Travelling to the Schengen Area is an exciting journey. Imagine! The freedom to visit 29 different countries on a single visa. Well, that is not just fantasy but reality. The Schengen visa allows you to visit 29 different countries with a single visa.
But before applying for the Schengen visa, you must have the correct documents for your application. Luckily, that is exactly what we will be discussing below.
Documents required when applying for a Schengen visa (tourism)
It is important to ensure all the documents you gather are correct and meet the requirements for the Schengen visa. Here is a detailed list of the documents for the Schengen visa:
1. A valid passport
First things first, you’ll need a valid passport. Think of it as the backbone of your visa application—some even say it’s the most important document. Along with your passport, include a copy of its informational page and any previous visas or entry/exit stamps. Ensuring it meets Schengen requirements is essential, so here’s what to double-check:
- Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area.
- Make sure it has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
- Lastly, it must have been issued within the last ten years.
2. The Schengen visa application form
The Schengen visa application form is the official document that visa officers refer to when reviewing your application. Every detail matters here! Be sure to answer each question accurately and double-check that the information matches the details in your supporting documents—especially your passport.
Can you fill this out online? Great question. Yes, most Schengen countries provide an online form that is convenient for applicants. However, double-check before you apply, as some countries still use the paper format.
3. Passport photo
Let’s talk about photos! Getting the right visa photo might seem like a minor step, but it’s crucial. Embassies have specific guidelines—from a neutral expression to exact sizing—and they mean it. So, follow a guideline to ensure your photo meets all the Schengen passport-size photo requirements before you submit it.
Do not let a simple selfie get your visa rejected!
4. Proof of accommodation
Proof of accommodation is essential for demonstrating to the visa officer that you have solid plans for where you’ll stay—no sleeping on the streets of your favourite Schengen city! Whether you have hotel bookings, Airbnb confirmations, or an invitation letter from a friend, showing a secure place to stay is a must.
5. Cover letter
A cover letter for Schengen isn’t always required, but it’s a great way to add a personal touch to your application—especially if you have unique travel plans. Think of it as your chance to share the “why” behind your trip with the embassy. Explain where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, and how your journey is organised.
Wondering what to include? Briefly cover your itinerary, how you’re funding your trip, your employment status, and your return plans.
6. Proof of financial means
A key question the visa officer wants answered: Can you cover your expenses while you’re there? To confirm this, embassies typically ask for bank statements from the last three months, proof of employment, or income statements. They want to be sure you won’t be financially dependent during your stay.
Make sure you have the required funds! Some Schengen countries set minimum daily requirements—around €50 per day, depending on the embassy—so it’s worth checking this with the specific consulate you’re applying through.
7. Travel insurance
Travel insurance is a must for a Schengen visa and needs to cover at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, ambulance services, or even repatriation. Why the high coverage? Schengen countries want to be sure visitors can handle unexpected healthcare costs, which can add up fast.
Having insurance is mandatory for the application, and some visa service platforms, such as Atlys, allow you to conveniently apply for travel insurance during the visa process.
Consider this: travel insurance doesn’t just help you meet visa requirements—it also provides peace of mind. From lost luggage to last-minute cancellations, having the right insurance can make your entire trip feel more secure.
8. Travel itinerary
An itinerary shows your entire travel plan, including entry and exit dates, countries you’ll visit, and accommodations. Think of it as a roadmap for your trip—Schengen countries want to see that you’re visiting for genuine reasons and will stick to the plan you’ve set.
Create a detailed itinerary that includes entry and exit dates, planned routes, hotel names, and any intra-Schengen flights to give a full picture of your trip.
9. Invitation letter (if applicable)
If you’re visiting family or friends, an invitation letter can add a helpful personal touch to your application. This letter should include your host’s contact details, your relationship, and confirmation of your stay. Some embassies might also request extra documents from your host, like proof of residency, so checking specific requirements in advance is a good idea to avoid surprises.
10. Additional documents
Each applicant is different, and so are the specific documents needed. Depending on your application, here are some additional documents you might require:
- Proof of residency: If you’re applying from abroad as a non-citizen, you’ll need documentation proving your residency status.
- Employment verification letter: Required if you’re employed; shows your job stability.
- Student enrollment proof: For students applying, confirming current enrollment.
- Sponsorship letter: If a company or family member is sponsoring you, a sponsorship letter is required for proof.
A final word!
Preparing the required documents for a Schengen visa may seem like a lot, but each one brings you closer to experiencing Europe’s charm. From passports to financial proof, every detail matters. Take a moment to review each requirement—are they all in order? Gathering these documents with care will set you up for a stress-free application and a successful start to your journey across the Schengen Area.
Bon voyage, and here’s to a seamless visa experience!