Schengen Visa Application Guide

Your Complete Guide to Visiting Europe with GLES

27 Countries Access
90 Days Stay Period
15 Days Processing
95% Success Rate

What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This single visa grants you access to 27 European countries, making it one of the most valuable travel documents for international travelers.

Schengen Area 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 Switzerland

Types of Schengen Visas

Tourist Visa

Perfect for leisure travel, sightseeing, and vacation purposes across the Schengen Area.

Purpose:
  • Holiday and leisure travel
  • Visiting tourist attractions
  • Cultural exploration
  • Short recreational trips
  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Completed visa application form
  • Two recent passport-sized photos
  • Travel itinerary and hotel bookings
  • Round-trip flight reservation
  • Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
  • Proof of financial means
  • Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
  • Employment letter or proof of occupation

Business Visa

Designed for professionals traveling for business meetings, conferences, and commercial activities.

Purpose:
  • Business meetings and negotiations
  • Attending conferences and seminars
  • Trade fairs and exhibitions
  • Short-term training programs
  • Signing contracts
  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Completed visa application form
  • Two recent passport-sized photos
  • Invitation letter from European company
  • Letter from employer (purpose and duration)
  • Company registration documents
  • Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Flight itinerary
  • Bank statements (company and personal)
  • Previous business relations proof (if any)

Student Visa

For students accepted into educational programs, courses, or academic exchanges in Schengen countries.

Purpose:
  • Short-term courses and training
  • Academic conferences
  • Educational exchange programs
  • Research projects (short-term)
  • Language courses
  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Completed visa application form
  • Two recent passport-sized photos
  • Letter of acceptance from institution
  • Proof of enrollment or registration
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
  • Proof of financial means (scholarship/sponsor)
  • Bank statements or sponsorship letter
  • Course fee payment proof
  • Return ticket booking

Visiting Family/Friends

For visiting family members or friends who are residents or citizens of Schengen countries.

Purpose:
  • Visiting family members
  • Attending family events (weddings, etc.)
  • Visiting friends
  • Family reunions
  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Completed visa application form
  • Two recent passport-sized photos
  • Invitation letter from host (notarized)
  • Host's proof of residence/citizenship
  • Host's ID copy and proof of income
  • Proof of relationship (birth certificates, etc.)
  • Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
  • Accommodation proof (host's declaration)
  • Flight reservation
  • Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
  • Employment/income proof

Application Process - Step by Step

1

Determine Your Visa Type

Identify which type of Schengen visa you need based on your purpose of travel.

2

Choose the Right Embassy/Consulate

Apply at the embassy of your main destination country (where you'll spend most time).

3

Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents according to your visa type. Ensure everything is complete and up-to-date.

4

Schedule an Appointment

Book an appointment at the embassy or visa application center. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before travel.

5

Attend Your Interview

Appear in person for biometric data collection and document submission. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip.

6

Pay Visa Fee

Pay the required visa application fee (typically €80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12).

7

Wait for Processing

Processing typically takes 15 calendar days but can extend to 30-45 days in some cases.

8

Collect Your Passport

Once approved, collect your passport with the visa sticker from the application center or embassy.

Important Tips for Success

Apply Early: Submit your application at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date. You can apply up to 6 months in advance.
Complete Documentation: Incomplete applications are the most common reason for visa rejection. Double-check all documents before submission.
Proof of Ties: Show strong ties to your home country (employment, property, family) to demonstrate you will return after your visit.
Sufficient Funds: Ensure you can prove adequate financial means for your entire stay. Requirements vary by country but generally €50-100 per day.
Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid throughout the Schengen Area.
Be Honest: Provide truthful information in your application. Any false information can result in immediate rejection and future visa bans.
Main Destination Rule: Apply at the embassy of the country where you'll spend the most nights. If equal time in multiple countries, apply at the first country of entry.

Let GLES Handle Your Application

Navigating the Schengen visa application process can be complex and time-consuming. At Global Linked Education Service (GLES), we specialize in making your visa application smooth, stress-free, and successful.

Document Verification
Application Form Assistance
Appointment Scheduling
Interview Preparation
Application Tracking
Expert Guidance
Start Your Application with GLES

Frequently Asked Questions

The standard processing time is 15 calendar days from the date of your application. However, it can take up to 30 days in exceptional cases, and up to 45 days when further documentation is needed.

No, a Schengen tourist visa does not allow you to work. It is strictly for tourism, visiting family/friends, or short-term business activities like meetings and conferences. Working requires a separate work permit.

The standard fee is €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6-12 years. Children under 6 are exempt from the fee. Additional service fees may apply at visa application centers.

Extensions are only possible in exceptional circumstances such as force majeure, humanitarian reasons, or serious personal reasons. You must apply at the immigration authority of the country you're in before your visa expires.

If rejected, you'll receive a letter explaining the reasons. You have the right to appeal within the timeframe specified (usually 15-30 days). You can also reapply after addressing the reasons for rejection.