying, you will be able to select the multiple entry application. But please note that the length and duration is at the discretion of the Consulate. Some Consulates have issued visas for such a short term that they make a point that the visa is only for the length and purpose sought. IaM cannot guarantee lengths and duration but we always aim to obtain the longest permitted version of your Schengen visa where possible and we can advise on the likelihood of how long you will get and ways to increase the length obtained once you begin your application. HINT: It's all about money.

 
 

Questions about applying for a Schengen visa

Schengen visa questions about the application process:

Yes, you can include family members such as spouse, children, or other dependents in your visa application. Each family member must submit their own application and supporting documentation. We recommend consulting with an expert to ensure all requirements are met for a smooth process.

The duration of a Schengen visa varies depending on the purpose of your visit and the discretion of the consulate. Most short-term visas are valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Longer visas may be issued for specific reasons, such as business or family reunification.

Commonly required documents include a completed application form, valid passport, recent passport-sized photographs, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, flight itinerary, proof of financial means, and any additional documents relevant to your purpose of travel.

Extensions are generally not allowed for short-term Schengen visas. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different type of visa or residence permit in the country where you are staying. Contact the local immigration authorities for specific procedures.

Yes, travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 is mandatory for Schengen visa applicants. It must cover medical expenses and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay.

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Questions About Schengen Visa Appointments

Applying for a Schengen visa requires you to attend an appointment.

It is part of the standard service and we aim to get your appointments in the required time or at the very least in time for your visa to be granted so you can travel in time.

Please note that at peak times, the consulates and centres do not have capacity for appointments at short notice. Therefore, for the standard service, it is advised to start your application three months ahead to allow for time to secure an appointment.

Yes. That comes under the Premium service where we are able to secure appointments within 24-48 hours.

Yes. Depending on the submission method chosen, you can have your documents sent back to you by Courier, picked up by you, or you can arrange for the documents to be collected.

Yes. When you submit your application, you will be emailed a draft application form for review. We can make any necessary changes at that stage. It’s important to provide accurate details to avoid delays or refusals. Prior to final submission, please check the application carefully so any amendments can be approved.

Yes. We review your application carefully to ensure everything is correct and complete before submission. However, we rely on the information you provide, so full disclosure helps us assist you better. We will notify you if any additional information is needed.

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Schengen visa FAQs

Schengen visa frequently asked questions about documents, types and fees.

Yes. As part of your application, we provide template letters as a matter of course.

Here at IaM, whether you wish to proceed with the application yourself or find a list of documents, we can provide you with the necessary support.
Check out the DIY Schengen visa step by step guide for an easy process and our guide to avoid refusals.

The Schengen visa fee is €80 (roughly 85USD or 75GBP). Children between six and twelve pay €40 (~42USD or 35GBP). Under six, no fee. Check full Schengen Visa fees and IaM’s service fees.

  • Type A Schengen visa or Airport Transit Visa. ...
  • Type B Schengen visa. ...
  • Type C Schengen visa. ...
  • Type D Schengen visa or national long-stay visa.
Check more on the various Schengen Visa types.

To apply from the UK, book an appointment with the relevant Consulate or Embassy nearby. You can do this in person, or via accredited agencies like IaM or through VFS, BLS, TLS.
Check out the DIY Schengen visa step-by-step guide for an easy process and to avoid refusals.

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Questions about who needs a Schengen Visa

Travelling to Europe’s Schengen area? Find out who needs a Schengen visa.

British citizens do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States if staying up to 90 days within 180 days. Soon, UK nationals will need an ETIAS. Check who needs a Schengen Visa.

Starting in 2024, UK nationals will need an ETIAS to visit Europe. ETIAS is an electronic record system for visitors from countries that do not need a visa, like the UK.

US citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days within 180 days. From 2024, they will need an ETIAS. Check who needs a Schengen Visa.

Australian citizens do not need a visa for up to 90 days, but from 2024, they'll require an ETIAS. Check who needs a Schengen Visa.

New Zealanders do not need a visa for up to 90 days, but from 2024, they'll need an ETIAS. Check who needs a Schengen Visa.

Canadian passport holders do not need a visa for up to 90 days, but from 2024, they'll require an ETIAS. Check who needs a Schengen Visa.

Some nationals can travel without a visa, but they will still need an ETIAS from 2024. Check who needs a Schengen Visa.

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How fast can you get a Schengen visa?

Frequently asked questions about the time it takes to get a Schengen visa

Visa processing usually takes two weeks, but visas can sometimes be issued in 2 days. Allow at least 14 days when applying.

Using our premium appointment service, you can get an appointment within 24 hours, but this does not guarantee decision speed.

Getting a Schengen visa can be challenging, but with tips and tricks, it can be easier and quicker.

Lithuania has the highest approval rate at 98.7%. Check our list of easiest countries to get a Schengen visa.

Short-stay visas from France or Italy are quickest, sometimes issued in 2 days. Usually, expect around two weeks for processing.

Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland, and Romania are not in Schengen. The UK is out after Brexit. Flights from these countries to Schengen states are considered external and have border checks.

 

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Questions about what you can do and where you can go with a Schengen visa

Can your Schengen visa be extended? Where can you go on a Scheneg visa and where can you get one?

No. You usually need a separate visa to enter non-Schengen countries and meet their entry requirements.

Depending on your nationality, a Schengen Visa allows visa-free travel to over 48 countries worldwide, including the 27 Schengen countries. Check out the list of non-Schengen countries you can visit.

If you need to travel urgently, contact the embassy of your destination country. Some countries may issue visas quickly in exceptional circumstances with proper justification.

Yes, but only the Netherlands and Belgium currently allow non-residents in the UK to apply for a Schengen visa. Contact their consulates for details.

Yes, you can extend your visa as long as you stay within the 90/180-day rule. Extensions are usually handled locally. Learn more at how to extend your visa.

Yes. You should have at least three months beyond your travel dates, but if you can show onward travel and a valid reason, you may still apply.

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