Introduction to Schengen Visa Requirements

If you are a UK resident with a residence permit there, but are a national of a country that requires a visa to enter the Schengen area, you will need to apply for one before travelling. Despite Brexit, UK citizens can visit the European Union without a visa for up to 90 days per 180-day period. Whilst the application process may seem complicated, this guide will walk you through each step, help you understand the requirements and prepare a successful application.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

First you need to check if you need a Schengen visa:

• Check whether your passport exempts you from Schengen visa processing.

• Confirm the validity of your passport (your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned return date from the Schengen area).

• Confirm that your previous stay in the Schengen area has not exceeded 90 days in any 180-day period.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Schengen Visa

Choose which type of visa you will apply for according to the purpose of your trip:

• Tourist short stay visa for a holiday

• Business visa for meetings and conferences

• Medical visa for medical treatment or rehabilitation

• Visit visa for family or friends

These are not all types, the full list can be found on the site of the country where the applicant plans to apply. For example, digital nomad visas are available in the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, etc., but they are unavailable now in France or Sweden.

Understanding Multiple Entry Visa Options

Applicants may consider a multiple entry visa if:

• Frequent trips to the Schengen area are planned

• Need flexibility in choosing the date of travel

• Need to spend time in several EU over a long period of time.

Applicants can request a multi-entry visa regardless of whether or not there is a history of previous travel to Schengen countries.

Step 3: Select the Correct Country for Application

Select country to submit your Schengen visa application:

1. If visiting one Schengen country: Apply through the consulate of that particular country

2. If visiting multiple countries: Apply through the country where you'll spend the most days

3. If equal time in different countries: Apply to Schengen country of first entry (example: Netherlands if flying to Amsterdam first

Step 4: Prepare Required Documentation

Gather these essential documents:

1. Valid passport with empty pages

2. Completed visa application form

3. Recent passport photos

4. Travel medical insurance

5. Proof of accommodation and transport

6. Employment and financial documents etc.

Additional Documents Based on Visit Purpose

Prepare specific documents for your visa type:

• Business: Company invitation letters

• Medical treatment: Hospital appointments

• Family visits: Invitation letters, copies of passport or residence permit of the inviting person in the EU

Please note that each consulate general requires its own set of documents. Collect documents strictly according to the consulate's checklist, as this affects your application

Step 5: Calculate Your Stay Duration

Carefully plan your trip to Schengen area:

1. Count your planned 90 days within any 180 day period

2. Check how many days you previously spent in Schengen area

3. Factor in entry and exit dates

4. Remember that border controls strictly monitor stay durations in Schengen area

Step 6: Schedule Your Appointment

Book your appointment at the appropriate location:

1. Find the nearest visa centre or embassy, in London or another accessible city

2. Choose an appointment date (book well before your trip)

3. Note that most consulates require online booking

4. Prepare for fingerprinting at the time of submitting your application

What to Do If No Appointment Slots Are Available

If you cannot find available appointment slots:

1. Check the visa application centre website several times a day, new slots often open early in the morning or late in the evening.

2. Use visa bot service for notification or automatically make an appointment

3. Additional tips on scheduling your Schengen visa appointment are available in our special article

Step 7: Understand Visa Fees and Payment

Know the financial requirements:

1. Check the current visa cost

2. Prepare the payment in an accepted format

3. Print proof of payment if payable when booking the appointment

The cost may depend on the type, which country the applicant is a national, and even their age. Please note that visa fees are non-refundable

Step 8: Submit Your Application

Follow these submission steps:

1. Arrive at your appointment on time

2. Submit all required documents

3. Pay service and visa fees if unpaid online

4. Submit your fingerprints

5. Answer honestly about your Schengen area travel plans

Step 9: Track Your Application

After submission:

1. Keep your tracking number

2. Monitor application status through the official website of the visa centre or consulate

3. Respond promptly to any contact from the consulate

4. The Schengen visa code sets standard processing period of 15 days

Step 10: Check Your Visa When Issued

Once approved:

1. Check that the information on the sticker is correct

2. Note your visa expires date

3. Keep track of your 180 day period

4. Check border control rules at EU destination

Step 11: Know Your Rights and Obligations

Important considerations:

1. You can appeal if your application is rejected

2. Contact the embassy for major trip changes

3. Respect Schengen states' local laws

4. Keep evidence of your purpose of visit to the Schengen area

Special Notes for Different Member States

Remember that while visa procedures are standardized:

• But, some countries like Switzerland may have additional requirements

• Romania and other newer members might have specific rules

• France, the Netherlands and other popular destinations may have longer processing times

Conclusion

The Schengen visa application process in UK follows a standardized procedure that includes document preparation, appointment scheduling, and biometric data submission. To get a visa, applicants must provide evidence of their travel purpose, financial means, and accommodation arrangements while meeting specific requirements of their chosen embassy.

Visa holders can stay in the Schengen area according to their visa type and term, with multiple-entry options available for frequent travelers. The standard processing period is 15 days, although this may vary from one Schengen country to another due to the tourist season and other factors.

This guide outlines the main steps of obtaining Schengen visa, from initial eligibility checks through document submission to final approval. While procedures are standardized across member states, specific requirements may vary depending on the embassy processing the application and the applicant's circumstances.